P0795 OBD-II Trouble Code: Pressure Control Solenoid C

P0795 code definition

A P0795 trouble code is stored when a fault with the electronic pressure control solenoid, or the solenoid circuit, is detected by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The electronic pressure control solenoids regulate the hydraulic pressure used to actuate shifting and proper function of the torque converter.

In addition to a P0795 trouble code, similar codes include a P0796, P0797, P0798, and P0799 code.

What the P0795 code means

To obtain the proper hydraulic pump pressure for shifting, the PCM relies on such factors as the speed of the vehicle, speed of the engine, engine load, and throttle position. If the pump pressure does not coincide with what the PCM calls for, a P0795 trouble code is stored and the Check Engine Light illuminates. While in most vehicles the Check Engine Lights is illuminated as soon as the trouble code is stored, some vehicles require multiple failure cycles before the light will come on.

What causes the P0795 code?

Some common causes of a P0795 trouble code include:

• A bad electronic pressure control solenoid
• Failure of the transmission
• Blockage within the transmission fluid passages
• A malfunctioning PCM
• Dirty transmission fluid or a low fluid level

What are the symptoms of the P0795 code?

Symptoms of a P0795 trouble code range from no detectable symptoms to the inability to shift, to a failure on the part of the torque converter. Another common occurrence encountered in conjunction with a P0795 trouble code is for the PCM to place the transmission in Limp-in mode. Additional Symptoms include worsening vehicle fuel economy, rough shifting, slipping of the transmission, and transmission overheating.

How does a mechanic diagnose the P0795 code?

Diagnosing a P0795 trouble code requires the mechanic to have an advanced scanner and digital volt/ohmmeter. In addition, a mechanic needs a manual pressure pump, hydraulic pressure diagram, and to perform the following diagnostic steps:

• Pull the transmission dipstick and examine the fluid

• If it smells burned or looks strange, drop the transmission pan to look for debris. The presence of debris can indicate a bigger problem with the transmission and might require the mechanic to rebuild it

• Next, inspect the wiring, connectors, and components for damage

• Hook up the scanner to the diagnostic connector and download any stored codes and freeze frame data before clearing the code

• Also, the mechanic should fill the transmission to a level to fix any leaks

• Start the vehicle and allow it to reach a normal operating temperature. Test the system, including taking the vehicle for a test drive, to see if the code comes back

• If the code comes back, hook up the manual pressure pump to the transmission, and using the hydraulic pressure diagram, test the pressure levels of the hydraulic pump. The mechanic should compare their findings to the manufacturer's specifications

• If after replacing a faulty hydraulic pump, if faulty, and clearing the code, the code returns, use the digital volt/ohmmeter to test the reference voltage and ground signal of the faulty electronic pressure control solenoid

• If either is open, check the continuity and resistance of all related circuits. The mechanic should also make sure to disconnect any related modules to avoid damage

• As a last resort, test the PCM for fault, as PCM failure is rare

• The mechanic should then clear the trouble code and test the system to see if it returns

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P0795 code

Replacement of a high pressure pump is commonly blamed for the P0795 trouble code when in actuality the problem lies with a electronic pressure control solenoid or a malfunction with the wiring.

How serious is the P0795 code?

A P0795 trouble code can result in a malfunction of the transmission, especially if a low fluid condition is allowed to continue for any length of time. Vehicle owners can avoid more serious repairs by addressing and fixing this code when it is first stored.

What repairs can fix the P0795 code?

When repairing a P0795 trouble code, the mechanic should perform the following:

• Replace any damaged or faulty wiring, connectors, or components
• Repair any leaks in the transmission
• Replace the hydraulic pump if it is bad
• Replace any faulty electronic pressure control solenoids
• Replace the PCM if the mechanic determines it is bad
• Rebuild the transmission if debris is detected in the transmission pan. The mechanic should also install a new torque converter when rebuilding the transmission

Need help with a P0795 code?

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