VOLVO
TCM-001C - Kickdown switch (KD). Signal too low
System
Transmission Control Module (TCM)
Volvo models this fault code applies to
Applies to the following models:
2 modelsS40 (1996–2004), V40 (1996–2004)
Show models by year and engine (2)
What does this fault code mean?
The control module registers a signal that is too low from the kickdown switch, which means the kickdown circuit is short-circuited to ground when the throttle is less than a certain amount open. The signal is used, among other things, for downshifts during rapid acceleration, and the kickdown function does not work while the fault is present.
Possible causes
- Signal wire short-circuited to ground
- Defective kickdown switch
- Faulty signal from the throttle position sensor
What you can do
- 1With a diagnostic tool, read the kickdown switch position in live data; it should show ON only at full pedal press to the kickdown position, and OFF otherwise
- 2With a diagnostic tool, read the kickdown switch and the throttle sensor together; the switch should show OFF when the pedal is pressed down just short of kickdown
- 3Check that the pedal, the accelerator cable and the throttle move freely, and that the throttle opens fully when the pedal is pushed to kickdown
- 4Check that the kickdown switch or the cable sleeve does not stick or move stiffly, so that the switch cannot get stuck in the pressed position
- 5If the fault remains, have a workshop measure the kickdown switch against ground and replace the accelerator cable with kickdown switch if needed
Symptoms you may notice2
- The kickdown function does not work
- The automatic transmission warning light blinks
What the fault can affect1
- No substitute values are used in the control module for the kickdown function
General guidance for car owners. Diagnosis on the car can point to a different cause.