P code powertrain Medium severity

P1635 Tire / Axle Ratio Out of Acceptable Range

The OBD2 code P1635 indicates that the tire or axle ratio is outside the acceptable range, which can affect the vehicle's speedometer accuracy and overall performance

Definition

The OBD2 code P1635 indicates that the tire or axle ratio is outside the acceptable range, which can affect the vehicle's speedometer accuracy and overall performance

Common causes

  • Incorrect tire size
  • Incorrect axle ratio
  • Faulty wheel speed sensors
  • Malfunctioning ABS module
  • Faulty engine control module (ECM)
  • Wiring issues or poor connections
  • Calibration errors after tire or axle changes

Common misdiagnoses

  • Wheel speed sensor issues
  • ABS module failure
  • Transmission problems
  • Incorrect tire size
  • Differential issues
  • PCM (Powertrain Control Module) faults
  • Speedometer calibration errors
  • Wiring or connector problems

Troubleshooting steps

  1. 1. Check Tire Sizes

  2. 2. Ensure that all tires are the correct size as specified by the manufacturer. Mismatched tire sizes can lead to incorrect readings and trigger the P1635 code

  3. 3. Inspect the Axle Ratio

  4. 4. Verify that the axle ratio is correct for your vehicle. If the axle has been changed or modified, it may not match the vehicle's specifications

  5. 5. Examine the Speed Sensors

  6. 6. Check the vehicle speed sensor (VSS) and any associated wiring for damage or corrosion. A faulty speed sensor can send incorrect data to the engine control module (ECM)

  7. 7. Check for Software Updates

  8. 8. Sometimes, the vehicle's ECM may require a software update. Check with the manufacturer or a qualified technician to see if there are any updates available

  9. 9. Inspect Wiring and Connectors

  10. 10. Look for damaged wiring or loose connections related to the speed sensor and the ECM. Repair or replace any damaged components

  11. 11. Clear the Code

  12. 12. After performing any repairs or adjustments, clear the code using an OBD-II scanner and take the vehicle for a test drive to see if the code returns

  13. 13. Perform a Visual Inspection

  14. 14. Conduct a thorough visual inspection of the drivetrain components, including the differential and transmission, for any signs of wear or damage

  15. 15. Check for Other Codes

  16. 16. Look for any other related trouble codes that may provide additional context for the issue. Addressing other codes may resolve the P1635 code as well

  17. 17. Consult Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)

  18. 18. Check for any TSBs related to your vehicle model that may address known issues with the tire or axle ratio

  19. 19. Professional Diagnosis

  20. 20. If the issue persists after performing the above steps, consider seeking help from a professional mechanic or dealership for a more in-depth diagnosis. By following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue causing the P1635 code