AutoCodes – Ford – P1849 Ford

P1849 Ford Code - Transfer Case Contact Plate 'A' 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 Transfer Case Control Module (TCCM), Transfer Case Control Module harness is open or shorted, Transfer Case Control Module 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: P1849 Ford indicates Transfer Case Contact Plate 'A' Short Circuit To Ground.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Transfer Case Control Module (TCCM), Transfer Case Control Module harness is open or shorted, Transfer Case Control Module 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 8,096

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

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Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 15, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes ▶
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P1849 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 P1849 Ford - Transfer Case Contact Plate 'A' Short Circuit To Ground - AutoCodes.com — P1849 Ford Code - Transfer Case Contact Plate 'A' Short Circuit To Ground

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1849 Ford?

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

How to Fix the DTC P1849 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 does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

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What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P1849 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 P1849 Ford Code

What does OBDII code P1849 mean for a Ford vehicle?

Code P1849 indicates a short circuit to ground in the Transfer Case Contact Plate 'A', which is part of the transfer case control system.

What are the common symptoms of code P1849 in a Ford vehicle?

Symptoms may include the 4WD system not functioning properly, warning lights on the dashboard, or unusual noises from the transfer case.

What causes code P1849 in a Ford vehicle?

The code is typically caused by damaged wiring, a faulty transfer case contact plate, or corrosion in electrical connectors.

Can code P1849 affect the drivability of my Ford vehicle?

Yes, it can affect the operation of the four-wheel-drive system, potentially limiting traction and performance in certain driving conditions.

How can I diagnose code P1849 in a Ford vehicle?

Start by visually inspecting the wiring and connectors around the transfer case contact plate for damage or corrosion. A multimeter can be used to check for shorts to ground.

Can I drive my Ford with code P1849?

While the vehicle may still be drivable in normal conditions, driving with a malfunctioning 4WD system can be risky in off-road or slippery conditions. It's best to address the issue promptly.

How do I fix code P1849 in a Ford vehicle?

Repairs may involve replacing damaged wiring, cleaning corroded connectors, or replacing the transfer case contact plate if it's faulty.

Does clearing code P1849 fix the problem permanently?

Clearing the code will not fix the underlying issue. The root cause, such as a wiring fault or failed component, must be addressed to prevent the code from returning.

How much does it cost to repair code P1849 in a Ford vehicle?

Repair costs can vary widely based on the root cause but may range from $50 for a wiring repair to several hundred dollars for a replacement transfer case contact plate.

Can a faulty transfer case contact plate cause other issues?

Yes, a faulty contact plate can interfere with the proper operation of the 4WD system and may lead to further drivetrain issues if left unaddressed.