P080B code meaning
Upshift/Skip Shift Solenoid Control Circuit Range/Performance
Powertrain system Generic code P08xx codes Check engine light
What P080B means
GM's skip-shift (CAGS) on manual gearboxes such as the T56 and TR6060 uses an engine-module solenoid that, at light load, blocks the way from 1st into 2nd so the driver shifts 1 to 4; the 1-4 lamp shows it (P0804). The engine module drives the solenoid with a low-side driver; P0803 is the open circuit. P080B would be the range or performance fault of this circuit: electrically plausible, but outside the expected range for the command – for example a coil resistance outside its window, a partial short or contact resistance. No manufacturer document available to us uses it: GM's tables from 2006 to 2019 check the solenoid only electrically (P0803 open, P080C short to ground, P080D short to positive). CARB requires a functional check of outputs where feasible. The lockout may then work unreliably.
P080B at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modeNot expected
- Repair difficultyMedium, DIY possible
- Typical labor0.5 to 2 hours
- Clears after repairAfter a drive cycle
Symptoms of P080B
- Check engine lamp (depends on manufacturer)
- 1-4 lockout works not at all or only sometimes
- Otherwise no change in driving
Common causes of P080B
- PossibleSolenoid coil with shorted turns or resistance out of range
- PossibleRetrofitted skip-shift eliminator with the wrong value
- PossibleCorroded connector at the gearbox (contact resistance)
- Less likelyControl module or software
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Skip shift solenoidSolenoid wiringEngine control module
What each part of P080B means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 8 | Area: transmission. |
| 0B | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P080B 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 P080B
What does P080B mean?
P080B means "Upshift/Skip Shift Solenoid Control Circuit Range/Performance". GM's skip-shift (CAGS) on manual gearboxes such as the T56 and TR6060 uses an engine-module solenoid that, at light load, blocks the way from 1st into 2nd so the driver shifts 1 to 4; the 1-4 lamp shows it (P0804). It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P080B?
Usually yes, for a short time, if the check engine light is steady and the car drives normally. If the light flashes or the car runs badly, stop and have it checked.
Will P080B fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P080B 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 P080B to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 2 hours of work. A careful DIY repair is possible with basic tools and a scanner.
Will P080B 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.