P0771 code meaning
Shift Solenoid E Performance/Stuck Off
Powertrain system Generic code P07xx codes Check engine light
What P0771 means
What shift solenoid E does depends on the transmission. On Ford's 6R80 and 6F35/6F55 it is an on/off valve that moves a multiplex valve, so solenoid D feeds either the low/reverse brake or the 4-5-6 clutch; on the 6R140 and 5R110W it is a proportional clutch valve with separate short codes (P0985/P0986). On Saab's Aisin 5-speed E is valve S1. P0771 is Ford's functional check by gear ratio over 10 events (2012) or 3 (2020–23, 2023 diesel). On the 6R80/6F it means the multiplex valve stays in its rest position, so solenoid D acts on the wrong clutch; valve and spool cannot be told apart. On the 6R140 the 4-5-6 clutch does not apply. Ford counts the whole clutch system in, and its 10R80 and 8F35 bulletins list P0771 with mechanical repairs. Slipping or missing gears and limp mode follow.
P0771 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyHard
- Typical labor2 to 14 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P0771
- Slipping or flare on shifts
- Missing gear (e.g. 4th–6th)
- Limp mode
- Check engine light
Common causes of P0771
- Most likelyValve body or multiplex valve sticking (debris, dirt)
- Most likelyClutch, piston seal or clutch cylinder leaking or worn
- PossibleFluid level low or fluid contaminated
- PossibleSolenoid E mechanically stuck
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Shift solenoidMultiplex valveTransmission valve bodyTransmission control module
What each part of P0771 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. |
| 71 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0771 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 P0771
What does P0771 mean?
P0771 means "Shift Solenoid E Performance/Stuck Off". What shift solenoid E does depends on the transmission. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0771?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0771 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0771 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0771 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 P0771 to fix?
Difficulty: hard. A typical repair takes 2 to 14 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P0771 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.