AutoCodes – Chevrolet – P0878 Chevrolet

P0878 Chevrolet Code - Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch 4 Circuit High Voltage

Quick Answer

The Transmission Fluid Pressure (TFP) switch 4 is part of the Transmission Control Solenoid Valve Assembly which has no serviceable parts. Common causes include Low transmission fluid level, Dirty transmission fluid, Faulty Transmission Control Solenoid Valve Assembly. 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: P0878 Chevrolet indicates Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch 4 Circuit High Voltage.
Common causes: Common causes include Low transmission fluid level, Dirty transmission fluid, Faulty Transmission Control Solenoid Valve Assembly.
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 1,231

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 03, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0878 Chevrolet Description

The Transmission Fluid Pressure (TFP) switch 4 is part of the Transmission Control Solenoid Valve Assembly which has no serviceable parts. The Transmission Control Module (TCM) supplies a signal circuit to the TFP switch 4. The TFP switch 4 has an internal case ground. TFP switch 4 is normally closed or LOW. When oil pressure is present at the TFP switch 4, the switch is open or HIGH. The normal LOW pressure control solenoid 5 controls pressure to the 1-2-3-4 clutch regulator valve. The TCM monitors the TFP switch 4 to determine the position of the 1-2-3-4 clutch regulator valve. When the 1-2-3-4 clutch is commanded OFF, pressure is present on the TFP switch 4. When the 1-2-3-4 clutch is commanded ON, the 1-2-3-4 clutch regulator valve moves and pressure to the TFP switch 4 is exhausted through the 1-2-3-4 clutch regulator valve. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the TCM detects that the TFP switch 4 signal voltage remains HIGH after the 1-2-3-4 clutch transitions from a LOW pressure state to a HIGH pressure state. The TCM counts each incident. The DTC sets when 8 counts are accumulated.

OBDII Code P0878 Chevrolet - Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch 4 Circuit High Voltage - AutoCodes.com — P0878 Chevrolet Code - Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch 4 Circuit High Voltage

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0878 Chevrolet?

Low transmission fluid level
Dirty transmission fluid
Faulty Transmission Control Solenoid Valve Assembly
Transmission Control Solenoid Valve Assembly harness is open or shorted
Transmission Control Solenoid Valve Assembly circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0878 Chevrolet?

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 P0878 Chevrolet 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 P0878 Chevrolet code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0878 Chevrolet code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0878 Chevrolet code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Chevrolet Models

P0878 2014 Chevrolet Silverado — Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch 4 Circuit High Voltage
P0878 2015 Chevrolet Silverado — Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch 4 Circuit High Voltage
P0878 2016 Chevrolet Silverado — Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch 4 Circuit High Voltage
P0878 2017 Chevrolet Silverado — Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch 4 Circuit High Voltage
P0878 2018 Chevrolet Silverado — Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch 4 Circuit High Voltage

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 P0878 Chevrolet Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0878 in a Chevrolet related to the Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch 4 Circuit High Voltage?

The common symptoms of P0878 in a Chevrolet may include harsh shifting, transmission slipping, decreased fuel efficiency, and the illumination of the Check Engine Light.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0878 in a Chevrolet indicating an issue with the Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch 4 Circuit High Voltage?

The possible causes of P0878 in a Chevrolet could be a faulty transmission fluid pressure switch, damaged wiring or connectors in the transmission system, low transmission fluid levels, or a malfunctioning PCM.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0878 in my Chevrolet related to the Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch 4 Circuit High Voltage?

Diagnosing P0878 involves using a scan tool to retrieve the trouble codes, checking the transmission fluid level and condition, inspecting the wiring and connectors for any damage, and testing the transmission fluid pressure switch for proper functioning.

4. Is it safe to continue driving my Chevrolet with OBDII code P0878 indicating an issue with the Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch 4 Circuit High Voltage?

It is not recommended to continue driving your Chevrolet with P0878 as it can lead to further damage to the transmission system. It is best to address the issue promptly to prevent more severe problems.

5. How can I repair OBDII code P0878 in my Chevrolet related to the Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch 4 Circuit High Voltage?

Repairing P0878 may involve replacing the faulty transmission fluid pressure switch, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, ensuring the transmission fluid is at the correct level, and clearing the trouble codes with a scan tool.

6. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0878 in a Chevrolet themselves?

While some DIY enthusiasts may have the skills to diagnose and repair P0878, working on transmission-related issues can be complex. It is recommended to consult a professional mechanic or transmission specialist for accurate diagnosis and repair.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0878 in a Chevrolet indicating an issue with the Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch 4 Circuit High Voltage?

The cost of repairing P0878 in a Chevrolet can vary depending on the extent of the issue, parts needed, and labor rates. It is advisable to obtain quotes from multiple repair shops to compare prices.

8. Can a bad Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch cause other OBDII codes to appear in a Chevrolet?

Yes, a faulty Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch can cause other related OBDII codes to appear, such as P0877 (Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch 4 Circuit Low Voltage) or P0879 (Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch 4 Circuit Intermittent).

9. How often should the Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch be inspected or replaced in a Chevrolet to prevent OBDII code P0878 from occurring?

It is recommended to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for transmission maintenance, which typically include regular inspections of the transmission system components. If any issues are detected, they should be addressed promptly to prevent codes like P0878 from occurring.

10. Are there any preventative measures to avoid OBDII code P0878 in a Chevrolet related to the Transmission Fluid Pressure Switch 4 Circuit High Voltage?

To prevent P0878, it is essential to maintain proper transmission fluid levels, address any leaks promptly, follow the recommended transmission service intervals, and avoid pushing the transmission system beyond its limits, such as towing heavy loads exceeding the vehicle's capacity.