AutoCodes – Dodge – P0851 Dodge

P0851 Dodge Code - Park/Neutral Position Switch Circuit Low Voltage

Quick Answer

The Transmission Control Module (TCM) monitors the Park/Neutral Switch signal. Common causes include Faulty Park/Neutral Switch, Park/Neutral Switch harness is open or shorted, Park/Neutral Switch circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: P0851 Dodge indicates Park/Neutral Position Switch Circuit Low Voltage.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Park/Neutral Switch, Park/Neutral Switch harness is open or shorted, Park/Neutral Switch circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 4,142

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on May 10, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0851 Dodge Description

The Transmission Control Module (TCM) monitors the Park/Neutral Switch signal. The TCM sets the OBDII code when the Park/Neutral Switch is not to factory specifications.

OBDII Code P0851 Dodge - Park/Neutral Position Switch Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com — P0851 Dodge Code - Park/Neutral Position Switch Circuit Low Voltage

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0851 Dodge?

Faulty Park/Neutral Switch
Park/Neutral Switch harness is open or shorted
Park/Neutral Switch circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0851 Dodge?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0851 Dodge code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0851 Dodge Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0851 mean for a Dodge vehicle?

P0851 indicates that the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has detected a low voltage signal from the Park/Neutral Position Switch Circuit.

2. What are the common symptoms of the P0851 code in a Dodge?

Symptoms may include the inability to start the vehicle, the transmission stuck in one gear, erratic gear shifting, and the Check Engine Light being illuminated.

3. What causes the P0851 code in a Dodge?

Common causes include a faulty Park/Neutral Position (PNP) switch, damaged wiring or connectors in the circuit, a malfunctioning PCM, or low battery voltage.

4. Can a bad battery cause the P0851 code in a Dodge?

Yes, a weak or failing battery can result in low voltage in the circuit and trigger the P0851 code.

5. How do you diagnose the P0851 code in a Dodge?

Diagnosis typically involves checking the PNP switch for proper operation, inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion, and verifying the battery voltage and ground connections.

6. Can I drive my Dodge with the P0851 code active?

Driving with the P0851 code is not recommended, as it may cause transmission performance issues or prevent the vehicle from starting.

7. How do you fix the P0851 code in a Dodge?

Repairs may include replacing the Park/Neutral Position switch, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, and ensuring the battery is fully charged and in good condition.

8. How much does it cost to fix the P0851 code in a Dodge?

Repair costs can vary but typically range from $50 to $200 for parts and labor, depending on whether the PNP switch or wiring needs replacement.

9. Can a faulty PCM cause the P0851 code in a Dodge?

While rare, a malfunctioning PCM can cause this code if it fails to process the Park/Neutral Position switch signal correctly.

10. Is a reset necessary after fixing the P0851 code in a Dodge?

Yes, after repairs are completed, the code should be cleared using an OBDII scanner, and the vehicle should be test-driven to confirm the issue is resolved.