P0796 on Toyota: How to Diagnose & Fix
Pressure Control Solenoid 'C' Performance or Stuck Off
1 Toyota model · 1 documented issue
P0796 on Toyota by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
Owners of the 300-series Land Cruiser and closely related TNGA-F Toyota/Lexus models have reported delayed engagement, low-speed hesitation, or abrupt 10-speed automatic shifts, especially when cold or during rolling stops. Toyota service literature for related powertrain calibration concerns points to software logic rather than hard-part failure in many cases. Complaints typically describe inconsistent throttle response paired with a sudden downshift or lurch.
Common Symptoms
- Delayed drive engagement
- Harsh 1-2 or 2-1 shift
- Lurch when reapplying throttle
- Hesitation from a rolling stop
- Inconsistent shift timing when cold
How to Fix
Scan for transmission and engine codes, confirm fluid condition, and road-test under the same low-speed conditions that trigger the complaint. Dealers typically check for updated ECM/TCM calibration files and perform a software reflash/adaptive reset before considering valve body or internal transmission work. If symptoms persist after calibration, line pressure and shift solenoid operation should be evaluated.
Sources for this issue (1)
P0796 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 P0796 mean on a Toyota?
P0796 stands for "Pressure Control Solenoid 'C' Performance or Stuck Off." This generic transmission code means the TCM/PCM detected that pressure control solenoid 'C' is not regulating hydraulic pressure as expected, or appears stuck in the off position. These solenoids control the line pressure that applies the transmission's clutch packs to achieve the correct gear ratios, so a performance fault here disrupts shift quality. Symptoms can include harsh or delayed shifts, slipping, or limp mode, and continued driving can accelerate transmission wear. On Toyota it is documented across 1 model: Land Cruiser.
What are the most common causes of P0796?
The most common causes of P0796 are: Faulty pressure control solenoid C, Low, dirty, or degraded transmission fluid, Blocked or restricted valve body fluid passages, Damaged wiring or connector to the solenoid, Worn valve body or stuck valve, Internal transmission mechanical wear, Faulty TCM/PCM (rare). The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0796 on a Toyota?
Repair costs vary widely with the root cause and Toyota model; each issue on this page carries its own estimate where one is published.
Looking for P0796 on a different make?
View P0796 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.