What Does P0986 Mean?
DTC P0986 indicates the TCM has detected an abnormally high voltage on the shift solenoid "E" control circuit. This is consistent with an open circuit condition where current cannot flow through the solenoid, or a short to battery voltage in the control wiring. The transmission will typically enter limp mode as solenoid "E" cannot be commanded.
Common Causes
35%
Open circuit in the solenoid "E" control wiring due to a broken wire or disconnected terminal
25%
Burned-out open coil in shift solenoid "E"
20%
Short to battery voltage in the solenoid control harness
15%
Corroded or recessed terminal pins at the transmission electrical connector
5%
Failed high-side driver in the TCM for the solenoid "E" circuit
Diagnostic Steps
1
Check the transmission connector for any physical damage, backed-out pins, or corrosion at the solenoid "E" circuit terminals.
2
Measure the resistance of shift solenoid "E"; an open-line (OL) reading confirms a failed solenoid coil.
3
Perform a continuity check on the solenoid "E" control wire from the TCM connector to the transmission connector to rule out a broken wire.
4
With the TCM disconnected, measure voltage on the solenoid control wire; any battery voltage present indicates a short to B+.
5
If all wiring and solenoid tests pass, verify TCM operation by swapping the solenoid "E" control output with another known-good solenoid circuit to isolate a TCM driver failure.
Estimated Repair Cost
$150 - $1,200
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
DTC P0986 indicates the TCM has detected an abnormally high voltage on the shift solenoid "E" control circuit. This is consistent with an open circuit condition where current cannot flow through the solenoid, or a short to battery voltage in the control wiring. The transmission will typically enter ...
The most common cause of P0986 (Shift Solenoid "E" Control Circuit High) is: Open circuit in the solenoid "E" control wiring due to a broken wire or disconnected terminal
Typical repair costs for P0986 range from $150 to $1,200, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Without solenoid "E" control, the transmission loses the ability to properly engage certain gears. Being stuck in an inappropriate gear can cause engine over-revving or stalling, both of which compromise vehicle control and safety.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to P0986 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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