P1810 Code On Chevy Silverado? Here’s How to Fix It!

Have you had any problems with the harness connections not making adequate contact, resulting in an open circuit? Seeing an SES code in addition to that?

In this case, your car may throw a P1810 code. This code is related to the ATF pressure manual valve position switch malfunction. It denotes the improper operation of the TFP manual valve position switch.

If you are trying to figure out why the P1810 code appears on your Chevy Silverado and how to fix it, look no further! In this article, I will be discussing all about the P1810 code on your Chevy Silverado and how to fix it.

What Does P1810 Code Mean On Chevy Silverado?

The code P1810 on a Chevy Silverado means there’s a TFP (transmission fluid pressure) valve position switch circuit malfunction.

DTC P1810 is a DTC of type B. DTC P1810 is set when the PCM detects an invalid state of the TFP manual valve position switch circuit by deciphering the TFP manual valve position switch inputs.

The automatic transmission fluid pressure (TFP) manual valve position switch is made up of five pressure switches. Among them, two normally closed and three normally open.

In addition, it has a transmission fluid temperature (TFT) sensor. The combined unit is attached to the valve body.

Each range signal is supplied with ignition voltage by the powertrain control module (PCM). The PCM compares the actual voltage combination of the switches to a memory-stored TFP manual valve position switch combination table.

Because the monitored valve body pressures are identical. And the TFP manual valve position switch cannot distinguish between PARK and NEUTRAL.

Only when the engine is turned off and the ignition switch is in the RUN position, the TFP manual valve position switch indicates PARK or NEUTRAL.

The ground potential for the three range signals to the PCM is removed when the AT inline 20-way connector is disconnected. In this case, D2 will be displayed with the engine turned off and the ignition switch in the RUN position.

Let’s look at what the different parts of the code P1810 signify:

• P – Powertrain, the assembly of parts that move your car forward.
• 1- Manufacturer Specific Code.
• 8 – Transmission.
• 10- Specific Problem (in this case the Transmission Pressure Switch assembly). 

What Happens When the Code P1810 On Chevy Silverado Appears?

DTC P1810 does not activate the MIL on the first failure, but it does save the code and commands maximum line pressure. The customer will most likely notice the abrupt change.

Here’s what happens when you have the code P1810 in your Silverado:

• You will notice poor shifts between the gears. The transmission will particularly remain in third gear.
• There may be rough idle. And the gear would not upshift even at higher speeds.
• The shift from gears 1 to 2 will be very hard. Other times you get a semi-harsh 1-2 shift.
• When the code appears the shifts get better. But when you clear the code, it gets worse again.
• You also get a code P1815 frequently with this one.
• Often the code appears after an engine rebuild.
• Other times, the truck runs well. But the codes keep the check engine light on.
• The truck does not work properly. From a complete stop, it shifts normally at about 15mph. But it will not shift after that.
• Before the transmission engages, the RPMs rise to around 2500 or 3000, depending on speed. But it will not rise more than that. And it is difficult to cruise at lower RPMs like 1600 RPMs.

Why Does P1810 On Chevy Silverado Occur?

The issue is that GM allegedly made a bad part, which gums up and throws the code.

They frequently fail because bushing material and other fine metal debris accumulate in the switch contacts and short them out. There is no actual damage or other issues.

There’s simply junk on the sensors. It would build up to a certain pressure at a certain point before throwing this code.

This condition can be unintentionally induced by starting the vehicle and immediately shifting into drive or reverse.

Sediment in the valve body can cause the TFP manual valve position switch to malfunction. There might also be water in the tranny.

Another cause is the signal circuit for the TFP valve position switch being open. It may also be grounded or shorted. This can turn the signal into another one.

The TFP valve position switch may have been damaged or failed. Or it can show up while the fluid is being refilled. Otherwise, it can be set as a result of low pump pressure or a stuck pressure regulator. Additionally, the PCM may have failed, resulting in this code.

The TFP valve switch position is fixed to the body of the transmission valve. The switch is closed by default.

The release of the TCC is indicated by the switch to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). So a TFP Valve Switch or a PCM damage may cause this code.

A rolled forward clutch piston seal can cause this code to be set too. There may also be a leak in the high-pressure line. It is where the rubber line meets the steel line on the power steering pump.

Between the hose’s plastic cover and the bottom passenger side, the fluid will drip down the hose.

How To Fix The P1810 Code On The Chevy Silverado?

Here are some ways that you can fix the P1810 code and the issue:

• GM has released an updated switch assembly that includes a plastic cover on top to protect the circuitry from metal dust. Simply remove the pan, unplug the switch, and remove the three 10mm bolts and two 8mm bolts before pulling it off.
• Examine the associated wiring harness and connectors visually. Examine the connector’s pins for broken, bent, pushed-out, or corroded components. Replace the damaged components as necessary.
• Sediment in the valve body can cause the TFP manual valve position switch to malfunction. If you suspect sediment intrusion, clean the valve body and replace the TFP manual valve position switch.
• It may be difficult to remove the pan due to exhaust, but it’s worth a shot. Before you remove the trans pan, take a close look at the wiring connecting the trans to the controller. If the connectors have water in them, that could be the issue and would be much easier to fix!
• While cleaning this, clean the mass air flow (MAF)  chamber as well. Check the MIL after that.
• Additionally, after refilling the fluid, turn the key “off” and let the engine idle for 20 seconds. Allow the PCM to power down by turning the key “off.”
• Take off the engine cover. If you find exposed wires from the harness, then fix them. Using liquid tape can fix the issue.

Make sure they’re housed in a way that they are not rubbing against anything. Rubbing against anything may cause the grounding of the wires on the transmission floor.

• A lot of people suggest a transmission rebuild. But you can skip doing that.

The side cover of the transmission has a pressure control valve that needs to be replaced. There is no need to rebuild the transmission. Also, get a side cover gasket.

How Much Does It Cost To Fix The Chevy Silverado P1810 Code?

With a Silverado P1810 code, a lot of people end up replacing the pump, the solenoid and whatnot. But it is not really necessary as you know at this point.

The method of inspection I suggested is free of cost as it is DIY. You will not need a transmission rebuild. But if you do, it will cost around $5,000 and more.

Replacing the pressure control valve will be $230-300. And other services may range from $50-80 depending on the level of the problem.

Can You Drive Your Chevy Silverado With Code P1810?

Yes, you definitely can. If you have read up to this long then you already know that your car is only like to have bad shifts. There have been few reports of misfires.

The shifting problem may be an issue. Especially if you are an inexperienced driver. You may fail to reach the proper speed required to reach the office in time.

Or you may be unable to slow your Silverado down. This can be dangerous often.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion

Anyone that’s ever dealt with the P1810 knows what a PITA this issue is. It takes a lot to distinguish and then troubleshoot.

This article provides information to you on what troubleshooting ways to actually follow. This will save you time, money and visits to the dealership. Good luck with solving the P1810 code!