P0926 code meaning
Gear Shift Reverse Actuator Circuit Low
Powertrain system Generic code P09xx codes Check engine light
What P0926 means
Set when the drive circuit of the reverse shift actuator of an automated manual gearbox, the one moving the shift mechanism opposite to the forward direction, shows a voltage that is too low for the current switching state. This usually means a valve or motor line shorted to ground or an internal short in the actuator; the module often switches the output off to protect itself. No manufacturer documents this code publicly. A ZF patent drives each chamber of a double-acting shift cylinder through its own solenoid valve, an Isuzu patent runs the shift motor in both directions. CARB requires circuit checks on outputs. P0927 is the opposite high fault, P0924 the open circuit, P0922 the forward direction. Gears in this direction are blocked.
P0926 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 P0926
- Transmission warning light on
- Certain gears can no longer be engaged
- Gearbox may stay in neutral or hold one gear
Common causes of P0926
- Most likelyDrive wire chafed through and shorted to ground
- PossibleInternal short in solenoid coil or shift motor
- Less likelyWater or corrosion bridging pins in the connector
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Gear shift reverse actuatorWiring harnessTCM
What each part of P0926 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. |
| 26 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0926 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 P0926
What does P0926 mean?
P0926 means "Gear Shift Reverse Actuator Circuit Low". Set when the drive circuit of the reverse shift actuator of an automated manual gearbox, the one moving the shift mechanism opposite to the forward direction, shows a voltage that is too low for the current switching state. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0926?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0926 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0926 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0926 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 P0926 to fix?
Difficulty: hard. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 5 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P0926 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.