P0911 OBD-II Trouble Code: Gate Select Actuator Circuit Range/Performance

P0911 code definition

A P0911 trouble code means that the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has detected a fault with the gate select actuator circuit. Other codes often associated with a P0911 trouble code includes a P0904, P0905, P0906, P0907, P0908, P0909, P0910, P0912, and P0913 trouble code.

What the P0911 code means

The PCM uses the gate select actuator circuit to help when shifting gears while driving. When the actuator fails to work properly, a trouble code is stored and the Check Engine Light illuminates.

What causes the P0911 code?

The most likely cause of a P0911 trouble code is faulty or damaged wiring and connectors. A bad transmission gate select actuator circuit can also cause the storage of this code, as well as a damaged PCM or Transmission Control Module (TCM).

What are the symptoms of the P0911 code?

Some common symptoms of a P0911 trouble code is transmission slippage or a failure to go into a certain gear. In addition, a P0911 trouble code can lead to a reduced fuel efficiency in the vehicle in question.

How does a mechanic diagnose the P0911 code?

To diagnose a P0911 trouble code a mechanic needs an advanced scanner, specialized scanner, Control Area Network (CAN) Bus wiring diagram, auxiliary ground cable, and a digital volt/ohm meter. They must also perform the following steps:

• Check all wiring, connectors, and components for fault or damage.
• Once any the mechanic has replaced any faulty or damaged wiring, connectors, or components, they should clear the code and test the system to see if the trouble code persists.
• If the code persists, they should use a digital volt/ohm meter to check the voltage and ground signal at the gate select actuator circuit.
• If no voltage or ground signal is present, the mechanic should disconnect the PCM and all relevant control modules and test the continuity of the gate select actuator circuit.
• The mechanic should also check the pins of the CAN Bus wiring harness with a specialized scanner and a CAN Bus wiring diagram and compare their findings to the manufacturer's specifications. The mechanic should use an auxiliary ground cable to help with the CAN Bus harness diagnostic process.
• In addition to the Can Bus wiring harness, the mechanic should check the continuity between the PCM and the gate select actuator circuit switch.
• Test the continuity of the TCM to see if it is at fault.
• Finally, test the continuity of the PCM to see if it has gone bad.
• Clear the P0911 trouble code and retest the system to see if the code returns.

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P0911 code

A common mistake often made by mechanics when repairing a P0911 trouble code is to overlook a bad gate select actuator switch and repair or replace a component that is not the cause of the problem. The result is the return of the trouble code.

How serious is the P0911 code?

Vehicle owners should have a P0911 trouble code fixed as soon as possible. Otherwise, the vehicle transmission could start slipping or fail to shift into specific gears altogether.

What repairs can fix the P0911 code?

To repair a P0911 trouble code, a mechanic needs to perform the following repairs:

• Replace any damaged or faulty wiring, connectors, or other components.
• Replace the gate select actuator circuit if it tests bad.
• Replace the gate select actuator switch if faulty.
• Replace any CAN Bus harness wiring found to be damaged or at fault.
• The mechanic should also make sure all wiring and connectors are firmly in place.
• Replace the PCM or TCM if either is diagnosed as bad.

Need help with a P0911 code?

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