P0920 on Hyundai
Gear Shift Forward Actuator Circuit/Open
P0920 on Hyundai vehicles indicates gear shift forward actuator circuit/open. Au7o has documented this code across 6 Hyundai models — most commonly on Elantra, Kona, Santa Cruz. 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. Typical repair costs on Hyundai range from $2,500 to $6,000, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P0920
- •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)
P0920 on Hyundai by Model
Hyundai Elantra(1 issue)
- Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) Shudder and Failure2016-2020
The 7-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT) in Elantra Sport and Elantra GT models suffers from consistent problems including shuddering, hesitation during acceleration, and sudden loss of power. The clutch pack is not replaceable, requiring full transmission replacement. A class action resulted in a $41.2 million settlement.
Hyundai Kona(1 issue)
- 7-Speed DCT Shudder and Delayed Engagement2018-2023
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 extended DCT warranty to 10 years/100,000 miles after class-action pressure.
Hyundai Santa Cruz(1 issue)
- 8-Speed DCT Overheating Under Load / Towing2022-2025
The 8-speed wet dual-clutch transmission (DCT) on the 2.5L turbo Santa Cruz can overheat when towing near its 5,000 lb capacity or during spirited driving in warm weather. The transmission overheating warning forces the vehicle into limp mode. The DCT cooling system is undersized for heavy-duty use.
Hyundai Sonata(1 issue)
- Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT) Shudder/Hesitation2015-2019
Sonatas equipped with the dual-clutch transmission can experience shuddering, hesitation, and jerky engagement at low speeds. The DCT can feel rough in stop-and-go traffic. This is a characteristic of the dry-clutch DCT design.
Hyundai Tucson(1 issue)
- 7-Speed DCT Transmission Shudder and Hesitation2016-2021
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 extended the DCT warranty to 10 years/100,000 miles under a settlement.
Hyundai Veloster(1 issue)
- 6-Speed DCT Premature Clutch Failure2012-2017
The 6-speed dry DCT in the Veloster Turbo is prone to premature clutch wear and failure, often before 60,000 miles. Symptoms include slipping, shuddering, and complete loss of drive. The dry clutch design generates excessive heat in stop-and-go traffic. Hyundai extended DCT warranty coverage after numerous complaints.
Looking for P0920 on a different make?
View P0920 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0920 mean on Hyundai?▼
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. On Hyundai specifically, this code is documented across 6 models.
What causes P0920 on Hyundai vehicles?▼
Common causes on Hyundai: 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. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P0920 on a Hyundai?▼
Repair costs on Hyundai range from $2,500 to $6,000, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Hyundai models have P0920 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0920 on 6 Hyundai models: Elantra, Kona, Santa Cruz, Sonata, Tucson, Veloster.