AutoCodesGMC – P1837 GMC

P1837 GMC Code - Kick-Down Switch Failed Short

Quick Answer

P1837 GMC indicates Kick-Down Switch Failed Short. Common causes include Faulty Kick-Down Switch, Kick-Down Switch harness is open or shorted, Kick-Down 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
P1837 GMC indicates Kick-Down Switch Failed Short.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Kick-Down Switch, Kick-Down Switch harness is open or shorted, Kick-Down 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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 1,173
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 22, 2019
💬 Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers — it's free!

Code P1837 GMC Description

OBDII Code P1837 GMC - Kick-Down Switch Failed Short - AutoCodes.com
P1837 GMC Code - Kick-Down Switch Failed Short

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1837 GMC?

  • Faulty Kick-Down Switch
  • Kick-Down Switch harness is open or shorted
  • Kick-Down Switch circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P1837 GMC?

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 P1837 GMC 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 P1837 GMC code?

Need more information on how to fix the P1837 GMC code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P1837 GMC code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

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 P1837 GMC Code

1. What does the OBDII code P1837 mean on a GMC vehicle?

P1837 indicates that the kick-down switch, which assists in downshifting the transmission for better acceleration, has failed or experienced a short circuit.

2. What are the common symptoms of P1837 in a GMC vehicle?

Symptoms may include poor acceleration, delayed or harsh downshifting, transmission stuck in higher gears, or the check engine light illuminating.

3. What causes the P1837 code to appear?

Common causes include a faulty kick-down switch, damaged or shorted wiring, poor electrical connections, or a malfunctioning transmission control module (TCM).

4. Can I drive my GMC vehicle with a P1837 code?

While the vehicle may remain drivable, it could experience reduced performance, and ignoring the issue could lead to further transmission damage.

5. How do I diagnose the P1837 code?

Start by inspecting the kick-down switch and its wiring for damage or shorts, test the switch for proper operation, and check for any related transmission control module faults.

6. What tools are needed to fix the P1837 code?

You may need a diagnostic scanner, multimeter, and basic hand tools to inspect wiring and replace parts if necessary.

7. How is the P1837 code typically fixed?

Repairs may involve replacing the kick-down switch, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, or updating or reprogramming the transmission control module.

8. How much does it cost to repair the P1837 code on a GMC?

Repair costs vary but typically range from $100 to $300, depending on whether the kick-down switch or wiring needs replacement.

9. Can a dirty or low transmission fluid level cause the P1837 code?

While unlikely, transmission issues like low or dirty fluid can exacerbate related symptoms, so it’s worth checking as part of overall maintenance.

10. Do I need a professional mechanic to fix the P1837 code?

If you're experienced with automotive repairs and diagnostics, you can likely address the issue yourself. Otherwise, consulting a professional is recommended to ensure proper diagnosis and repair.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P1837 GMC OBDII Code

Code P1837 GMC comments

No comments found for this page.

AutoCodes App

Fix Your Car Smarter

Try the New AutoCodes App!

Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.

AutoCodes App on Google Play