P1836 – OBD-II DTC

OBD-II DTC P1836 – Transmission Transfer Case Counter Clockwise Shift Relay Coil Short Circuit To Ground

DTC P1836 meaning

DTC P1836 refers to a diagnostic trouble code indicating a short circuit to ground in the counterclockwise shift relay coil of the transmission transfer case. This code is part of the On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD-II) system, which monitors various vehicle components to ensure proper operation. The transfer case is responsible for distributing power to the front and rear axles, and the shift relay coil is crucial for engaging the appropriate gear settings.

DTC P1836 symptoms

Common symptoms associated with DTC P1836 may include:

  • Illuminated check engine light
  • Difficulty shifting between drive modes
  • Unusual noises from the transfer case
  • Loss of power to the wheels
  • Increased fuel consumption

DTC P1836 causes

Several factors can lead to the occurrence of DTC P1836, including:

  • Faulty shift relay coil
  • Wiring issues, such as frayed or damaged wires
  • Corrosion or poor connections in the electrical system
  • Malfunctioning transfer case control module
  • Short circuit in the relay circuit

DTC P1836 seriousness

DTC P1836 is considered a serious issue as it can affect the vehicle’s ability to shift properly between drive modes. This can lead to further mechanical damage if not addressed promptly. Additionally, it may compromise vehicle safety and performance, making it essential to diagnose and repair the problem as soon as possible.

How to diagnose DTC P1836

To diagnose DTC P1836, follow these steps:

  1. Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm the presence of the P1836 code.
  2. Inspect the wiring and connectors related to the shift relay coil for any visible damage or corrosion.
  3. Test the shift relay coil for continuity and proper operation.
  4. Check the transfer case control module for any faults or issues.
  5. Perform a visual inspection of the transfer case for any signs of damage or wear.

How to fix DTC P1836 step-by-step instructions

To fix DTC P1836, follow these step-by-step instructions:

  1. Disconnect the vehicle’s battery to ensure safety while working on electrical components.
  2. Inspect and repair any damaged wiring or connectors related to the shift relay coil.
  3. Replace the shift relay coil if it is found to be faulty.
  4. Check and replace the transfer case control module if necessary.
  5. Reconnect the battery and clear the DTC using an OBD-II scanner.
  6. Test drive the vehicle to ensure the issue is resolved and the check engine light does not reappear.

How to erase DTC P1836

To erase DTC P1836, 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. Navigate to the option to clear or erase trouble codes on the scanner.
  4. Confirm the action to erase the DTC.
  5. Disconnect the scanner and start the vehicle 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.