AutoCodes – Generic – P1718

P1718 Code - Automatic Transmission CAN Communication Circuit

Quick Answer

The Controller Area Network (CAN) bus is used in vehicles as a form of data transfer between control units. Common causes include Faulty Transmission Control Module (TCM), Transmission Control Module harness is open or shorted, Transmission Control Module 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
P1718 indicates Automatic Transmission CAN Communication Circuit.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Transmission Control Module (TCM), Transmission Control Module harness is open or shorted, Transmission Control Module 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 32,918
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 07, 2020
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Code P1718 Description

The Controller Area Network (CAN) bus is used in vehicles as a form of data transfer between control units. On a CAN Bus network, each control unit is capable of transmitting and receiving information. Information packets or messages carry a certain priority; messages with a higher priority are transmitted before lower priority messages. This ensures that safety-critical data is not held up by less important messages.
Vehicle wiring and components can be reduced with the addition of CAN Bus because signals required by multiple control units are only wired to a single control unit. The signal is then put on the network as a data message for all control units to use. Additional features can be easily fitted to vehicles when CAN Bus is used, such as priority lighting, automatic wipers, etc.
The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will set when CAN communication with the Transmission Control Module (TCM) cannot be established
OBDII Code P1718 - Automatic Transmission CAN Communication Circuit - AutoCodes.com
P1718 Code - Automatic Transmission CAN Communication Circuit

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1718?

  • Faulty Transmission Control Module (TCM)
  • Transmission Control Module harness is open or shorted
  • Transmission Control Module circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P1718?

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 P1718 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 P1718 code?

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Information for Specific Makes

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 P1718 Code

1. What does the OBDII code P1718 mean?

P1718 indicates a problem in the Automatic Transmission CAN Communication Circuit, meaning the transmission control module (TCM) is having trouble communicating with other modules on the CAN (Controller Area Network) bus.

2. What are common symptoms of a P1718 code?

Symptoms may include harsh or delayed shifting, the transmission stuck in a single gear (limp mode), decreased fuel efficiency, and the check engine light or transmission warning light illuminated.

3. What causes the P1718 code to appear?

Common causes include damaged or corroded wiring or connectors in the CAN communication circuit, a faulty transmission control module (TCM), or issues with the CAN bus itself, such as a short or open circuit.

4. How is the P1718 code diagnosed?

A mechanic will typically use a scan tool to check for related codes, inspect the wiring and connectors for damage, and test the communication signals on the CAN bus to identify faults.

5. Can I still drive my car with a P1718 code?

Driving with a P1718 code may be possible, but it is not recommended. Transmission issues can worsen over time and potentially lead to expensive repairs or leave you stranded.

6. How do you fix a P1718 code?

Repairs may include replacing damaged wiring or connectors, repairing or replacing the transmission control module (TCM), or addressing faults in the CAN bus communication circuit.

7. How much does it cost to repair a P1718 code?

The cost varies but can range from $150 to $1,000 or more depending on whether the issue is a simple wiring repair or requires replacing the TCM.

8. Can a weak battery cause the P1718 code?

Yes, a weak or failing battery can cause communication issues on the CAN bus, potentially triggering the P1718 code.

9. Is the P1718 code specific to certain vehicles?

While the P1718 code is common across many manufacturers, its exact definition and troubleshooting steps may vary depending on the vehicle make and model.

10. Can I clear the P1718 code without addressing the problem?

Clearing the code without fixing the root cause will only temporarily turn off the warning light. The code is likely to return until the issue is resolved.

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