What Does P0920 Mean?
The TCM has detected an open circuit in the gear shift forward actuator, which controls the forward motion of the shift mechanism for engaging odd-numbered gears (1st, 3rd, 5th) in an automated manual transmission. An open circuit means no electrical connection exists to drive the actuator, completely disabling forward gear engagement capability.
Safety Warning
Without the forward actuator, odd-numbered gears (1st, 3rd, 5th) cannot be engaged. The vehicle may be unable to start from a stop or shift properly. Do not drive; tow the vehicle.
Common Causes
35%
Open wiring between TCM and gear shift forward actuator
30%
Gear shift forward actuator motor open winding failure
20%
Blown fuse or open relay in forward actuator power circuit
15%
Disconnected or severely corroded actuator connector
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Check the fuse and relay for the shift forward actuator circuit — a blown fuse indicates overcurrent; investigate root cause before replacing.
2
Step 2: Disconnect the forward actuator and measure motor winding resistance — expect 2-15 ohms; OL reading confirms an open winding.
3
Step 3: Check for continuity from the actuator connector to the TCM connector on each wire — any open wire must be traced and repaired.
4
Step 4: Inspect the actuator connector for signs of heat damage, corrosion, or disconnection — verify the connector lock tab is intact and seated.
5
Step 5: If all external circuits test good, verify TCM output pins have proper drive voltage when commanding the forward actuator.
Estimated Repair Cost
$200 - $1,300
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
The TCM has detected an open circuit in the gear shift forward actuator, which controls the forward motion of the shift mechanism for engaging odd-numbered gears (1st, 3rd, 5th) in an automated manual transmission. An open circuit means no electrical connection exists to drive the actuator, complete...
The most common cause of P0920 (Gear Shift Forward Actuator Circuit / Open [forward motion, odd gears, 1,3,5]) is: Open wiring between TCM and gear shift forward actuator
Typical repair costs for P0920 range from $200 to $1,300, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Without the forward actuator, odd-numbered gears (1st, 3rd, 5th) cannot be engaged. The vehicle may be unable to start from a stop or shift properly. Do not drive; tow the vehicle.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to P0920 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Powertrain
System
Automated Manual Transmission (Shift Control)
Difficulty
Type
Generic (SAE)
Recommended Tools
OBD2 Scanner
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