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P0780

Shift Malfunction

The TCM detects that a commanded shift between gears did not occur within the expected time and quality window. Slip rates or speed ratios remain implausible during shift.

  • Check engine light: Yes
  • Emissions related: No
  • Repair difficulty: hard

Symptoms

  • Check engine or transmission warning light on
  • Harsh, delayed, or missing shifts
  • Possible limp mode (locked in one gear)
  • Slipping or shuddering during gear changes

Common causes

Ordered by how often each turns out to be the cause.

  • Low or degraded transmission fluidCommon
  • Shift solenoid stuck or wornCommon
  • Clutch pack wearPossible

Parts involved

  • Transmission Solenoid
  • Transmission Clutch Pack
  • Transmission Fluid
  • Valve Body

P0780 is a generic OBD-II code defined by SAE J2012. Exact wording and diagnostic procedure vary by manufacturer and model. Code definitions are drawn from the public-domain OBDex dataset; the workshop notes are our own.