What P0761 means
A shift solenoid is an electrically switched valve in the valve body; the module checks whether its clutch follows the command by gear ratio, shift time or a pressure switch.
How the engine computer detects it
P0761 means solenoid C is commanded on but its clutch does not follow. GM's Honda-built five-speed (Saturn Vue) combines a ratio check – first gear running in the window of second for 1.2 s – with a 3–4 shift faster than 0.8 s, after two trips. The 2007 Allison 1000 checks pressure switch 3 for 5 s, after one trip. Ford's 'functionally failed off' covers the CB26 brake circuit; Dodge's Aisin AS6 uses the code for solenoid 3, while Mitsubishi uses it for pressure switches.
Written from public technical sources and not yet checked by a mechanic. How we write these pages
Symptoms
- Gears missing or skipped
- Slip or engine flare on shifts
- Limp mode
- Check engine light
Common causes
- Clutch or brake of this circuit leaking or worn (piston seal, linings) Most likely
- Shift spool or proportional valve sticking (dirt, debris) Possible
- Fluid level or quality Possible
- Pressure switch faulty (Allison, Aisin) Less likely
How to diagnose P0761
- Read every stored code with an OBD-II scanner. If misfire or fuel trim codes are there too, fix those first: they often cause this one.
- Inspect the parts involved: shift solenoid, transmission valve body, transmission wiring, transmission control module.
- Work through the causes above from most to least likely, cheapest checks first.
- Clear the code and drive a full drive cycle to confirm the repair held.
Reading the code
- P
- Powertrain
- 0
- Generic (SAE) code
- 7
- Transmission
- 61
- Specific fault
Questions drivers ask
Can I drive with code P0761?
If the car shifts normally, drive gently to a shop. If it's stuck in one gear, slips, shifts harshly or won't move out of Park, don't drive it: have it towed.
Will my car pass an emissions inspection with P0761?
Probably not in states that test vehicles with an OBD-II scan: an emissions-related code that keeps the check engine light on is usually an automatic fail. Rules differ by state and county, so check yours.
Will P0761 clear by itself?
The light can go off after several drive cycles without the fault, but the code returns if the cause is still there. After a repair, the readiness monitors need a full drive cycle before an inspection.
This page is general information, not a substitute for a professional diagnosis. Repair costs are rough estimates for parts and labor and vary by vehicle and region.