What Does P0985 Mean?
DTC P0985 indicates the TCM has detected an abnormally low voltage or signal on the shift solenoid "E" control circuit. The circuit appears to be shorted to ground, or the solenoid coil has an internal short reducing its resistance below specification. This will typically result in incorrect gear selection or a transmission limp mode condition.
Common Causes
35%
Short to ground in the shift solenoid "E" control wiring harness
30%
Internally shorted shift solenoid "E" coil reducing circuit resistance
20%
Transmission connector contaminated with fluid or moisture creating a ground path
10%
Internal transmission harness rubbing against the case and grounding out
5%
TCM solenoid driver malfunction pulling the circuit low
Diagnostic Steps
1
Disconnect the transmission connector and measure the resistance of shift solenoid "E"; significantly low readings indicate shorted coil windings.
2
With the connector unplugged, check for continuity between the solenoid "E" control wire and vehicle ground to locate an external short.
3
Visually inspect the external wiring harness for physical damage, particularly near heat sources, sharp metal edges, and routing clips.
4
Examine the transmission connector body for signs of ATF leaks, water intrusion, or terminal corrosion that could create unintended low-resistance paths.
5
If external wiring is clear, drop the transmission pan and inspect the internal harness and connector for damage or fluid contamination.
Estimated Repair Cost
$150 - $1,100
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
DTC P0985 indicates the TCM has detected an abnormally low voltage or signal on the shift solenoid "E" control circuit. The circuit appears to be shorted to ground, or the solenoid coil has an internal short reducing its resistance below specification. This will typically result in incorrect gear se...
The most common cause of P0985 (Shift Solenoid "E" Control Circuit Low) is: Short to ground in the shift solenoid "E" control wiring harness
Typical repair costs for P0985 range from $150 to $1,100, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Loss of solenoid "E" control can cause the transmission to default to a fail-safe gear, severely limiting acceleration capability. Sudden gear ratio changes without driver input present a safety concern in dynamic driving situations.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to P0985 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Powertrain
System
Transmission
Difficulty
Type
Generic (SAE)
Recommended Tools
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