AutoCodesGMC – P1870 GMC

P1870 GMC Code - Transmission Component Slipping

Quick Answer

With the engine speed over 500 rpm for 5 seconds, Fuel Shutoff inactive, throttle angle from 8.5-35%, Transaxle not in First gear, Transaxle gear range is D4, Transmission Fluid Temperature (TFT) Sensor input 68-266°F, engine torque from 50-200 ft-lbs, engine vacuum 0-105 kPa, Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) commanded on and at Max apply for over 5 seconds, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) detects a TCC slip speed of over 200 rpm for over 5 seconds, all conditions met for 3 times with TCC commanded off each time in between cycles. Common causes include Trailer towing may set code, Check transmission fluid level, Internal transmission fault. 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
P1870 GMC indicates Transmission Component Slipping.
Common causes
Common causes include Trailer towing may set code, Check transmission fluid level, Internal transmission fault.
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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 29,235
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 24, 2019
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Code P1870 GMC Description

With the engine speed over 500 rpm for 5 seconds, Fuel Shutoff inactive, throttle angle from 8.5-35%, Transaxle not in First gear, Transaxle gear range is D4, Transmission Fluid Temperature (TFT) Sensor input 68-266°F, engine torque from 50-200 ft-lbs, engine vacuum 0-105 kPa, Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) commanded on and at Max apply for over 5 seconds, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) detects a TCC slip speed of over 200 rpm for over 5 seconds, all conditions met for 3 times with TCC commanded off each time in between cycles.
OBDII Code P1870 GMC - Transmission Component Slipping - AutoCodes.com
P1870 GMC Code - Transmission Component Slipping

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1870 GMC?

  • Trailer towing may set code
  • Check transmission fluid level
  • Internal transmission fault

How to Fix the DTC P1870 GMC?

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 P1870 GMC 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 P1870 GMC code?

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Need Help with the Code?

Get the P1870 GMC code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

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 P1870 GMC Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P1870 GMC related to transmission component slipping?

Symptoms may include erratic shifting, transmission slipping, harsh shifting, poor fuel economy, and the Check Engine Light turning on.

2. What are the potential causes of OBDII code P1870 GMC indicating transmission component slipping?

Common causes include worn transmission components, low transmission fluid level, dirty transmission fluid, faulty torque converter, and issues with the transmission control module.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P1870 GMC related to transmission component slipping?

Diagnosis typically involves using a scan tool to read the code, checking transmission fluid levels and condition, inspecting for leaks, and conducting a thorough transmission system inspection.

4. What are the recommended repair tips for resolving OBDII code P1870 GMC indicating transmission component slipping?

Repair tips may include replacing worn transmission components, performing a transmission fluid flush and filter change, repairing leaks, addressing torque converter issues, and reprogramming the transmission control module.

5. Can driving with OBDII code P1870 GMC related to transmission component slipping cause further damage?

Continued driving with this issue can potentially lead to increased damage to the transmission components, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential safety hazards. It is recommended to address the problem promptly.

6. Is it safe to continue driving my vehicle with OBDII code P1870 GMC displaying transmission component slipping symptoms?

It is not recommended to drive the vehicle extensively with this code present, as it can lead to further damage and potential transmission failure. Seek professional diagnosis and repair as soon as possible.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P1870 GMC indicating transmission component slipping?

Repair costs can vary depending on the specific issue causing the code, but expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars for parts and labor.

8. Can I reset the OBDII code P1870 GMC related to transmission component slipping on my own?

While you can clear the code using an OBDII scanner, it is crucial to address the underlying issue causing the code to prevent further damage. Simply clearing the code without repairs is not recommended.

9. Are there any preventive measures to avoid encountering OBDII code P1870 GMC indicating transmission component slipping?

Regular maintenance such as checking and changing transmission fluid as recommended, addressing any transmission issues promptly, and driving smoothly can help prevent transmission component slipping and related codes.

10. How long does it take to repair OBDII code P1870 GMC associated with transmission component slipping?

The repair time can vary based on the specific cause of the issue, but it may take anywhere from a few hours to a full day to diagnose, repair, and test the transmission system effectively.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P1870 GMC OBDII Code

  • I replaced the transmission valve body and it's still doing the same thing. Runs great until it warms up and it's stalls like it's running out of gas and will not go. Just backs fires a little and will not take the fuel. I don't get it and you help me out. It's shifts threw all the gears like new no slips or noting until it heats up then it has a hard 1 2 shift

  • Hello David. Let me check if I can find more information. What model and year is your vehicle?

  • I replaced one trans last year and now this trans is a sluggish hard shift into 3 gear. I replaced the line in the front that had a joke from it rubbing. That's s now not leaking out fluid in and it's still running tough. I also reset the codes hoping maybe it was still just in limp mode . It worked great first test drive then back to the same thing. A hard shift I to third and feels like overdrive won't kick I . hELP

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