P0931 - Shift Interlock Solenoid/Drive Control Circuit "A" High

P0931 – OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description

Shift Lock Solenoid/Drive Control Circuit "A" High

What does the fault code mean P0931?

You have discovered that a P0931 code has been set, which is related to a voltage reading problem in the shift lock solenoid circuit. In every vehicle, the job of the transmission is to convert the power produced by the engine to propel the vehicle when commanded by the driver. The transmission control module will use solenoids to control the fluid pressure required to activate the various gears within the transmission.

The shift lock solenoid is a small device that sends a signal to release the transmission from Park when you press the shift lock button. Code P0931 stored in the OBD-II system indicates a problem with voltage sensing in the shift lock solenoid circuit. If the powertrain control module detects that the voltage read in the solenoid circuit is excessive, a P0931 code will be stored.

To resolve the problem associated with the P0931 code, it is recommended to thoroughly diagnose the shift lock solenoid circuit and, if necessary, replace or repair the solenoid itself. It is also important to check the circuit for damage, breaks, or other faults that could cause high voltage in the circuit.

Possible reasons

Trouble code P0931 may occur for the following reasons:

1. Shift lock solenoid faulty
2. Brake light switch faulty
3. Low battery voltage
4. In rare cases, a faulty PCM
5. Damaged electrical components in a circuit, such as wires and connectors
6. Transmission fluid level is too low or too dirty
7. Bad fuse(s) or fuse(s)
8. Damage to connector or wiring

What are the symptoms of a fault code? P0931?

It is important to know the symptoms of the problem to properly diagnose and fix it. Here are some basic symptoms associated with OBD code P0931:

• Increased fuel consumption
• Problems when shifting gears in the transmission
• Difficulty or inability to shift the gearbox into reverse or forward
• Turning on the Check Engine light on your car's dashboard
• Gear shifting is blocked in “Parking” mode, which does not allow changing to other gears.

How to diagnose a fault code P0931?

The P0931 code is diagnosed using a standard OBD-II trouble code scanner. An experienced technician will analyze the data, collect information about the code, and check for other trouble codes. If several codes are detected, they are considered sequentially. Once the codes are cleared, the technician will perform a visual inspection of the electrical components, checking the battery, then the shift lock solenoid and brake light switch. Once the components are replaced or repaired, the codes are cleared and the vehicle is given a test drive to check for the code to reappear.

It is very important to diagnose this DTC. Here are a few steps a mechanic should follow to diagnose the problem causing the P0931 code to remain:

• Diagnosis using an OBD trouble code scanner
• Visual inspection of electrical components
• Battery check
• Checking the Shift Lock Solenoid
• Checking the brake light switch
• After replacing or repairing components, check to see if the code is returned after a test drive.

These steps help determine if the problem that caused the P0931 code has been resolved.

Diagnostic errors

When diagnosing trouble codes such as the P0931 code, common errors may include:

1. Lack of attention to detail or skipping important diagnostic steps.
2. Incorrect interpretation of fault code scanner data.
3. Failure to correctly identify and resolve the root cause of the problem, which may result in the error code reoccurring.
4. Failure to visually inspect electrical components may result in missing important damage or corrosion.
5. Insufficient testing of all related situations such as checking the battery, fuses, wiring and connections.
6. Incorrect interpretation of test drive results or insufficient testing after repair.

How serious is the fault code? P0931?

Trouble code P0931 indicates a problem with the shift interlock system that can have a significant impact on vehicle functionality. This problem may make it difficult or impossible for the transmission to shift into reverse or forward. Depending on the specific circumstances and conditions of use of the vehicle, this malfunction can lead to serious inconvenience in driving the vehicle. If the P0931 code appears, it is recommended to diagnose and repair the problem as soon as possible to avoid additional problems and ensure safe operation of the vehicle.

What repair will help eliminate the code? P0931?

To resolve the P0931 code, you must conduct a thorough diagnosis and determine the root cause of the problem. Here are some steps you can take to resolve this issue:

1. Check and replace the faulty shift lock solenoid if it is faulty.
2. Check and replace the faulty brake light switch if it is determined to be the cause of the error.
3. Check and replace damaged electrical components in the circuit, such as wires and connectors, if such damage is found.
4. Check and replace damaged fuses or fuses if they are causing the P0931 code.
5. Checking the transmission fluid level and its cleanliness, and replacing it if necessary.
6. Check the battery voltage and replace it if necessary.
7. If necessary, repair or replace the PCM (engine control module) if a fault is detected in this component.

Depending on the results of the diagnosis and inspection of the shift lock system components, specific parts may need to be repaired or replaced to eliminate the cause of the P0931 code.

What is P0931 Engine Code [Quick Guide]

P0931 – Brand-specific information

Code P0931 is a general category of OBD-II fault codes related to shift lock. The meaning of this code may vary depending on the manufacturer and model of the car. Here are some well-known car brands and their possible interpretations of the P0931 code:

1. Acura – Shift Lock Solenoid Low Voltage
2. Audi – Shift Lock Control Circuit
3. BMW – Shift Lock Solenoid Output Voltage Too High
4. Ford – Shift Lock Solenoid Low Voltage
5. Honda – Shift Lock Solenoid Malfunction
6. Toyota – Shift Lock Solenoid High Voltage
7. Volkswagen – Shift Lock Solenoid Voltage Above Limit

Refer to the manufacturer's specifications and documentation for your specific vehicle brand for more specific information about deciphering the P0931 code for your vehicle.