P0920: How to Diagnose & Fix — Gear Shift Forward Actuator Circuit/Open
10 vehicles · 5 makes · $500-$20,000 repair
How to diagnose and fix P0920: most-reported vehicles
Ranked by owner reports. Each card gives the symptoms, how to confirm the cause, the fix, parts and sources for that vehicle.
Ford Focus · 2012–2018
The DPS6 PowerShift 6-speed dual-clutch automated transmission fitted to 2012-2018 Ford Focus (and 2011-2019 Fiesta) is widely considered one of the worst transmission designs in modern automotive history. The dry dual-clutch design was fundamentally unsuited for stop-and-go driving, producing violent shuddering during low-speed acceleration, hesitation when pulling away from stops, unexpected surging, and abrupt harsh shifts. Ford knew of the defects from the start but concealed them and continued selling vehicles. The Vargas class action resulted in a settlement covering 2012-2016 Focus and 2011-2016 Fiesta models. Ford issued dozens of TSBs and software reflashes that repeatedly failed to fix the underlying mechanical problem. The TCM (Transmission Control Module) failures are a distinct but related issue. Repair options include clutch replacement (temporary fix), TCM reprogramming, or complete transmission replacement.
Common Symptoms
- Violent shuddering or juddering when accelerating from a stop
- Transmission hesitates or refuses to move in Drive for 1-3 seconds
- Unexpected lurch forward when releasing brakes at low speed
- Grinding or clunking between gear changes
- Transmission surging and jerking during low-speed driving
- Vehicle bucks and shakes at 15-35 mph (clutch slip zone)
- Transmission warning light or "Transmission Fault" message
- Loss of drive in one or both gears
- Delayed engagement from Park to Drive
How to Fix
Check fordtransmissionsettlement.com for class action settlement eligibility. Ford's warranty extended to cover repeated repairs. Updated clutch service parts: Focus uses F1FZ-7B546-B clutch (replaces BV6Z-7B546-F). Clutch shudder repair per TSB 16-0109; TCM repair/replacement per TSB 16-0129 and program 14M02. Software recalibration via IDS tool at dealer. For definitive fix: remanufactured DPS6 transmission. Many owners chose to pursue buyback via state Lemon Laws. The Vargas settlement class stops at the 2016 model year, so 2017-2018 owners are not covered by it.
Sources for this issue (3)
Hyundai Tucson · 2016–2018
The 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) paired with the 1.6L turbo engine in Tucson models suffers from shuddering during low-speed maneuvers, hesitation from a stop, and jerky shifts. The dry clutch design is prone to premature wear. Hyundai addressed it with TCU software updates (including safety recall 16V-628 for delayed engagement on 2016 models and TSB 21-AT-014H for low-speed judder); clutch replacement falls under normal warranty coverage.
Common Symptoms
- Shuddering at low speed (1st-2nd gear)
- Hesitation when accelerating from stop
- Jerky gear changes
- Transmission warning light
- RPM flaring between shifts
How to Fix
Check for open recall 16V-628 (2016 models) and ask the dealer to apply TSB 21-AT-014H (judder inspection and TCU update); clutch replacement under this TSB is covered by normal warranty. A TCM software update can improve shift quality. If clutch is worn, the dual-clutch assembly replacement is needed (Hyundai part 41200-2D220). Dealer replacement costs $1,800-3,000. Some owners have had success with the software update alone.
Call to confirm they can assess your vehicle and perform the stated work. Search results do not confirm qualification, eligibility or coverage.
Owner tips & cautions
- TipRequest the latest TCM software calibration from the dealer - newer versions significantly improve shift quality
- TipLet the DCT warm up for 2-3 minutes before driving aggressively - cold clutch engagement causes most shuddering
- WarningIf the transmission warning light comes on, get it inspected immediately - continued driving can damage the clutch beyond software repair
Sources for this issue (2)
Hyundai Kona · 2018–2023
Kona models with the 1.6L turbo and 7-speed DCT experience shuddering during low-speed driving, delayed engagement from a stop, and lurching during parking maneuvers. The dry dual-clutch design struggles with heat and wear. Hyundai TSB 22-AT-007H (May 2022) covers low-speed DCT judder on 2018-2021 Kona 1.6T with a TCU software update and, if needed, double-clutch replacement.
Common Symptoms
- Shuddering in 1st-2nd gear
- Delayed response when pressing gas from stop
- Lurching in parking lots
- Transmission overheat warning
- Harsh shift from 2nd to 3rd
How to Fix
Request the latest TCM software calibration from the dealer (TSB 22-AT-007H). If clutch is worn, the entire dual-clutch assembly needs replacement (TSB 22-AT-007H includes a double-clutch replacement procedure). TCM update is free; clutch replacement is $1,500-2,800 out of warranty. Avoid riding the clutch in stop-and-go traffic.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Genuine Hyundai seven-speed DCT double-clutch setOEMHyundai 41200-2D220
out-of-warranty double-clutch replacement only after TSB 22-AT-007H testing directs replacement Fitment/availability: HyundaiPartsDeal catalogs 41200-2D220 for 2018-2021 Kona DOHC-TCI/GDI, matching the part in TSB 22-AT-007H. Requires th…
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
Owner tips & cautions
- TipIn heavy stop-and-go traffic, shift to manual/sport mode to reduce DCT hunting between gears
- TipLet the car warm up for 1-2 minutes before driving - cold clutch engagement causes most of the shudder
- WarningDo not ignore the transmission overheat warning - pull over and let it cool for 15 minutes to prevent clutch damage
Sources for this issue (1)
Hyundai Sonata · 2015–2019
Hyundai Veloster · 2012–2017
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P0920 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 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 $500 to $20,000, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by P0920?
Au7o has documented P0920 across 10 vehicle models from 5 manufacturers: Dodge, Ford, Hyundai, Kia, Nissan.
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Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.