P0918 Shift Position Circuit Intermittent

P0918 – OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description

Intermittent Shift Position Circuit

What does the fault code mean P0918?

Trouble code P0918 indicates an intermittent signal in the shift position circuit, which may be caused by a problem in the transmission control module. This OBD-II code usually appears when an abnormal signal is detected from the shift lever position sensor located on the manual transmission.

When the MIL illuminates and the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) flashes, you should ensure that the resistance level in the shift lever position circuit is within the specified 8 ohm paradigm. Any deviation greater than 10 percent may cause the P0918 code to remain. This is because the circuit relays information from the shift position sensor to the TCM/ECU to determine which gear is selected.

Possible reasons

When the P0918 code occurs, problems are often caused by a faulty transmission range sensor or improper adjustment. The code is specialized for intermittent problems, so many times it is caused by loose, damaged or corroded connections.

Commonly observed reasons for the P0918 error code:

1. Damaged connectors and/or wiring
2. Broken sensor
3. ECU/TCM problems

What are the symptoms of a fault code? P0918?

Symptoms of a P0918 code include:

• Very sharp gear shifting
• Complication or complete absence of displacement
• Idle mode activated
• Falling fuel efficiency

In addition, you may also experience:

• Unusually abrupt shifts
• Erratic up/down gear shifting
• Switching delay
• Transmission does not engage gears

In more severe cases, you may experience:

• Inability to move
• Mode limitation
• Poor fuel economy

How to diagnose a fault code P0918?

It is important to accurately diagnose the P0918 code. Here are the steps a mechanic should follow to diagnose the problem that is causing this code to appear:

1. Start diagnostics using an OBD-II scanner/code reader and a digital volt/ohm meter (DVOM). Verify that the variable resistance transmission range sensor is operating correctly.
2. Visually inspect all wires, connectors and components, and replace or repair any open, shorted or damaged components.
3. Connect a scan tool to the diagnostic port to record any stored trouble codes.
4. Check continuity/resistance in both circuits using the DVOM and disable any associated control modules to prevent damage.
5. Use the factory diagram when testing related circuits and sensors for resistance/continuity and repair any inconsistencies.
6. Retest the system and clear the codes to ensure the problem does not persist.

Diagnostic errors

Common pitfalls when diagnosing a P0918 code may include insufficiently checking wires for opens or shorts, not reading scanner data correctly, and not completely comparing diagnostic results to factory specifications. It is also important to ensure that all electrical components are tested to be functional and properly connected.

How serious is the fault code? P0918?

Trouble code P0918 can cause serious problems with the transmission, which can ultimately lead to difficult shifting and poor vehicle performance. It is important to diagnose and repair this problem promptly to avoid further damage to the transmission.

What repair will help eliminate the code? P0918?

The following repair steps may be required to resolve the P0918 code:

1. Replace or repair damaged wires, connectors, or components in the shift position sensor circuit.
2. Checking and adjusting the transmission range sensor.
3. Check and replace faulty sensors or transmission control modules, if necessary.
4. Repair or replace other damaged components, such as connectors or electrical parts.
5. After repair, you should clear the error codes and re-test to ensure that the problem was successfully resolved.

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