P078A Shift Timing Solenoid B Malfunction
OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description
Shift Timing Solenoid B Malfunction
What does that mean?
This is a generic transmission diagnostic trouble code (DTC) and typically applies to OBD-II vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission. Vehicle makes may include but aren’t limited to Chevrolet / Chevy, Volvo, GMC, Saab, Subaru, VW, BMW, Toyota, Ford, Dodge, etc.
The shift timing solenoid is one of many components that allow an automatic transmission to shift seamlessly according to your driving needs. The TCM (Transmission Control Module) monitors and controls the solenoids functionality.
The solenoids main purpose is to control hydraulic (ATF:Automatic Transmission Fluid) flow internally to assist in shifting the transmission. Essentially these solenoids are electro-mechanical "pistons". Most times, their are many shift timing solenoids within the system so you may be able to refer to the letter included in the code to pinpoint which solenoid you are working with depending on your particular make and model.
The ECM (Engine Control Module) illuminates the MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) with P078A and associated codes (P078B, P078C, P078D, and P078E) when it monitors one or more issues within the shift timing solenoid or it’s circuit. The circuit includes the TCM which depending on the model could be in a volatile location. Their are many possible causes here so it could be either be mechanical and/or electrical depending on the code and if any others are active. Automatic transmissions are intricately designed systems and in my opinion, the layman or average DIYer should leave it to the pros here especially when it comes to internal transmission work.
The code P078A Shift Timing Solenoid B Malfunction is set there is a general malfunction present within the solenoid or its circuit.
What is the severity of this DTC?
I would say this code is moderately severe. If this issue is left unrectified for too long you could cause some serious harm to the transmission not to mention your pocketbook.
What are some of the symptoms of the code?
Symptoms of a P078A trouble code may include:
What are some of the common causes of the code?
Causes for this P078A transmission code may include:
What are some P078A troubleshooting steps?
Prior to beginning the troubleshooting process for any malfunction you should research the Technical Service Bulletins (TSB’s) for the specific vehicle by year, model and transmission. This step can save you time and money during diagnosis and repair!
Basic Step #1
First thing i would do here is check the ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid). If the fluid is dirty, smells burnt, overfilled and/or abnormal color it may be time to change your fluid. If you’ve owned your vehicle for 30,000 to 60,000 miles (50,000 to 100,000 kilometers) and don’t remember ever changing your fluid or have any records of it, not only may this be your problem, but it may of been avoided by simply following your maintenance schedule. Just food for thought! Old fluid is dirty fluid, dirty fluid can cause blockages and blockages can cause this code so change your fluid!
NOTE: Follow manufacturers recommended steps when checking ATF. This simple step can vary a meaningful amount between makes and models.
Basic Step #2
Fluid is good, code is still active and symptoms present? Depending on your specific model, the shift solenoid may be accessible externally. If this is the case, inspect the solenoid and its harness/connectors for any signs of damage. Repair/replace any issues as necessary. Its a good time to have a peak for any leaks as well!
TECH TIP: If your shift solenoid is internal, I don’t recommend you attempt to access it, work around it for now. Exhaust other avenues, internal transmission diagnosing and repairing should be left to a certified technician.
NOTE: The TCM and harness’ involved in this circuit may be subject to harsh road conditions so make sure everything is intact and the way it should be.
Basic Step #3
Test the shift timing solenoid. You may be able to test the solenoid itself multiple ways. One test may include a resistance test where you use a multimeter to measure the resistance between the pins in the solenoid to verify to a degree its electrical integrity. Another may include manually applying voltage to the solenoid to verify its mechanical operation. Either one should be specified in your manufacturers service manual/technical literature.
Basic Step #4
Test the circuit from the TCM. You may be able to verify the functionality of the sensor and its circuit by performing the same tests as above but from the pins at the TCM and/or ECM. This is a good trick to verify not only the integrity of the solenoid but the electrical integrity of the circuit as well.
Need help?
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"Delete Error Code Permanently, Disable DTC Error Code Function for p078a in the ECU"
In extreme cases, we even have the option to permanently remove the specific DTC p078a and disable the function of the specific error code in the ECU. All other fault code functions will then continue to work to protect the engine. This is different from clearing an error code with a diagnostic device. We have the option to permanently remove the function of the specific error code, so that it never comes back. Also emergency running that occurs on the specific error code can be solved in most cases.
Of course we prefer to first try to solve the cause of the error code, but sometimes the only solution is to permanently disable the DTC function of p078a.
