Faulty hold switch (internal contact wear or contamination); Damaged or corroded wiring in the hold switch circuit (open or short to ground/power); Loose or corroded electrical connector at the switch or TCM; Blown fuse or poor ground connection affecting the circuit; Failed TCM (rare, but possible if all other components test good)

DTC codes / Nissan codes / P1799

P1799 · NissanHold Switch Circuit

Q: What does code P1799 mean?

Hold Switch Circuit. P1799 on Nissan vehicles indicates that the Transmission Control Module (TCM) has detected an abnormal voltage signal in the hold switch circuit, which is used to activate the manual hold mode that keeps the transmission in a selected gear. The TCM monitors the switch input and sets this code when the signal is outside the expected range, often due to a faulty switch, wiring issue, or connector problem.

P1799 on Nissan vehicles indicates that the Transmission Control Module (TCM) has detected an abnormal voltage signal in the hold switch circuit, which is used to activate the manual hold mode that keeps the transmission in a selected gear. The TCM monitors the switch input and sets this code when the signal is outside the expected range, often due to a faulty switch, wiring issue, or connector problem.

SystemPowertrain

Code typeNissan specific

SeverityLow

Fix difficultyIntermediate

AreaTransmission

Symptoms you may notice

The hold indicator light may flash or fail to illuminate when the button is pressed
The transmission may not enter hold mode, so it shifts normally instead of holding a gear
The hold button may feel unresponsive or require multiple presses to engage
In some cases, the transmission may default to a limp mode with reduced performance
Often no symptoms besides the warning light, as the hold function is not essential for normal driving

Common causes, most likely first

Faulty hold switch (internal contact wear or contamination)
Damaged or corroded wiring in the hold switch circuit (open or short to ground/power)
Loose or corroded electrical connector at the switch or TCM
Blown fuse or poor ground connection affecting the circuit
Failed TCM (rare, but possible if all other components test good)

How to diagnose and fix it

Verify the code with a scan tool and check for any related transmission codes
Inspect the hold switch for physical damage or sticking, and test its continuity with a multimeter
Check the wiring harness between the switch and TCM for continuity, shorts, and corrosion
Clean and reseat the electrical connectors at the switch and TCM
Check the fuse and ground connections for the hold switch circuit
If the switch and wiring are good, test the TCM input signal or substitute a known-good TCM to confirm

Hold switch circuit quirks on Nissan

The hold switch is often part of the shift selector assembly, so a faulty switch may require replacing the entire assembly rather than just the button.
A common misdiagnosis is replacing the TCM when the actual problem is a chafed wire in the steering column or center console area.
The hold function is disabled in some driving modes, so the code may set intermittently and not affect everyday driving.
After repairs, the code may need to be cleared with a scan tool, and some models require a relearn procedure for the TCM to recognize the switch.

Can I keep driving with P1799?

The vehicle is generally safe to drive because the hold function is a convenience feature and does not affect normal transmission operation. However, if the transmission enters limp mode or shifts erratically, have it checked promptly to avoid potential safety issues.

Tools that help

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