Transmission · Powertrain · generic (SAE-defined)
P0760: Shift Solenoid "C"
P0760 means the transmission computer has detected a general malfunction in shift solenoid C or its circuit, affecting its ability to select certain gears.
Standard title per SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6 · Updated 2026-11-07 · By CarWhere Research
How P0760 sets
The powertrain or transmission control module (PCM/TCM) operates shift solenoid C as part of the solenoid pattern for selecting gears. It monitors the solenoid's circuit and sets P0760 when the circuit does not behave as expected for the commanded state. Solenoid C exists only on transmissions with enough solenoids to need it, and its gear assignment is manufacturer-specific.
Common causes of P0760
Roughly most likely first; the actual cause depends on the vehicle and needs testing to confirm.
- Failed shift solenoid C
- Wiring or connector fault
- Internal harness damage
- Low or contaminated transmission fluid
- Debris in the valve body
- PCM/TCM fault (less common)
P0760 symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Limp mode or stuck in one gear
- Missing upper or lower gears
- Harsh or erratic shifting
- Reduced fuel economy
How P0760 is diagnosed
- Check fluid level and condition.
- Scan for all codes and record freeze frame data.
- Find which gears solenoid C controls for this transmission.
- Inspect wiring and the transmission connector.
- Measure solenoid C resistance and test the circuit for opens and shorts.
- Command the solenoid with a bidirectional scan tool and road test.
Typical fixes for P0760
- Repair wiring or connector damage
- Replace shift solenoid C or solenoid pack
- Replace the internal transmission harness
- Service fluid and filter
- Repair or replace the PCM/TCM if confirmed
Replace parts only after testing confirms the cause — a code names the circuit or condition that failed a check, not necessarily the faulty part. We don’t publish per-repair prices; for what households actually spend on upkeep, see car repair costs.
Manufacturer notes
Solenoid C assignments vary by manufacturer and transmission; check factory service information.
Related codes & warning lights
P0760 FAQ
What does code P0760 mean?
P0760 means the transmission computer has detected a general malfunction in shift solenoid C or its circuit, affecting its ability to select certain gears. The standard definition is "Shift Solenoid "C"."
Can I drive with a P0760 code?
Drive as little as possible. Expect possible limp mode or missing gears, and continued use with abnormal shifting can damage the transmission.
Does every automatic have a shift solenoid C?
No. Transmissions with fewer gears may use only two shift solenoids, while many newer designs use more solenoids or pressure control solenoids instead.
Should I replace all the shift solenoids at once?
Not automatically. On transmissions with a combined solenoid pack, replacing the pack is normal; otherwise, replace only what testing shows has failed.
Keep researching
More transmission codes
Sources
- SAE J2012 — Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions (standard code titles)
- ISO 15031-6 — Road vehicles: communication between vehicle and external equipment for emissions-related diagnostics, Part 6: Diagnostic trouble code definitions
- U.S. EPA — Vehicle Emissions Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) programs
- U.S. EPA, 40 CFR 86.1806-17 — Federal onboard diagnostics requirements for light-duty vehicles
General information written by CarWhere Research, not a diagnosis of your vehicle. Manufacturers can add their own sub-definitions and test conditions; confirm with the factory service information for your year, make and model. Before paying for a repair, check NHTSA for open recalls and your warranty booklet: federal law requires an emissions warranty on major emission-control parts such as the catalytic converter and engine computer.