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P1852

Brake Band Apply Solenoid Low Voltage.

  • Chevrolet
  • Powertrain
  • Manufacturer code
  • Medium severity

How this code is built

P
SystemPowertrain
1
Defined byThe manufacturer
8
AreaTransmission
52
FaultThe specific fault in that area

What it means

P1852 on a Chevrolet means the transmission control module saw a low voltage on the brake band apply solenoid circuit. The module monitors the solenoid driver and circuit, and the voltage was lower than expected for the commanded state. The exact solenoid and transmission it relates to depend on the model and gearbox fitted.

Symptoms

  • Transmission warning light or check engine light on
  • Harsh, delayed or flared gear changes
  • Transmission stuck in one gear (limp mode)
  • Missing or poor engagement of a particular gear or engine braking
  • Reduced fuel economy or poor performance

Possible causes

  • Damaged, chafed or shorted wiring to the brake band apply solenoidlikely
  • Corroded, loose or contaminated connector at the transmission or control modulelikely
  • Faulty brake band apply solenoid (internal short or high resistance)likely
  • Fluid leak or contamination affecting the internal harness or solenoidpossible
  • Low or poor battery or charging system voltagepossible
  • Faulty transmission control module driver circuitrare

How to diagnose

  1. Read all stored codes and freeze frame data, noting battery voltage, gear and temperature when the code set, and check for other voltage or charging codes.
  2. Check battery condition and charging voltage, as low system voltage can cause or mimic this fault.
  3. Check transmission fluid level and condition, looking for burnt smell, debris or leaks.
  4. Visually inspect the wiring and connectors between the transmission and control module for chafing, corrosion, water ingress and pushed-back pins.
  5. Check the solenoid circuit for resistance, short to earth and short to supply against the manufacturer's wiring diagram and specification for that model.
  6. Measure the solenoid resistance at the transmission connector and compare to specification.
  7. Use a scan tool to command the solenoid if supported and watch for the correct response and driver voltage.
  8. Check the internal harness and solenoid after the above, following the model-specific procedure.

How to fix

  • Repair or replace damaged wiring and ensure correct routing and securing.
  • Clean or replace corroded or damaged connectors and terminals.
  • Replace the brake band apply solenoid if it is out of specification.
  • Rectify fluid leaks and service the transmission as the model requires, including replacing a contaminated internal harness.
  • Repair the battery or charging fault to restore correct system voltage.
  • Replace or repair the transmission control module only after confirming wiring and solenoid are sound.

Can I keep driving?

Medium severity

The car can usually be driven short distances, but it may be in limp mode with harsh shifts, so have it checked soon. Continued driving with a transmission fault risks further wear or damage.

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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