AutoCodesGMC – P18B9 2015 GMC Sierra

P18B9 2015 GMC Sierra Code - Internal Mode Switch 'S' 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
P18B9 2015 GMC Sierra indicates Internal Mode Switch 'S' 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 165
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 P18B9 2015 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 S signal circuit voltage is between 0.966–1.68 V, for 1.75 s.
OBDII Code P18B9 2015 GMC Sierra - Internal Mode Switch 'S' Circuit Shorted - AutoCodes.com
P18B9 2015 GMC Sierra Code - Internal Mode Switch 'S' Circuit Shorted

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P18B9 2015 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 P18B9 2015 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 P18B9 2015 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 P18B9 2015 GMC Sierra code?

Need more information on how to fix the P18B9 2015 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 P18B9 2015 GMC Sierra Code

What does the OBDII code P18B9 mean in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

P18B9 indicates that the Internal Mode Switch 'S' Circuit is shorted, typically related to the transmission control system.

What are the common symptoms of the P18B9 code in a GMC Sierra?

Symptoms may include erratic shifting, transmission stuck in one gear, a check engine light, or reduced vehicle performance.

What causes the Internal Mode Switch 'S' Circuit to short in a GMC Sierra?

Common causes include damaged wiring, a faulty internal mode switch, connector issues, or a defective transmission control module (TCM).

Can driving with the P18B9 code cause further damage?

Yes, continuing to drive with this code can lead to transmission damage or reduced overall vehicle performance.

How is the P18B9 code diagnosed in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

A mechanic will use an OBDII scanner, inspect the wiring and connectors, test the internal mode switch, and check the transmission control module.

What parts might need replacement to fix the P18B9 code?

Repairs may involve replacing the internal mode switch, repairing wiring or connectors, or addressing issues with the transmission control module.

Is the P18B9 code specific to GMC vehicles?

No, while it appears in GMC vehicles, similar codes may exist in other makes with comparable transmission systems.

How much does it typically cost to repair the P18B9 code?

Repair costs vary but may range between $200 and $600 depending on the severity of the issue and required parts.

Can I clear the P18B9 code without fixing the issue?

Clearing the code without addressing the root cause is not recommended, as the problem will likely return and affect vehicle performance.

Are there any preventive measures to avoid the P18B9 code?

Regular maintenance, inspecting wiring and connectors, and addressing transmission issues early can help prevent this code.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P18B9 2015 GMC Sierra OBDII Code

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