What Is the P0826 Code?
Symptoms
Causes
Seriousness
Can I Still Drive?
Diagnose
Difficulty of Inspecting
Get Additional Help
The P0826 code definition is “Up and Down Shift Switch Circuit.” If the powertrain control module (PCM) or engine control module (ECM) detects that the voltage from the upshift/downshift switch circuit doesn’t match the manufacturer’s specifications, it will store this trouble code. While this is an OBD-II generic trouble code and can appear in various engines, the problem will only show up on vehicles with an automatic transmission that can still be manually shifted.
More About Error Code P0826
In some vehicles with an automatic transmission, it is possible to manually select the desired gear through a process known as TAP Shifting, an automatically shifted manual transmission. When in Drive, a vehicle with TAP Shifting can manually cycle through different gears. This process requires that your vehicle’s Up and Down Shift Switch Circuit works, as this tool allows for manual shifting. If the PCM or ECM identifies an issue with the downshift switch, the P0826 code will be set, and the vehicle will disable the TAP Shift lever.
Who Has the Lowest Price?
Some service centers will give you an online estimate to compare. Why drive around Town!?
What Are the Symptoms of a P0826 Code?
The most common symptom of diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0826 is that the TAP Shift function will stop working. Occasionally, depending on the vehicle, your transmission control module (TCM) may put the transmission in Limp Mode, also called Limp Home Mode or Limp-In Mode, which will reduce vehicle speed and shut off some “unnecessary” systems, like your air conditioning system. This can also lead to harsh shifting in the transmission. Symptoms of code P0826 may include the check engine light turning on. But some vehicles don’t turn on the check engine light for this specific fault code or may require multiple failure cycles. The overdrive light might flash as well.
What Are Some Causes of a P0826 Code?
Most commonly, the P0826 diagnostic fault code occurs simply because someone in the car spilled liquid on the upshift/downshift switch. This switch is easily accessible from the vehicle’s cab, and spilling liquid on it can short out the circuit or otherwise damage it. Aside from this possible problem, you could see an unrelated issue with shorted, disconnected, and generally faulty wiring and connectors impeding the electrical circuit. You may also see this issue due to a PCM malfunction in extremely rare cases.
How Serious Is the P0826 Code?
The P0826 code is serious. Although it only technically impacts your ability to shift an automatic vehicle manually, this is still an important part of the shifting process in a vehicle with this option. That means you see generally harsh shifting and difficulty with the torque converter performing its job. If these problems continue, you might cause transmission damage, which can be a difficult and expensive fix. Instead of waiting for an opportune time to fix the P0826 code, you should get an expert fix as soon as possible.
Can I Still Drive with a P0826 Code?
Sometimes, you may be unable to drive very well with code P0826. This is because the P0826 trouble code can cause your vehicle to enter Limp Mode, reducing drivable speed and making driving generally frustrating. However, if you can drive, even if you don’t notice any drivability problems, an expert will still warn you from continuing to drive with the diagnostic trouble code active. This is because of the harm that you can cause to your transmission by continuing to drive.
How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P0826 Code?
Diagnosis of a P0826 code can be incredibly difficult because of the testing required, especially if there was no liquid spilled on the upshift/downshift switch that the driver knows of. This generic powertrain code often relates to other transmission shifting codes, so it’s important to go through the diagnostic process carefully to avoid transmission damage. With potentially dozens of steps required, including a visual inspection, checking connector pins, testing ground signals, and looking for signs of damage, the P0826 code can be more difficult to diagnose than it seems at first.
How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P0826 Code?
Inspection is often as difficult as a diagnosis for the P0826 code. You may need an advanced code scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter, and an accurate wiring diagram for the vehicle in question. Technical service bulletins are also extremely important, as they can clue you into issues you wouldn’t otherwise be aware of. You may also need to know how to clear the code and test drive to see whether the code reappears. If this isn’t something you’re comfortable with, an expert mechanic may be a good option.
Need Additional Help with Your P0826 Code?
Many people will need additional help with the P0826 code, and if you’re looking to get assistance fixing the code, a qualified repair shop can help.
The first important tool is to find an auto repair shop in your area. Especially if your vehicle has gone into Limp Mode due to this code, a local automobile repair shop can make it as easy as possible to fix the issue.
If you’re looking for more insight into other error codes that can pop up, the OBD-II database at KBB.com is a great starting point.
P0826 Q&A
Common Error Codes
Browse All OBD-II Codes
Get Recall Alerts
All recalls are considered serious. Stay safe. Take care of any recalls ASAP. The good news? Recall repairs are free when performed at a local dealer.