What does it mean?
P1761 is a Powertrain (engine, transmission, fuel system) fault code. It indicates: Up and Down Shift Switch Signal Circuit .
Symptoms
- MIL (check engine lamp) on with the manual shift function unavailable
- Manual mode does not respond to up or down requests
- Gear number on the display does not change when a shift is requested
- Transmission stays in automatic mode or holds one selected gear
- Occasional unwanted shifts if the circuit shorts intermittently
Likely causes
- Worn or dirty contacts inside the up and down shift switch
- Drinks or moisture spilled into the shifter assembly damaging the switch
- Open, shorted or chafed signal wire between the switch and the module
- Corroded or loose connector at the base of the shifter
- Damaged clockspring where the switches are mounted on the steering wheel
- Poor ground for the switch circuit raising the signal reference
- Module input fault, considered only after the switch and wiring are tested
How to fix it
- Watch the up and down switch states on live data while operating each switch
- Inspect the shifter and its connector for spilled liquid, corrosion and loose terminals
- Measure switch continuity with the connector unplugged, pressed and released
- Check the signal wires for an open, short to ground and short to battery back to the module
- Test the circuit ground with a voltage drop measurement
- Inspect the clockspring and its wiring if the switches are on the steering wheel
- Replace the switch assembly after verification, then confirm manual mode responds in both directions