AutoCodes – Subaru – P1718 Subaru

P1718 Subaru 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 Subaru 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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 52,100
How popular is this code, among other codes? Medium
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 07, 2020
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Code P1718 Subaru 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 Subaru - Automatic Transmission CAN Communication Circuit - AutoCodes.com
P1718 Subaru Code - Automatic Transmission CAN Communication Circuit

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1718 Subaru?

  • 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 Subaru?

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 Subaru 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 P1718 Subaru Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P1718 in a Subaru related to the Automatic Transmission CAN Communication Circuit?

- Common symptoms include issues with shifting gears, transmission slippage, and difficulty engaging or disengaging gears.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P1718 in a Subaru?

- Possible causes include faulty wiring or connectors in the CAN communication circuit, a malfunctioning transmission control module (TCM), or a defective CAN communication module.

3. How can I diagnose the Automatic Transmission CAN Communication Circuit issue causing OBDII code P1718 in my Subaru?

- Diagnose the issue by checking the wiring and connectors for damage, testing the TCM for proper functioning, and using a diagnostic scan tool to analyze communication between modules.

4. Can a DIY enthusiast repair OBDII code P1718 in a Subaru related to the Automatic Transmission CAN Communication Circuit?

- While some basic checks like inspecting wiring and connectors can be done by a DIY enthusiast, repairing the CAN communication circuit or TCM may require specialized tools and knowledge best left to professionals.

5. Are there any quick tips to troubleshoot OBDII code P1718 in a Subaru before seeking professional help?

- Quick tips include checking for loose or damaged wiring, ensuring all connectors are securely plugged in, and performing a battery reset to see if the code clears.

6. Is it safe to drive my Subaru with OBDII code P1718 related to the Automatic Transmission CAN Communication Circuit?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with this code present, as it can lead to further transmission issues and potential safety hazards on the road.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P1718 in a Subaru caused by the Automatic Transmission CAN Communication Circuit issue?

- Repair costs can vary depending on the exact cause of the problem, but they can range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars, including parts and labor.

8. Can OBDII code P1718 in a Subaru be triggered by other underlying problems not related to the Automatic Transmission CAN Communication Circuit?

- While rare, it is possible for this code to be triggered by issues such as a faulty speed sensor, low transmission fluid levels, or a failing engine control module (ECM).

9. Will resetting the OBDII code P1718 in my Subaru make the problem go away permanently?

- Simply resetting the code will not fix the underlying issue causing P1718. It is important to diagnose and repair the root cause to prevent the code from reappearing.

10. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code P1718 in a Subaru related to the Automatic Transmission CAN Communication Circuit?

- Repair times can vary depending on the specific diagnosis and parts availability, but it may take a few hours to a full day for a professional technician to complete the repair.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P1718 Subaru OBDII Code

  • I am getting this code in my 2007 Subaru Forestor (2.0L), I am also getting a flashing ECO light on the dash. I suspect that when i fitted an after market Remote locking system and cut into the central locking relays that I have upset the CAN Bus and caused the TCU to lock up. Its giving me this P1718 error. I'm not really sure what to do next, I've removed the central locking system and returned everything back to orignal, Ive reset the TCU and now looking to replace the TCU with a 2nd hand one. Be good to know if someone has had a similar experience.

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