AutoCodes – Generic – P1851

P1851 Code - Brake Band Apply Solenoid Performance

Quick Answer

P1851 indicates Brake Band Apply Solenoid Performance. Common causes include Faulty Brake Band Apply Solenoid, Brake Band Apply Solenoid harness is open or shorted, Brake Band Apply Solenoid 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: P1851 indicates Brake Band Apply Solenoid Performance.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Brake Band Apply Solenoid, Brake Band Apply Solenoid harness is open or shorted, Brake Band Apply Solenoid 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 14,502

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 Sep 23, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P1851 Description

OBDII Code P1851 - Brake Band Apply Solenoid Performance - AutoCodes.com — P1851 Code - Brake Band Apply Solenoid Performance

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1851?

Faulty Brake Band Apply Solenoid
Brake Band Apply Solenoid harness is open or shorted
Brake Band Apply Solenoid circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P1851?

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 P1851 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 P1851 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P1851 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P1851 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

P1851 Audi — CAN Data Bus ABS Incorrect Signal
P1851 Buick — Brake Band Apply Solenoid Performance
P1851 Cadillac — Brake Band Apply Solenoid Performance
P1851 GMC — Brake Band Apply Solenoid Performance
P1851 Pontiac — Brake Band Apply Solenoid Performance
P1851 Saturn — Brake Band Apply Solenoid Performance
P1851 Volkswagen — CAN Data Bus ABS Incorrect Signal

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 P1851 Code

1. What does the OBDII code P1851 mean?

P1851 indicates an issue with the Brake Band Apply Solenoid's performance, typically related to an automatic transmission's ability to engage or disengage specific gears properly.

2. What are the common symptoms of code P1851?

Symptoms may include harsh shifting, slipping gears, erratic transmission behavior, or the activation of the Check Engine Light.

3. What causes the P1851 code to appear?

Common causes include a faulty brake band apply solenoid, damaged wiring or connectors, low transmission fluid, or internal transmission issues.

4. Can low transmission fluid cause the P1851 code?

Yes, low or contaminated transmission fluid can impact solenoid performance and trigger the P1851 code.

5. How is the P1851 code diagnosed?

A mechanic may use a scan tool to confirm the code, inspect the solenoid and wiring for damage, and check the condition and level of the transmission fluid.

6. Can I drive with the P1851 code?

Driving with this code is not recommended, as it can lead to further transmission damage and unsafe driving conditions.

7. How do I fix the P1851 code?

Repairs may involve replacing the brake band apply solenoid, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or addressing internal transmission issues.

8. How much does it cost to fix the P1851 code?

Repair costs vary depending on the specific issue but can range from $150 for solenoid replacement to over $1,000 for internal transmission repairs.

9. Can a faulty TCM cause the P1851 code?

Yes, a malfunctioning Transmission Control Module (TCM) can lead to solenoid performance issues and trigger this code.

10. How can I prevent the P1851 code from recurring?

Regular transmission fluid maintenance, timely repairs, and addressing any transmission warning signs promptly can help prevent this code from recurring.