P0765 - Transmission Control System Range/Performance Problem (Common in 2015-2018 Honda Civic, Ford Fusion, and Toyota Camry)

Quick Answer

P0765 means: DTC P0765 indicates a malfunction in the transmission control solenoid 'D'.

Fix: Check and replace faulty components Cost: $150 - $300 Time: 90-180 minutes

Can I drive with P0765? Immediate attention is recommended to prevent further transmission damage.

Common Questions

What does P0765 mean and how does it affect my car?

The P0765 code signals a problem with the transmission control solenoid 'D', which impacts how your vehicle shifts gears. If left unresolved, it can lead to poor acceleration and can even damage your transmission, leading to costly repairs.

What are the most common causes of P0765 and how much does it cost to fix?

Common causes include a faulty solenoid, wiring issues, or low transmission fluid. Repair costs can range from $100 for wiring repairs to $300 for solenoid replacement, depending on the issue.

Can I drive my car with P0765 or should I stop immediately?

While you might be able to drive short distances, it’s not advisable. Continuing to drive can lead to severe transmission damage, so addressing this code should be a priority.

How can I diagnose P0765 myself using GeekOBD APP?

With the GeekOBD APP, you can scan your vehicle for DTCs and view live data to assess the performance of your transmission solenoid. Look for any abnormal readings that could indicate a malfunction.

What vehicles are most commonly affected by P0765?

Vehicles frequently affected by the P0765 code include the 2015-2018 Honda Civic, 2013-2018 Ford Fusion, and 2012-2017 Toyota Camry. If you own one of these cars, be mindful of symptoms related to the transmission.

How can I prevent P0765 from happening again?

Regular maintenance, such as timely transmission fluid changes and inspections of wiring connections, can help prevent future occurrences of the P0765 code. Keeping an eye on vehicle performance can also help catch issues early.

What is P0765?

The DTC P0765 code indicates a problem with the transmission control system, specifically related to the solenoid that controls the shift of gears. This code generally points to a malfunction in the transmission fluid pressure control solenoid 'D' circuit. When the Engine Control Module (ECM) detects that the transmission is not performing as expected, it triggers this code. For drivers, this can manifest as a noticeable change in how your vehicle shifts gears, which can lead to poor acceleration or even slipping gears. If your car is equipped with an automatic transmission, it relies heavily on these solenoids to function smoothly. Ignoring this code can lead to more severe transmission issues, potentially resulting in expensive repairs. If you experience this code, it’s essential to address it promptly to maintain your vehicle’s performance and reliability.

System: P - Powertrain (Engine, Transmission, Emissions)

Symptoms

Common symptoms when P0765 is present:

  • Check engine light stays on constantly, indicating a persistent issue with the transmission system.
  • Engine hesitates during acceleration, making the driving experience frustrating and unsafe.
  • Fuel economy decreased by 10-15%, which means you’ll be filling up more often than usual.
  • Rough or hard shifting between gears, causing a jarring sensation while driving.
  • Unusual noises from the transmission area, such as grinding or whining, which could signal serious issues.

Possible Causes

Most common causes of P0765 (ordered by frequency):

  1. Faulty transmission solenoid (60% likelihood) - This is the most common issue, where the solenoid fails to operate correctly, causing shifting problems.
  2. Wiring issues (20% likelihood) - Damaged or corroded wiring can disrupt the signal between the solenoid and the ECM, leading to this code.
  3. Transmission fluid issues (10% likelihood) - Low or contaminated fluid can affect solenoid performance, leading to erratic shifting.
  4. Faulty ECM (5% likelihood) - Though rare, a malfunctioning ECM can misinterpret signals from the transmission, leading to false codes.
  5. Mechanical transmission failure (5% likelihood) - Other internal transmission issues, such as worn clutches or gears, can also trigger this code.

P0765 Repair Costs

Cost Breakdown by Repair Type

Transmission Solenoid Replacement

Replacing the faulty solenoid with a new part.

  • Total: $150 - $300
  • Success rate: 90%
Wiring Repair or Replacement

Fixing or replacing damaged wiring related to the solenoid.

  • Total: $100 - $200
  • Success rate: 85%
Transmission Fluid Change

Changing the transmission fluid if it is low or contaminated.

  • Total: $80 - $150
  • Success rate: 75%
Money-Saving Tips for P0765
  • Start with the most common and least expensive repairs first
  • Use GeekOBD APP to confirm diagnosis before replacing expensive parts
  • Consider preventive maintenance to avoid future occurrences
  • Compare prices for OEM vs aftermarket parts based on your needs
  • Address the issue promptly to prevent more expensive secondary damage

Diagnostic Steps

Professional P0765 Diagnosis Process

Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose P0765. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.

Step 1: Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion (5-10 minutes)

Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion (5-10 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 2: Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context (10-15 minutes)

Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context (10-15 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 3: Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test the transmission solenoid and associated wiring (20-30 minutes)

Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test the transmission solenoid and associated wiring (20-30 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 4: Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation after repairs and clear codes, ensuring the solenoid is functioning correctly (10-15 minutes)

Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation after repairs and clear codes, ensuring the solenoid is functioning correctly (10-15 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 5: Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success and ensure smooth shifting (15-20 minutes)

Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success and ensure smooth shifting (15-20 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.

Important Notes

  • Always verify the repair with GeekOBD APP after completing diagnostic steps
  • Clear codes and test drive to ensure the problem is resolved
  • Address underlying causes to prevent code recurrence

Real Repair Case Studies

Case Study 1: Transmission Solenoid Replacement on 2016 Honda Civic

Vehicle: 2016 Honda Civic, 50,000 miles

Problem: The customer reported a check engine light and rough shifting.

Diagnosis: Using the GeekOBD APP, we confirmed code P0765. Visual inspection revealed a faulty solenoid.

Solution: Replaced the transmission solenoid and performed a fluid change.

Cost: $280 (solenoid $200, fluid $80)

Result: The vehicle shifted smoothly after repairs and the check engine light was cleared.

Case Study 2: Wiring Repair on 2017 Ford Fusion

Vehicle: 2017 Ford Fusion, 40,000 miles

Problem: Customer experienced poor acceleration and a check engine light.

Diagnosis: Diagnostic tests indicated P0765. Further inspection revealed damaged wiring harness.

Solution: Repaired the wiring and tested the solenoid functionality.

Cost: $150 (wiring repair)

Result: Post-repair, the vehicle showed normal acceleration and the warning light remained off.

Diagnose P0765

Use GeekOBD APP for professional diagnosis!

  • Real-time data monitoring
  • Advanced diagnostic features
  • Step-by-step repair guidance
  • Professional-grade analysis
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Code Information

Code: P0765
System: Powertrain (Engine, Transmission, Emissions)
Severity: HIGH
Category: Engine Codes