2006 ford explorer pressure control solenoid b location

Error Code P0778 is defined as Pressure Control Solenoid B Electrical. This is a generic trouble code, meaning it applies to all cars with the OBD-II system, especially those made since 1996 up to present and equipped with automatic transmission. This includes cars from, but not limited to, Acura, Allision / Duramax, Chevrolet, Dodge, Ford, Jaguar, Jeep, Lincoln, Mercury, Nissan, Toyota, etc. Specifications on the definition, troubleshooting, and repairs, of course, vary from one make and model and powertrain configuration.

Error Code P0778 is set when the PCM (powertrain control module, also known as ECM or engine control module in other 2006 Ford Explorer makes) has detected a problem with the Transmission Pressure Control Solenoid “B”. Most automatic transmissions use at least three solenoids A, B, and C. The Trouble Codes related to Solenoid B also include:

  • Error Code P0775
  • Error Code P0776
  • Error Code P0777
  • Error Code P0779

These codes can be set based on the specific malfunctions that alert the PCM and activate the Check Engine light.

The job of the Transmission Pressure Control Solenoid is to control the fluid pressure to ensure the automatic transmission works properly. The PCM gets the electronic signal based on the pressure in the solenoids. An automatic transmission is controlled by a series of bands and clutches that changes the gears through fluid pressure sent at the right place and at the right time. Based on the signals sent from related devices that monitor the speed of your 2006 Ford Explorer , the PCM controls the pressure solenoids to direct fluid at the right pressure to different hydraulic circuits which changes the transmission gear ratio at the right time.

Error Code P0778 is set when the PCM determines that the Pressure Control Solenoid “B” is experiencing an electrical problem.

Common Symptoms

  • Vehicle in limp mode
  • Overheated transmission
  • Transmission slipping when shifting
  • Transmission catches in gear
  • Increase in fuel consumption
  • Misfire like symptoms

Possible Causes

  • Not enough fluid level
  • Clogged or dirty transmission filter
  • Contaminated or dirty fluid
  • Restricted passages in the hydraulic
  • Defective transmission valve
  • Defective shift solenoid
  • Internal failure in transmission
  • Corroded or damaged connector
  • Damaged or faulty wiring
  • Defective PCM

How to Check

Before starting with any troubleshooting process, it’s important to check the with 2006 Ford Explorer ’s TSB (Technical Service Bulletins), specific to its year, model, and transmission. In some cases, this can help save a lot of time, as it points you in the right direction. Also, it pays to check your 2006 Ford Explorer ’s records to verify the last time the fluid and filter was changed.

Inspect Fluid and Wiring

First, check the transmission fluid’s condition and level. Before this, you can consult with your 2006 Ford Explorer ’s records to verify the last time the fluid and filter was changed.

For the wirings, it’s obvious. Make sure the connectors and connections are secured, and there are no signs of damages and corrosions. This includes inspecting all wirings and connectors to the transmission pressure control solenoids, transmission pump, and PCM. Depending on the configuration, the transmission pump can be electrically or mechanically driven.

Advanced Diagnosis

These steps may vary from one 2006 Ford Explorer to another, and requires advanced equipment to perform, such as digital multi-meter and specific technical references for your 2006 Ford Explorer . You will need the specific troubleshooting guidelines for your 2006 Ford Explorer prior to proceeding with this kind of diagnosis.

Also, remember that voltage conditions may vary based on the model of your 2006 Ford Explorer . Fluid pressure requirements can also vary based on the design and configuration of the transmission.

Continuity Checks

Unless it was specified in the technical data, the normal resistance reading for connections and wirings is 0 ohms. Continuity check should be performed with the power removed from the circuit to avoid shorting the circuit and doing more damage. Resistance or no continuity is a sign of faulty wiring, which may be open or shorted, and must be repaired, if not replaced.

Possible Misdiagnosis

Often times, this code can be misdiagnosed as:

  • Engine misfire problem
  • Internal transmission problem
  • Transmission pump problem
  • Driveline problem

How to Fix

  • Replacing fluid and filter
  • Repair or replacement of defective transmission valve body
  • Repair or replacement of defective shift solenoid
  • Repair or replacement of defective transmission
  • Cleaning passages through a transmission flush
  • Cleaning connectors off of corrosions
  • Repair or replacement of faulty wiring
  • Replacement or flashing of PCM

The severity of this code starts at moderate, but it can develop into something serious when not corrected soon enough.

Where is shift solenoid B located?

The Transmission shift solenoids are located inside the valve body of your automatic transmission. They are integrated into the valve body, and on some car models, you can see them without removing the valve body, while on others, you have to remove the valve body to reach them.

What is the pressure control solenoid B?

The pressure control solenoid is a spring-loaded plunger device that regulates hydraulic fluid pressure inside the transmission. Pressure control solenoids are responsible for controlling the flow of transmission fluid, which is important for an automatic transmission to work properly.

Where is the transmission pressure control solenoid located?

In most cases, solenoids are located inside of the oil pan, connected to the valve body. Depending on what you drive, the technician may be able to replace just the failed shift solenoid.

What is a solenoid B in a transmission?

What Does a Transmission Shift Solenoid Do? The role of a transmission shift solenoid is to control the flow of transmission fluid. The transmission control module (TCM) sends an electrical signal telling the shift solenoid when to transfer fluid into and out of the transmission and at what rate.