P0980 - OBD Trouble Code

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The Automatic Transmission works hard at changing the gears as needed by your vehicle. It does so by managing and monitoring solenoid valves which are controlled electronically by the Transmission Control Module or TCM. When gear D is selected in an auto transmission vehicle the TCM shifts through various ratios of gear by activating and deactivating different shift solenoids. These also control brakes, clutches and bands in the automatic transmission. The job of the TCM is to also keep track on the operation of the solenoid valves. If it notices that there’s an issue of an open circuit on Shift Solenoid C then the TCM will set code P0980 and disables the control circuit.

The ECM or Engine Control Module of a vehicle is responsible for gear shifts. It does this by turning the shift solenoids on and off as needed. If the vehicle encounters an open or short circuit in any of the shift solenoid valve circuits then the ECM will set the code and turn the Check engine light on. The ECM module will also start performing the fail-safe function where in it will switch the other solenoids that are functional on and off to avoid further damages.

What causes this problem with the Shift Solenoid "C" Control Circuit High?

• Fault with the shift solenoid
• Contaminated automatic transmission fluid
• Levels of transmission fluid are lower than required
• Frayed, broken or shorted wiring of the Shift solenoid
• Connectors of the Shift solenoid connectors are damaged or corroded
• Transmission Malfunction Fault in the transmission control module (TCM)

1. TCM - Repair the damages and see if the P0980 code resets. If it resets, you will have to opt for replacement of the TCM. Parts Avatar provides a wide range brands and auto parts that you can pick from. Choose the one compatible with your vehicle and order from the comfort of your home. You can also track the shipment till it safely arrives at your doorstep.
2. Auto Transmission Shift Solenoid Valve - Try to repair, if that doesn’t help the only option to get rid of P0980 error would be to replace the valve. We offer free shipping on orders over $99. Our customer care executive is available 24/7 to cater to your queries online. Order today from Parts Avatar, we ship all across Canada.
3. Engine Control Module - Replace your ECM is needed with Parts Avatar. We have a wide range of auto parts that you buy online from the comfort of your home. Take help from our online customer service 24/7 to get exactly what you’re looking for.
4. Powertrain Control Module - A very crucial part of your vehicle, buy only the best from us. Avail free shipping on orders over $99. We ship to the remotest corners of Canada!
5. Diagnostic Tools - Only the best and accurate diagnostic tools will help you when trying to resolve the P0980 code. We stock a wide range of brands for you to select as per your requirement.

It is essential 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 P0980 here:

Common Symptoms

• Check Engine Light is turned on
• Difficulty in shifting gears
• Higher than normal RPMs when shifting
• Lower fuel economy
• Low engine acceleration
• Issues with driveability
• Transmission does not shift as usual

Wish to correct this error code with your vehicle? Do you know what all you should do to make your car free from this code? Well, don’t worry! We are here to guide you.

• Repair or replace faulty shift solenoid
• Repair or replace Dirty transmission fluid
• Refill transmission oil to optimum level
• Repair or replace shift solenoid wiring that is damaged
• Repair or replace corroded or damaged shift solenoid connectors
• Replace or rebuild malfunctioning transmission
• Repair or replace problematic transmission control module (TCM)

There is no need to be anxious as Parts Avatar – Car Parts Online is here to help you out! We have high grade Check Engine Light is on, Car is hard to shift, High RPMs when shifting, Increase of fuel consumption, Poor engine acceleration, Driveability issues, Increased fuel consumption, Transmission may not shift properly boot and a lot more for our precious customers.

It is essential to diagnose this fault code. Here are some steps which a mechanic should follow for diagnosing the problem that triggered a P0980 code to be stored:

• It is very important that all the codes present in a vehicle should be diagnosed in the order of their appearance in the Powertrain Control Module or PCM
• Using the OBD-II scanner, connect it to the diagnostic port of the vehicle and retrieve all the codes saved and freeze frame the data.
• It is important to check the transmission fluid, it should be at the level prescribed by your vehicle manufacturer. Fill it up to the level needed. If you find that the transmission oil is dirty or contaminated you will have to clean it and fill new fluid into the tank.
• Now you can safely clear all the codes stored and take your vehicle on a test drive to check if the code resets. If the PCM module enters readiness mode than you have an intermittent condition. These can be rather tricky to diagnose, and in most cases require the issue to worsen before accurate diagnosis can be drawn
• If the P0980 trouble code returns start inspecting the shift solenoid wiring and connectors. Check is there are any breaks present, they may be also frayed, corroded or damaged in some manner. These will have to be repaired or replaced as per requirement.
• Now clear the code again and start the vehicle to see if P0980 code returns again.
• If it returns, you have to inspect the transmission control module or TCM now for any damages to the connectors or any corrosion. You will have to repair or replace them too. If your vehicle has external shift solenoids, you will have to inspect their connectors also for damages or corrosions. Again repair or replace the damaged wiring and connectors as needed.

 Common Mistakes When Diagnosing The P0980 Code

• Chafed or broken wiring is overlooked and hence not repaired
• Dirty transmission fluid isn’t considered cause of the P0980 trouble code
• Other transmission parts that have failed are not diagnosed and repaired before opting for replacing the problematic shift solenoid