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P0963 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "Pressure Control Solenoid A Control Circuit High". This can happen for multiple reasons and a mechanic needs to diagnose the specific cause for this code to be triggered in your situation. Our certified mobile mechanics can come to your home or office to perform the Check Engine Light diagnostic for $154.99 . Once we are able to diagnose the problem, you will be provided with an upfront quote for the recommended fix and receive $50.0 off as a credit towards the repair. All our repairs are backed by our 12-month / 12,000-mile warranty.
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The P0963 trouble code notes an issue with the pressure control solenoid A control circuit.
The P0963 code is a standard OBD-II trouble code that detects an error with the valve A pressure control solenoid control circuit. The purpose of this solenoid is to regulate the automatic transmission’s hydraulic pressure, which actuates shifting and torque converter lockup. This is controlled by the powertrain control module (PCM), which selects the hydraulic pressure based on the throttle position, engine speed, engine load, and vehicle speed. When the PCM notes that the voltage readings from the pressure control solenoid control circuit in valve A are higher than they should be, the P0963 code is triggered.
A few different things can cause the P0963 code to be stored:
The P0963 code is usually accompanied by the Check Engine Light, which will illuminate on the instrument panel. It’s likely that the car will also experience notable transmission problems, such as difficulty shifting, very rough shifting (specifically downshifting), slippage, overheating, and constant stalling at idle. Diminished fuel efficiency is also a common symptom of the P0963 code.
The P0963 code will be diagnosed using a standard OBD-II trouble code scanner. A reputable mechanic will use the scanner to view the freeze frame data and assess the code, while also looking for additional trouble codes. In the event that multiple codes have been detected, they should be addressed in the order in which they appear. After looking at the freeze frame data the mechanic will clear the trouble codes, restart the vehicle, and check to see if the code returns. If the code is absent, then it is most likely an intermittent issue, or an erroneously detected code.
If the trouble code does remain detected, the mechanic should check the transmission fluid. If the fluid is dirty, or the fluid levels are low, the mechanic will quickly address that. However, if the fluid is severely contaminated, then there is likely a serious issue with the transmission, and it will probably require a rebuild or replacement after inspection.
The technician will then visually inspect the electrical components in the pressure control system, and replace any damaged wires, connectors, or circuits. After doing this, a manual pressure gauge can be connected to the hydraulic pump, which will allow the mechanic to compare the hydraulic pressure to that of the manufacturer’s specifications. If the pressure is too low, then there is likely a defective solenoid, pump, or pressure regulator, or there is a hydraulic fluid blockage.
In the event that the issue has still not been found, then a deeper inspection of the transmission, PCM, and transmission control module will need to be performed.
After any replacements of components, the mechanic will have to halt their inspection and reset the trouble codes, restart the vehicle, and once more check to see if the trouble codes are still present. This will help the mechanic determine as soon as the issue is resolved.
The most common error when diagnosing the P0963 code comes from failing to comply with the OBD-II trouble code diagnosis protocol. All mechanics should abide by the protocol at all times, to make sure that inspections and repairs are efficient and effective.
High pressure pumps and entire transmissions are often erroneously replaced when simpler components that should have been checked first are the only issue.
Most vehicles with a detected P0963 trouble code will still be operable. In some cases, stalling will be so constant that the vehicle cannot be driven. It is also possible that the transmission will be problematic enough to make driving impractical. Even if the car is perfectly drivable, continuing to operate it with a detected P0963 code can cause severe damage to the transmission, so the code should always be addressed as soon as it is detected.
Potential repairs for the P0963 trouble code are:
The P0963 trouble code is only found in vehicles that have automatic transmissions.
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