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What Are the Common Causes of a Shift Solenoid Malfunction?

Jeremy Laukkonen
Jeremy Laukkonen

Shift solenoid malfunctions can be the result of a variety of both mechanical and electrical faults. These solenoids are typically used to regulate a valve body, or to control clutch packs in a more direct manner. One cause of shift solenoid malfunction is if the solenoid itself becomes stuck, though a plugged valve can also result in various issues. Electrical problems can also cause a shift solenoid malfunction, since these components require battery voltage to operate. Any wiring or component between the solenoid and the transmission control unit (TCU) can theoretically cause a shift solenoid malfunction.

In modern electronically controlled transmissions, the purpose of a shift solenoid is to facilitate the changing of gears. This can be accomplished in a number of ways, which are largely automated by a transmission control unit or other similar computer module. The shift solenoids are responsible for automatically switching gears as the driving conditions change, but they can also be activated when the driver selects overdrive, low gear or another option. Since both mechanical and electrical components can be involved in the operation of shift solenoids, there are many different factors that can lead to malfunctions.

Solenoid malfunctions may be the result of electrical problems.
Solenoid malfunctions may be the result of electrical problems.

Many common shift solenoid malfunctions are mechanical in nature, such as a stuck plunger. This type of shift solenoid malfunction is typically caused by fluid contamination that results in the plunger not moving when it receives a signal. The vehicle will usually fail to shift properly when this occurs, and a trouble code might be set in the computer. Stuck plungers typically cannot be repaired, so the whole unit usually has to be replaced. This typically requires removing the transmission pan, and the valve body sometimes must be lowered as well.

Repairing a shift solenoid is a common repair on a transmission.
Repairing a shift solenoid is a common repair on a transmission.

Various electrical problems can also be the cause of a shift solenoid malfunction. A shorted out coil winding is one common issue that typically indicates that the solenoid requires replacement. Bad electrical connections at a shift solenoid or anywhere else in a wiring harness can also cause a failure. These issues are usually rectified by tracking down the bad connection or frayed wire and repairing it.

A shift solenoid malfunction is often seen first as a failure to shift properly, then as a code in the computer diagnostics system.
A shift solenoid malfunction is often seen first as a failure to shift properly, then as a code in the computer diagnostics system.

It is also possible for a transmission control unit to be the cause of a shift solenoid malfunction if it fails to send the correct signals at the proper time. These control units are responsible for the operation of all the electronic components in a transmission. Troubleshooting procedures are typically similar to other computer diagnostics, and can include the use of scan tools or a voltmeter to check output voltages to the solenoid.

Discussion Comments

anon987994

I have a 2004 dodge Durango and when I select D and start driving, it takes too long to do the first shift. That happens when it is cold. As soon as it warms up, no more problems. Can somebody help me out?

ikalla

My car jerks and engages only gears one and two, It's terrible and very rough on the road. I scanned it and it reads solenoid errors, short circuit and incomplete circuit. What could have caused this? It's a VW sharan vr6.

anon359709

I have a quick question. Can a bad shift solenoid cause leakage in the transmission? I have a 1997 Honda Accord that is leaking transmission oil from the shift solenoid. I checked the gasket and re installed the solenoid, but leak didn't go away.

anon359307

I have a 2003 Chevy Suburban non flex. I just replaced both solenoids in the tranny and drove it for a day and they both threw the code and shorted out. Any ideas why?

anon355357

My car would jerk and have trouble shifting into higher gears. Do you think its a solenoid? I was told there are two solenoids in the transmission. Is that true?

anon355164

Depends. If you are stuck in a lower speed. then yes, by overworking the engine and burning up gas creating more heat then there should be.

The solenoid controls your gear shifting and if while in reverse you could potentially not be in reverse but in a different gear like drive, that can cause larger problems such as accidents or failure of your transmission.

anon280876

Will it damage my van if I don't change the solenoid?

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    • Solenoid malfunctions may be the result of electrical problems.
      By: emel82
      Solenoid malfunctions may be the result of electrical problems.
    • Repairing a shift solenoid is a common repair on a transmission.
      By: ashadrov
      Repairing a shift solenoid is a common repair on a transmission.
    • A shift solenoid malfunction is often seen first as a failure to shift properly, then as a code in the computer diagnostics system.
      By: Tyler Olson
      A shift solenoid malfunction is often seen first as a failure to shift properly, then as a code in the computer diagnostics system.