Error Code P0836: What It Means & What To Do?

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Is the Check Engine Light illuminated on the dashboard? Are you experiencing engine stalling and not starting? Are you experiencing difficulty in shifting in between gears? All these are major indication towards four-wheel drive switch circuit problem, thus causing OBD code P0836 getting stored in the Powertrain Control Module (PCM).

The purpose of the 4WD switch circuit is to allow the driver to select the actuation of the 4WD system and change the transfer case gear ratios from two wheel high, two-wheel low, neutral, four wheels high, and four-wheel low as required based on the configuration. When the PCM or TCM detects improper voltage or resistance within the 4WD switch circuit, code P0836 will be set and the check engine light, 4WD malfunction light or both may be illuminated.

What causes this problem with the Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) Switch Circuit?

• Bad 4WD switch
• Faulty 4WD actuator
• Defective electrical components (such as wires and connectors) in the system
• Malfunctioned sensors
• Defective starter solenoids
• Damaged transfer case
• Defective PCM that may require reprogramming

1. Four Wheel Drive Switch - There can be a simple case of 4-wheel drive switch failure that is thus not helping in transitions. Thus, replace it now!
2. Four Wheel Drive Actuator Cable - Check for faulty cable and replace it now! Buy new actuator cable from us!
3. Four Wheel Drive Switch Connector - Damaged connector can be a major reason for the transmission not responding to the switch. Replace faulty connectors now!
4. Powertrain Control Module - P0836 error code also relates to problems with the powertrain that is not able to generate response in time causing distorted engine timing. Find all the Powertrain related parts with us.
5. Diagnostic Tool - In order to detect the error, one needs high grade diagnostic tools. Visit us today to grab amazing deals.

It is essential to know the symptoms of an issue as only then you would be able to solve the problem. So that’s why we have listed out some major symptoms of OBD Code P0836 here:

Common Symptoms

• Transfer case stuck in one gear
• Vehicle not shifting into gears
• Harsh transmission shifts
• 4WD malfunction light illuminated
• Check engine light illuminated

Here are some ways with the help of which you will be able to correct the OBD Code P0836:

• Replacement of 4WD switch
• Replacement of 4WD actuator
• Replacement of faulty wiring and connector
• Replacement of PCM/TCM
• Replacement of sensors and solenoids

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Here are some steps which you should follow in order to diagnose this fault code:

With the help of a qualified mechanic, make use of the OBD scanner to view the freeze frame data and assess the P0836 code. Note for other error codes flashing in the PCM and resolve them separately. Reset the trouble codes and restart the vehicle, and see if the code returns.

If the code reappears, then start by visually inspecting the electrical components in the system. Replace any shorted or open wires, or damaged or corroded connectors should be replaced before going to the next step of diagnosis.

Next step is to check the battery voltage of the 4WD system. The voltage on the input side of the 4WD switch should be tested first and if voltage is absent, then there is a circuit issue.

Next, check for output voltage. The 4WD switch or actuator is the likely culprit, if there is no output voltage. If the problem is still unresolved, a deeper inspection of the transfer case may be in order.

Reset the trouble codes, restart the vehicle, and check to see if the code returns after any component is repaired or replaced. If by any chance the code reappears, then continue the diagnosis.

Also check for PCM and TCM problems that may be the cause of wrong OBD code getting stored in the system. Repair, replace and reprogram the faulty components of the computer module for the proper functioning on the system.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing the P0836 Code

Some of the common mistakes done while changing diagnosing the OBD code P0836 are:

• Not noticing the damaged or loosened wiring and circuit problems
• Signal circuit to the 4WD sensor circuit open
• Short to voltage/ground in the signal circuit to the 4WD sensor
• Failed 4WD Sensor mainly due to Internal mechanical transmission issue
• Failed PCM/TCM that might require reprogramming