Gear Shift Forward Actuator Circuit Open
The P0920 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Gear Shift Forward Actuator Circuit Open. This is a critical severity code.
- Keep driving?
- No — stop driving
- DIY difficulty
- hard
- Estimated cost
- $300 - $1,500 (parts and labor)
Read and clear transmission codes. Many trans codes are caused by low or burnt fluid -- check level and color before assuming the worst.
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What Are the Symptoms of P0920?
- Check Engine Light illuminated
- Transmission cannot shift to higher gears
- Vehicle stuck in current gear
- No upshift response from transmission
What Causes P0920? (Most Likely First)
- Failed forward shift actuator motor Very High
- Open circuit in forward actuator wiring High
- Disconnected actuator connector Moderate
- TCM shift output driver failure Low
Can I Still Drive with P0920?
No — stop driving. P0920 is rated critical severity. Continuing to drive in this state risks further damage — get it looked at before your next trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the forward shift actuator?
In automated manual transmissions, the forward shift actuator pushes the shift mechanism forward within the selected gate to engage a specific gear. It works in conjunction with the gate select and reverse actuators.
Will the car move at all with P0920?
The car may remain in whatever gear it was last in, but it cannot upshift. This makes it dangerous for driving and the vehicle should be towed.
Can the actuator be repaired?
Most actuators must be replaced as a unit. After replacement, a full calibration procedure is required.
Mechanics Guide Step-by-step diagnosis
How Do You Diagnose P0920?
-
Check the forward shift actuator connector
-
Measure actuator motor resistance
-
Test wiring continuity from TCM to actuator
-
Command the forward actuator with a bidirectional scan tool
Sources 2
This page is built from documented references. Verify against your own service info before repair work.
- SAE J2012Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions (defines the generic OBD-II code ranges)
- Cross-checked against the SAE J2012:2002 DTC table (2026-08-27)archived scan of the SAE standard — readable copy, not SAE’s current edition
Which Vehicles Commonly Get P0920?
- 2010-2018 Volkswagen Polo (ASG)
- 2008-2016 Smart ForTwo
- 2012-2018 Fiat 500 (MTA)
- 2010-2016 Peugeot 208 (ETG)
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