P08DB code meaning
Shift Solenoid K Control Circuit Low
Powertrain system Generic code P08xx codes Check engine light
What P08DB means
The TCM's output stage reports a voltage on the shift solenoid K control circuit below what the commanded state requires, the classic sign of a control wire rubbing through to ground or a coil with an internal short. No manufacturer documents this K code publicly. For solenoid A, GM's 6-speed tables set P0973 when a ground short is flagged for 1.2 out of 1.5 seconds, with at least 9 V supply and the engine running, and light the MIL after one trip; Ford lists P0973 as short to ground. CARB mandates the check. P08DC is the opposite fault and P08DD the open circuit. Many TCMs then disable the valve, so expect a limp-home gear.
P08DB at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyHard
- Typical labor1 to 5 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P08DB
- Check engine or transmission warning light on
- Transmission stays in a limp-home gear
- Reduced acceleration due to missing gears
Common causes of P08DB
- Most likelyControl wire rubbed through to ground
- PossibleInternally shorted solenoid coil
- Less likelyTCM output stage fault
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Shift solenoid kWiring harness
What each part of P08DB 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. |
| DB | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P08DB 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 P08DB
What does P08DB mean?
P08DB means "Shift Solenoid K Control Circuit Low". The TCM's output stage reports a voltage on the shift solenoid K control circuit below what the commanded state requires, the classic sign of a control wire rubbing through to ground or a coil with an internal short. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P08DB?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P08DB the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P08DB fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P08DB 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 P08DB to fix?
Difficulty: hard. A typical repair takes 1 to 5 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P08DB clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.