OBD-II DTC P1911 – Kickdown Pull Relay Open or Short Circuit to Ground
DTC P1911 meaning
DTC P1911 refers to a diagnostic trouble code indicating a problem with the kickdown pull relay in the vehicle’s transmission system. Specifically, it signifies that there is an open circuit or a short circuit to ground in the kickdown pull relay circuit. This relay is responsible for controlling the transmission’s ability to downshift when the driver accelerates, enhancing performance during overtaking or rapid acceleration.
DTC P1911 symptoms
Common symptoms associated with DTC P1911 may include:
- Delayed or harsh shifting of the transmission
- Inability to downshift when accelerating
- Check Engine Light illuminated on the dashboard
- Reduced engine performance
- Transmission may enter limp mode
DTC P1911 causes
Several factors can lead to the occurrence of DTC P1911, including:
- Faulty kickdown pull relay
- Wiring issues such as frayed or damaged wires
- Corrosion or poor connections in the relay circuit
- Faulty transmission control module (TCM)
- Software issues in the vehicle’s control systems
DTC P1911 seriousness
The seriousness of DTC P1911 can vary based on the symptoms experienced. While the vehicle may still be operable, the following points highlight its importance:
- Potential for reduced performance and drivability issues
- Risk of further damage to the transmission if not addressed
- May lead to safety concerns if the vehicle does not respond as expected during acceleration
How to diagnose DTC P1911
To diagnose DTC P1911, follow these steps:
- Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm the presence of the P1911 code.
- Inspect the kickdown pull relay for any visible damage or corrosion.
- Check the wiring and connectors associated with the relay for signs of wear or short circuits.
- Test the kickdown pull relay using a multimeter to ensure it operates correctly.
- Examine the transmission control module (TCM) for any faults or software issues.
- Clear the code and perform a road test to see if the code returns.
How to fix DTC P1911 step-by-step instructions
To fix DTC P1911, follow these step-by-step instructions:
- Disconnect the vehicle’s battery to ensure safety while working on electrical components.
- Locate the kickdown pull relay and inspect it for damage or corrosion.
- If the relay is faulty, replace it with a new one.
- Inspect the wiring harness for any frayed wires or poor connections and repair as necessary.
- Reconnect the battery and clear the DTC using an OBD-II scanner.
- Perform a road test to verify that the issue has been resolved and that the P1911 code does not return.
How to erase DTC P1911
To erase DTC P1911 from the vehicle’s computer, follow these steps:
- Connect an OBD-II scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port.
- Turn on the ignition without starting the engine.
- Navigate to the “Erase Codes” or “Clear DTCs” option on the scanner.
- Confirm the action to clear the trouble codes.
- Disconnect the scanner and start the vehicle to ensure the code does not reappear.
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.