What Does P0803 Mean?
The 1-4 Upshift (Skip Shift) Solenoid Control Circuit has malfunctioned. This solenoid is found on manual transmission vehicles (commonly GM) and forces the driver to shift directly from 1st to 4th gear under light throttle conditions to improve fuel economy. The PCM has detected an electrical fault in the solenoid that controls this function.
Common Causes
35%
Failed skip shift solenoid (open or shorted internally)
25%
Wiring damage or open circuit to the skip shift solenoid
20%
Corroded connector at the skip shift solenoid
12%
PCM driver circuit fault for the solenoid output
8%
Skip shift solenoid delete kit improperly installed
Diagnostic Steps
1
Locate the skip shift solenoid on the transmission (typically on the left side of the transmission housing) and inspect the connector.
2
Measure solenoid resistance — it should typically read between 20-40 ohms; infinite resistance indicates an open coil.
3
Check for 12V supply at the solenoid connector with key on, engine running, and the PCM commanding the solenoid on (light throttle, warm engine, low RPM).
4
Inspect the wiring from the PCM to the solenoid for damage, especially near exhaust components where heat can melt insulation.
5
If a skip shift eliminator was installed, verify the correct resistor value is being used to satisfy the PCM circuit monitoring.
Estimated Repair Cost
$30 - $250
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
The 1-4 Upshift (Skip Shift) Solenoid Control Circuit has malfunctioned. This solenoid is found on manual transmission vehicles (commonly GM) and forces the driver to shift directly from 1st to 4th gear under light throttle conditions to improve fuel economy. The PCM has detected an electrical fault...
The most common cause of P0803 (1-4 Upshift (Skip Shift) Solenoid Control Circuit Malfunction) is: Failed skip shift solenoid (open or shorted internally)
Typical repair costs for P0803 range from $30 to $250, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Completely safe to drive. The skip shift feature is a fuel economy convenience only. The transmission will function normally in all gears — you simply will not be forced into the 1-4 skip shift pattern.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to P0803 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Powertrain
System
Transmission Control System
Difficulty
Type
Generic (SAE)
Recommended Tools
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