P0785 code meaning
Shift Timing Solenoid A
Powertrain system Generic code P07xx codes Check engine light
What P0785 means
'Shift timing solenoid' means different parts: on GM's 4L60-E the 3-2 downshift solenoid that times the band apply on that downshift, on Aisin five-speeds (GM, Saab) the linear valve SLS that sets clutch pressure during the shift, and on the 2017–18 Genesis G80/G90 with shift-by-wire the on/off solenoids that engage drive (A) and reverse (B). P0785 is the general circuit code for solenoid A. GM's 2006 tables use it for the 3-2 downshift solenoid circuit (more than 43 of 50 failed counts, after one trip); Saab's 2002 Aisin box for an open or short in the SLS circuit with warning lamp and limp mode; Hyundai's Genesis bulletins for the drive solenoid, replacing valve and electronic module and then the module if it returns. Limp mode, harsh 3-2 downshifts or – on the Genesis – no drive follow.
P0785 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium
- Typical labor1 to 4 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P0785
- Warning lamp
- Limp mode
- Harsh 3-2 downshift (GM) or rough shifts (Aisin)
- Genesis shift-by-wire: drive cannot be engaged
Common causes of P0785
- Most likelySolenoid coil open or shorted
- PossibleConnector or wire at the transmission (oil, corrosion)
- PossibleElectronic module or transmission module driver
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Shift timing solenoidTransmission wiringTransmission control module
What each part of P0785 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. |
| 85 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0785 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 P0785
What does P0785 mean?
P0785 means "Shift Timing Solenoid A". 'Shift timing solenoid' means different parts: on GM's 4L60-E the 3-2 downshift solenoid that times the band apply on that downshift, on Aisin five-speeds (GM, Saab) the linear valve SLS that sets clutch pressure during the shift, and on the 2017–18 Genesis G80/G90 with shift-by-wire the on/off solenoids that engage drive (A) and reverse (B). It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0785?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0785 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0785 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0785 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 P0785 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 1 to 4 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P0785 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.