Powertrain Codes

Good

P0931

Gear Shift Lock Solenoid Control Circuit A High

★★★★ Common diagnostic code

P0931 means the vehicle detected a fault related to gear shift lock solenoid control circuit a high. On most vehicles this points to the transmission, driveline, clutch, or control circuit that needs testing before parts are replaced.

Atlas Quality75% · Good
Editorial StatusGood
SeverityHigh
Can I keep driving?Use caution and diagnose before replacing parts.
Typical repair cost$150-$1,800
Typical labor0.8-4.0 hours

What P0931 Means

P0931 means the vehicle detected a fault related to gear shift lock solenoid control circuit a high. On most vehicles this points to the transmission, driveline, clutch, or control circuit that needs testing before parts are replaced.

Before You Replace Anything

Record the evidence first. Clearing codes too early can erase the clues that point to the real fault.

✓ Save freeze-frame data✓ Check for additional trouble codes✓ Look for technical service bulletins✓ Verify battery voltage✓ Verify engine oil level and coolant level✓ Perform a visual inspection✓ Do not clear the codes yet

Common Symptoms

⚠ Check Engine Light⚠ Transmission warning light⚠ Harsh shift⚠ Delayed shift⚠ Transmission stuck in one gear⚠ Limp mode

Most Common Causes

Faulty shift solenoid90%
Valve body contamination78%
Low or dirty transmission fluid66%
Damaged transmission wiring54%
Poor connector contact42%
TCM command or driver issue30%

Diagnostic Confidence

Shift solenoid88%
Transmission fluid78%
Valve body gasket68%
Transmission harness58%
Connector pigtail48%

Use this as a starting point, not a replacement for testing.

Recommended Diagnostic Workflow

1Check fluid level and condition first
2Scan for related transmission codes
3Review commanded gear and solenoid data
4Inspect the transmission connector and harness
5Test solenoid resistance and control circuit
6Perform manufacturer pinpoint testing before replacing parts

Mechanic's Tips

Tip #1

Save freeze-frame data and check for related transmission, communication, voltage, and module codes. Always verify fluid level/condition and electrical integrity before condemning a sensor, solenoid, actuator, or module.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

✕ Replacing parts before testing power, ground, and signal circuits✕ Ignoring related codes and freeze-frame data✕ Skipping the visual inspection✕ Clearing codes before confirming the repair

Common Repairs

Service fluid only if appropriate

Success Rate: ★★★☆☆

Average Cost: $150-$1,800

Labor: 0.8-4.0 hours

Repair wiring or connector damage

Success Rate: ★★★☆☆

Average Cost: $150-$1,800

Labor: 0.8-4.0 hours

Replace confirmed failed shift solenoid

Success Rate: ★★★☆☆

Average Cost: $150-$1,800

Labor: 0.8-4.0 hours

Clean or repair valve body issue

Success Rate: ★★★☆☆

Average Cost: $150-$1,800

Labor: 0.8-4.0 hours

Parts Commonly Replaced

Shift solenoidTransmission fluidValve body gasketTransmission harnessConnector pigtail

Tools Used During Diagnosis

OBD-II scan toolDigital multimeterBasic hand toolsManufacturer service information

Related Repairs

Diagnostic workflowComponent testingWiring inspectionRepair estimate checklist

How to Explain This to Your Customer

Your vehicle stored P0931, which points to a problem with gear shift lock solenoid control circuit a high. The next step is diagnosis of the related circuit or component so the repair is based on test results instead of guessing.

Manufacturer Notes

Generic OBD-II information. Exact test steps, component names, connector locations, relearn procedures, and repair strategy may vary by make, model, year, transmission, and calibration.

Technician Notes

Save freeze-frame data and check for related transmission, communication, voltage, and module codes. Always verify fluid level/condition and electrical integrity before condemning a sensor, solenoid, actuator, or module.

Related Codes

P0705 P0706 P0707 P0708 P0814 P0820 P0914 P0915

FAQ

What does P0931 mean?

P0931 means the computer detected a fault related to gear shift lock solenoid control circuit a high.

Is P0931 serious?

It can be. Transmission, clutch, or driveline faults can lead to limp mode, harsh shifting, no-start conditions, or additional damage if ignored.

Can I drive with P0931?

Avoid extended driving if the vehicle shifts poorly, slips, overheats, or enters limp mode. Diagnose it before continuing normal use.

Will P0931 fail emissions?

It may fail emissions if the Check Engine Light is on or readiness monitors are incomplete.

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Editorial StatusGood
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Template Version1.3.4

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Built by mechanics. Improved by mechanics.

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