P0829 code meaning
5-6 Shift
Powertrain system Generic code P08xx codes Check engine light
What P0829 means
Shift codes check the gear change itself: the module compares the commanded change with the speed trace and flags a shift that takes too long, does not happen, flares or binds up two clutches. P0829 covers the change between 5th and 6th gear in either direction; J2012 placed it here because P0785 ff were already taken, between P0781 '1-2 Shift' to P0784 '4-5 Shift' and P07DA/P07DB for 6-7 and 7-8. No manufacturer document available to us uses it: Ford's Diesel summary checks shift completion without a gear-specific code (speed must drop by more than 30 rpm on an upshift, flare above 300 rpm), Ford's automatics feed the solenoid function codes and GM the clutch valve codes. It exists only on transmissions with at least six gears; MIL and trip count follow the manufacturer.
P0829 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyHard
- Typical labor1 to 10 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P0829
- Harsh, delayed or missing 5-6 shift
- Engine speed flares during the shift
- Limp mode in a fixed gear, possibly MIL
Common causes of P0829
- Most likelyFluid low or aged
- PossibleShift or clutch pressure valve for 5-6 sticking
- PossibleClutch or brake of 6th gear worn
- PossibleAdaptives or software
- Less likelyInput or output speed sensor delivering wrong values
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 P0829 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. |
| 29 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0829 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 P0829
What does P0829 mean?
P0829 means "5-6 Shift". Shift codes check the gear change itself: the module compares the commanded change with the speed trace and flags a shift that takes too long, does not happen, flares or binds up two clutches. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0829?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0829 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0829 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0829 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 P0829 to fix?
Difficulty: hard. A typical repair takes 1 to 10 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P0829 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.