P0780: How to Diagnose & Fix — Shift Malfunction (Shift Error)
6 vehicles · 3 makes · $150-$5,000 repair
How to diagnose and fix P0780: most-reported vehicles
Ranked by owner reports. Each card gives the symptoms, how to confirm the cause, the fix, parts and sources for that vehicle.
Acura TL · 2004–2008
The third-generation TL automatic transmission, especially on 2004-2005 models, draws many owner reports of 3rd gear clutch pack failure, often between 80,000-120,000 miles. The 3rd gear clutch pack burns out due to insufficient fluid flow and a weak pressure regulator design, causing the transmission to slip, flare, or refuse to engage 3rd gear entirely.
Common Symptoms
- Transmission slips or flares when shifting to 3rd gear
- RPMs spike without acceleration in 3rd
- Harsh engagement into 3rd gear
- Check engine light with transmission codes
- Burning smell from transmission
How to Fix
Rebuild or replace the transmission with upgraded 3rd gear clutch pack and updated valve body. Use only Honda DW-1 ATF. Install an aftermarket transmission cooler to reduce operating temperatures. Change ATF every 30,000 miles to extend the life of the rebuilt unit.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Genuine Honda DW-1 service fluid
Verified repair fluid. Approved replacement: Genuine Honda DW-1 service fluid.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
Owner tips & cautions
- WarningChange the ATF every 25,000-30,000 miles religiously. The TL transmission is a known weak point, and fluid changes are the single best preventive measure. Do NOT use non-Honda ATF — it accelerates clutch pack wear.
Sources for this issue (4)
Acura ILX · 2016–2022
The 2016-2022 ILX 2.4L with the 8-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) exhibits severe shudder, jerking, and hesitation during low-speed driving. The clutch packs engage roughly in stop-and-go traffic, and the transmission frequently hunts between gears on slight inclines, making city driving extremely unpleasant.
Common Symptoms
- Violent shudder from stop in 1st gear
- Jerking during low-speed acceleration
- Hesitation when pulling away from traffic lights
- Transmission hunting on slight inclines
- Grinding sensation during slow parking maneuvers
How to Fix
Update the DCT software to the latest Acura calibration which improves low-speed clutch engagement. Perform a DCT fluid change with genuine Honda DCTF. In severe cases, the clutch pack assembly needs replacement. For 2016-17 ILX models, Acura Service Bulletin 17-015 (which also covers the 2015-17 TLX) addresses a bump or hard shift when coming to a stop with a PCM software update and, where needed, a clutch break-in procedure.
Owner tips & cautions
- WarningCheck if your VIN is covered under the extended DCT warranty (7yr/100k). Many owners have had full clutch pack replacements covered at no cost. Document every shudder incident with date, mileage, and conditions.
Sources for this issue (1)
Honda CR-V · 2002–2011
P0700 on the CR-V is a generic flag the TCM raises to light the check-engine lamp; it is almost always stored alongside a more specific transmission code (commonly P0740/P0730/P0780/P0750). On the automatic CR-V the frequent underlying cause is a failing shift solenoid or lock-up solenoid valve assembly (and, on higher-mileage or fluid-neglected units, valve-body or internal wear). When it trips, the CR-V typically drops into limp mode — locked in one gear (often 2nd/3rd) — and older 4-speed/5-speed models flash the D4 indicator. This most commonly affects the earlier automatic CR-Vs (Gen2 2002-2006 and Gen3 2007-2011) whose Honda 4-/5-speed automatics are sensitive to fluid condition and solenoid wear.
Common Symptoms
- Check-engine light with transmission warning
- Harsh, delayed, or erratic shifting
- Transmission stuck in one gear (limp mode)
- Flashing D4 indicator on the dash
- Reduced power / won't shift up
How to Fix
Do not just clear P0700 — pull the companion transmission code that specifies the fault. Check ATF level and condition first; top off or replace with genuine Honda ATF (DW-1) if burnt. Test and replace the indicated shift/lock-up solenoid assembly, and inspect TCM wiring/connectors for corrosion. If a companion code and testing point to the valve body or internal failure, that repair or a transmission rebuild is required.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Genuine Honda ATF DW-1 automatic-transmission fluid, 1 quartOEMHonda 08200-9008
Correct current Honda fluid for a conventional-automatic level correction or drain-and-fill when inspection calls for it Fitment/availability: 2002-2011 CR-V conventional automatic only; use the exact year/transmission service-manual qua…
- Genuine Honda 90471-PX4-000 18 mm transmission drain-plug washerOEMHonda 90471-PX4-000
New sealing washer for an approved conventional-automatic drain-and-fill Fitment/availability: Use only after confirming the exact CR-V transmission's 18 mm drain-plug application; washer only. The seller has a minimum-order quantity, so…
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
Sources for this issue (3)
Acura Integra · 1994–1999
Honda Prelude · 1997–2001
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P0780 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0780 mean?
P0780 stands for "Shift Malfunction (Shift Error)." P0780 is a general transmission code indicating the control module detected a shift malfunction — the transmission did not change gears correctly or did not achieve the commanded gear during a shift. It is often a 'parent' code that accompanies more specific solenoid or gear-ratio codes that pinpoint which shift failed. Symptoms can include harsh, slipping, delayed, or missed shifts, and possibly limp mode. It is generally drivable short-term but should be diagnosed promptly to prevent transmission damage.
What are the most common causes of P0780?
The most common causes of P0780 are: Low, dirty, or degraded transmission fluid, Faulty shift solenoid(s), Worn internal clutches/bands or valve body wear, Wiring or connector faults in the transmission circuit, Stuck valve body passages from debris, Faulty transmission control module, Internal mechanical transmission wear. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0780?
Repair costs for P0780 range from $150 to $5,000, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by P0780?
Au7o has documented P0780 across 6 vehicle models from 3 manufacturers: Acura, Honda, Lexus.
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Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.