P0751 on Ford
Shift Solenoid A Performance/Stuck Off
P0751 on Ford vehicles indicates shift solenoid a performance/stuck off. Au7o has documented this code across 7 Ford models — most commonly on Bronco, Contour, Edge. This code means the transmission control module commanded Shift Solenoid A (sometimes called Shift Solenoid 1) but the transmission did not respond properly, with the solenoid acting as though it is stuck 'off.' Shift solenoids are electrically operated valves that direct hydraulic fluid pressure to engage gears, so when one underperforms the transmission may shift harshly, slip, or fail to change gears at the right time. The computer sets this code when the measured gear ratio or shift behavior does not match the commanded state. It generally indicates a hydraulic or performance issue with the solenoid or the fluid circuit it controls inside the automatic transmission. Typical repair costs on Ford range from $150 to $6,500, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P0751
- •Stuck or failed Shift Solenoid A
- •Low, dirty, or degraded transmission fluid
- •Clogged solenoid screen or valve body passages
- •Sticking or worn valve body components
- •Wiring or connector problem at the solenoid
- •Internal transmission mechanical wear
- •Faulty transmission control module
P0751 on Ford by Model
Ford Bronco(1 issue)
- 7-Speed Manual Transmission Grinding/Scraping Noise2021-2023
The Getrag MT88 7-speed manual transmission exhibits rotational scraping or grinding noises, particularly in cold temperatures below 50°F. The noise occurs in neutral, 1st, and 2nd gears with clutch engaged and may diminish as transmission warms up. Issue traced to 5th and 6th gear synchronizer rings.
Ford Contour(1 issue)
- CD4E Automatic Transmission Failure1995-2000
The CD4E automatic transmission used in the Contour is one of the most failure-prone transmissions Ford has produced. The forward clutch pack, servo bore, and torque converter clutch are common failure points.
Ford Edge(1 issue)
- Power Transfer Unit (PTU) Fluid Leak and Failure - AWD Models2007-2018
The Power Transfer Unit (PTU) on AWD Ford Edge models is known for chronic fluid leaks from the axle shaft seals and PTU cover seal. The PTU (transfer case equivalent) lacks a drain plug and Ford originally specified "lifetime fill" fluid, leading many owners to never service it. When the seal leaks and fluid level drops, the PTU runs dry and destroys itself. Ford issued TSB 09-25-7 for 2007-2010 models, and the issue persists through 2018 with TSB 18-2255 for later versions. Seal failure typically occurs between 60,000-100,000 miles and is common in AWD models. A destroyed PTU can also damage the rear axle and differential.
Ford Escort(1 issue)
- CD4E Automatic Transmission Failure1991-2003
The CD4E automatic transmission used in the Escort is known for premature failure, particularly the forward clutch piston and servo bore wear. Symptoms progressively worsen over time.
Ford Maverick(1 issue)
- 8F35 Transmission Shudder/Buck/Jerk Below 35 mph and Output Carrier Bearing Wear (Early 2022 Builds)2022
The 2.0L EcoBoost Maverick uses the same 8F35 eight-speed transmission found in other Ford applications (Edge, Nautilus, Transit Connect, Escape), where vehicles equipped with the 8F35 transmission may exhibit a shudder/buck/jerk while driving up to 35 mph (57 km/h) due to software in the powertrain control module (PCM) — this is documented in TSB 21-2389 for the Edge/Nautilus and is widely reported by Maverick owners as carry-over behavior. A separate but related condition involves transmission slipping concerns, harsh engagements and various clutch DTCs (sometimes with torque converter clutch DTCs), caused by worn needle bearings in the output planet carrier assembly (TSB 22-2281). Per the TSB, only 8F35 units built on or before Dec. 20, 2021 are flagged — which in practice means early 2022 model year Mavericks. Drivers typically feel a low-speed shudder under light throttle, harsh 2-3 upshifts on hills, or a flare on the 4-5 shift.
Ford Mustang(1 issue)
- MT82 Manual Transmission Grinding and Shifting Issues2015-2023
The MT82 6-speed manual transmission is notorious for multiple issues including gear grinding (especially 1st to 2nd and into 3rd gear when cold), high RPM lockout preventing shifts, notchy/difficult shifts, premature synchronizer wear, and in severe cases complete transmission failure. The transmission was originally designed for smaller four-cylinder vehicles and the synchronizers struggle to handle the Mustang's higher horsepower.
Ford Taurus(1 issue)
- AX4S/AX4N Automatic Transmission Failure1996-2007
The AX4S and later AX4N automatic transmissions used in the Taurus are prone to premature failure due to torque converter clutch issues, valve body wear, and overheating. Common in high-mileage vehicles and those used for frequent stop-and-go driving.
Looking for P0751 on a different make?
View P0751 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0751 mean on Ford?▼
P0751 stands for "Shift Solenoid A Performance/Stuck Off." This code means the transmission control module commanded Shift Solenoid A (sometimes called Shift Solenoid 1) but the transmission did not respond properly, with the solenoid acting as though it is stuck 'off.' Shift solenoids are electrically operated valves that direct hydraulic fluid pressure to engage gears, so when one underperforms the transmission may shift harshly, slip, or fail to change gears at the right time. The computer sets this code when the measured gear ratio or shift behavior does not match the commanded state. It generally indicates a hydraulic or performance issue with the solenoid or the fluid circuit it controls inside the automatic transmission. On Ford specifically, this code is documented across 7 models.
What causes P0751 on Ford vehicles?▼
Common causes on Ford: Stuck or failed Shift Solenoid A, Low, dirty, or degraded transmission fluid, Clogged solenoid screen or valve body passages, Sticking or worn valve body components, Wiring or connector problem at the solenoid. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P0751 on a Ford?▼
Repair costs on Ford range from $150 to $6,500, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Ford models have P0751 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0751 on 7 Ford models: Bronco, Contour, Edge, Escort, Maverick, Mustang, Taurus.