Error Code P0803: What It Means & What To Do?

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When does the skip ship solenoid malfunction? How does the P0803 error occur? If the skip shifts solenoid malfunctions, then the P0803 error code appears. This error is mostly found in manual vehicle as it can prevent from shifting to 2nd and 3rd gear. Enhancing fuel economy and protecting the engine by removing the high RPM’s to shift from 1st to 4th gear is the main function of the skip shift solenoid. If there is voltage or resistance outside the skip shift solenoid detected by PCM, then the error code will be stored.

Vehicles which have automatic transmission will help the driver to select the preferred gear as they drive, which is known as TAP shifting. You will find a +ahd- button in the shifter which shifts side by side as you drive. If the switch malfunctions, then the P0803 error code will be stored.

What causes this problem with the 1-4 Upshift (Skip Shift) Solenoid Control Circuit Malfunction?

• The skip shift solenoid is faulty.
• Wires or connectors of the skip shift solenoid has opening or shorted circuit.
• Controller experiences programming error.

1. Skip Shift Solenoid - This component has to function properly to avoid P0803 error code. If it’s defective, replace them as desired.
2. Skip Shift Solenoid Fuse - Is the fuse of the skip shift solenoid broken or damaged? Don’t worry as you can get them from Parts Avatar as best prices.
3. Skip Shift Solenoid Relay - If you want to avoid the P0803 error code, then the defective skip shift solenoid relay must be replaced.
4. Skip Shift Solenoid Connector - Check the terminals of the connector, if they are damaged or broken. If they are found to be defective, change them as soon as possible.
5. Multimeter - Are you on the lookout for the right replacement for multimeter? Grab them from Parts Avatar at affordable cost.
6. Powertrain Control Module - A faulty PCM is common error code in most vehicles. Replace the faulty component to avoid system malfunction.

It is vital to know the symptoms of an issue as only then you would be able to solve the problem. So that’s why we have listed out some major symptoms of OBD Code P0803 here:

Common Symptoms

• Fully or moderately disabled skip shift.
• Blinking or illumination of the skip shift indicator lamp.
• You will find the transmission placed in limp mode.

Here are some ways with the help of which you will be able to correct the OBD Code P0803. Your technician will follow a series of procedures in order to repair this faulty system. Depending upon the component that is defective, one or more of the following may be performed:

• Replacing the wires.
• The faulty skip shift solenoid has to be replaced.
• Substituting the relay or actuator of solenoid.
• Changing the connector of solenoid at the PCM.
• Retesting the error codes by clearing them, and retesting to see if the issue is solved.

There is no need to be anxious as Parts Avatar – car parts online is here to help you out! We have high grade skip shift solenoid, skip shift solenoid fuse, skip shift solenoid relay, skip shift solenoid connector, diagnostic scanner, multimeter, powertrain control module and a lot more for our precious customers.

Here are some steps which you should follow in order to diagnose this fault code:

• You can begin this diagnosis by checking if the transmission fluid is clean and filled up to the correct level. If the fluid is less, check the area of leak and repair them. Refill with clean fluid and proceed further.
• If the fluid has burnt smell and is extremely dark, it should be changed. This can be performed by either clearing or flushing the transmission and changing the filter. As you remove the transmission from the pan take care to clearly remove the rubbles that have landed. If you pan is clear, then it means the clutches are mechanically intact. You will have to rebuild the transmission if you find adequate friction in the pan by the technician.
• To carefully diagnose, you will need a DVOM and a vehicle source of information. This can help to locate the technical service bulletin that matches your vehicle based on the year, make, model, size of engine and other error codes. The first step of diagnosis will be filling the transmission with the clean fluid at the right level.
• Connect a scanner and recover the freeze frame data and other codes. It’s always best to note them down as it can help for further diagnosis. Test drive your vehicle and see if power control module enters readiness modes or the code is reset. PCM entering readiness mode means, irregular connection which is hard to diagnose where you have to make the conditions worse before proceeding further.
• If the later happens, that is if code is reset, you have to diagnose to search the source of information of your vehicle, diagnostic flow-charts, connector pinout charts, connector face views, and other procedures.
• The skip shift solenoid must be tested with DVOM for voltage and ground circuit. If both are found, test the component itself with DVOM.
• If the skip shift solenoid is proper, test the system circuits with DVOM. In this scenario, the voltage drop testing method works well. Separate all connectors to test resistance with DVOM.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing the P0803 Code

At times it may be difficult to diagnose this error as the vehicle won’t store the error codes until it takes place multiple times. Also, the check engine light won’t be activated always when the solenoid

P0804 - 1-4 Upshift (Skip Shift) Lamp Control Circuit Malfunction