P080C code meaning
Upshift/Skip Shift Solenoid Control Circuit Low
Powertrain system Generic code P08xx codes Check engine light
What P080C 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. P080C means the control line is shorted to ground: with the driver off it should sit at battery voltage through the coil but reads low (GM: 0.5 Ω or less to ground). GM checks it from 9 V (2015/16: 11–32 V) and above 250 rpm, 5 of 6 samples of 250 ms, type B with the MIL after two trips; the 2019 LT5 uses 20 of 25 samples and type A, one trip. In the 2015/16 tables P080C also covers an open circuit. A low-side short keeps the solenoid energized, so the lockout may stay active.
P080C at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modeNot expected
- Repair difficultyMedium, DIY possible
- Typical labor0.5 to 2.5 hours
- Clears after repairAfter a drive cycle
Symptoms of P080C
- Check engine lamp
- 1-4 lockout permanently active or not working
- 1-4 lamp possibly unrelated to the lockout
Common causes of P080C
- Most likelyControl wire chafed through to ground at gearbox or frame
- PossibleSolenoid coil shorted to its housing
- PossibleConnector corroded or water ingress
- PossibleOlder GM modules: circuit open or solenoid unplugged
- Less likelyEngine module driver faulty
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 P080C 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. |
| 0C | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P080C 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 P080C
What does P080C mean?
P080C means "Upshift/Skip Shift Solenoid Control Circuit Low". 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 P080C?
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 P080C fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P080C 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 P080C to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 2.5 hours of work. A careful DIY repair is possible with basic tools and a scanner.
Will P080C 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.