P0761 code meaning
Shift Solenoid C Performance/Stuck Off
Powertrain system Generic code P07xx codes Check engine light
What P0761 means
A shift solenoid is an electrically switched valve in the valve body; the module checks whether its clutch follows the command by gear ratio, shift time or a pressure switch. P0761 means solenoid C is commanded on but its clutch does not follow. GM's Honda-built five-speed (Saturn Vue) combines a ratio check – first gear running in the window of second for 1.2 s – with a 3–4 shift faster than 0.8 s, after two trips. The 2007 Allison 1000 checks pressure switch 3 for 5 s, after one trip. Ford's 'functionally failed off' covers the CB26 brake circuit; Dodge's Aisin AS6 uses the code for solenoid 3, while Mitsubishi uses it for pressure switches.
P0761 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyHard
- Typical labor1.5 to 12 hours
- Clears after repairAfter a drive cycle
Symptoms of P0761
- Gears missing or skipped
- Slip or engine flare on shifts
- Limp mode
- Check engine light
Common causes of P0761
- Most likelyClutch or brake of this circuit leaking or worn (piston seal, linings)
- PossibleShift spool or proportional valve sticking (dirt, debris)
- PossibleFluid level or quality
- Less likelyPressure switch faulty (Allison, Aisin)
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Shift solenoidTransmission valve bodyTransmission wiringTransmission control module
What each part of P0761 means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 7 | Area: transmission. |
| 61 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0761 and any other codes stored with it: several codes together often point to one cause.
- Check for loose connectors and damaged wiring around the parts the code names.
- Check open recalls for your car: some faults are fixed for free by the dealer. Enter your VIN.
- Clear the code only after the repair. If it comes back, the fault is still there.
Buying a used car? Scan it for stored codes before you pay. A recently cleared memory can hide a problem.
Questions about P0761
What does P0761 mean?
P0761 means "Shift Solenoid C Performance/Stuck Off". A shift solenoid is an electrically switched valve in the valve body; the module checks whether its clutch follows the command by gear ratio, shift time or a pressure switch. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0761?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0761 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0761 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0761 is emissions-related, so most inspection programs fail a car while it is stored or while the check engine light is on.
How hard is P0761 to fix?
Difficulty: hard. A typical repair takes 1.5 to 12 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P0761 clear itself after the repair?
After the repair the car has to complete a drive cycle (a mix of city and highway driving) before the test runs again. Until then the readiness monitor shows "not ready", which can fail an inspection.