OBD-II code · Powertrain (generic, extended)
P278A Kick Down Switch Circuit
The kick-down switch (under the accelerator pedal at full travel) circuit is faulty. The transmission cannot detect the driver's full-throttle downshift request.
Is it safe to drive with P278A?
Usually safe to drive in the short term. Get it diagnosed when convenient, sooner if the car drives differently.
Common causes
- Most likelySwitch contacts worn or corroded
- PossibleBroken wire to switch
Repair at a glance
- Difficulty
- Easy
- DIY friendly
- Often, with basic tools
- Typical labour
- 0.3–1.5 h
- Emissions test
- Usually unaffected
- Parts involved
- Kickdown Switch, Accelerator Pedal, Wiring Harness
Code data: OBDex open dataset (CC0). Labour times are typical ranges, not a quote.