Powertrain, generic · Transmission

P0970 Pressure Control Solenoid C Control Circuit Low

Check engine lightOn
EmissionsRelevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modePossible

Pressure control solenoid C circuit low, a short to ground in the driver. On GM's six-speeds C is the C456/CBR1 solenoid; on the Saab 9-4X 6T70 it is clutch pressure solenoid 3 for the low/reverse and 4-5-6 clutches. A short for 1 s (Saab) or 0.3 s (GM 2018 table) sets a Type A code: only reverse and 5th gear, no converter lock-up, maximum line pressure. GM's 8-speed uses C for clutch 3 (C13567), the 9- and 10-speeds for CB38 or C23457910 with less than 0.5 ohm counting as a short; GM's dual-clutch gearbox uses it for the odd-clutch shutdown valve. Siblings: P0968 open, P0971 high, P0969 performance. Since the solenoid sits in the valve body, repairs often mean the control solenoid valve assembly.

Likely causes

Internally shorted solenoid in the control solenoid valve assembly
Chafed control wire touching ground
Fluid or moisture in the connector
Faulty output stage in the control module

Symptoms

  • MIL on immediately
  • Limp mode in reverse and one forward gear
  • Weak acceleration from standstill

Repair estimate

DifficultyHardWorkshop job
Parts and labour€150–1,800
Time1–5 h

Typical range across vehicles; the real cost depends on what the testing finds.

Parts involved

pressure control solenoid cwiring harnesstcm

Related codes

P0968P0969P0971P0962P0966P0797

References: saabwisonline.com, gsi.ext.gm.com, gsi.ext.gm.com.