Wiring fault such as an open circuit, chafed wire or corrosion between the kick-down switch and the control module; Poor connection at the switch or control module connector (loose, corroded or spread terminals); Faulty or misadjusted kick-down switch at the pedal or throttle linkage; Throttle pedal or linkage mechanically worn, bent or incorrectly set so the switch is never actuated; Blown fuse or loss of supply or earth to the switch circuit; Faulty transmission control module.

P1836

Kick-Down Switch Failed Open.

GMC
Powertrain
Manufacturer code
Low severity

How this code is built

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

What it means

P1836 on a GMC means the transmission control module has decided the kick-down switch is stuck open or its circuit is open. The switch is normally closed or activated by the throttle pedal travelling to or near wide-open, and the control unit saw no signal change when full throttle was demanded, or saw an open circuit reading. Exact switch location and operation vary by model, engine and transmission, so check the vehicle-specific data.

Symptoms

Transmission will not downshift on demand when the throttle is pressed fully
Reduced or sluggish overtaking performance
Harsh, late or unexpected shift points
Malfunction indicator lamp or transmission warning lamp on
Possible default shift strategy or firm shifts

Possible causes

Wiring fault such as an open circuit, chafed wire or corrosion between the kick-down switch and the control modulelikely
Poor connection at the switch or control module connector (loose, corroded or spread terminals)likely
Faulty or misadjusted kick-down switch at the pedal or throttle linkagelikely
Throttle pedal or linkage mechanically worn, bent or incorrectly set so the switch is never actuatedpossible
Blown fuse or loss of supply or earth to the switch circuitpossible
Faulty transmission control modulerare

How to diagnose

Read all stored codes and freeze frame data, noting whether other throttle or transmission codes are present
Check the relevant fuse and look up the wiring diagram for your model and transmission
Visually inspect the switch, pedal or throttle linkage and wiring for damage, rubbing, water ingress or corrosion
Disconnect and inspect the connectors for bent, corroded or loose terminals, and clean or repair as needed
With the ignition on, watch the switch status in live data while pressing the pedal to full travel and confirm it changes state
Measure the switch continuity and resistance in both positions against the manufacturer specification
Check the supply, signal and earth wiring for continuity and shorts to the module, with the connectors disconnected
Check the pedal or linkage travel and switch adjustment against the manufacturer procedure

How to fix

Repair or replace damaged wiring and terminals in the switch circuit
Clean, secure or replace faulty connectors
Replace the kick-down switch or pedal assembly if it fails testing
Adjust or repair the throttle linkage or pedal so the switch actuates correctly
Restore the supply or earth and replace any blown fuse after finding why it failed
Only after all else is ruled out, repair or replace the transmission control module and update its software if the manufacturer specifies it

Can I keep driving?

Low severity

The car is usually safe to drive, but kick-down and overtaking response may be poor, so allow extra room. Book it in for diagnosis soon to avoid harsh shifting and further faults.

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