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P278E OBD Error Code: Problem & Solutions

OBD Code P278E - Kick Down Switch Circuit Intermittent/Erratic

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The trouble code P278E can be described as Kick Down Switch Circuit Intermittent/Erratic. This diagnostic fault code is a generic powertrain code, which means that it would apply to the OBD-II equipped vehicles.The specific repair steps can vary as it depends upon the vehicle make and model. This would also give rise to the illumination of the check engine light.

Learn More About OBD Error Code P278E

Error code P278E flashing? It is the kick down switch which would tell the transmission when to downshift the transmission so that the automobile is able to accelerate faster. If an improper switch is sent by the kickdown switch to the transmission control module (TCM), then this error code would start flashing. The P278E error code would give rise to the check engine light.


What causes this problem with the Kick Down Switch Circuit Intermittent/Erratic?


  • There can be distorted kick downswitch
  • Kick down switch harness is open or small
  • Kick down switch circuit might have inadequate electrical connection

Replace/Repair These Parts To Fix Code P278E

  1. Automatic Transmission Module - Sometimes the transmission module is unable to communicate or correctly anticipate the speed of the vehicle and thus creates difficulty in gear shift leading to sluggish acceleration, throttle response and stalling. Thus can also hamper a lot of components physically and thus must be checked and replaced, if required.
  2. Electronic Control Unit - ECU monitors the temperature differences in the boost converter with the help of the temperature sensors to prevent the converter from overheating and malfunctioning. Thus, replace faulty ECU immediately.
  3. Kick Down Switch - The main role of this auto part is to shift up into higher gears as the vehicle accelerates.So if there are some faults in your kick down switch, so you get it replaced. We offer top notch kick down switch at affordable prices.
  4. Engine Control Module - ECM failures and faults can be very difficult to find and resolve as these are very rare and might require a complete reprogramming of the system to avoid wrong codes from getting stored in the system, leading to misdiagnosis. Replace it now!
  5. Powertrain Control Module - Faulty PCM can disrupt the normal functioning of the vehicle by affecting the transmission system and the fuel delivery system. This will cause the system to store wrong OBD error and thus can lead to misdiagnosis.
  6. Diagnostic Tool - In order to be that DIY guy, you need few diagnostic tools to get your car problems pointed out easily. Our diagnostic tools collection will come in handy to do so, so why not have a look?

Symptoms Of The OBD Error Code P278E

We care for our customers and that’s why we can totally understand your problem. That’s the reason why we have listed out some major symptoms behind the flashing up of OBD Code P278E. They are mentioned here as follows:

Common Symptoms

  • Check engine light can start flashing up
  • Decline in the performance of the engine

How To Correct P278E Kick Down Switch Circuit Intermittent/Erratic

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 P278E:


  • You must fix the defective kick down switch
  • It is essential to restore the flawed kick down switch harness
  • The malfunctioning kick down switch circuit should be repaired or replaced as per the need
  • Carefully adjust the faults in the PCM

Now are you thinking that from where will you purchase these car parts? You have arrived at the right place. We at Parts Avatar care for our customers, that’s why we provide the best quality of 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 at marketable prices.

Easy Diagnosis Of Engine Error OBD Code P278E

Do you wish to diagnose P278E error code easily? Here are some steps which you should follow in order to diagnose this fault code:


  • The mechanic or the technician will use a diagnostic scanner or code reader like DVOM to visually scan for the error codes in the vehicle.
  • After performing a careful inspection, every of the stored codes and freeze frame data are retrieved as it can help down the way for further diagnosis process.
  • Most often he has to inspect the kick down switch itself to see if they are faulty or damaged. Additional error codes that are stored in the vehicle are also addressed.
  • The mechanic performs a continuity test between the PCM and kick down switch circuit.
  • If the kick down switch harness or other related parts are not faulty, he will then retune the code and test drive the vehicle.
  • Now when the car is taken out for a test drive, if the P278E code does not return soon, he will know that there is an existence of erratic condition.

 Common Mistakes When Diagnosing The P278E Code


  • The transmission control module might start failing
  • Non observance of the kick down switch
  • Some issues with the car wiring

Other Diagnostic Codes Related To OBD Code P278E

P278A - Kick Down Switch Circuit

P278B - Kick Down Switch Circuit Range/Performance

P278C - Kick Down Switch Circuit Low

P278D - Kick Down Switch Circuit High