P0764Generic code

P0764 Code: Shift Solenoid C Intermittent

The P0764 code means the circuit of shift solenoid C in the automatic transmission is cutting out on and off. Check the transmission connector and wiring before you replace the solenoid.

Severity
High
Can I keep driving?
Yes, but with caution
Estimated cost
$80 to $900
Difficulty
Medium
System
Transmission
Applies to
All OBD2 vehicles

Updated Reviewed by Renzo Chacca

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What the P0764 code means

Solenoids are electric valves that direct fluid pressure to the clutches and brakes inside the transmission. Shift solenoid C opens or closes the fluid passage to one particular clutch or brake, and the combination of activated solenoids determines the gear. The transmission computer commands the solenoids and monitors both their electrical circuit and the result, meaning the input and output speeds of the transmission.

The P0764 code means the solenoid circuit is cutting out intermittently. It is an electrical fault: the wiring, the connector (very often the case pass-through connector, which leaks fluid), the solenoid itself or the control module.

On any transmission code, the first check is the fluid. Check the level with the manufacturer procedure (often with the engine running and at a specific temperature). The fluid should be red or pink and should not smell burnt. Low or worn-out fluid causes slipping, harsh shifts and solenoid or ratio codes that go away once it is corrected.

Intermittent faults are found by reproducing them. With the engine running and the scan tool in graph mode, move the wiring harness section by section, tap the connector gently and, if needed, warm the area with a hair dryer or spray the connector with water. The point where the reading jumps is the point of the fault.

Read the P0700 guide to understand how transmission codes are read and why you need a scan tool that can talk to the transmission module.

P0764 code symptoms

  • Check engine light or transmission warning light on.
  • Harsh shifts, late shifts or shifts that do not happen.
  • Limp mode: the transmission stays in one fixed gear (often 2nd, 3rd or 4th).
  • Slipping or high rpm in certain gears.

Likely causes of the P0764 code

  1. Transmission connector with fluid or corrosion. Very common at the case pass-through connector.
  2. Damaged internal or external wiring from heat or rubbing.
  3. Solenoid with an open or shorted coil. The resistance is out of specification.
  4. Transmission control module. Uncommon.

How to diagnose the P0764 code step by step

  1. Check the fluid level and condition using the manufacturer procedure.
  2. Read all the codes in the transmission module with a scan tool that can reach it.
  3. Measure the solenoid resistance at the transmission connector and compare it with the manual.
  4. Check the insulation to ground. It should read infinite.
  5. Command the solenoid with the scan tool and listen for the click.
  6. Inspect the case connector. Look for fluid inside it or green pins.

How to fix the P0764 code

  • Repair the connector or the wiring.
  • Replace the solenoid (or the valve body if the solenoid is built in).
  • Clear the adaptations and perform the relearn procedure.
  • Clear the codes and verify with a road test.

Technical reference data

  • Shift solenoids (on/off): roughly 10 to 30 ohms.
  • Pressure or linear solenoids (PWM control): roughly 3 to 8 ohms.
  • Normal transmission fluid temperature: 70 to 95 °C (158 to 203 °F).
  • Reference values: check the manufacturer data for your vehicle.

Brand-specific notes

On many transmissions the solenoids sit in the valve body and you reach them by removing the pan. On some, the solenoids are sold only together with the valve body or with the built-in control module (a mechatronic unit). After you replace solenoids or the valve body, clearing the adaptations and doing a relearn with a scan tool is usually required.

P0764 on Aisin and Jatco

On many Aisin and Jatco transmissions the solenoids are in the valve body and are reached by removing the pan.

P0764 on GM

On the GM 6T transmissions the solenoids are in the valve body and are reached by removing the pan.

P0764 on Ford

On the Ford 6R transmissions the solenoids are in the valve body and are reached by removing the pan.

P0764 on Volkswagen

The Volkswagen DSG uses a mechatronic unit, and on many modern transmissions the solenoids come only with the valve body or with the integrated control module.

Frequently asked questions about P0764

Can I drive with a P0764 code?
With caution and only as far as the shop. The transmission can drop into limp mode, and driving that way for a long time wears it out, so do not ignore a P0764 code.
Will a fluid change fix it?
Sometimes it does, especially for performance or stuck codes. For electrical faults it does not.
Does the transmission have to come out?
Normally not. The solenoids are replaced by removing the pan or the valve body cover.
How much does it cost to fix P0764?
Roughly $80 to $900, and more if the transmission itself needs repair.
What does the P0764 code mean?
It is a generic OBD2 code that means the circuit of shift solenoid C cuts out on and off. A loose or leaking connector or a damaged wire is the usual cause.

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