Fault codeP0790

MODERATE

Normal/Performance Switch Circuit Malfunction

What this code means

Normal/Performance Switch Circuit Malfunction.

P0790 is a generic code: it means the same thing on every make. P0790 belongs to family P07xx — Transmission. Its page explains how to read a code and groups all its codes by part.

Type of fault

The control unit has detected an electrical anomaly on this circuit without saying exactly which. Diagnosis starts with a visual check of the wiring and connector, then measuring the component — resistance, supply, ground — with a multimeter.

Gear lever and shift buttons

On automatic and automated gearboxes, sensors in the gear lever and buttons on the steering wheel or lever tell the gearbox control unit what the driver requests: manual mode, upshift, downshift, sport mode.

What you notice

Manual mode or paddles that do not respond, a wrong gear shown on the dashboard, sport or winter mode that does not engage.

How to check it

Check the connectors under the gear lever and behind the steering wheel, and the lever's mechanism. Spilled drinks in the console are a classic cause of faults on these sensors.

What to do

Have it checked this week. The car remains usable, but the fault will not clear itself and will fail the roadworthiness test.

Clearing a code switches the light off but repairs nothing: if the fault remains, the code comes back. Clearing a fault code yourself →

How to read this code

PPowertrain
0standardised code
7Transmission
90P0790