P0930 — Gear Shift Lock Solenoid/Actuator Control Circuit “A” Low #

The wording of this code may vary depending on the manufacturer.
Known variations:

• “Shift Lock Solenoid Circuit Low” (Toyota, Honda)
• “Gear Shift Interlock Actuator Circuit A Low” (Ford)
• “Shift Interlock Solenoid A Low Input” (General Motors, Chevrolet, GMC, Buick)
• “Shift Lock Control System Circuit Low” (Nissan, Infiniti)

Summary of code P0930 #

P0930 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) that indicates a problem detected by the vehicle’s powertrain control module (PCM) or transmission control module (TCM) with the gear shift lock solenoid—sometimes called the shift interlock actuator. Specifically, the code signals that the electrical circuit “A” controlling this solenoid is reading a low voltage condition. In plain English, this means the car’s computer sees an electrical fault that prevents the solenoid from working as designed, potentially interfering with your ability to shift out of Park. While this issue is rarely immediately dangerous, it can leave you stuck or struggling to move your vehicle as intended. Understanding what triggers P0930 and how to fix it will help you avoid unnecessary frustration or costly repairs.

Common symptoms for code P0930 #

A P0930 code often shows up with highly noticeable symptoms, but sometimes, the signs can be subtle until the fault worsens. Here’s what drivers and technicians typically encounter:

• Unable to shift out of “Park” position (the lever feels locked or stuck)
• Gear lever moves with abnormal resistance or feels “loose”
• Intermittent or delayed shifting from Park to other gears
• Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) or “Check Engine” light illuminated
• Warning message on dashboard related to “Shift Lock” or “Transmission”
• No audible “click” from the shift lock solenoid when the brake pedal is pressed

Probable causes for code P0930 #

P0930 is usually triggered by electrical or mechanical issues in the shift lock system. Based on frequency and field experience, here are the most common causes, ranked from most to least likely:

1. Faulty gear shift lock solenoid/actuator (internal coil failure or jammed plunger)
2. Damaged wiring (broken, shorted, or corroded wires in the shift lock circuit “A”)
3. Bad electrical connector (loose, dirty, or corroded connector at the solenoid or harness)
4. Blown fuse (fuse protecting the shift lock solenoid circuit)
5. Faulty brake pedal switch (if the switch does not signal pedal depression, the solenoid will not activate)
6. Defective transmission control module (TCM) or PCM (rare, but possible if all wiring and components are confirmed good)

Step-by-step diagnostics for code P0930 #

Diagnosing P0930 requires a systematic approach to avoid unnecessary part swaps. Here’s a proven workflow used by professional technicians:

• 1. Confirm the code. Use a scan tool to verify that P0930 is present and note any related codes (especially brake switch or shift interlock codes).
• 2. Visual inspection. Inspect the shift lock solenoid, its harness, and connectors for visible damage, corrosion, or loose pins.
• 3. Check fuse(s). Locate and test the fuse(s) associated with the shift lock solenoid circuit. Replace if blown—but investigate why it blew.
• 4. Test brake pedal switch. Ensure the brake pedal switch is functioning and sending signal when the pedal is pressed.
• 5. Measure voltage at the solenoid. With the ignition on and brake pressed, use a multimeter to verify power and ground at the solenoid’s connector. Check for “low” voltage (significantly below battery voltage).
• 6. Check circuit continuity and resistance. If voltage is absent or low, check the continuity and resistance of the wiring between the PCM/TCM, fuse, and solenoid.
• 7. Bench test the solenoid. Remove the solenoid and apply power/ground directly to see if it actuates. If not, replace it.
• 8. Evaluate module operation. If all checks pass and the problem persists, the issue may be internal to the PCM/TCM—rare, but possible.

Possible repairs for code P0930 #

The correct fix for P0930 depends on the root cause uncovered during diagnosis. The most common repairs include:

• Replace the gear shift lock solenoid/actuator if defective
• Repair or replace damaged wiring in the shift lock circuit “A”
• Clean or repair corroded/loose electrical connectors
• Replace the fuse protecting the shift lock solenoid circuit
• Replace a faulty brake pedal switch
• Reprogram or replace the PCM/TCM (rare; only if confirmed by diagnostics)

Is it safe to drive with code P0930? #

Generally, driving with a P0930 code is not recommended because you may become stuck in Park—unable to shift into Drive or Reverse when needed. While the issue may start intermittently, it can progress to a complete failure, leaving you stranded. If you must move the vehicle, some models allow for a manual override (check your owner’s manual), but this is only a temporary solution. It’s best to address the problem promptly to avoid inconvenience and potential safety hazards.

Vehicles most commonly affected by code P0930 #

While P0930 can appear in any vehicle equipped with an electronically controlled shift lock system, it is more frequently reported in models from the following OEMs:

• Toyota and Lexus (Camry, Corolla, RAV4, ES, RX, etc.)
• Honda and Acura (Accord, Civic, CR-V, MDX, TLX, etc.)
• Nissan and Infiniti (Altima, Rogue, Sentra, QX60, etc.)
• Ford (Fusion, Escape, Explorer, Focus, etc.)
• General Motors (Chevrolet Malibu, Silverado, GMC Sierra, Buick Enclave, etc.)

Note: This list is not exhaustive. Always verify with a scan tool and service information for your specific vehicle.

Common mistakes and best practices for code P0930 #

Misdiagnosing P0930 can lead to wasted time and unnecessary expenses. Here are the most frequent errors and what you should do instead:

• Replacing the shift lock solenoid without checking wiring or fuses first
• Overlooking the brake pedal switch (a common, inexpensive culprit)
• Ignoring the possibility of a blown fuse caused by a shorted wire
• Failing to inspect connectors for corrosion or looseness
• Clearing the code without fixing the underlying fault (it will return)
• Not consulting OEM service information for wiring diagrams and component locations

Quick FAQ for code P0930 #

Q: Can I bypass the shift lock solenoid to drive my car?
A: Most vehicles have a manual shift lock override (often a small slot near the shifter). This allows you to move the shifter temporarily, but bypassing the solenoid permanently is not safe or legal. Address the underlying issue as soon as possible.

Q: Will replacing the battery or disconnecting it clear the P0930 code?
A: Disconnecting the battery may temporarily clear the code, but it will return if the root problem persists. Always diagnose and repair the cause before clearing codes.