Fault code lookup

PowertrainP1878

Caution

Severity: Caution - get it checked when you can

Short circuit to negative

24 brands affected · Description from BMW data.

Key terms: Control module: a small computer that runs one part of the car · Powertrain: engine, transmission and emissions

1What it means in plain English

The engine or powertrain control system has stored a fault that does not have specific guidance in this database yet.

2Common causes

  1. Sensor or actuator fault
  2. Wiring or connector fault
  3. Vacuum or intake leak
  4. Fuel or ignition problem
  5. Control module fault

3Can I drive?

Caution · drive with care

Have it diagnosed promptly. If the car runs and drives normally, drive gently to a workshop. If it runs badly, stalls, overheats, loses oil pressure, or a warning light is flashing or red, stop safely and get professional help. If the code concerns the brakes, brake vacuum or brake assist, do not drive until it is checked: a hard pedal or longer stopping distance means stop.

This page gives general information. It is not professional advice. For a definite diagnosis and a repair quote, ask a qualified mechanic to inspect the car.

4Brand data 24

BrandCodeDescriptionSystem
BAIC MotorP1878Clutch lower reference point BrandPowertrain
Mercedes-BenzP1878No description available Powertrain
BMWP1878Short circuit to negative BrandPowertrain
CheryP1878Transmission Coolant Control Relay (J696): Short to Plus BrandPowertrain
DaewooP1878Transmission Transfer Case Disengaged Solenoid Circuit Failure BrandPowertrain
DFXKP1878Transmission Coolant Control Relay (J696): Short to Plus BrandPowertrain
EOBDP1878Brava spojke BrandPowertrain
FordP1878No description available Powertrain
GeelyP1878Transmission Coolant Control Relay (J696): Short to Plus BrandPowertrain
GMP1878Transmission Transfer Case Disengaged Solenoid Circuit Failure BrandPowertrain
HoldenP1878Disengagement of 1st Gear BrandPowertrain
HondaP1878No description available Powertrain
Land RoverP1878Transfer case disengaged solenoid circuit failure BrandPowertrain
MazdaP1878No description available Powertrain
MitsubishiP1878Gear blocked BrandPowertrain
OpelP1878Transmission Transfer Case Disengaged Solenoid Circuit Failure BrandPowertrain
PeugeotP1878No description available Powertrain
ProtonP1878Gear blocked BrandPowertrain
SaabP1878Transmission Transfer Case Disengaged Solenoid Circuit Failure BrandPowertrain
MG (SAIC)P1878Gear Disengagement Error on 1st gear BrandPowertrain
SmartP1878No description available Powertrain
SprinterP1878No description available Powertrain
SuzukiP1878Torque converter clutch shudder malfunction BrandPowertrain
ToyotaP1878Torque converter clutch shudders BrandPowertrain

Legend: SAE is the generic J2012 description; Brand is text taken from that manufacturer’s data. Manufacturer rows keep the wording and language of the source data, and non-English text is tagged so screen readers pronounce it correctly.

5Extended variant codes 2

These 7-character codes are manufacturer-specific variants of P1878 and may be reported by some scan tools.

BrandCodeDescriptionSystem
Mercedes-BenzP187800Short circuit to battery error BrandPowertrain
SprinterP187800Short circuit to battery error BrandPowertrain

6Related codes

Browse Pxxx codes or P187xx codes.

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