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P0760 — Shift Solenoid C Malfunction

Detailed page for trouble code P0760.

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Code

P0760

MERCEDES-BENZ P — Powertrain

Shift Solenoid C Malfunction

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Page language: EN

Causes

  • Failed shift solenoid C (coil open/short or mechanically stuck)
  • Damaged or corroded wiring or connectors in the solenoid circuit
  • Poor ground or power supply to solenoid circuit
  • Contaminated or low transmission fluid causing solenoid/valve sticking
  • Faulty transmission valve body or internal hydraulic blockage
  • Faulty TCM/TCU or incorrect software/calibration

Symptoms

  • Check Engine Light or transmission MIL illuminated
  • Transmission stuck in limp/second gear or reduced number of usable gears
  • Delayed, harsh, or erratic upshifts or downshifts
  • Failure to shift into a specific gear or inability to lock torque converter
  • Transmission may default to a single gear or low performance mode
  • Possible unusual transmission noise or fluid smell if overheating/contamination present

What to check

  • Use a scan tool to read freeze-frame data, pending/confirmed transmission DTCs and live shift solenoid status
  • Check transmission fluid level and condition (color, smell, contamination)
  • Visually inspect transmission wiring harness and connectors for damage, corrosion, pinched wires or poor mating
  • Measure solenoid coil resistance and compare to manufacturer specification
  • Backprobe solenoid connector with engine running and commanded shifts to observe voltage/PWM and ground signals
  • Check for shorts or opens between solenoid connector and TCM (continuity and resistance checks)

Signal parameters

  • Solenoid coil resistance: compare to factory spec (typical range often ~10–50 ohms — consult service manual)
  • Command signal: PWM duty cycle from TCM (0–100%) when actuated; frequency varies by manufacturer
  • Supply voltage: near battery voltage on feed circuit when solenoid commanded (or switched ground depending on design)
  • Ground continuity: near 0 ohms from solenoid ground to chassis/TCM ground
  • When inactive: no PWM/drive signal and no unexpected battery voltage present at control circuit

Diagnostic algorithm

  1. Verify code and record freeze-frame/live data with a capable scan tool. Note vehicle symptoms and any other transmission/TCM codes.
  2. Check transmission fluid level and condition; correct level and replace/filter if contaminated.
  3. Visually inspect solenoid harness and connector for damage, corrosion or loose pins; repair as needed.
  4. Disconnect solenoid connector and measure coil resistance at the solenoid. Compare to factory spec. Replace solenoid if out of range.
  5. With connector disconnected, check for battery feed and ground continuity from harness to the TCM using a multimeter. Check for short to battery or ground.
  6. Backprobe connector with scan tool monitoring while commanding gear changes (or using manual shift). Verify the TCM is sending expected voltage/PWM signals and that the solenoid responds.
  7. Wiggle-test wiring while monitoring live data for intermittent faults. Repair wiring or connectors if intermittent behavior occurs.
  8. If wiring and solenoid test good but code persists, inspect valve body and solenoid valve/sleeve for contamination or sticking; perform pan drop and filter change if required.
  9. If hydraulic and electrical components check good, consider TCM driver fault — verify TCM grounds and power, reflash or replace TCM if supported by diagnostics.
  10. After repairs, clear codes, perform road test and re-scan to confirm the issue is resolved. Follow manufacturer service manual for exact specs and procedures.

Likely causes

  • Open or high-resistance solenoid coil
  • Short to battery or ground in solenoid feed or return
  • Pinched or corroded connector at transmission harness
  • Contamination in fluid causing spool valve to stick near solenoid C
  • Intermittent wiring connection caused by movement or heat
  • TCM output driver fault

Fault status

⚠️ Status
Shift Solenoid C malfunction detected. Transmission control module is reporting improper electrical response or performance from shift solenoid C. Inspect solenoid, wiring, and TCM.
🟡 Repair difficulty: Medium
⏱️ Diagnostic time: 1.5 - 4.0 hours

Browse 856 MERCEDES-BENZ manuals: repair procedures, diagnostics, wiring diagrams, component locations, service data and Labor Times by year, model and trim.

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