P174A – BMW DTC

BMW DTC P174A – Shift Solenoid ‘C’/’E’/’F’ Circuit Low

DTC P174A meaning on BMW

DTC P174A indicates a fault in the Shift Solenoid ‘C’/’E’/’F’ Circuit Low in a BMW vehicle. This fault code is specific to the transmission system and points towards an issue with the electrical circuitry associated with the mentioned shift solenoids.

BMW DTC P174A symptoms

Symptoms of DTC P174A in a BMW may include harsh shifting, delayed shifting, transmission slipping, erratic shifting patterns, and in some cases, the transmission may go into a limp mode. The vehicle’s onboard diagnostic system may also illuminate the check engine light.

BMW DTC P174A causes

The common causes of DTC P174A in a BMW include faulty shift solenoids ‘C’, ‘E’, or ‘F’, damaged wiring or connectors in the shift solenoid circuit, low transmission fluid level, or a malfunctioning transmission control module (TCM).

BMW DTC P174A seriousness

Ignoring DTC P174A in a BMW can lead to further damage to the transmission system, potentially resulting in costly repairs. It is advisable to address this issue promptly to prevent any long-term damage to the vehicle.

How to diagnose DTC P174A on BMW

To diagnose DTC P174A on a BMW, a mechanic would typically start by using a diagnostic scanner to retrieve the fault codes from the vehicle’s onboard computer. They would then inspect the shift solenoids ‘C’, ‘E’, and ‘F’, check the wiring and connectors for any visible damage, and perform a transmission fluid level and condition check.

How to fix DTC P174A on BMW

Fixing DTC P174A on a BMW may involve replacing the faulty shift solenoids ‘C’, ‘E’, or ‘F’, repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, ensuring the transmission fluid level is correct, and resetting the transmission control module. It is recommended to follow the manufacturer’s repair procedures or seek assistance from a qualified mechanic.

How to erase DTC P174A on BMW

To erase DTC P174A on a BMW, a mechanic can use a diagnostic scanner to clear the fault codes stored in the vehicle’s computer system. Once the issue has been addressed and fixed, clearing the fault codes will reset the check engine light and ensure that the system is free from any stored fault codes.

Recommended tools & DTC Scanners for BMW

Best Diagnostic App for modern BMWs: BimmerLink

Recommended Bluetooth adapter for Bimmerlink: OBDLink CX

Cable adapter for Bimmerlink: Enet Cable USB Type C

For older BMWs we recommend: Autel AutoLink AL319 (2024 version)

Easy-to-use Multimeter for reliable diagnostics: AstroAI Auto-ranging Multimeter

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