AutoCodes – Buick – P179A Buick

P179A Buick Code - Auxiliary Transmission Fluid Pump Overspeed

Quick Answer

This diagnostic monitors the output speed of the high voltage motor. Common causes include Faulty Auxiliary Transmission Fluid Pump, Auxiliary Transmission Fluid Pump harness is open or shorted, Auxiliary Transmission Fluid Pump 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: P179A Buick indicates Auxiliary Transmission Fluid Pump Overspeed.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Auxiliary Transmission Fluid Pump, Auxiliary Transmission Fluid Pump harness is open or shorted, Auxiliary Transmission Fluid Pump 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 922

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 Jan 17, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P179A Buick Description

This diagnostic monitors the output speed of the high voltage motor. The absolute value of the sensed speed of the motor is compared against a threshold. If the sensed speed is above the fail threshold for sufficient time, the diagnostic will fail.

OBDII Code P179A Buick - Auxiliary Transmission Fluid Pump Overspeed - AutoCodes.com — P179A Buick Code - Auxiliary Transmission Fluid Pump Overspeed

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P179A Buick?

Faulty Auxiliary Transmission Fluid Pump
Auxiliary Transmission Fluid Pump harness is open or shorted
Auxiliary Transmission Fluid Pump circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P179A Buick?

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 P179A Buick 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 P179A Buick Code

1. What does the OBDII code P179A mean on a Buick?

P179A indicates "Auxiliary Transmission Fluid Pump Overspeed," meaning the auxiliary transmission fluid pump is spinning faster than its expected range.

2. What are the symptoms of code P179A in a Buick?

Common symptoms include transmission overheating, erratic shifting, reduced fuel efficiency, or the vehicle entering limp mode.

3. What causes the P179A code in a Buick?

Potential causes include a faulty auxiliary transmission fluid pump, a damaged or shorted wiring harness, a malfunctioning transmission control module (TCM), or low transmission fluid levels.

4. Can I drive my Buick with the P179A code?

Driving with this code is not recommended, as it may lead to further transmission damage or overheating issues if not addressed promptly.

5. How do I fix the P179A code on my Buick?

Repairs may include inspecting and replacing the auxiliary transmission fluid pump, checking and repairing wiring connections, updating or reprogramming the TCM, or replenishing transmission fluid.

6. How is the P179A code diagnosed?

A mechanic will use a scan tool to retrieve the code, inspect the auxiliary pump's operation, check for damaged wiring, and verify fluid levels and the TCM's functionality.

7. Is the auxiliary transmission fluid pump expensive to replace?

The cost will vary depending on the model, but replacing the auxiliary pump can range from $200 to $800, including parts and labor.

8. Can low transmission fluid cause the P179A code?

Yes, low or contaminated transmission fluid can cause the auxiliary pump to overspeed, triggering the P179A code.

9. Does the P179A code always mean the pump is bad?

Not necessarily. The issue could be related to wiring problems, a malfunctioning TCM, or other factors affecting pump operation.

10. How can I prevent the P179A code from recurring?

Regular transmission maintenance, including checking fluid levels and condition, inspecting wiring, and addressing TCM software updates, can help prevent this code.