AutoCodesGMC – P18BC 2015 GMC Sierra

P18BC 2015 GMC Sierra Code - Internal Mode Switch 'C' Circuit Stuck Off Invalid Voltage Range

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
P18BC 2015 GMC Sierra indicates Internal Mode Switch 'C' Circuit Stuck Off Invalid Voltage Range.
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 158
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 P18BC 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 C signal circuit has an invalid voltage range of 1.68 – 2.38 V, for 2.7 s.
OBDII Code P18BC 2015 GMC Sierra - Internal Mode Switch 'C' Circuit Stuck Off Invalid Voltage Range - AutoCodes.com
P18BC 2015 GMC Sierra Code - Internal Mode Switch 'C' Circuit Stuck Off Invalid Voltage Range

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P18BC 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 P18BC 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 P18BC 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 P18BC 2015 GMC Sierra 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 P18BC 2015 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does the OBDII code P18BC mean on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

P18BC indicates an issue with the Internal Mode Switch 'C' Circuit, where it is stuck off or detecting an invalid voltage range.

2. What are the common symptoms of code P18BC on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Symptoms may include difficulty shifting gears, the transmission being stuck in one gear, an illuminated check engine light, and erratic shifting.

3. What causes the P18BC code to appear?

Possible causes include a faulty internal mode switch, damaged wiring or connectors in the circuit, transmission fluid contamination, or a malfunction in the transmission control module (TCM).

4. How do I diagnose the P18BC code on my GMC Sierra?

Start by inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage, checking the internal mode switch for faults, and verifying voltage levels in the circuit using a multimeter.

5. Can driving with code P18BC damage my 2015 GMC Sierra?

Yes, continuing to drive with this code can lead to further transmission damage, reduced vehicle performance, and potential safety hazards.

6. Is replacing the internal mode switch necessary to fix the P18BC code?

In many cases, yes. However, first confirm the issue through proper diagnostics, as the problem may also stem from wiring or the TCM.

7. How much does it cost to repair the P18BC code on a GMC Sierra?

Repair costs can vary, but replacing the internal mode switch typically ranges from $300 to $600, including parts and labor.

8. Can low transmission fluid cause the P18BC code?

Low or contaminated transmission fluid can contribute to this code by affecting the functionality of the internal mode switch and the transmission system.

9. Will resetting the check engine light fix the P18BC code?

No, resetting the light will clear the code temporarily, but the underlying issue must be addressed to prevent it from returning.

10. Should I consult a professional mechanic for the P18BC code?

Yes, due to the complexity of transmission-related issues, it’s recommended to have a certified mechanic perform a thorough diagnosis and repair.

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