P0920: Gear Shift Forward Actuator Circuit/Open
14 vehicles · 5 makes · $150-$20,000 repair
Most Reported On
P0920 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning “Gear Shift Forward Actuator Circuit/Open.” P0920 indicates an open circuit in the gear shift forward actuator circuit. In transmissions that use electronic shift actuators, this actuator helps engage forward gear ranges; an 'open' means the control module isn't seeing a complete electrical circuit to that actuator. The code is treated as serious because it can prevent the transmission from shifting or engaging gears properly. Symptoms may include inability to select or stay in a forward gear, harsh or no engagement, a transmission warning light, or limp-mode behavior. This code is most commonly reported on 2012-2018 Ford Focus, 2016-2021 Hyundai Tucson (Limited, N Line, Sport, Ultimate), and 2015-2019 Hyundai Sonata, plus 11 other vehicles, with repair costs ranging from $150 to $20,000.
Common Causes
Typical Repair Cost
Based on 14 documented vehicle-specific issues. Actual cost depends on root cause and vehicle.
Diagnostic Tools
To diagnose P0920, you'll need an OBD-II scanner. Here are our recommendations at every price point.
ANCEL AD310 Classic OBD-II Scanner
by ANCEL
A simple, affordable code reader that reads and clears check engine codes. Great for quick diagnostics on any OBD-II vehicle (1996+).
- Read & clear engine codes
- View freeze frame data
- I/M readiness status
- No batteries or app needed
BlueDriver Pro Bluetooth Scanner
by BlueDriver
Bluetooth OBD-II scanner with a free companion app. Provides enhanced diagnostics, smog readiness, and repair reports sourced from a database of verified fixes.
- Enhanced diagnostics (ABS, SRS, transmission)
- Repair Reports with verified fixes
- Smog check readiness
- Free app (iOS & Android)
LAUNCH CRP123X OBD-II Scanner
by LAUNCH
A professional-grade handheld scanner that reads all four major systems (engine, transmission, ABS, SRS) with live data streaming and graphing.
- Engine, transmission, ABS, SRS diagnostics
- Live data stream & graphing
- AutoVIN for vehicle identification
- Free lifetime updates via Wi-Fi
Autel MaxiCOM MK808S Diagnostic Tool
by Autel
Shop-level diagnostic tablet with bi-directional control, active tests, and full system coverage. Ideal for serious DIYers and small shops.
- All-system diagnostics (25+ modules)
- Bi-directional control & active tests
- Oil reset, EPB, BMS, TPMS, injector coding
- 7-inch touchscreen with Android OS
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Vehicles Affected (14)
7-Speed DCT Transmission Shudder and Hesitation
Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT) Shudder/Hesitation
7-Speed DCT Shudder and Delayed Engagement
6-Speed DCT Premature Clutch Failure
Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) Shudder and Failure
8-Speed DCT Overheating Under Load / Towing
Dual-Clutch Transmission Judder (Hybrid)
8-Speed DCT Harsh Shifting and Delayed Response
7-Speed DCT Transmission Clutch Judder
DCT Transmission Oil Pump Failure (2.5T)
8-Speed DCT Electric Oil Pump Failure
FAQ
What does P0920 mean?
P0920 stands for "Gear Shift Forward Actuator Circuit/Open." P0920 indicates an open circuit in the gear shift forward actuator circuit. In transmissions that use electronic shift actuators, this actuator helps engage forward gear ranges; an 'open' means the control module isn't seeing a complete electrical circuit to that actuator. The code is treated as serious because it can prevent the transmission from shifting or engaging gears properly. Symptoms may include inability to select or stay in a forward gear, harsh or no engagement, a transmission warning light, or limp-mode behavior.
What are the most common causes of P0920?
The most common causes of P0920 are: Open or broken wiring in the actuator circuit, Faulty gear shift forward actuator, Corroded, loose, or disconnected connector, Moisture or corrosion on circuit contacts, Damaged wiring harness near the transmission, Poor ground or open power feed to the actuator, Faulty transmission control module (less common). The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0920?
Repair costs for P0920 range from $150 to $20,000, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by P0920?
Au7o has documented P0920 across 14 vehicle models from 5 manufacturers: Dodge, Ford, Hyundai, Kia, Nissan.
Sources (12)
- TSBTSB 16-0109 - DPS6 Clutch Replacement Service Level Applications (2012-2016)
- ForumFocus Fanatics Forum - DPS6 PowerShift TCM Failure Symptoms
- RecallHyundai DCT Warranty Extension - Customer Satisfaction Campaign
- ForumReddit r/Hyundai - DCT Shudder Complaints
- NHTSANHTSA Complaint #11371217
- ForumHyundai Forums: DCT shudder
- mediaNorman Taylor: The Most Common Hyundai Dual-Clutch Transmission Problems
- ForumElantra Sport Forum: Problems in my DCT transmission
- mediaCherish Your Car: Hyundai Elantra Transmission Problems
- mediaWirtz Law: Hyundai DCT Defects Subject to California Lemon Law
- NHTSANHTSA Recall 22V-760 8-Speed DCT P1C2D03
Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.