A shift solenoid is an electrically switched valve in the valve body; the module checks whether its clutch follows the command by gear ratio, shift time or a pressure switch. P0761 means solenoid C is commanded on but its clutch does not follow. GM's Honda-built five-speed (Saturn Vue) combines a ratio check – first gear running in the window of second for 1.2 s – with a 3–4 shift faster than 0.8 s, after two trips. The 2007 Allison 1000 checks pressure switch 3 for 5 s, after one trip. Ford's 'functionally failed off' covers the CB26 brake circuit; Dodge's Aisin AS6 uses the code for solenoid 3, while Mitsubishi uses it for pressure switches.
Medium severity. Can I keep driving?Drive as little as possible and gently. If the transmission slips or stays in one gear, go slowly to a repair shop or call for a tow truck.
Symptoms
- Gears missing or skipped
- Slip or engine flare on shifts
- Limp mode
- Check engine light
Most likely causes
- Clutch or brake of this circuit leaking or worn (piston seal, linings)
- Shift spool or proportional valve sticking (dirt, debris)
- Fluid level or quality
- Pressure switch faulty (Allison, Aisin)
What to check, in order
Start with the simplest. You can tick off each step.
Good to know
- Repair difficulty: hard
- It can trigger limp mode.
- It affects emissions.
What each character of P0761 means
- P: Powertrain: engine and transmission
- 0: Generic code: same on every make
- 7: Transmission
- 61: Specific fault in that system
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep driving with code P0761?
Drive as little as possible and gently. If the transmission slips or stays in one gear, go slowly to a repair shop or call for a tow truck.
What causes code P0761?
The most common causes are: clutch or brake of this circuit leaking or worn (piston seal, linings); shift spool or proportional valve sticking (dirt, debris); fluid level or quality.
Related codes
- P0762Shift Solenoid C Stuck On
- P0760Shift Solenoid C
- P0763Shift Solenoid C Electrical
- P0979Shift Solenoid C Control Circuit Low
- P0732Gear 2 Incorrect Ratio
- P0751Shift Solenoid A Performance/Stuck Off
Sources
- gsi.ext.gm.com: 2006trans8
- gsi.ext.gm.com: 07 GRP15 Allison 1000
- newtonnet.co.uk: fordobd2012
- static.nhtsa.gov: MC 11006772 0001
Values and procedures vary by manufacturer. If it affects brakes, steering, fuel or high voltage, see a professional. Updated: 2026-11-04. How we build these pages.