P0780 code meaning
Shift Error
Powertrain system Generic code P07xx codes Check engine light
What P0780 means
Shift codes are a functional check of the gear change itself: the module compares the commanded shift with the speed trace and flags a shift that takes too long, is too short or abrupt, does not happen, flares or ties up. Ford does not use P0780–P0784 (its shift completion check feeds the solenoid codes), nor do GM's 2018–2025 tables. P0780 is the collective code when the faulty shift is not assigned to a gear. GM's 2006 Aisin-type five-speed counts five shifts that are too long, too short or tied up with fluid above 60 °C and lights the MIL at once; GM's Honda-built unit flags a 3–4 shift that stays in the lower ratio after two trips; Saab's 2010 Aisin six-speed counts ten faulty shifts without MIL, limits torque and keeps second and reverse. Nissan fixed P0780 on the 2021 Rogue CVT with new software.
P0780 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyHard
- Typical labor1 to 12 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P0780
- Harsh, delayed or missing shifts
- Engine flare during shifts
- Warning lamp
- Limp mode with fixed gear, reduced power
Common causes of P0780
- Most likelyFluid level wrong, fluid worn or contaminated
- Most likelyValve body, shift or pressure valve sticking
- PossibleWorn clutches or bands (mechanical damage)
- PossibleModule software or shift adaption
- Less likelyFaulty speed sensor signal
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Transmission valve bodyShift solenoidTransmission clutchesTransmission control module
What each part of P0780 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. |
| 80 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0780 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 P0780
What does P0780 mean?
P0780 means "Shift Error". Shift codes are a functional check of the gear change itself: the module compares the commanded shift with the speed trace and flags a shift that takes too long, is too short or abrupt, does not happen, flares or ties up. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0780?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0780 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0780 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0780 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 P0780 to fix?
Difficulty: hard. A typical repair takes 1 to 12 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P0780 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.