P0920 - Forward Shift Actuator Circuit/Open
OBD2 Error Codes

P0920 - Forward Shift Actuator Circuit/Open

31.10.2023 /

P0920 – OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description

Forward Shift Drive Circuit/Open

What does the fault code mean P0920?

Trouble code P0920 is related to the forward shift actuator circuit, which is monitored by the transmission control module (TCM). Trouble code P0920 can occur when the forward shift actuator is not operating within manufacturer specifications. The detection characteristics and troubleshooting steps may always differ depending on the make of the vehicle.

Possible reasons

Forward shift drive chain/break problems can be caused by the following:

  1. The forward shift actuator harness is open or shorted.
  2. The forward gear shift actuator is faulty.
  3. Damaged wiring and/or connectors.
  4. The gear guide is damaged.
  5. Damaged gear shift shaft.
  6. Internal mechanical problems.
  7. ECU/TCM problems or malfunctions.

What are the symptoms of a fault code? P0920?

OBD Trouble Code P0920 may be accompanied by the following common symptoms:

  • Possible appearance of the service engine indicator.
  • Problems when shifting gears.
  • Inability to switch to forward gear.
  • Reduced overall fuel efficiency.
  • Unstable transmission behavior.
  • The transmission does not engage or disengage forward gear.

How to diagnose a fault code P0920?

To diagnose the OBD code P0920 engine error code, a mechanic should follow these steps:

  1. Use an OBD-II trouble code scanner to diagnose the P0920 trouble code.
  2. Detect freeze frame data and collect detailed code information using a scanner.
  3. Check for additional fault codes.
  4. If multiple codes are detected, you should access them in the same order in which they appear on the scanner.
  5. Reset fault codes, restart the vehicle and check if the fault code is still present.
  6. If the code does not persist, it may not have run correctly or may be an intermittent problem.

Diagnostic errors

Common diagnostic errors may include:

  1. Insufficient testing of all possible causes of the problem.
  2. Misinterpretation of symptoms or error codes.
  3. Insufficient testing of relevant systems and components.
  4. Neglecting to collect a complete and accurate vehicle operating history.
  5. Lack of attention to detail and lack of thoroughness in testing.
  6. Using inappropriate or outdated diagnostic equipment and tools.
  7. Improperly fixing or replacing components without fully understanding the root cause of the problem.

How serious is the fault code? P0920?

Trouble code P0920 typically indicates problems with the transmission shift system. This can cause serious transmission problems and affect the overall performance of the vehicle. If this code appears, it is recommended that you contact a qualified technician immediately for diagnosis and repair, as ignoring the problem may result in further damage and more serious failures.

What repair will help eliminate the code? P0920?

Troubleshooting DTC P0920 may require the following:

  1. Check wiring and connectors for damage and replace damaged elements.
  2. Diagnosis and replacement of a faulty forward gear shift actuator.
  3. Check and replace damaged parts such as the gear guide or shift shaft.
  4. Diagnose and correct internal mechanical problems that may require transmission disassembly.
  5. Check and possibly replace a faulty electronic engine control unit (ECU) or transmission control module (TCM).

Repairing these components may help resolve the problem causing the P0920 code. For accurate diagnosis and repair, it is recommended that you contact a qualified auto mechanic or transmission specialist.

What is P0920 Engine Code [Quick Guide]

P0920 – Brand-specific information

Trouble code P0920 can have different meanings depending on the specific brand of car. Here are some transcripts for some popular brands:

  1. Ford – Gear selector signal error.
  2. Chevrolet – Shift solenoid circuit low voltage.
  3. Toyota - Malfunction signal of the selector "D".
  4. Honda – Problem with forward gear shift control.
  5. BMW – Shift error signal.
  6. Mercedes-Benz – Malfunction of the forward gear shift signal.

Please note that the exact interpretation of error codes may vary depending on the year and model of the vehicle. For more accurate information, it is recommended that you contact your dealer or a qualified vehicle repair technician for your specific brand.

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