P0961 – Pressure Control (PC) Solenoid A – Control Circuit Range/Performance
| Code | Fault Location | Probable Cause |
|---|---|---|
| P0961 | Pressure control (PC) solenoid A -control circuit range/performance (Buy Part On Amazon) | Wiring, poor connection, pressure control solenoid, ECM/PCM/TCM |
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Table of Contents
- What Does Code P0961 Mean?
- What are the common causes of code P0961 ?
- What are the symptoms of code P0961 ?
- How do you troubleshoot code P0961 ?
- Codes Related to P0961
- Get Help with P0961
What Does Code P0961 Mean?
If your vehicle has exhibited an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL), and has stored a code P0961, it means that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected a problem with a specific electronic pressure control solenoid (EPCS) or solenoid circuit for the automatic transmission. The designation A usually refers to the primary EPCS/circuit. This code is used exclusively in vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions. Automatic transmissions in OBD-II vehicles are controlled electronically by the PCM or a stand-alone controller, called a transmission control module (TCM). Most transmission controllers are integrated into the PCM. The major components of the transmission control system are:- Control module
- Controller area network (CAN)
- Numerous sensors and solenoids
- A powerful hydraulic pump
- One or more electronic pressure control solenoid/s
- An assortment of shift solenoids
- A torque converter clutch solenoid
- A hydraulic valve body
The transmission controller receives input signals from various engine and transmission sensors. Engine sensor inputs typically include the degree of throttle angle, engine RPM, engine coolant temperature, and engine load percentage. Transmission sensor inputs are designed to monitor transmission input speed (RPM), transmission output speed (RPM), shifter position, torque converter lock-up percentage, vehicle speed, transmission temperature, and pump pressure. This is not an exhaustive list. These input signals are used by the transmission controller to aid in mapping shift strategy and electronic pump pressure parameters. 
The electronic pressure control solenoid/valve (usually located in the valve body) is used to regulate pump pressure. Careful regulation of pump pressure keeps the transmission shifting smoothly and precisely. Maximum pump pressure - applied directly to the valve body - would lead to extremely harsh shifting and potential driveline damage.
If the PCM detects that it cannot regulate pump pressure (by applying the appropriate degree of voltage to the EPCS) or detects a level of EPCS circuit voltage/resistance that is not within programmed specifications, a P0961 will be stored and a MIL may be illuminated.What are the common causes of code P0961 ?
- Transmission (front) pump failure
- Open or shorted wiring or connectors in the EPCS circuit
- Defective electronic pressure control solenoid
- Low or subpar transmission fluid
What are the symptoms of code P0961 ?
- Delayed transmission engagement
- Erratic transmission shifting
- The transmission may fail to shift
- Harsh transmission shifting
- A loud whining noise from the transmission torque converter/bell housing area
How do you troubleshoot code P0961 ?
To accurately diagnose a code P0961, you will need a diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), a transmission pressure gauge, and All Data DIY. I like to begin my diagnosis with a visual inspection of transmission control wiring and connectors. Remember that a large segment of the transmission control harness is inside the transmission hosing.
A P0961 code may be attributed to an electronic malfunction or a mechanical malfunction. If the transmission is low on fluid, it could cause a low pressure condition and a stored P0961. Check the transmission fluid and refill it (always use the recommended fluid) if necessary. If the fluid level was low, you will also want to inspect the transmission, transmission cooler, and transmission cooling lines for leaks. Remove the dipstick (if applicable) and see if the fluid smells and looks burnt. If it appears burnt, suspect mechanical transmission failure, which will require an overhaul.
If the transmission fluid is significantly low (more than 2-quarts), you will need to locate the leak and repair it, Refill the transmission with the recommended fluid and test drive the vehicle to see if the problem persists and the code is reset. If the code is reset, use the transmission pressure gauge to check pump pressure. If the pump has been operated without enough fluid, it could have been damaged creating a low pressure condition that will also require a transmission overhaul.
Once the transmission leak has been repaired and it is refilled with clean fluid, connect the scanner to the vehicle diagnostic connector and retrieve all stored codes and freeze frame data. Write this information down because it will prove helpful later. Clear the codes and test drive the vehicle (if possible).
If the code is reset, use the transmission pressure gauge to obtain a manual pressure reading. Consult your repair guide (All Data DIY) for pressure test recommendations. Compare this reading with manufacturer’s specifications. If fluid pressure is too low, suspect a mechanical failure. I pressure is within specs, you will likely discover that a defective EPCS or wiring malfunction are at the root of your malfunction. 
Once you have located the EPCS (and gained access to it) use the DVOM to test resistance values. Compare your actual findings with manufacturer’s specifications and replace the solenoid if it doesn’t comply.
Disconnect all related controllers prior to testing circuit resistance (with the DVOM) in order to avoid controller damage.Codes Related to P0961
- P0700 Transmission Control System Malfunction
- P0701 Transmission Control System Range/Performance
- P0702 Transmission Control System Electrical
- P0745 Pressure Control Solenoid Malfunction
- P0746 Pressure Control Solenoid Performance or Stuck Off
- P0747 Pressure Control Solenoid Stuck On
- P0748 Pressure Control Solenoid Electrical
- P0749 Pressure Control Solenoid Intermittent
- Any other transmission control codes
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I HAVE PO777 AND P0961 ON NEW REBUILD TRANSMISSION WE HAVE THIS PROBLE 6 MONTH AGO I CANT FIND THE PROBLEM?
Riz,
Many components for CVT are not sold individually. This is especially true in certain regions.
What your dealer has recommended may be the only feasible solution. High mileage (km) could also be a factor.
I have problems CVT transmission.model car Suzuki kizashi 2012 J24b engine. The warning light appear Service transmission system.i diagnosis with dealer the problems solenoid p0777 stuck on B. 2) p0961 solenoid range system.my question the dealer tell me to buy the whole complete set gearbox. It’s necessary??
my car gear not get
herp me plzzz
car toyota passo
pls what does this codes means p0976 for my Toyota corola 2006
Plzz tell me the symptoms with this code p0961
My car is gmc envoy denali 2007
Ahmed-
I sincerely apologize for the delay in response. I’ve been in the middle of a move (From Peru to the United States, no less!) and haven’t been online at all! This might be too late, but any transmission control problems would probably manifest themselves as shifting problems. A pressure control solenoid would affect hydraulic pressure in the transmission, and probably result in shifting problems such as delayed or soft shifting or harsh shifting, depending on the failure mode.
In any case, the first thing that you should check is the electrical connectors between the transmission and the transmission controller. Loose connections and such can cause all sorts of problems. You might find that a simple disconnect and reconnect is all that’s needed to restore proper communication between the PCM and the transmission. Application of a little dielectric grease is a good preventative step to keep water out of sensitive electrical connections.
-Ben