P0769: Shift Solenoid ‘D’ Intermittent DTC Trouble Code

A shift solenoid is a small plunger type mechanism that the computer uses to control shift points, by directing the flow of transmission fluid inside the valve body. If the ECU notices an intermittent electrical problem with one of the solenoids, it will save a P0769 diagnostic trouble code.

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?

How Serious is the Code?

Although the problems stemming from a P0769 DTC may only be intermittent, they will probably soon escalate to a point that drivability and safety will become an issue.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a P0769 include:

  • Check engine light
  • Limp mode
  • Delayed, harsh or erratic shifts
  • Slipping through the gears
  • Engine stalling
  • Getting ‘stuck’ in a gear
  • Vehicle won’t move when in gear
  • Decreased fuel economy
  • Transmission overheats

Causes

  • Insufficient transmission fluid
  • Dirty transmission fluid / filter
  • Frayed wiring / damaged connectors
  • Failing solenoid
  • Failing transmission pump
  • Internal pressure problems
  • Valve body issue
  • ECU or TCM failure

How to Diagnose the Code?

Since an automatic transmission runs on transmission fluid, the level and condition of said fluid, should be assessed when trying to determine the cause of a solenoid related DTC. If there is any sludge in the ATF, passages inside the valve body could be clogged, which would prevent the solenoid from doing its job. Similarly, metal shavings in the fluid could signify a much bigger problem than just a failed solenoid.

If there are no issues with the level or condition of the ATF, then the wiring and connectors going to the solenoid should be checked for signs of damage and/or corrosion. If everything looks okay, then the solenoid should be tested according to the manufacturers recommended procedure. If the solenoid is found to work properly, then the valve body, transmission pump, and the pressure regulator system could be at fault.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing

Many times, the shift solenoid could be blamed for the fault, when it could actually be dirty transmission fluid, or a clogged hydraulic passage. The solenoid may also need to be tested in a specific way, like while the engine is running, or in a particular gear. Failure to follow the correct procedures could cause the solenoid to appear faulty when it actually isn’t.

What Repairs Will Fix P0769?

  • Changing the transmission fluid and filter
  • Replace faulty solenoid
  • Repair or replace a faulty transmission pump
  • Repair or replace defective transmission valve body
  • Perform transmission flush to clean passages
  • Cleaning corrosion from connectors
  • Repairing or replacing wiring
  • Flash or replace 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

P0768 – Shift Solenoid ‘D’ Electrical

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

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