OBD-II fault code

P05D6: Driver Mode Select Switch B Circuit High

What it means

Same as P05D2 on switch B. Wiring faults of this kind typically come from chafing, water ingress at connector seals, or pin push-back — a wiggle test on the harness while the code is active often confirms the location.

At a glance

  • Usually lights the check-engine light

How it works

Switch B reports the driver's mode selection to the vehicle controller on a separate electrical signal circuit. P05D6 sets when that signal is abnormally high, consistent with a short to supply or another fault holding the switch B input high.

Common causes

Most likely first.

  1. Signal shorted to supply
  2. Connector pins corroded - high contact resistance
  3. Supply wire pinched against B+ source

Symptoms

  • Drive-mode selection may be unavailable or unchanged
  • A drive-mode warning or check-engine light may illuminate

How to diagnose it

  1. Use a scan tool to monitor switch B's input while operating it and note whether the reported state stays high.
  2. Inspect switch B's connector and wiring for pinched insulation, corrosion, moisture, or contact with a supply circuit.
  3. With the wiring diagram, check the switch B signal for a short to supply and isolate harness sections using service information.
  4. Wiggle the switch B harness while monitoring live data to reveal an intermittent short.
  5. If the wiring checks out, test switch B and the controller input against the manufacturer's specification.

Common fixes

  • Secure or clean the switch B connector and correct any terminal contact issue.
  • Repair pinched switch B signal wiring that is touching a supply wire.
  • Replace switch B if testing confirms it produces an abnormally high signal.
  • Repair a confirmed fault in the controller input circuit.

Can I keep driving?

You can generally drive if the vehicle behaves normally, but switch B may not select the mode you request. Avoid relying on a particular drive mode until the fault is repaired.

A code shows where the control module detected a fault, not always which part failed. Check the causes in order and confirm with a test before replacing parts. Have several codes? Check them together

This is a generic code: it means the same on every make. The car’s maker may add more detail in its own service information.

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