Performance fault of pressure control solenoid C. Publicly documented only for GM's front-drive six-speeds: on the Saab 9-4X 6T70, clutch pressure solenoid 3 feeds the low/reverse and 4-5-6 clutches through the R1/4-5-6 regulator valve. If measured current differs from the commanded current for 5 s, the module stores a Type C code and freezes the adaptations of both clutches. GM's 2016 table (C456/CBR1 solenoid) sets it after an invalid feedback for 4.4 of 5 s, also without MIL. Other GM users such as the 8- to 10-speeds list only open, low and high for C, and Ford does not use C. Drivers rarely notice more than gradually rougher 4-5-6 or reverse engagements. Electrical faults: P0968, P0970, P0971.
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
- Usually no warning light
- Rougher shifts into 4th, 5th, 6th or reverse over time
- Shift adaptation stops learning
Most likely causes
- Solenoid 3 with internal fault, current no longer matches the command
- Debris sticking the solenoid or the R1/4-5-6 regulator valve
- High resistance in the internal connection to the module
What to check, in order
Start with the simplest. You can tick off each step.
Good to know
- Repair difficulty: hard
What each character of P0969 means
- P: Powertrain: engine and transmission
- 0: Generic code: same on every make
- 9: Transmission
- 69: Specific fault in that system
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep driving with code P0969?
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 P0969?
The most common causes are: solenoid 3 with internal fault, current no longer matches the command; debris sticking the solenoid or the R1/4-5-6 regulator valve; high resistance in the internal connection to the module.
Related codes
- P0968Pressure Control Solenoid C Control Circuit/Open
- P0970Pressure Control Solenoid C Control Circuit Low
- P0971Pressure Control Solenoid C Control Circuit High
- P0965Pressure Control Solenoid B Control Circuit Range/Performance
- P0989Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch E Circuit Low
- P0796Pressure Control Solenoid C Performance/Stuck Off
Sources
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.