P0950 Automatic Shift Manual Control Circuit

P0950 – OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description

Manual control circuit for automatic gear shifting

What does the fault code mean P0950?

A powertrain control module (PCM) failure is identified by the OBD-II code as the manual automatic shift control circuit.

Some cars with automatic transmission have Autostick Shifting, which allows the driver to select the desired gear while driving. If the downshift switch does not operate correctly, a P0950 code will be set and the automatic shift feature will be disabled.

Driving with this DTC is not recommended. A vehicle with this code should be taken to a repair shop for diagnosis. The P0950 code is a generic transmission code that applies to all makes and models of vehicles. However, the specific repair steps may vary slightly depending on the model.

If your vehicle has a manual shift function, you can use it by placing the shift lever in the special gate near the PRNDL marks. However, an electrical problem may cause the P0950 trouble code to remain.

Possible reasons

OBD-II trouble code P0950 indicates a problem with the automatic transmission's manual shift control circuit. Here are some of the possible reasons for this error:

1. Defective Manual Shift Switch: Mechanical problems or damage to the switch can cause the manual shift control circuit to malfunction, causing the P0950 code.
2. Circuit Problems: Opens, shorts, or other problems with the wiring or connectors in the manual shift control circuit can cause the P0950 code.
3. PCM Problems: Problems with the engine control module (PCM) itself can cause P0950 if the PCM is unable to properly control the manual shift of the automatic transmission.
4. Actuator Problems: Problems with the actuator, which is responsible for controlling manual shifting, can also cause a P0950 code.

For accurate diagnosis and troubleshooting, it is recommended to contact a qualified auto mechanic or car service center.

What are the symptoms of a fault code? P0950?

When DTC P0950 appears, you may experience the following symptoms:

1. Inability to engage or shift into certain gears: If you have a manual shift feature in your automatic transmission, then if you have a P0950 code, you may have difficulty shifting into the desired gears or even be unable to do so at all.
2. Inactive Manual Shift Mode: If your vehicle is equipped with a manual shift mode on your automatic transmission and you notice that the manual shift mode has become inactive, this may be a sign of a problem associated with the P0950 trouble code.
3. Check Engine Error on the Instrument Panel: When a P0950 error occurs, the Check Engine Light may illuminate on the instrument panel, indicating a problem with the automatic transmission's manual shift control circuit.
4. Safety Mode: Some vehicles may activate a Safety Mode, which limits the vehicle's performance to prevent possible damage when a P0950 code is detected.

If you notice the above symptoms, it is recommended that you contact a qualified auto mechanic or auto repair shop to diagnose and repair the problem.

How to diagnose a fault code P0950?

To diagnose DTC P0950, follow these steps:

1. Checking Trouble Codes: Use an OBD-II scanner to read trouble codes from the vehicle. In addition to the P0950 code, additional codes may also be detected that may provide more information about the problem.
2. Electrical Circuit Check: Check the condition of the electrical circuit connecting the manual shift switch to the PCM. Check for opens, short circuits and connections.
3. Checking the manual shift switch: Check the operation of the manual shift switch for damage or malfunction. Make sure the switch is working properly.
4. PCM Test: Check the condition and operation of the engine control module (PCM), the PCM may need to be tested to ensure it is operating correctly.
5. Checking the actuator: Check the actuator responsible for controlling manual shifting for possible malfunctions or damage.
6. Wiring Inspection: Check all wires and connectors associated with the manual shift control circuit for corrosion, damage, or inconsistency.
7. Using Service Manuals: Use service manuals, specifications, and wiring diagrams to determine the correct procedure to diagnose and repair a problem.

If you do not have experience in carrying out such diagnostics, it is recommended to contact a professional auto mechanic or car service for a more accurate diagnosis and repair of the problem.

Diagnostic errors

When diagnosing the problem associated with the P0950 trouble code, some common errors may occur. Here are some of them:

1. Incorrect Problem Identification: Sometimes mechanics may misidentify the source of a problem, especially if all relevant components and systems have not been fully diagnosed and tested.
2. Wiring Problems: Wiring problems can be underestimated or missed, which can lead to incorrect repairs or replacement of components unrelated to the problem.
3. Failure to meet manufacturer's specifications: Using incorrect or non-original parts may lead to further problems and failures, which may make the situation worse.
4. Failure to follow the sequence of actions: Incorrect procedure for diagnosis and repair can also lead to errors and worsen the condition of the vehicle.
5. Improper handling of electronic equipment: Improper use of a scan tool or other electronic diagnostic equipment may result in fault codes being incorrectly read and data analyzed incorrectly.

To avoid these mistakes, it is important to contact qualified and experienced technicians, use the correct equipment, and follow the manufacturer's recommendations when performing diagnostics and repairs.

How serious is the fault code? P0950?

Trouble code P0950 is serious because it indicates a problem with the automatic transmission's manual shift control circuit. This may result in an inability to shift gears correctly or a complete loss of manual shift functionality, which can significantly limit the vehicle's handling.

If this DTC is ignored, it may cause further damage to the transmission and other vehicle systems. In some cases, the vehicle may go into limp mode, reducing performance and driving safety.

Therefore, it is recommended that you immediately contact a qualified auto mechanic or auto repair shop to diagnose and repair the problem. It is not recommended to continue driving the vehicle with this DTC as it may increase the risk of costly repairs and damage to other vehicle components.

What repair will help eliminate the code? P0950?

Resolving the P0950 trouble code may require a number of repairs, depending on the specific cause of the problem. Below are some possible repair options:

1. Manual Shift Switch Replacement or Repair: If the cause of the P0950 code is a defective manual shift switch, the component will need to be replaced or repaired.
2. Electrical Circuit Inspection and Repair: If problems are detected with the electrical circuit, such as opens, short circuits or damage, the associated wires and connectors must be repaired or replaced.
3. PCM Diagnosis and Repair: If the problem is with the PCM, the ECM may need to be diagnosed and possibly repaired or replaced.
4. Replacing or repairing the actuator: If the actuator responsible for controlling manual shifting is faulty, it will require replacement or repair.
5. Check and replace related sensors: Sometimes P0950 errors can be caused by a faulty related sensor or shift lever position sensor. In this case, they will need to be checked and possibly replaced.

It is recommended that you contact a qualified auto mechanic or transmission specialist to diagnose and determine the exact cause of the P0950 code. This will allow you to accurately determine the required amount of work and spare parts required to fix the problem.

What is P0950 Engine Code [Quick Guide]

P0950 – Brand-specific information

Although OBD-II trouble codes typically have common meanings across different makes of vehicles, some manufacturers may provide more specific code information for their specific models. Here are some explanations for the P0950 trouble code, if such information is available for specific car brands:

1. Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep: P0950 means “Auto Shift Manual Control Circuit”.
2. Ford: P0950 may refer to “Auto Shift Manual Control Circuit”.
3. General Motors (Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac, etc.): P0950 stands for “Auto Shift Manual Control Circuit”.

Please note that these interpretations may vary depending on the specific model and year of the vehicle. For more accurate information, it is recommended to consult official service manuals or car repair shops that specialize in the specific make and model of your car.