AutoCodes – Generic – P1879

P1879 Code - Problem in CVT Start Clutch Pressure Control Valve Assembly Circuit

Quick Answer

The Transmission Control Module (TCM) monitors the CVT Start Clutch Pressure Control Valve Assembly. Common causes include Faulty CVT Start Clutch Pressure Control Valve, CVT Start Clutch Pressure Control Valve harness is open or shorted, CVT Start Clutch Pressure Control Valve 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: P1879 indicates Problem in CVT Start Clutch Pressure Control Valve Assembly Circuit.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty CVT Start Clutch Pressure Control Valve, CVT Start Clutch Pressure Control Valve harness is open or shorted, CVT Start Clutch Pressure Control Valve 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 16,005

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 Feb 04, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P1879 Description

The Transmission Control Module (TCM) monitors the CVT Start Clutch Pressure Control Valve Assembly. The TCM sets the OBDII code when the CVT Start Clutch Pressure Control Valve Assembly is not to factory specifications.

OBDII Code P1879 - Problem in CVT Start Clutch Pressure Control Valve Assembly Circuit - AutoCodes.com — P1879 Code - Problem in CVT Start Clutch Pressure Control Valve Assembly Circuit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1879?

Faulty CVT Start Clutch Pressure Control Valve
CVT Start Clutch Pressure Control Valve harness is open or shorted
CVT Start Clutch Pressure Control Valve circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P1879?

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 P1879 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 P1879 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P1879 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P1879 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

P1879 Acura — Problem in CVT Start Clutch Pressure Control Valve Assembly Circuit
P1879 Honda — Problem in CVT Start Clutch Pressure Control Valve Assembly Circuit
P1879 Mitsubishi — Gear Block 4th

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 P1879 Code

1. What does OBDII code P1879 indicate?

Code P1879 indicates a problem in the CVT start clutch pressure control valve assembly circuit, which affects the transmission's ability to regulate pressure for smooth clutch engagement.

2. What are the symptoms of the P1879 code?

Symptoms may include transmission slippage, rough shifting, decreased acceleration, warning lights on the dashboard, or the vehicle going into limp mode.

3. What causes the P1879 code to appear?

Common causes include a faulty CVT start clutch pressure control valve, damaged wiring or connectors in the circuit, low or dirty transmission fluid, or a failing transmission control module (TCM).

4. Can driving with the P1879 code damage the vehicle?

Yes, continuing to drive with this code active can cause further damage to the transmission or related components, leading to costly repairs.

5. How is the P1879 code diagnosed?

A technician will inspect the wiring and connectors, check the transmission fluid condition, test the CVT start clutch pressure control valve, and use a scan tool to monitor live data from the transmission system.

6. Can low transmission fluid trigger the P1879 code?

Yes, low or contaminated transmission fluid can cause improper pressure regulation, leading to the activation of this code.

7. How do you fix the P1879 code?

Repairs may involve replacing the CVT start clutch pressure control valve, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, flushing and refilling the transmission fluid, or reprogramming the TCM if necessary.

8. What tools are needed to troubleshoot the P1879 code?

Basic tools include a scan tool, multimeter, and transmission fluid testing equipment. Advanced diagnostics may require manufacturer-specific tools.

9. Is the P1879 code specific to any particular vehicle?

This code is commonly associated with vehicles equipped with continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) and may be more prevalent in certain makes and models. Check your vehicle's service manual for details.

10. How much does it cost to repair the P1879 code?

Repair costs vary depending on the root cause, but they typically range from $150 to $1,000, with valve replacement or wiring repairs being less expensive than major transmission work.