Kick-down switch stuck closed or internally shorted; Wiring short to ground or to voltage in the kick-down switch circuit; Damaged, corroded or loose connector at the switch or control module; Switch out of adjustment or pedal/throttle linkage mechanically holding the switch closed; Faulty transmission control module; Throttle position input fault affecting the module's interpretation of the switch signal (model dependent).

P1837

Kick-Down Switch Failed Short.

Cadillac
Powertrain
Manufacturer code
Medium severity

How this code is built

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

What it means

P1837 on a Cadillac means the transmission control module has detected the kick-down switch circuit as shorted. The kick-down switch tells the control unit when the throttle is pushed to the wide-open or full-travel position so it can command a downshift. The code sets when the signal suggests the switch is permanently closed or the circuit is shorted when it should not be.

Symptoms

Transmission downshifts unexpectedly or hunts between gears
No kick-down response or harsh, delayed downshifts when accelerating hard
Shift quality feels wrong or shift points seem altered
Check engine or transmission warning light on
Transmission may default to a limp or fixed-gear strategy on some models

Possible causes

Kick-down switch stuck closed or internally shortedlikely
Wiring short to ground or to voltage in the kick-down switch circuitlikely
Damaged, corroded or loose connector at the switch or control modulepossible
Switch out of adjustment or pedal/throttle linkage mechanically holding the switch closedpossible
Faulty transmission control modulerare
Throttle position input fault affecting the module's interpretation of the switch signal (model dependent)rare

How to diagnose

Read all stored codes and freeze frame data, noting whether other throttle or transmission codes are present
Check the pedal and throttle linkage for binding, damage or incorrect adjustment that could hold the switch closed
Inspect the kick-down switch wiring and connectors for chafing, corrosion, water ingress and pushed-back pins
Using a scan tool's live data, watch the kick-down switch status at idle and at part throttle; it should only change at full travel
Check the switch's resistance or continuity against the factory specification for your model, operating it by hand
Test the circuit for shorts to ground and to voltage with the connectors unplugged, following the wiring diagram for the specific model and transmission
Check the control module's power and ground supplies before considering the module itself

How to fix

Replace the kick-down switch if it is stuck or internally shorted
Repair or replace the damaged wiring section causing the short
Clean or replace corroded or damaged connectors and terminals
Adjust or repair the pedal or throttle linkage so the switch only operates at full travel
Repair or replace the transmission control module only after wiring and switch 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 incorrect downshifts or a limp mode could make overtaking and hill driving less predictable. Have it checked soon to avoid unnecessary transmission stress.

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