P1708 – OBD-II DTC

OBD-II DTC P1708 – Brake Switch Out Of Self Test Range

DTC P1708 meaning

DTC P1708 refers to a diagnostic trouble code indicating that the brake switch is out of the self-test range. This code is typically triggered when the vehicle’s onboard diagnostic system detects an issue with the brake switch’s performance during its self-test routine. The brake switch is crucial for various systems, including the transmission and cruise control, as it signals when the brake pedal is pressed.

DTC P1708 symptoms

Common symptoms associated with DTC P1708 may include:

• Illumination of the check engine light
• Inconsistent or erratic behavior of the brake lights
• Transmission shifting issues, such as difficulty shifting into gear
• Problems with cruise control functionality
• Potential activation of other warning lights on the dashboard

DTC P1708 causes

Several factors can lead to the triggering of DTC P1708, including:

• Faulty brake switch
• Wiring issues, such as damaged or corroded connectors
• Faulty brake light bulbs
• Issues with the vehicle’s powertrain control module (PCM)
• Improperly adjusted brake switch

DTC P1708 seriousness

DTC P1708 is considered a moderate to serious issue. While it may not immediately affect the vehicle’s drivability, it can lead to significant problems, such as transmission malfunctions or loss of cruise control functionality. Ignoring this code can result in further complications and potentially unsafe driving conditions.

How to diagnose DTC P1708

To diagnose DTC P1708, follow these steps:

1. Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm the presence of the P1708 code.
2. Inspect the brake switch for any visible damage or misalignment.
3. Check the wiring and connectors associated with the brake switch for corrosion or damage.
4. Test the brake switch operation using a multimeter to ensure it is functioning correctly.
5. Examine the brake light bulbs to ensure they are operational.
6. Clear the code and perform a self-test to see if the code returns.

How to fix DTC P1708 step-by-step instructions

To fix DTC P1708, follow these steps:

1. Replace the faulty brake switch if it is determined to be defective.
2. Repair or replace any damaged wiring or connectors related to the brake switch.
3. Ensure that the brake switch is properly adjusted according to manufacturer specifications.
4. Replace any burnt-out brake light bulbs.
5. Reconnect all components and ensure they are secure.
6. Clear the DTC using an OBD-II scanner and perform a test drive to verify that the issue is resolved.

How to erase DTC P1708

To erase DTC P1708, follow these steps:

1. Connect an OBD-II scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port.
2. Turn on the ignition without starting the engine.
3. Access the trouble codes menu on the scanner.
4. Select the option to clear or erase codes.
5. Confirm the action and wait for the scanner to indicate that the codes have been cleared.
6. Disconnect the scanner and perform a test drive to ensure the code does not return.

Recommended tools for OBD-II diagnostics

Explore our expert picks: The Best OBD2 Scanners for 2025

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

Some of the links on this page may be affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase. This helps us keep our DTC database up to date and provide valuable content for free. We only recommend products that we have tested and believe to be the best in their class.