P0780 — Transmission shift malfunction

P0780: Transmission shift malfunction — what it means, the affected system and what to check before replacing parts.

Meaning, symptoms, causes and checks

The controller reports a problem completing a gear change. This concerns shift execution rather than necessarily a defective shift switch or one named solenoid. The commanded transition and the achieved ratio must be distinguished.

Affected system: Transmission shift execution

Symptoms

  • Jerky/delayed shifts; skipped gears and vibration.

Possible causes

  • Low/contaminated ATF, faulty solenoids or internal wear.

What to check

  • Read TCM codes; check fluid, connections and pressure/speed sensors.

Also written as: P0780-00, P078000, PO780 (some scan tools add the fault-type byte, e.g. -00).