The 'friction element slip' codes monitor a clutch that is commanded locked in a power-split hybrid transmission: the module calculates its slip from electric motor, engine and output speeds (target 0 rpm) and flags slip above a threshold for a minimum time, with sufficient line pressure and clutch torque; from 2016 GM also flags a calculated friction energy threshold at once. The letter matches the manufacturer's clutch number. P07A0 concerns clutch 7. No manufacturer document available to us uses it – the documented hybrids (GM Two-Mode, Volt, Malibu Hybrid, CT6 plug-in, Chrysler Pacifica PHEV) have at most five monitored clutches. The description follows the family; clutch 7 would be the seventh friction element.
Medium severity. Can I keep driving?Drive gently to a repair shop. If it slips, you hear clunks, or it loses its gears, do not keep driving.
Symptoms
- Check engine light or 'service hybrid system' message
- Limp mode with reduced power or restricted drive mode
- Slipping, engine speed rises without drive
- Jolt when the engine starts or stops
Most likely causes
- Clutch G plates worn or glazed
- Too little line pressure: low or aged fluid, filter, auxiliary oil pump or blocked pressure orifice
- Pressure or shift valve of clutch G or valve body sticking
- Module software (false setting)
- Faulty speed signals (motor resolver, output)
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 P07A0 means
- P: Powertrain: engine and transmission
- 0: Generic code: same on every make
- 7: Transmission
- A0: Specific fault in that system
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep driving with code P07A0?
Drive gently to a repair shop. If it slips, you hear clunks, or it loses its gears, do not keep driving.
What causes code P07A0?
The most common causes are: clutch G plates worn or glazed; too little line pressure: low or aged fluid, filter, auxiliary oil pump or blocked pressure orifice; pressure or shift valve of clutch G or valve body sticking.
Related codes
- P07AETransmission Friction Element G Performance/Stuck Off
- P07AFTransmission Friction Element G Stuck On
- P2706Shift Solenoid F
- P079ATransmission Friction Element A Slip Detected
- P0730Incorrect Gear Ratio
Sources
- law.cornell.edu: 13 CCR 1968.2
- patents.google.com: US8548703
- gsi.ext.gm.com: 18OBDG01 Hybrid Diagnostics
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.