AutoCodes – Generic – P1797

P1797 Code - Park/Neutral Position Switch Signal Malfunction

Quick Answer

P1797 indicates Park/Neutral Position Switch Signal Malfunction. Common causes include Faulty Park/Neutral Position (PNP) Switch, Park/Neutral Position (PNP) Switch harness is open or shorted, Park/Neutral Position (PNP) 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: P1797 indicates Park/Neutral Position Switch Signal Malfunction.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Park/Neutral Position (PNP) Switch, Park/Neutral Position (PNP) Switch harness is open or shorted, Park/Neutral Position (PNP) 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 26,962

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 Sep 20, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P1797 Description

OBDII Code P1797 - Park/Neutral Position Switch Signal Malfunction - AutoCodes.com — P1797 Code - Park/Neutral Position Switch Signal Malfunction

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1797?

Faulty Park/Neutral Position (PNP) Switch
Park/Neutral Position (PNP) Switch harness is open or shorted
Park/Neutral Position (PNP) Switch circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P1797?

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 P1797 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 P1797 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P1797 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P1797 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

P1797 Ford — Park/Neutral Position Switch Signal Malfunction
P1797 Jaguar — CAN TCM/ECM Circuit Malfunction
P1797 KIA — Clutch Pedal Position Switch Circuit Malfunction
P1797 Mazda — Park/Neutral Position Switch Signal Malfunction

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 P1797 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P1797 (Park/Neutral Position Switch Signal Malfunction)?

- Common symptoms include difficulty starting the vehicle, the engine not cranking or starting at all, and the inability to shift out of Park.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P1797?

- The code can be triggered by a faulty park/neutral position switch, a damaged switch harness, loose or corroded wiring connections, or a malfunctioning transmission control module.

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P1797?

- Diagnosis typically involves checking the park/neutral position switch and its wiring for any visible damage, testing the switch for proper operation, and using a diagnostic scan tool to retrieve and analyze the code.

4. Can I still drive my vehicle with OBDII code P1797 present?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with this code present, as it can lead to unsafe driving conditions and potential further damage to the transmission system.

5. How can I repair OBDII code P1797?

- Repair options can include replacing the park/neutral position switch, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, and resetting the fault code using a diagnostic scan tool.

6. Is it possible to reset OBDII code P1797 without fixing the underlying issue?

- While you can clear the code temporarily, it is not advisable to do so without addressing the root cause, as the issue will likely reoccur and may lead to more severe problems.

7. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P1797 at home?

- Depending on your skill level and access to tools, you may be able to replace the park/neutral position switch or repair wiring yourself. However, for more complex issues, it is recommended to seek professional help.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P1797 at a mechanic or dealership?

- Repair costs can vary depending on the specific issue causing the code, but you can expect to pay for parts and labor, with the total cost ranging from $100 to $500 or more.

9. Are there any preventive measures to avoid OBDII code P1797 in the future?

- Regular maintenance checks, such as inspecting wiring harnesses for damage and keeping the transmission system well-maintained, can help prevent issues that may trigger this code.

10. Will OBDII code P1797 cause my vehicle to fail an emissions test?

- Yes, having this code present can cause your vehicle to fail an emissions test, as it indicates a malfunction in the transmission system that can affect emissions control.