P0920 code meaning
Gear Shift Forward Actuator Circuit/Open
Powertrain system Generic code P09xx codes Check engine light
What P0920 means
Concerns the drive circuit that moves the shift mechanism of an automated manual gearbox in the forward shift direction. Depending on design this is one of two solenoid valves on a double-acting shift cylinder or one rotation direction of an electric shift motor. The code sets when the module finds this output open or electrically faulty, e.g. no current while the driver is on. No manufacturer documents the code publicly. A ZF patent feeds each chamber of a double-acting cylinder through its own 3/2 solenoid valve, an Isuzu patent turns the shift motor forward or reverse by shift direction. CARB requires circuit checks on outputs. P0921 to P0923 are the siblings, P0924 the reverse direction. Gears in this direction can no longer be engaged.
P0920 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyHard
- Typical labor0.5 to 5 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P0920
- Transmission warning light on
- Some gears cannot be selected, the gearbox skips them or stays in neutral
- Vehicle may only move off in a limited set of gears
Common causes of P0920
- Most likelyLoose, corroded or unplugged connector at the shift actuator or valve
- PossibleBroken drive wire between module and actuator
- PossibleOpen solenoid coil or motor winding in the actuator
- Less likelyFaulty driver stage in the transmission control module
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Gear shift forward actuatorWiring harnessTCM
What each part of P0920 means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 9 | Area: transmission. |
| 20 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0920 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 P0920
What does P0920 mean?
P0920 means "Gear Shift Forward Actuator Circuit/Open". Concerns the drive circuit that moves the shift mechanism of an automated manual gearbox in the forward shift direction. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0920?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0920 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0920 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0920 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 P0920 to fix?
Difficulty: hard. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 5 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P0920 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.