P278C Fault Code

Kick Down Switch Circuit Low

• What does that mean?
• Symptoms
• Causes
• Solutions

The P278C fault code indicates a problem with the Kick Down Switch Circuit, where the circuit voltage is lower than expected. This switch is responsible for signaling the transmission to downshift when the accelerator pedal is pressed hard, allowing for increased power and acceleration. When this circuit is malfunctioning, the vehicle may not perform as intended under heavy acceleration.

What are the symptoms of the P278C code?

Symptoms that may accompany the P278C fault code are:

• Unresponsive or delayed gear shifting when pressing the accelerator.
• Lack of power or acceleration when trying to accelerate rapidly.
• Illumination of the check engine light on the dashboard.
• Possible sluggish performance of the vehicle, especially during overtaking or uphill driving.

What causes the P278C code?

Common causes of the P278C code include:

• A faulty kick down switch that fails to send the correct signal.
• Damaged wiring or connectors within the kick down switch circuit.
• A blown fuse that may disrupt the electrical flow.
• Issues with the transmission control module (TCM) that misinterpret the signal from the kick down switch.

How to fix P278C?

To resolve the P278C code, consider the following steps:

• Inspect and test the kick down switch for proper functionality; replace it if faulty.
• Check for damaged wiring or poor connections in the kick down switch circuit and repair as needed.
• Replace any blown fuses that might affect the circuit.
• If all components are functioning correctly, a reprogramming or diagnostic assessment of the TCM may be necessary.
• Clear the fault codes and test drive the vehicle to ensure the issue has been resolved.