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Error Code P278D: What It Means & What To Do?

OBD Code P278D - Kick Down Switch Circuit High

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What Does The Generic P278D OBD Error Code Mean? Find All The Information & Solution For Error Code On Partsavatar.ca! Shop Kick Down Switch & More Online The trouble code P278D can be explicated as Kick Down Switch Circuit High. This trouble code is generic, which would mean that it can apply to all the vehicles which are equipped with the OBD-II or the vehicles which are made since 1996 up to the present. The specifications on the definition, the troubleshooting steps as well as repairs can always vary from one vehicle make to another. This can happen because of a lot of reasons and the mechanic should diagnose the specific cause for this code.

Learn More About OBD Error Code P278D

It is the transmission control module which would examine the kick down switch circuit. This trouble code would be set by the TCM when the kick down switch circuit would not be as per the parameters set by the manufacturer.


What causes this problem with the Kick Down Switch Circuit High?


  • Imperfect kick down switch
  • Issue of unbolted kick down switch harness
  • Unacceptable electrical connection in the kick down switch circuit

Replace/Repair These Parts to Fix OBD Code P278D

  1. Engine Control Module - The solenoid might cause a short in the engine control module because of corrosion in the solenoid or the wire running from the solenoid to the ECM harness.
  2. Automatic Transmission Module - Faulty transmission module can cause problematic down shifts and upshifts, leading to stalling while accelerating or slowing down. This can also hamper many transmission system parts. Thus replace it now!
  3. Electronic Control Unit - The ECU power management control module keeps in check the hybrid battery charging functions. If the ECU is faulty, the battery pack will not be able to properly get charged and thus, the ECU might need replacement.
  4. Powertrain Control Module - A trouble with the PCM would mean that it is unable to determine the right fuel mixture and would send the car engine either more or less fuel than it requires. Now when the engine gets more, the carbon emission would increase and fuel economy would drop. In case of the opposite, the engine will choke, stutter, and might start stalling sometimes.
  5. Kick Down Switch - Are you feeling that your car's transmission is shifting roughly, too fast, or too slow? In that case you should definitely replace your kick down switch. Buy top notch kick down switch from us at economical prices.
  6. Diagnostic Tool - Usually any OBD code problem requires deep insight into the problem and high grade tools in order to fix it properly. Thus, buy quality diagnostic tools form us!

Symptoms Of OBD Error Code P278D

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 P278D here:


Common Symptoms


  • Illumination in the service engine soon light
  • The engine performance might start degrading

How To Correct P278D Kick Down Switch Circuit High

If you wish to correct this fault code, then you have to follow certain steps. Correcting a problem needs your careful attention. Here are some ways with the help of which you will be able to correct the OBD Code P278D:


  • Repair or replace the quirky kick down switch
  • Rehabilitate the defaults in the kick down switch harness
  • Carefully adjust the faults in the kick down switch circuit

Parts Avatar Canada is here to solve all your issues related to car parts. We have stocked a wide range of best priced kick down switch, transmission control module, engine control module, ECM, powertrain control module, PCM, TCM, switch valve, pcm car, ecm car, ecm module, pcm module and a lot more to help you out in fixing your car.

Easy Diagnosis Of Engine Error OBD Code P278D

If you want to easily diagnose this trouble code, then you must follow the steps which are mentioned here as below:


  • Make sure that the kicks down switches are tight and clean. Some people think that it is an obvious step, but if your computer does not get a steady feed kick down switch, it can cause multiple issues.
  • Check for wires and connectors that might be rubbed through, disconnected or loose. It is also important to check the fuse box in your vehicle together with the relay centre that can be found under the hood.
  • It is also important to make sure that the fuses are good. Make sure that there is no melted plastic that can cause fire.
  • These are some of the major wiring problems that you will encounter with error code P278D. Once you have completely checked all the obvious things and still you can’t find the right solution, then you have to begin suspecting either the computer or the sensor.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing The P278D Code


  • Kick down switch related issues
  • Quirks in the transmission control module
  • Issues related with the car wiring

Other Diagnostic Codes Related To OBD Code P0278D

P278A - Kick Down Switch Circuit

P278B - Kick Down Switch Circuit Range/Performance

P278C - Kick Down Switch Circuit Low

P278E - Kick Down Switch Circuit Intermittent/Erratic