What Is the P1860 Code?
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This long and difficult-to-understand code indicates that there’s an issue with your vehicle’s torque converter clutch (TCC) pulse width modulation (PWM) solenoid. This solenoid helps the torque converter clutch manage its engagement; if the solenoid isn’t working appropriately, the TCC might get stuck, regardless of the specific reason for the issue with the solenoid. This code indicates that issue.
More About the P1860 Code
The P1860 code is just one of a number of codes that may arise due to issues with your solenoids. Solenoids are engine components that change electrical energy to physical movement, most commonly fluid flow. Because there are many areas within a vehicle where you may use these components, that means solenoids can be a critical element of all sorts of vehicle functions. It’s important to check which solenoid is currently experiencing an issue, as that will help guide you to the general system problems you might be seeing in your vehicle.
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What Are the Symptoms of a P1860 Code?
The torque converter is an extremely important part of your vehicle, so symptoms can be extremely impactful. General poor engine performance is common, as are issues with failure when shifting. You may also start seeing slipping of the gears and transmission overheating, with engine stalling also happening in some situations. Your vehicle’s check engine light will generally also turn on with this type of problem.
What Are Some Causes of a P1860 Code?
Likely the most common cause of the P1860 code is simply any sort of issue with the TCC PWM solenoid. That may include issues with the circuit wiring or connections or problems with the solenoid itself being faulty. In some cases, it may also be due to issues with hydraulic fuel being blocked inside the transmission, as the solenoid helps that fuel move along.
How Serious Is the P1860 Code?
You should assume the P1860 code is fairly serious overall. Your torque converter is one of the most critical components of the engine, and if it’s not working properly, the engine can stop working as well or stall out entirely, both things that can be very bad news for your vehicle. This problem can lead to a serious safety concern, which is why it’s so critical to fix it as soon as possible.
Can I Still Drive with a P1860 Code?
In some situations, you may not physically be able to drive with the P1860 code active. Even if you are physically able to drive, however, you likely shouldn’t be driving with this code active. First of all, it’s likely not safe; this code can make your engine stall out at random times, which can be very dangerous when you’re on the road. Second of all, this is a transmission issue. The more you drive, the more likely it is that you’ll sustain serious, long-term damage to the transmission, which can be incredibly expensive and difficult to fix.
How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P1860 Code?
The diagnosis process for the P1860 code is often difficult. First, you’ll have to check to make sure the transmission isn’t having any serious issues, which will be by checking the transmission fluid condition. If the transmission is looking okay, then you might need to perform electrical tests, which generally require specialized equipment. This diagnosis process tends to be very difficult, which is why it’s not a good idea to do it on your own
How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P1860 Code?
Even the inspection process for the P1860 code can be surprisingly difficult. If you’re inspecting the P1860 code, you’ll need to know what this area of your vehicle looks like when it’s functioning properly, then the variety of ways it might look if there’s a problem. For example, do you know what metal flecks look like when they’re in your transmission fluid? You might think you do, but someone with more vehicle experience than you will probably be able to spot these problems much more effectively.
Need Additional Help with Your P1860 Code?
Your P1860 code may be surprisingly difficult to fix, and it’s important that you’re able to get a fix as soon as possible so that you can reduce the likelihood of serious issues with your vehicle as a whole, including issues with your transmission that can be much more difficult and expensive to fix. That’s why it’s such a good idea to talk to an expert.
KBB can help by making it easier for you to find a repair shop in your area. A more local repair shop makes it easier for you to get your vehicle in, even if you’re experiencing issues with starting and running your car.
Additionally, it’s common for these types of codes to also come with other codes that indicate other issues. The KBB OBD-II database will give you more insight into what’s happening inside your vehicle, even if it’s from multiple different codes.
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