AutoCodes – Cadillac – P1520 Cadillac

P1520 Cadillac Code - Transmission Range Switch Circuit

Quick Answer

P1520 Cadillac indicates Transmission Range Switch Circuit. Common causes include Faulty Transmission Range Switch, Transmission Range Switch harness is open or shorted, Transmission Range 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: P1520 Cadillac indicates Transmission Range Switch Circuit.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Transmission Range Switch, Transmission Range Switch harness is open or shorted, Transmission Range 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 9,763

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 Aug 27, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P1520 Cadillac Description

OBDII Code P1520 Cadillac - Transmission Range Switch Circuit - AutoCodes.com — P1520 Cadillac Code - Transmission Range Switch Circuit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1520 Cadillac?

Faulty Transmission Range Switch
Transmission Range Switch harness is open or shorted
Transmission Range Switch circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P1520 Cadillac?

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 P1520 Cadillac 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.

Need more information about the P1520 Cadillac code?

Need more information on how to fix the P1520 Cadillac code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

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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 P1520 Cadillac Code

1. What does the OBDII code P1520 mean for a Cadillac?

P1520 indicates a problem with the Transmission Range Switch Circuit, which monitors the position of the gear selector.

2. What are the common symptoms of code P1520 on a Cadillac?

Symptoms may include the Check Engine Light turning on, erratic or incorrect gear shifting, and the transmission being stuck in one gear.

3. What causes the P1520 code to appear on a Cadillac?

Common causes include a faulty transmission range switch, damaged wiring or connectors, or issues with the powertrain control module (PCM).

4. Can I drive my Cadillac with a P1520 code?

Driving with a P1520 code is not recommended, as it may lead to transmission performance issues and potential long-term damage.

5. How is the P1520 code diagnosed?

A technician will use a scan tool to confirm the code, inspect the transmission range switch, check for damaged wiring or connectors, and test the circuit for continuity and proper voltage.

6. How do you fix a P1520 code on a Cadillac?

Repairs may include replacing the transmission range switch, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, or reprogramming or replacing the PCM if necessary.

7. What tools are needed to repair the P1520 code?

Common tools include a diagnostic scan tool, a multimeter, and basic hand tools for inspecting and replacing the transmission range switch or wiring.

8. How much does it cost to fix a P1520 code on a Cadillac?

Repair costs vary but typically range from $150 to $400, depending on whether the transmission range switch or wiring needs replacement.

9. Can a dirty transmission fluid cause the P1520 code?

While dirty transmission fluid is not a direct cause, it can exacerbate transmission issues that might indirectly contribute to the code.

10. How can I prevent the P1520 code from occurring?

Regular maintenance, including inspecting the transmission range switch, checking the wiring for wear, and servicing the transmission fluid, can help prevent this issue.