P1637 code — how to fix error fast
Grasp the importance of the P1637 code in your car's overall health.
Getting a code like P1637 is bad news for each driver since it can lead to powertrain issues if not treated on time. Since the P1637 code meaning isn’t something that most drivers are familiar with, we figured we’d give you a complete overview of the code and what it stands for.
This guide will help you figure out the cause of the code so you can properly use an appropriate solution to fix and remove it. Naturally, we’ll also help you with these as well as with preventive measures that you can set in place, so let’s get into it.
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What does the P1637 code mean?
The P1637 code is a generic powertrain code that indicates an issue with the vehicle’s generator control circuit. It is important to understand this code because a problem in the generator control circuit can cause a range of issues, such as the battery not charging properly or the vehicle stalling.
If the code affects your car while you are driving, you may even struggle to keep the engine on, so that’s why it’s so crucial to deal with this code as soon as possible.
What causes the P1637 code?
There are several potential causes of the P1637 code, including a faulty generator, a damaged or corroded wiring harness, or a malfunctioning voltage regulator. Let’s take a closer look at each potential cause:
Faulty generator
A faulty generator is one of the most common causes of the P1637 code. The generator may be producing low voltage, which can cause the battery to not charge properly. This can lead to a range of issues, such as the battery dying or the vehicle stalling.
Damaged or corroded wiring harness
A damaged or corroded wiring harness can also cause the P1637 code. The wiring harness connects the generator to the battery and other electrical components. If the wiring harness is damaged or corroded, it can cause issues with the generator control circuit.
Malfunctioning voltage regulator
The voltage regulator is responsible for regulating the voltage output of the generator. If the voltage regulator is malfunctioning, it can cause the generator to produce too much or too little voltage, resulting in the P1637 code.
Which car models does the P1637 code affect the most?
While the code P1637 can appear in almost any car out there, we wanted to see if there are some models that are prone to the code more than others. So, here’s a list of cars that could be more susceptible to the code P1637 than others:
- Cadillac Escalade: The Escalade features modern electrical systems that share a lot of components with GM models, but these are known for issues with the voltage regulator that places them high on this list.
- GMC Yukon: The Yukon is affected by code P1637 since it has issues with damaged or corroded wiring harnesses.
- Chevy Silverado: This vehicle is affected by the code P1637 due to faulty wiring and connections that are often causing generator and voltage issues.
How to diagnose the P1637 code
Diagnosing the P1637 code requires a few steps. First, you will need to use a diagnostic tool to read the code and determine the underlying issue. From there, you may need to perform a few tests to get to the root of the problem. Here are the steps you can take to diagnose the P1637 code:
Use a diagnostic tool
The first step in diagnosing the P1637 code is to use a diagnostic tool to read the code. This will give you information about the underlying issue and help you determine the next steps.
Check the generator output voltage
If the diagnostic tool indicates a problem with the generator control circuit, you will need to check the generator output voltage. This can be done using a multimeter. Check the voltage output of the generator while the engine is running.
Check the wiring harness
If the generator output voltage is normal, the next step is to check the wiring harness. Look for any visible damage or corrosion. You may need to use a wiring diagram to determine the proper connections.
Check the voltage regulator
If the wiring harness is intact, the next step is to check the voltage regulator. You can do this by checking the voltage output of the regulator. If the voltage output is too high or too low, the regulator may be malfunctioning.
How to fix the P1637 code
Fixing the P1637 code will depend on the underlying issue. Here are some potential fixes for each cause of the code:
Fix the faulty generator
If the generator is faulty, it will need to be replaced. The cost of a new generator can vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle.
Repair damaged or corroded wiring harness
If the wiring harness is damaged or corroded, it may need to be repaired or replaced. The cost of a new wiring harness can vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle.
Replace a malfunctioning voltage regulator
If the voltage regulator is malfunctioning, it will need to be replaced. The cost of a new voltage regulator can vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle.
How to prevent the P1637 code
Preventing the P1637 code requires proper maintenance of the vehicle’s electrical system. Here are some preventative measures you can take:
- Proper electrical system maintenance
- Checking the battery and the wiring harness for damage or corrosion
- Properly maintaining the generator
- Checking up on the voltage regulator
These methods can help you avoid having to deal with this issue ever again and they can easily help you maintain a properly-working electrical system in your car.
Our take
Ultimately, the code P1637 can be a pretty rough one if you don’t know how to deal with it, so this guide was hopefully sufficient in helping you out. We’ve gone through all the main diagnostic methods and solutions to bring you one step closer to solving the issue with this code.
Our team hopes it will be just enough for you to remove the code and prevent it from ever happening again in your car.
How serious is the P1637 code?
The P1637 code can be a serious issue as it affects the TAC system, which is responsible for regulating the engine’s throttle. If left unaddressed, it can lead to further damage to the throttle body or other related components. Additionally, a vehicle experiencing P1637 issues may not meet emissions requirements and could potentially fail an emissions test.
How is the P1637 code fixed?
The fix for the P1637 code will vary depending on the root cause of the issue. Some common fixes include replacing a faulty throttle body, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, replacing the ECM, or performing a software update. It’s important to have a qualified mechanic diagnose and repair any issues related to the P1637 code.
How is the P1637 code diagnosed?
To diagnose the P1637 code, a qualified mechanic will use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve the diagnostic trouble codes stored in the vehicle’s computer. They will then perform a visual inspection of the associated components and check for any visible signs of damage or wear.
