What Does P0980 Mean?
The TCM has detected that the Shift Solenoid C (SS-C) control circuit voltage is consistently higher than expected, indicating a short to battery voltage or an open in the solenoid ground return path. The TCM cannot properly control SS-C because the circuit remains high regardless of commands. This prevents the transmission from engaging or disengaging the gears controlled by SS-C, typically resulting in limp mode or a stuck-in-gear condition.
Safety Warning
The transmission cannot properly control gear engagement for the ratios managed by SS-C. The vehicle may be stuck in one gear or in limp mode, limiting speed and acceleration. Avoid highway driving if upshifts are unavailable and have the vehicle repaired without delay.
Common Causes
35%
Open or high-resistance ground return path in the SS-C circuit
25%
Short to battery voltage in the SS-C wiring harness
20%
Corroded or backed-out ground terminal at the transmission case connector
15%
Shift Solenoid C with open winding on the ground side
5%
TCM SS-C driver circuit stuck in the high state
Diagnostic Steps
1
Measure SS-C resistance at the transmission connector — an extremely high or open (OL) reading may indicate an open ground-side winding in the solenoid.
2
With the transmission connector disconnected, measure voltage on the SS-C wire at the TCM connector with the key on. Persistent battery voltage without a load indicates a possible short to B+ or a stuck TCM driver.
3
Verify ground path continuity from the SS-C solenoid through the full circuit — internal harness, case connector, external harness, and TCM ground reference. Any break in this path produces the high circuit condition.
4
Inspect the case connector for corroded, loose, or backed-out ground pins. Check external harness ground splices for integrity.
5
If all wiring and the solenoid test within specification, command SS-C on/off via the scan tool while monitoring circuit voltage at the TCM to isolate a driver fault.
Estimated Repair Cost
$200 - $1,400
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
The TCM has detected that the Shift Solenoid C (SS-C) control circuit voltage is consistently higher than expected, indicating a short to battery voltage or an open in the solenoid ground return path. The TCM cannot properly control SS-C because the circuit remains high regardless of commands. This ...
The most common cause of P0980 (Shift Solenoid "C" Control Circuit High) is: Open or high-resistance ground return path in the SS-C circuit
Typical repair costs for P0980 range from $200 to $1,400, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
The transmission cannot properly control gear engagement for the ratios managed by SS-C. The vehicle may be stuck in one gear or in limp mode, limiting speed and acceleration. Avoid highway driving if upshifts are unavailable and have the vehicle repaired without delay.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to P0980 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Powertrain
System
Automatic Transmission / Transaxle
Difficulty
Type
Generic (SAE)
Recommended Tools
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