The Lemon IndexOn GM automatics like the 4L60-E, the computer saw slipping when the torque converter clutch was told to lock up, most often from wear in the torque converter clutch valves.
Stop and fix now. Don't put it off. This can affect safety, stall the car or cause expensive damage.
Worn TCC regulator or isolator valve bore. Then: failing TCC solenoid; worn torque converter clutch.
Owners named P1870 in 22 complaints to the U.S. government, most often on the Chevrolet.
The details
What P1870 means
On GM automatics like the 4L60-E, the computer saw slipping when the torque converter clutch was told to lock up, most often from wear in the torque converter clutch valves.
This meaning applies to Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, Cadillac, Pontiac, Oldsmobile, Saturn, Hummer. On other makes P1870 can mean something different.
Can I drive with P1870?
Stop and fix now. Don't put it off. This can affect safety, stall the car or cause expensive damage.
59% of the owner complaints that name P1870 also say the car transmission slips or shifts hard. A complaint can describe more than one problem, so this doesn't prove the code caused it.
Common causes of P1870
- Worn TCC regulator or isolator valve bore
- Failing TCC solenoid
- Worn torque converter clutch
- Old or burnt fluid
A shop should confirm the cause with a scan and tests before replacing parts.
What owners describe
- Transmission slips or shifts hard: 59% of complaints
- Brakes or ABS act up: 14% of complaints
- Loses power or goes into limp mode: 9% of complaints
Share of complaints naming the code whose text also mentions each problem.
Quick answers
What does P1870 mean?
Transmission Component Slipping. On GM automatics like the 4L60-E, the computer saw slipping when the torque converter clutch was told to lock up, most often from wear in the torque converter clutch valves.
Can I drive with P1870?
Stop and fix now. Don't put it off. This can affect safety, stall the car or cause expensive damage.
What causes P1870?
Worn TCC regulator or isolator valve bore; Failing TCC solenoid; Worn torque converter clutch; Old or burnt fluid.
Counts: NHTSA owner complaints whose text names P1870. A complaint is an owner's report, not a diagnosis. Meanings: the standard SAE J2012 definitions in our own words; manufacturer codes only where verified for that make. General information, not repair advice for your car.