AutoCodesGMC – P18BF 2017 GMC Sierra

P18BF 2017 GMC Sierra Code - Internal Mode Switch 'A' Circuit Stuck On 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
P18BF 2017 GMC Sierra indicates Internal Mode Switch 'A' Circuit Stuck On 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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 138
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 P18BF 2017 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 A signal circuit has an invalid voltage range of 0.70 – 0.96 V, for 2.7 s.
OBDII Code P18BF 2017 GMC Sierra - Internal Mode Switch 'A' Circuit Stuck On Invalid Voltage Range - AutoCodes.com
P18BF 2017 GMC Sierra Code - Internal Mode Switch 'A' Circuit Stuck On Invalid Voltage Range

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P18BF 2017 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 P18BF 2017 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 P18BF 2017 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 P18BF 2017 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 P18BF 2017 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does OBDII code P18BF mean on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

Code P18BF indicates that the Internal Mode Switch 'A' circuit in the transmission control system is stuck on an invalid voltage range, causing the system to malfunction.

2. What are common symptoms of code P18BF on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

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

3. What causes the P18BF code on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

Common causes include a faulty internal mode switch, damaged wiring or connectors, a malfunctioning transmission control module (TCM), or electrical issues in the circuit.

4. Can I drive my 2017 GMC Sierra with a P18BF code?

Driving with this code may be possible but is not recommended, as it could lead to further transmission damage or unsafe driving conditions due to gear shifting problems.

5. How is the P18BF code diagnosed on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

A technician will use a scan tool to verify the code, inspect the wiring and connectors for damage, test the internal mode switch for proper function, and check the TCM for faults.

6. How can I fix the P18BF code on my 2017 GMC Sierra?

Repairs may include replacing the internal mode switch, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, clearing the code, and reprogramming or replacing the TCM if needed.

7. What is the internal mode switch in a 2017 GMC Sierra?

The internal mode switch is a sensor within the transmission that communicates the gear position to the transmission control module (TCM).

8. How much does it cost to fix the P18BF code on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

Repair costs vary depending on the issue but typically range from $200 to $800, with internal mode switch replacement being a common fix.

9. Can a weak battery cause the P18BF code on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

While uncommon, a weak or failing battery can cause voltage irregularities that might contribute to this code appearing.

10. Will clearing the P18BF code solve the problem on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

Simply clearing the code will not fix the underlying issue. Proper diagnosis and repair are necessary to prevent the code from returning.

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