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P1709 — Kick down switch

Detailed page for trouble code P1709.

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Code

P1709

DAEWOO P — Powertrain

Kick down switch

Brand: DAEWOO
Views: UK: 4 EN: 19 RU: 8
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Page language: EN

Causes

  • Faulty kick down (kickdown) switch
  • Open, shorted or corroded wiring/connectors in the kickdown circuit
  • Poor ground or connector contact
  • Mechanical binding or misadjustment of throttle/linkage preventing proper switch actuation
  • Faulty ECM/TCM or internal input fault
  • Aftermarket throttle or linkage modifications affecting switch operation

Symptoms

  • Check Engine / MIL lamp illuminated
  • Delayed or missing downshift (kickdown) under heavy throttle
  • Transmission not downshifting to lower gear when expected
  • Harsh or erratic shift behavior under wide-open throttle
  • Reduced performance or limp-in mode in some vehicles

What to check

  • Read codes and freeze frame data with a scan tool; note conditions when P1709 set
  • Visually inspect the kickdown switch, its connector and wiring for damage or corrosion
  • Operate throttle while observing switch connector for proper movement / continuity
  • Back-probe the switch connector to observe signal with a multimeter or scope
  • Check for related transmission or throttle codes that may affect operation
  • Wiggle wiring harness while monitoring the signal for intermittent faults

Signal parameters

  • Typical: switch is ON (closed) at or near full throttle; OFF (open) at idle — exact actuation point varies by model
  • Voltage with ignition ON: open ≈ supply voltage (e.g., ~12 V) or pull-up voltage; closed ≈ near 0 V (ground) depending on circuit design
  • Continuity when closed: near 0 Ω; when open: OL (infinite). Exact values depend on vehicle wiring and switch type
  • No rapid PWM or frequency expected; signal is usually a simple ON/OFF contact

Diagnostic algorithm

  1. Verify the DAEWOO P1709 code with an OBD-II scanner and note freeze frame (throttle position, vehicle speed, engine RPM).
  2. Inspect the kickdown switch location, mounting, and mechanical linkage for damage, contamination, or misadjustment.
  3. Visually inspect connector pins and wiring for corrosion, bent pins, broken strands or water intrusion; repair as needed.
  4. With ignition ON (engine off), back-probe the switch connector and observe voltage while operating throttle from idle to wide open. Compare to expected ON/OFF behavior.
  5. Use a multimeter to check continuity of the switch: closed (throttle at kickdown) should show continuity; open at idle. If intermittent, wiggle the harness while monitoring.
  6. If signal incorrect at switch, trace wiring to the ECM/TCM and check for opens/shorts to power or ground. Repair any damaged wiring.
  7. If good signal at the switch but code persists, check for proper ground and power at the ECM/TCM input and inspect module connector pins.
  8. If wiring and connectors are good, consider replacing the kickdown switch per manufacturer procedure and retest.
  9. After repair, clear codes, perform functional test/road test under the conditions that previously set the code, and verify no return of the DTC.

Likely causes

  • Switch contacts failed (stuck open or intermittent)
  • Damaged connector or wiring between switch and transmission control module
  • Corroded terminals or poor ground at switch
  • Switch not adjusted or mechanically obstructed
  • Control module input circuit fault (less likely)

Fault status

⚠️ Status
Kick down switch circuit malfunction — open/short/intermittent or switch not actuating properly.
🟡 Repair difficulty: Medium
⏱️ Diagnostic time: 1.0-2.5 hours

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