P0790: Normal/Performance Switch Circuit
Standardized SAE J2012 code · P07xx — Transmission
What does P0790 mean?
P0790 is the circuit fault of the normal/performance (sport or power program) selector of an automatic transmission – the older single code that preceded the mode switch codes P071A ff; the early J2012 list still called it 'circuit malfunction'. The switch is usually a button to ground or a resistor ladder; a fault is an invalid level, a permanently pressed button or an open circuit. No manufacturer document available to us describes it; GM uses P05D0–P05D3 for its drive mode selector today. The sport program is then unavailable or permanently on.
The code tells you which monitor failed, not which part is broken. Test before replacing parts.
Symptoms
- Sport or performance program unavailable or always on
- Mode indicator missing or flashing
Common causes
- High Button faulty or sticking
- Medium Wire or connector open or shorted
- Medium Liquid in the console
- Low Control module
Likelihood is a general estimate across vehicles; your make and model may differ.
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