Fault code P0819 is called “Up and Down Shift Switch to Transmission Range Correlation” but in different programs it may be called differently. This fault designation applies to all vehicles equipped with OBD-II.
Technical description and explained code P0819
This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic transmission code. Error P0819 is considered a general code because it applies to all makes and models of vehicles. Although the specific repair steps may vary slightly from model to model.
A stored code in the vehicle means that the transmission control module (PCM) has detected a correlation fault between the upshift and downshift range of the transmission. This type of error appears only on vehicles with automatic transmissions.
The transmission range indication sensor is often built into the neutral safety switch. The transmission range display is actuated by the shift shaft. A voltage signal is then applied to the PCM and the instrument panel control module (IPCM), which reflects the specific gear selected.
The PCM monitors the various engine and transmission output signals to determine if the transmission range display sensor is in the appropriate position. The PCM also monitors the transmission range sensor circuit voltage. To ensure that it is within the set parameters.
If the PCM detects a display and actual transmission problem, or if the circuit voltage is out of acceptable parameters. Code P0819 may be stored and the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) may illuminate.
It may take several ignition cycles (with failure) for the MIL light to appear.
Symptoms of vehicle malfunctions
The main signal that an error P0819 has occurred is the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is also known as the CheckEngine Light.
It can also be warning signs such as:
- Check engine control lamp on the control panel will light up (the code will be recorded in the memory as a fault).
- The shift indicator on the instrument panel or console does not work.
- The shift indicator shows the wrong gear.
- The engine does not start when a gear is engaged.
- Symptoms may not be present.
A stored code P0819 indicates that a serious electrical problem or some type of mechanical malfunction has occurred. In either case, the conditions that have contributed to this type of stored code should be corrected as soon as possible.
Factors that can cause this error code
The error code P0819 can mean that one or more of the following problems have occurred:
- Defective upshift/downshift switch.
- Transmission range indication sensor is defective.
- Short circuit or open circuit in gear range indicator sensor circuit.
- Faulty gear selection indicator.
- Sometimes faulty PCM or programming error is the cause.
How to fix or reset OBD-2 code P0819
Some suggested steps for troubleshooting and fix the error code P0819:
- Connect an OBD-II scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic connector and read all stored data and error codes.
- Clear the error codes, perform a test drive, and check if the P0819 fault appears again.
- Visually inspect the electrical wires and connectors.
- If necessary, repair or replace any shorted, broken, damaged, or corroded components.
- Check the transmission range indication sensor.
- Test the selected transmission range indicator.
Diagnose and repair of problems
The first thing to do when diagnosing a P0819 fault is to check the electrical part for damage. In today’s vehicles, electrical and electronic signals require good cabling for proper data transmission. Any faults, such as breaks, disconnected connectors or corrosion, can interrupt signals, leading to transmission control failures.
Check the battery pack, as some PCM and TCM modules are sensitive to low voltage. If the battery is low, the system may detect this as a failure. Make sure the battery is delivering at least 12 volts and that the alternator is running properly, at least 13 volts at idle.
If the system circuits are good, use a multimeter to check the upshift/downshift switch. Replace switches that are not tested to system specifications.
Replacing the switch should solve the P0819 error problem. But don’t overlook fuses either, because blown fuses are a common problem.
On which vehicles does this problem occur most frequently
Fault code P0819 can occur on different vehicles but there are statistics on which brands this occurs most often. Here is a list of some of them:
- Audi
- Chery
- Ford
- Honda
- Hyundai (Grand Starex)
- Kia
- Lincoln
- Mazda
- Skoda (Rapid)
- Volkswagen
Fault code P0819 can sometimes be found with other errors. The most common are the following: P088A, P088B, P0810, P0814, P0894.
