P0920 on Kia
Gear Shift Forward Actuator Circuit/Open
P0920 on Kia vehicles indicates gear shift forward actuator circuit/open. Au7o has documented this code across 5 Kia models — most commonly on K5, Niro, Optima. 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 Kia range from $150 to $6,500, 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 Kia by Model
Kia K5(1 issue)
- 8-Speed DCT Electric Oil Pump Failure2021-2023
K5 vehicles equipped with the 2.5L turbocharged engine and 8-speed wet dual-clutch transmission may experience electric oil pump failure within the transmission. A manufacturing error can cause the pump to fail, resulting in complete loss of vehicle power while driving. This creates a serious safety hazard, particularly at highway speeds.
Kia Niro(1 issue)
- Dual-Clutch Transmission Judder (Hybrid)2017-2022
The 6-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) in the 1st generation Niro Hybrid (2017-2022) develops a juddering or shaking sensation when starting from a stop and during low-speed gear changes. The dry clutch pack wears and develops uneven friction surfaces, causing the shudder. This is most noticeable in stop-and-go traffic and typically appears between 25,000-40,000 miles. The issue is exacerbated by the frequent clutch engagement/disengagement required by the hybrid system.
Kia Optima(1 issue)
- 7-Speed DCT Transmission Clutch Judder2016-2020
Vehicles equipped with the 1.6L turbocharged engine and 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) may experience clutch judder, causing vibration and jerking during low-speed acceleration and when starting from a stop. The issue is particularly noticeable during cold starts and in stop-and-go traffic.
Kia Sorento(1 issue)
- DCT Transmission Oil Pump Failure (2.5T)2021-2022
The 2021-2022 Sorento with the 2.5L turbo engine and 8-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) can experience transmission oil pump failure due to a supplier production defect. The failed oil pump starves the transmission of lubrication, leading to sudden loss of drive power. NHTSA Recall 22V-826 covers approximately 65,000 Sorentos. Kia dealers inspect and replace the transmission if the oil pump is defective, plus reprogram the TCU with updated software.
Kia Stinger(1 issue)
- 8-Speed DCT Harsh Shifting and Delayed Response2018-2023
The 8-speed wet dual-clutch transmission in the Stinger exhibits harsh low-speed shifts, delayed response when pulling away from stops, and occasional gear hunting on hills. The DCT clutch pack adapts over time but the adaptive learning can drift, leading to rough shifts. TCU software updates have improved shift quality. In rare cases, clutch pack replacement is needed.
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View P0920 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0920 mean on Kia?▼
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 Kia specifically, this code is documented across 5 models.
What causes P0920 on Kia vehicles?▼
Common causes on Kia: 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 Kia?▼
Repair costs on Kia range from $150 to $6,500, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Kia models have P0920 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0920 on 5 Kia models: K5, Niro, Optima, Sorento, Stinger.