P079A code meaning
Transmission Friction Element A Slip Detected
Powertrain system Generic code P07xx codes Check engine light
What P079A means
The 'friction element slip' codes monitor a clutch that is commanded locked in a power-split hybrid transmission: the module calculates its slip from electric motor, engine and output speeds (target 0 rpm) and flags slip above a threshold for a minimum time, with sufficient line pressure and clutch torque; from 2016 GM also flags a calculated friction energy threshold at once. The letter matches the manufacturer's clutch number. P079A concerns clutch 1. On GM's Two-Mode SUVs and pickups (2008–13) that is the hybrid low/1-2 clutch, flagged above 200 rpm for 3 s after one trip; GM bulletins link it to a clogged line pressure orifice and the auxiliary oil pump. The Volt flags above 200 rpm in three attempts, Malibu Hybrid and Volt from 2016 190 rpm for 0.6 s or 8003 J. Chrysler's Pacifica PHEV fixes P079A by software, as a permanent code with MIL.
P079A 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 P079A
- Check engine light or 'service hybrid system' message
- Limp mode with reduced power or restricted drive mode
- Slipping, engine speed rises without drive
- Jolt when the engine starts or stops
Common causes of P079A
- Most likelyClutch A plates worn or glazed
- PossibleToo little line pressure: low or aged fluid, filter, auxiliary oil pump or blocked pressure orifice
- PossiblePressure or shift valve of clutch A or valve body sticking
- Less likelyModule software (false setting)
- Less likelyFaulty speed signals (motor resolver, output)
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Transmission clutchesTransmission valve bodyAuxiliary transmission oil pumpHybrid control module
What each part of P079A 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. |
| 9A | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P079A 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 P079A
What does P079A mean?
P079A means "Transmission Friction Element A Slip Detected". The 'friction element slip' codes monitor a clutch that is commanded locked in a power-split hybrid transmission: the module calculates its slip from electric motor, engine and output speeds (target 0 rpm) and flags slip above a threshold for a minimum time, with sufficient line pressure and clutch torque; from 2016 GM also flags a calculated friction energy threshold at once. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P079A?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P079A the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P079A fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P079A 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 P079A to fix?
Difficulty: hard. A typical repair takes 1 to 12 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P079A clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.