P0789 fault code: Shift/Timing Solenoid Intermittent

P0789 means “Shift/Timing Solenoid Intermittent” — a transmission fault in the powertrain. We do not yet publish verified symptoms, causes or repair steps for this code — treat an engine management light seriously and book a garage if you are unsure.

Can I DIY?

Not from this page. P0789 has no verified safety grade here yet, so we publish no DIY checks, repair steps or tool guidance for it. Treat an engine management light seriously and have the fault confirmed by a qualified garage.

Stop when it is safe to do so and arrange recovery if the engine management light is flashing, the car judders, overheats or loses power, or you can smell fuel or exhaust fumes inside the car.

P07xxTransmission
MOT fail riskif the warning light stays on

What does P0789 mean?

P0789 is a generic (SAE standard) powertrain code reported by your car’s engine control unit. It sits in the P07xx block, which covers transmission. The stored description is “Shift/Timing Solenoid Intermittent”. The code itself tells you which circuit or system tripped the fault — not always the exact part that failed.

Will P0789 fail an MOT?

An illuminated engine management light is a Major defect at MOT since 2018 — an automatic fail until the fault is repaired and the light stays off. Clearing the code without fixing the cause is not a repair.

Before booking your test, check what usually fails on your car: see our MOT pass rates by make and model, built from 33.1 million DVSA tests.

Related guides

Car diagnostic test cost: compare the scopeUK booking marketplaces currently publish diagnostic averages of about £52–£65. Engine management light on: steady or flashing?A steady engine management light means the computer has stored a fault. Drive with caution and get the code read. A flashing light is different — stop when it is safe.
P0700Transmission Control System (MIL Request) P0701Transmission Control System Range/Performance P0702Transmission Control System Electrical P0703Brake Switch 'B' Circuit P0704Clutch Switch Input Circuit Malfunction P0705Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Malfunction (PRNDL Input) P0706Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Range/Performance P0707Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Low

P0789 — quick answers

Will P0789 fail my MOT?

An illuminated engine management light is a Major defect at MOT since 2018 — an automatic fail until the fault is repaired and the light stays off. Clearing the code without fixing the cause is not a repair.

Fault-code identifiers are standard diagnostic facts. Their explanations and diagnostic guidance on this site are original editorial summaries, not reproduced SAE wording. MOT defect rules reflect the DVSA MOT inspection manual (2026). This page is general guidance for UK drivers, not a substitute for a professional diagnosis.