AutoCodesGMC – P18B6 2018 GMC Sierra

P18B6 2018 GMC Sierra Code - Internal Mode Switch 'B' Circuit Shorted

Quick Answer

The internal mode switch indicates the Transmission Control Module (TCM) which gear position the vehicle operator has selected. Common causes include Faulty Transmission Internal Mode Switch, Transmission Internal Mode Switch harness is open or shorted, Transmission Internal Mode Switch 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
P18B6 2018 GMC Sierra indicates Internal Mode Switch 'B' Circuit Shorted.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Transmission Internal Mode Switch, Transmission Internal Mode Switch harness is open or shorted, Transmission Internal Mode Switch 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 225
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Mar 23, 2024
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Code P18B6 2018 GMC Sierra Description

The internal mode switch indicates the Transmission Control Module (TCM) which gear position the vehicle operator has selected. The internal mode switch consists of 5 separate hall effect switches. Each hall effect switch is supplied with a 9 V reference circuit and a signal circuit from the TCM. Each signal circuit for each gear selector position will have either a voltage reading of 0.70–0.96 V indicating On or 1.68–2.38 V indicating Off. The voltage values on each internal mode switch circuit will change and are dependent on the position of the gear selector. The state of each internal mode switch A/B/C/P/S signal circuit is displayed on the scan tool. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the TCM has detected the internal mode switch B signal circuit voltage is between 0.966–1.68 V, for 1.75 s.
OBDII Code P18B6 2018 GMC Sierra - Internal Mode Switch 'B' Circuit Shorted - AutoCodes.com
P18B6 2018 GMC Sierra Code - Internal Mode Switch 'B' Circuit Shorted

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P18B6 2018 GMC Sierra?

  • Faulty Transmission Internal Mode Switch
  • Transmission Internal Mode Switch harness is open or shorted
  • Transmission Internal Mode Switch circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Transmission Control Module (TCM)

How to Fix the DTC P18B6 2018 GMC Sierra?

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 P18B6 2018 GMC Sierra 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 P18B6 2018 GMC Sierra code?

Need more information on how to fix the P18B6 2018 GMC Sierra code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

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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 P18B6 2018 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does OBDII code P18B6 on a 2018 GMC Sierra mean?

The code P18B6 indicates an issue with the Internal Mode Switch 'B' Circuit Shorted in the vehicle's transmission control module.

2. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P18B6 in a 2018 GMC Sierra?

Common symptoms of this code may include issues with shifting gears, transmission slipping, or the transmission not responding properly to driver inputs.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P18B6 in a 2018 GMC Sierra?

Possible causes of this code can include a faulty internal mode switch, damaged wiring or connectors in the circuit, or issues with the transmission control module itself.

4. How serious is OBDII code P18B6 in a 2018 GMC Sierra?

Code P18B6 should be addressed promptly as it can lead to drivability issues and potential damage to the transmission if left unresolved.

5. Can I continue driving my 2018 GMC Sierra with OBDII code P18B6?

It is not recommended to continue driving the vehicle with this code present, as it can cause further damage to the transmission system.

6. How can I diagnose OBDII code P18B6 in a 2018 GMC Sierra?

Diagnosis typically involves using a scan tool to retrieve the specific fault codes, inspecting the internal mode switch and related wiring, and testing the transmission control module.

7. How can I repair OBDII code P18B6 in a 2018 GMC Sierra?

Repairing this code may involve replacing the internal mode switch, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, or reprogramming the transmission control module.

8. Can I reset OBDII code P18B6 in a 2018 GMC Sierra with a simple reset tool?

While you can clear the code with an OBDII scanner, it is crucial to address the underlying issue causing the code to prevent it from recurring.

9. How much does it cost to fix OBDII code P18B6 in a 2018 GMC Sierra?

The cost of fixing this code can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it may involve parts replacement and labor costs.

10. Is OBDII code P18B6 a common issue in 2018 GMC Sierra vehicles?

While not extremely common, OBDII code P18B6 can occur in 2018 GMC Sierra vehicles due to various factors affecting the internal mode switch circuit.

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