C1135 — Gear Shift Position Short to Battery #

Note: The wording of this code can vary between vehicle manufacturers. Always consult OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) documentation for your specific make and model.

• Gear Shift Position Sensor Circuit Short to Battery (Nissan, Infiniti)
• Transmission Range Sensor Shorted High (Toyota, Lexus)
• Shift Lever Position Switch Short to Power (Mazda)
• Selector Position Signal Circuit High (Hyundai, Kia)

Summary of the C1135 Code #

The C1135 code indicates that the vehicle’s transmission control module has detected an electrical short to battery voltage in the gear shift position circuit. This circuit is responsible for telling the vehicle’s computer which gear you have selected (Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive, etc.). When a “short to battery” occurs, it means that the signal wire is receiving full battery voltage when it shouldn’t, possibly due to a wiring fault or a failed sensor. This can cause incorrect gear readings, affecting shift behavior or even preventing the vehicle from starting. Prompt diagnosis is recommended to avoid further transmission or starting issues.

Common Symptoms for Code C1135 #

A C1135 code can present with a variety of symptoms, depending on the severity of the fault and the vehicle’s safety strategies. These symptoms often relate to transmission operation and driver information displays. You might notice:

• Gear indicator on the dash not matching the actual gear selected
• Vehicle stuck in one gear (limp mode) or won’t shift
• Transmission warning light or check engine light illuminated
• Car won’t start or only starts in certain positions
• Erratic or delayed shifting
• Unusual messages or beeping from the instrument cluster

Probable Causes for Code C1135 (Most to Least Common) #

Several factors can trigger a C1135 code, but some are more frequent than others. The most common causes involve electrical faults or sensor issues. Here’s what typically leads to this code:

1. Damaged or shorted wiring harness near the gear shift or transmission
2. Faulty gear shift position sensor (also called transmission range sensor or PRNDL switch)
3. Corroded or loose connector at the sensor or control module
4. Water intrusion causing a short in the circuit
5. Failed transmission control module (TCM) (rare)

Step-by-Step Diagnosis for Code C1135 #

Careful, methodical diagnosis is crucial for resolving the C1135 code. Follow this process to avoid unnecessary parts replacement and to pinpoint the root cause:

• Verify the code with a quality diagnostic scanner and note any related codes
• Visually inspect the wiring between the shift lever, sensor, and control module for obvious damage or corrosion
• Check connectors for bent pins, moisture, or looseness; clean and secure as needed
• Use a digital multimeter to test for battery voltage on the signal wire when the key is ON (should not be present)
• If voltage is present, trace the harness to find where the short to battery may be occurring
• Test the gear shift position sensor per the OEM specifications (usually involves checking resistance or voltage at various positions)
• If all wiring and the sensor test good, consider the possibility of a fault in the transmission control module (rare; confirm with advanced diagnostics)
• Clear codes and test drive to see if the fault returns

Possible Repairs for Code C1135 #

Once the cause is identified, the repair should directly address the specific fault. Here are the most typical fixes, matched to their respective causes:

• Repair or replace damaged wiring harness (most common fix)
• Replace gear shift position sensor if faulty or reading incorrectly
• Clean and secure electrical connectors to eliminate poor contact or corrosion
• Seal and dry components if water intrusion is found
• Replace transmission control module (TCM) only if all other causes are eliminated

Is It Safe to Drive With Code C1135? #

Driving with code C1135 is generally not recommended. In some cases, the vehicle may be stuck in a single gear (“limp” mode), refuse to shift, or even fail to start at all. Even if the car drives, you risk unpredictable shifting and losing the ability to select the proper gear, which can be hazardous in traffic. It’s best to address the issue promptly before driving further.

Vehicles Most Commonly Affected by Code C1135 #

While any vehicle with an electronic shift position sensor can set this code, it’s most often reported on:

• Nissan Altima, Maxima, Murano (especially 2002–2014 models)
• Infiniti G and Q series (various years)
• Toyota Camry, Corolla, RAV4 (2000s–2010s)
• Lexus ES and RX (2000s–2010s)
• Mazda 3, 6, CX-5 (late 2000s–2010s)
• Hyundai Sonata, Elantra, Santa Fe (2010s)
• Kia Optima, Sorento (2010s)

Common Mistakes & Best Practices for C1135 #

Technicians and DIYers sometimes overlook the basics or jump to conclusions with electrical faults. To avoid wasted time and money:

• Don’t replace the shift position sensor before checking wiring and connectors
• Avoid wiggling wires aggressively—this can worsen hidden damage
• Always verify the repair by clearing the code and test driving
• Use only OEM or high-quality replacement parts for sensors and harnesses
• Consult OEM wiring diagrams and service bulletins for your model

Quick FAQ for Code C1135 #

Here are answers to common questions about this transmission code:

• Q: Can I reset C1135 by disconnecting the battery?
  A: You might clear the code temporarily, but the underlying problem will cause it to return. Proper diagnosis and repair are needed.
• Q: Will C1135 prevent my car from starting?
  A: Sometimes, yes. Many vehicles require a correct gear position signal (usually Park or Neutral) to enable starting. If the module can’t read the position, the starter may be disabled.