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P0836 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "Four Wheel Drive (4WD) Switch Circuit". This can happen for multiple reasons and a mechanic needs to diagnose the specific cause for this code to be triggered in your situation. Our certified mobile mechanics can come to your home or office to perform the Check Engine Light diagnostic for $154.99 . Once we are able to diagnose the problem, you will be provided with an upfront quote for the recommended fix and receive $50.0 off as a credit towards the repair. All our repairs are backed by our 12-month / 12,000-mile warranty.
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The P0836 trouble code notes an issue with the four-wheel drive switch circuit.
The P0836 code is a standard OBD-II trouble code that detects a problem with the four-wheel drive (4WD) switch circuit. The 4WD switch circuit actuates the four-wheel drive system, and is responsible for altering the transfer case gear ratios between four wheel high, four wheel low, two wheel high, and two wheel low. Any unusual readings from the 4WD switch circuit will be noted by the transfer case control system and reported to the powertrain control module (PCM), and the P0836 code will be triggered.
Common causes for the P0836 trouble code include:
The P0836 trouble code will usually be accompanied by an illuminated check engine soon Warning Light on the dashboard. The vehicle may not be able to switch gears, or may experience very harsh shifting. It is common for the engine to stall when idling, and in some cases the transfer case may fail entirely, which will render the car unable to drive.
The P0836 code should be diagnosed with a standard OBD-II trouble code scanner. A trustworthy technician will use the scanner to view the freeze frame data and assess the P0836 code. Additional trouble codes will also be noted, and they should be handled in the order in which they appear on the scanner. The mechanic will then reset the trouble codes and restart the vehicle, and look to see if the code returns. If the code is absent following the reset, it is likely the result of an intermittent error, or possible was triggered erroneously.
If the code is still present, then the mechanic will start by visually inspecting the electrical components in the system. Any shorted or open wires, or damaged or corroded connectors should be replaced before further inspection.
The mechanic can then use a digital volt/ohmmeter to check the battery voltage of the 4WD system. The voltage on the input side of the 4WD switch should be tested first. If voltage is absent, then there is likely a circuit issue that will need to be addressed. If there is voltage on the input side, the scanner should be used to command the 4WD system on, and the output voltage should be tested. If there is no output voltage, then the 4WD switch or actuator is the likely culprit. If the problem is still unresolved, a deeper inspection of the transfer case may be in order.
When any component is replaced, the mechanic will need to halt the inspection, and reset the trouble codes, restart the vehicle, and check to see if the code returns. By doing this, the mechanic will be notified when the problem causing the P0836 code has been fixed.
The most commonly made error when diagnosing this code comes from failing to comply with the OBD-II trouble code diagnosis protocol. The protocol should be followed precisely by all mechanics, in order to have an effective and efficient inspection and repair.
Often transfer cases are rebuilt or replaced when only a single element (such as an electrical component or the 4WD switch) was causing the problem.
A vehicle with the P0836 code may still be drivable, though in many instances it will not be. Even if the car is drivable, the transmission will likely not operate correctly, and further damage to the transmission and transfer case can occur. The P0836 code should always be inspected and repaired as soon as possible.
Some repairs for the P0836 trouble code include:
The P0836 trouble code only applies to vehicles that have four-wheel drive, or all-wheel drive. If the code appears in a front-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive vehicle, it is likely due to a PCM that is either malfunctioning, or needs to be reprogrammed.
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