AutoCodes – Ford – P1815 Ford

P1815 Ford Code - 4-Wheel Drive Mode Select Short Circuit To Ground

Quick Answer

The Mode Select Switch (MSS) communicates the operator's choice to the Transfer Case Control Module (TCCM). Common causes include Faulty Mode Select Switch (MSS), Mode Select Switch harness is open or shorted, Mode Select 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: P1815 Ford indicates 4-Wheel Drive Mode Select Short Circuit To Ground.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Mode Select Switch (MSS), Mode Select Switch harness is open or shorted, Mode Select 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 16,143

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 15, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P1815 Ford Description

The Mode Select Switch (MSS) communicates the operator's choice to the Transfer Case Control Module (TCCM). As the TCCM commands the gearmotor encoder assembly to 4H mode, the transfer case shift fork moves to engage 4H mode which also engages the dual-cone synchronizers to bring the front driveline to the same speed as the rear driveline. The TCCM also activates the hublock vacuum solenoid, providing a vacuum and engaging the Constant Vacuum Hublock (CVH) at each front wheel. If the vehicle is not responding to the operator's intentions, systematically check the necessary inputs and outputs of the TCCM, components of the transfer case, CVH components, and axle shafts. Check all circuits for opens and shorts to power or ground.

OBDII Code P1815 Ford - 4-Wheel Drive Mode Select Short Circuit To Ground - AutoCodes.com — P1815 Ford Code - 4-Wheel Drive Mode Select Short Circuit To Ground

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1815 Ford?

Faulty Mode Select Switch (MSS)
Mode Select Switch harness is open or shorted
Mode Select Switch circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Transfer Case Control Module (TCCM)
Faulty Transfer case
Faulty Front axle assembly

How to Fix the DTC P1815 Ford?

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 P1815 Ford 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 P1815 Ford Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P1815 in a Ford vehicle?

- Common symptoms include the inability to shift into 4-wheel drive mode, the 4WD indicator light staying on, and potential issues with vehicle stability and control.

2. What can cause the OBDII code P1815 in a Ford, indicating a 4-Wheel Drive Mode Select Short Circuit To Ground?

- The code P1815 can be caused by a short circuit in the wiring related to the 4-wheel drive mode select system, a faulty mode select switch, or a malfunctioning control module.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P1815 in my Ford vehicle?

- Diagnosing the P1815 code involves checking the wiring harness for any visible damage, testing the mode select switch for proper functionality, and using a scan tool to communicate with the control module.

4. What are the repair options for resolving OBDII code P1815 in a Ford?

- Repair options may include repairing or replacing damaged wiring, replacing the mode select switch if faulty, or reprogramming the control module if needed.

5. Is it safe to continue driving with OBDII code P1815 present in a Ford?

- It is not recommended to continue driving with the P1815 code active, as it can affect the proper operation of the 4-wheel drive system and potentially compromise vehicle safety.

6. Can I reset the OBDII code P1815 in my Ford without making any repairs?

- While clearing the code may temporarily turn off the check engine light, it is important to address the underlying issue causing the P1815 code to prevent further problems.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P1815 in a Ford?

- The cost of repairing the P1815 code can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue, but it may range from a few hundred dollars for simple repairs to more for complex issues.

8. Are there any DIY steps I can take to troubleshoot OBDII code P1815 in my Ford?

- DIY troubleshooting steps may include checking the fuse related to the 4-wheel drive system, inspecting the wiring for damage, and testing the mode select switch for continuity.

9. Will OBDII code P1815 cause my Ford to fail an emissions test?

- Yes, the P1815 code can cause your Ford to fail an emissions test, as it indicates a problem with the 4-wheel drive system that can impact overall vehicle performance.

10. Can a mechanic easily fix OBDII code P1815 in my Ford, or is it a complex repair?

- A skilled mechanic should be able to diagnose and fix the P1815 code in your Ford, as long as the underlying cause is identified accurately and the necessary repairs are performed diligently.