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P1853

Brake Band Apply Solenoid High Voltage.

  • Buick
  • Powertrain
  • Manufacturer code
  • Medium severity

How this code is built

P
SystemPowertrain
1
Defined byThe manufacturer
8
AreaTransmission
53
FaultThe specific fault in that area

What it means

P1853 on a Buick means the transmission control module saw a high voltage on the brake band apply solenoid circuit when it expected a lower reading for the commanded state. This points to an electrical fault in the solenoid, its wiring or the control module driver, rather than a mechanical failure in the band itself. Which transmission and solenoid arrangement is fitted depends on the model and year, so check the model-specific wiring information.

Symptoms

  • Malfunction indicator or transmission warning light on
  • Harsh, delayed or flared gear changes
  • Transmission stuck in one gear or in a limp-home mode
  • Missing or poor engagement in certain gears, such as engine braking not working
  • Reduced fuel economy from incorrect gear selection

Possible causes

  • Open circuit or high resistance in the solenoid wiring or connector, such as corrosion, pin damage or a chafed wirelikely
  • Faulty brake band apply solenoid with an open or out-of-range internal windinglikely
  • Damaged or contaminated internal transmission wiring harness or pass-through connectorpossible
  • Wiring shorted to a voltage supplypossible
  • Low or contaminated transmission fluid affecting the solenoid or valve bodypossible
  • Faulty transmission control module driver circuitrare

How to diagnose

  1. Read all stored codes and freeze frame data, noting when the fault set and whether other transmission or battery voltage codes are present
  2. Check the battery condition and charging voltage, as low or unstable supply can upset solenoid circuit readings
  3. Check the transmission fluid level, condition and smell, following the procedure for the specific model
  4. Inspect the transmission external connector and wiring for corrosion, water ingress, chafing and bent or pushed-back pins
  5. Measure the solenoid winding resistance and compare it with the specification for that transmission
  6. Check the solenoid circuit for open circuit, short to voltage and short to ground between the control module and the transmission connector
  7. Check the control module supply and earth connections and the reference voltage on the solenoid circuit
  8. Check for any relevant technical service bulletins for the model and transmission

How to fix

  • Repair or replace damaged wiring and clean or replace corroded connectors and terminals
  • Replace the brake band apply solenoid if its resistance is out of specification
  • Replace the internal wiring harness or pass-through connector if it is damaged
  • Correct any short to voltage found in the wiring
  • Correct the fluid level or service the transmission if the fluid is contaminated, and repair any cause of contamination
  • Repair or replace the transmission control module only after wiring and solenoid faults are ruled out, and have it programmed as required

Can I keep driving?

Medium severity

The car can usually be driven carefully for a short time, but the transmission may shift harshly or default to limp mode. Have it checked soon, as continued driving with poor engagement can cause further wear.

Guide written by AI from the code's definition. Confirm with a diagnosis before replacing parts.

This code for other makes

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