01 Demystifying OBD-II Trouble Codes: An In-Depth Look at Auto… • 02 How to Bring Back Engine Power Without Expensive Repairs • 03 Radiator Fan Not Working? Here Are 10 Possible Causes and S… • 04 Is it Bad to Pump Your Brakes When The Car is Off? • 05 Why the 2025 Audi SQ5 Sportback Is a Serious AMG Rival • 06 How Old Fuel Can Harm Your Engine and What to Do About It • 07 How to Troubleshoot Car Wiring Problems: A Guide for Begin… • 08 Unveiling the Power of Exhaust Brakes: Insights from an Exp… • 09 The Most Problematic Mitsubishi Cars: A Comprehensive Review • 10 Why A Car That Randomly Jerks Forward Might Be Warning Of T… •

DTC codes / Chrysler codes / P1680

P1680 · ChryslerClutch Released Switch Circuit Open Or Shorted

P1680 on Chrysler vehicles indicates that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected an open or shorted circuit in the clutch released switch signal. The PCM expects to see a specific voltage when the clutch pedal is released, and the code sets when the circuit stays outside that expected range for a calibrated time.

SystemPowertrain
Code typeChrysler specific
SeverityMedium
Fix difficultyIntermediate
AreaComputer and output circuits

Symptoms you may notice

  • The check engine light or service engine soon light illuminates on the instrument cluster.
  • The engine may not start because the PCM does not receive a valid clutch released signal to enable the starter circuit.
  • Cruise control may be inoperative because the PCM uses the clutch released switch to disengage cruise when the pedal is pressed.
  • The transmission may not shift properly or may hold gears longer than normal if the PCM cannot confirm clutch pedal position.
  • A no-crank condition may occur intermittently or consistently, especially in cold weather or after the pedal has not been used for a period.
  • Often no symptoms besides the warning light, particularly if the switch circuit fails in a way that still allows the engine to start.

Common causes, most likely first

  1. Failed clutch released switch (also called clutch position switch or clutch pedal switch) mounted on the clutch pedal assembly.
  2. Damaged or disconnected electrical connector at the clutch released switch, often due to pedal movement or debris.
  3. Open or shorted wire in the clutch released switch circuit between the switch and the PCM, frequently caused by chafing or pinched harness.
  4. Corroded or loose terminals at the PCM connector for the clutch released switch input.
  5. Misadjusted or bent clutch pedal bracket that prevents the switch from being actuated correctly.
  6. Aftermarket alarm or remote start wiring that taps into the clutch switch circuit and introduces a fault.
  7. Internal PCM fault, though this is rare and should only be suspected after all other possibilities are ruled out.

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Verify the code with a scan tool and check for any related codes in the PCM and other modules before starting diagnosis.
  2. Inspect the clutch released switch and its connector for physical damage, corrosion, or loose pins, and repair or replace as needed.
  3. Check the switch adjustment and pedal free play according to the factory service information, and adjust or replace the pedal assembly if bent.
  4. Disconnect the switch and use a multimeter to check for continuity and voltage on the signal circuit at the switch connector with the key on.
  5. Perform a wiggle test on the harness while monitoring the switch signal on a scan tool to identify intermittent opens or shorts.
  6. Check continuity and resistance of the signal and ground circuits between the switch and the PCM, repairing any open or shorted wires.
  7. If all circuits and the switch test good, substitute a known-good PCM or perform a relearn procedure as directed by Chrysler service information.

Clutch Switch Circuit Diagnostic Traps

  • A common mistake is replacing the clutch released switch without checking the pedal bracket, because a bent bracket can prevent the switch from actuating even when the switch itself is good.
  • The clutch released switch is often confused with the clutch interlock switch on the starter circuit, but they are separate switches on many Chrysler models and only one may be faulty.
  • Aftermarket remote start systems frequently tap into the clutch released switch wire, and a poor splice there can set P1680 without any factory component failure.
  • The PCM may set P1680 intermittently if the clutch pedal is held down for long periods during diagnosis or driving, so clear the code and test under normal driving conditions.
  • A weak or failing battery can cause the PCM to misread the clutch switch signal during cranking, setting P1680 along with other low-voltage codes.

Can I keep driving with P1680?

If the engine starts and drives normally, the vehicle can be driven cautiously to a repair shop, but avoid using cruise control and be aware that the engine may not restart if the fault worsens. If the engine will not crank or stalls unexpectedly, do not drive and have the vehicle towed.

Tools that help

Tools we recommend are in the Auto Veteran shop on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Guidance is general and written for Chrysler vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.

Running on fumes Free guides aren't free to make. Top up the tank. Any amount, one time. Fuel the Garage