Performance fault of pressure control solenoid B: wiring is intact, but current or resulting pressure does not match the command. In the Saab 9-4X 6T70, solenoid 2 feeds the 3-5-reverse clutch; a current mismatch for 5 s sets a Type C code without MIL and freezes that clutch's adaptations, and GM's 2016 six-speed table also lists it without MIL. Allison 1000 checks for a current error of 0.5 A or more within 250 ms windows (Type A). In GM's CVT, B controls the primary pulley: a pressure error above 500 kPa steady or 1,500 kPa transient, confirmed by a ratio error for 5 s, sets a Type A code. Electrical faults of B are P0964, P0966 and P0967. Symptoms range from none to rough 3rd, 5th or reverse, or CVT ratio problems.
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
- Rough or delayed 3rd, 5th or reverse engagement
- CVT ratio fluctuates, engine speed flares
- Often no warning light on six-speed applications
Most likely causes
- Worn or internally faulty solenoid, current no longer matches the command
- Debris sticking the solenoid or its regulator valve
- Internal leak in the CVT primary pulley circuit
- High resistance in connector or pass-through
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 P0965 means
- P: Powertrain: engine and transmission
- 0: Generic code: same on every make
- 9: Transmission
- 65: Specific fault in that system
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep driving with code P0965?
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 P0965?
The most common causes are: worn or internally faulty solenoid, current no longer matches the command; debris sticking the solenoid or its regulator valve; internal leak in the CVT primary pulley circuit.
Related codes
- P0964Pressure Control Solenoid B Control Circuit/Open
- P0966Pressure Control Solenoid B Control Circuit Low
- P0967Pressure Control Solenoid B Control Circuit High
- P0961Pressure Control Solenoid A Control Circuit Range/Performance
- P0969Pressure Control Solenoid C Control Circuit Range/Performance
- P0776Pressure Control Solenoid B Performance/Stuck Off
Sources
- saabwisonline.com: dtc p0965 p0967
- gsi.ext.gm.com: 23OBDG03A Part1
- gsi.ext.gm.com: 17OBDG04 Transmisson Diagnostics
- gsi.ext.gm.com: 16OBDG03 Transmission 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.