P0920Generic code

P0920 Code: Gear Shift Forward Actuator Circuit/Open

The P0920 code means the forward gear shift actuator circuit is open, so the component gets no current when the computer commands it. The gears may refuse to engage. Check the fuse, relay, connector and wiring before you replace the actuator.

Severity
High
Can I keep driving?
Yes, but with caution
Estimated cost
$100 to $1,200
Difficulty
Medium
System
Transmission
Applies to
All OBD2 vehicles

Updated Reviewed by Renzo Chacca

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What the P0920 code means

Automated manual transmissions (Opel Easytronic, Fiat Dualogic, Toyota MMT, BMW SMG, Ford Durashift, Volkswagen ASG) and many dual clutch transmissions use electric or hydraulic actuators to disengage the clutch, to choose the gear plane (select) and to engage the gear (shift). The transmission computer watches every actuator with position sensors. The shift actuator pushes the mechanism to engage the selected gear.

The computer monitors the control circuit through its own driver transistor. The P0920 code is set when the circuit is open and the component receives no current when it is commanded. Before you replace the component, check the fuse, relay, connector and wiring, because those are the most common causes.

If the actuator fails, the gears will not go in or will jump out. After any repair of these components you must run the transmission relearn procedures with a scan tool (clutch touch point, select and shift positions). Without them the transmission will not work properly.

Measure the resistance of the component at its connector. An infinite reading means it is open inside. If it reads correctly, follow the control wire back to the computer looking for a break, especially in the stretches near the exhaust and at intermediate connectors.

P0920 code symptoms

  • Check engine light or another warning light on.
  • The gears will not go in.
  • The transmission does not engage gears or stays in neutral.
  • Transmission or engine warning light on.
  • Beep or warning message in the instrument cluster.

Likely causes of the P0920 code

  1. Unplugged connector or one with a broken lock tab.
  2. Open coil. The resistance reads infinite.
  3. Cut wire. Check the areas where the harness rubs.
  4. Blown fuse, often because of an earlier short circuit.

How to diagnose the P0920 code step by step

  1. Command the component with the scan tool and check whether it responds.
  2. Check the fuse and the relay. Measure voltage on both sides of the fuse, and swap the relay with an identical one.
  3. Measure the supply at the connector. You should see battery voltage with the key on or when the component is commanded.
  4. Measure the resistance of the component and compare it with the manual. Also check its insulation to ground.
  5. Check the control wire. Confirm continuity all the way to the computer and make sure there is no short.
  6. Activate the actuator with the scan tool and see whether it moves.
  7. Run the transmission relearn procedures after any repair.
  8. Measure battery voltage during activation. It should not fall below 11 volts.

How to fix the P0920 code

  • Repair the connector, the wiring or the power supply.
  • Replace the forward gear shift actuator if it does not respond even with correct power and control signals.
  • Clear the codes and verify the repair.

Technical reference data

  • Electric actuator (DC motor) or a hydraulic solenoid valve controlled by a PWM signal.
  • Minimum battery voltage during activation: about 11 volts.
  • Approximate values only: check the manufacturer data for your vehicle.

Brand-specific notes

This code is very common on automated manual transmissions. On many hydraulic systems the actuator fluid is a specific type and the reservoir should be checked regularly.

P0920 on Opel

Very common on the Opel Easytronic.

P0920 on Fiat

Very common on the Fiat Dualogic.

P0920 on Toyota

Very common on the Toyota MMT.

P0920 on Smart

Seen on Smart vehicles with an automated manual transmission.

P0920 on BMW

Very common on the BMW SMG.

Frequently asked questions about P0920

Can I drive with a P0920 code?
Only with caution and only as far as the shop. The transmission can lose its gears at any moment.
What does the forward gear shift actuator do?
Automated manual transmissions (Opel Easytronic, Fiat Dualogic, Toyota MMT, BMW SMG, Ford Durashift, Volkswagen ASG) and many dual clutch units use electric or hydraulic actuators to release the clutch, select the gear plane and engage the gear. The computer watches each one with position sensors. The shift actuator pushes the mechanism to engage the selected gear.
Do I always have to replace the part?
No. Check the fuses, relays, connectors and wiring first. They are the usual causes and cost much less than a new actuator.
How much does it cost to fix P0920?
As a rough guide, between $100 and $1,200. A connector or wiring repair is at the low end, and an actuator replacement with the relearn procedures costs more.
What does the P0920 code mean?
The P0920 code is a generic OBD2 code that means the forward gear shift actuator control circuit is open. The component gets no current when the computer commands it.
Will a P0920 code clear itself?
Not if the circuit is still open. A cut wire or a loose connector will bring the code back whenever the actuator is commanded.
What is the most common cause of P0920?
An unplugged connector or a cut wire. An open coil and a blown fuse follow.

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