P0768: Shift Solenoid ‘D’ Electrical DTC Trouble Code

Shifting gears in an automatic transmission is able to occur, when the ECU directs the flow of transmission fluid down the right passage using small plunger components called solenoids. If the computer notices an electrical fault with one of them, a P0768 diagnostic trouble code will be issued.

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What Transmission Do I Have?

How Serious is the Code?

A P0768 DTC means the ECU or TCM is not in complete control of a particular shift solenoid. And that means you will likely begin experiencing serious drivability issues.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a P0768 include:

• Check engine light
• Limp mode
• Harsh, delayed or erratic shifts
• Slipping in-and-out of gear
• Engine stalls
• Getting stuck in gear
• Vehicle won’t move when in gear
• Reduced fuel economy
• Transmission overheats

Causes

• Not enough transmission fluid
• Dirty transmission fluid / filter
• Damaged wiring/connector
• Malfunctioning solenoid
• Defective transmission pump
• Blocked pressure passage
• Valve body issue
• TCM or ECU failure

How to Diagnose the Code?

If the transmission fluid contains any dirt, sludge or metallic debris, the solenoids may not function properly. The presence of metal shavings could also indicate internal component failure, which is why checking the ATF level and condition should be the first step in diagnosing a transmission solenoid fault code. If the fluid is dirty and pressure blockages are suspected, then a transmission flush may be performed.

If there are no obvious maintenance related issues, then the wiring and connectors should be checked for evidence of damage and/or corrosion. If everything appears fine, then the shift solenoid will need to be tested according to the manufacturer’s procedure. If no issues have been found by this point, then the problem could lie with the transmission pump, valve body, or pressure regulator.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing

Even though most automatic transmissions operate in a similar fashion, not all the components work in the same way. Depending on the age and type of vehicle, the different types of solenoids can require different testing procedures to get accurate results.

What Repairs Will Fix P0768?

• Change the transmission fluid and filter
• Replace failed shift solenoid
• Replace or repair failed transmission pump
• Repair or replace transmission valve body
• Perform a transmission flush to clear passages
• Repair or replace damaged wiring
• Clean corrosion from connectors
• Flashing or replacing PCM/TCM
• Install a rebuilt or remanufactured transmission

Related Codes

P0765 – Shift Solenoid ‘D’

P0766 – Shift Solenoid ‘D’ Performance or Stuck Off

P0767 – Shift Solenoid ‘D’ Stuck On

P0769 – Shift Solenoid ‘D’ Intermittent

Need a replacement transmission? Get an estimate for replacement transmissions and local installation. Look up your transmission model by vehicle make and model.

What Transmission Do I Have?

Full Transmission DTC Codes Table