P278C: Kick Down Switch Circuit Low — what it means, the affected system and what to check before replacing parts.
Meaning, symptoms, causes and checks
P278C reports a low electrical signal in the kick-down request switch. “Low” describes the circuit level, not low engine torque or confirmed engagement of a low gear.
Affected system: Powertrain
Symptoms
- Warning light may illuminate
- Related system function may be impaired
- Vehicle-specific symptoms vary
Possible causes
- Implausible sensor or switch signal, poor ground, connector corrosion, or wiring damage
- Related wiring, connector, power or ground fault
- Vehicle-specific mechanical or control issue
What to check
- Record stored and pending codes and freeze-frame data
- Compare the named sensor or switch signal with actual operating conditions; inspect the connector, reference supply, ground and harness.
- Confirm measured values against the vehicle service information
- Retest under the conditions that set the code
- Compare the named sensor or switch signal with actual operating conditions; inspect the connector, reference supply, ground and harness.
- Repair the verified cause and confirm the code does not return
Also written as: P278C-00, P278C00 (some scan tools add the fault-type byte, e.g. -00).