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P1760 Nissan

P1760 Nissan - Overrun Clutch Solenoid Valve


Causes
- Faulty overrun clutch solenoid valve
- Overrun clutch solenoid valve harness is open or shorted
- Overrun clutch solenoid valve circuit poor electrical connection

When is the code detected?


The P1760 code is detected when the Transmission Control Module (TCM) detects an improper voltage
drop when it tries to operate the solenoid valve.

Possible symptoms
- Engine Light ON (or Service Engine Soon Warning Light)

P1760 Nissan Description


The overrun clutch solenoid valve is activated by the Transmission Control Module (TCM) in response
to signals sent from the Park/Neutral Position (PNP) switch, overdrive control switch, vehicle speed and
Engine Control Module (ECM).
======================

P1760 TOYOTA
P1760 TOYOTA - Linear Solenoid for Line Pressure
Control Circuit Malfunction
Possible causes
- Open or short in shift solenoid valve SLT circuit
- Shift solenoid valve SLT
- ECM

Symptoms
- Engine Light ON (or Service Engine Soon Warning Light)

P1760 TOYOTA Description


The throttle pressure that is applied to the primary regulator valve (which modulates line pressure)
causes the shift solenoid valve SLT, under electronic control, to precisely and minutely modulate and
generate line pressure according to the accelerator pedal effort, or engine power output detected. This
reduces the function of line pressure and provides smooth shifting characteristics. Upon receiving the
throttle valve opening angle signal, ECM controls the line pressure by sending a predetermined (*) duty
ratio to the solenoid valve, modulating the line pressure, generating throttle pressure.

=================

General Motors OBD II Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Codes P1700-P1899


Copyright Trouble-Codes.com

Diagnostic Trouble Code numbers are read by plugging a code reader or scan tool into the vehicle diagnostic connector
(usually located under the instrument panel near the steering column) that can read vehicle manufacturer enhanced or P1 c
odes (not just generic or P0 codes). The presence of a code will turn on the Check Engine Light. The light will remain on until
the code has been erased. The code number does not tell you which part has failed. It only indicates a possible fault has
been detected in the circuit, system or sensor described. Further testing is usually required to isolate the fault BEFORE
.repairs are made
For vehicle specific diagnostic charts and vehicle specific repair information, refer to a service manual, or get a subscription
.to the GM Tech Info website, or AllDataDIY

:The following is a partial listing of common General Motors specific "P1" enhanced OBD II fault codes
:The following is a partial listing of common General Motors specific "P1" enhanced OBD II fault codes

GM Trouble Code List P1700-P1899


NOTE: For some code numbers, there may be more than one definition because the same number may be used for different
.faults on different model years or models

P1700....Malfunction Indicator Lamp requested by trans control module


P1701....Malfunction Indicator Lamp request circuit
P1740....Torque control/management request circuit
P1760....Transmission Control Module supply voltage interrupted
P1780....Park/Neutral Position Switch circuit
P1781....Engine torque signal circuit
P1792....ECM to Transmission Control Module engine coolant signal
P1800....ECM to Transmission Control Module engine coolant signal
P1810....ATF pressure manual valve powition switch malfunction
P1811....Long shift and maximum adaptation limit reached
P1812....TOT condition
P1814....Torque converter clutch (TCC) overstress
P1819....Transmission range switch out of range, possible no start
P1820....Transmission range switch A voltage low

P1822....Transmission range switch B voltage high


P1823....Transmission range switch P voltage low
P1825....Transmission range switch A, B, C & P signals invalid
P1826....Transmission range switch C voltage high
P1835....Kickdown Switch circuit
P1842....1-2 Shift Solenoid circuit low input
P1843....1-2 Shift Solenoid circuit high input
P1845....2-3 Shift Solenoid circuit low input
P1847....2-3Shift Solenoid circuit high input
P1850....Brake Band Aply Solenoid
P1860....Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) PWM Solenoid circuit
P1864....TCC Enable Solenoid circuit
P1868....Transmission Fluid life
P1870....Transmission component slipping
P1873....Oxygen sensor bank 2 sensor 2 cross counts
P1874....Oxygen sensor bank 1 sensor 3 cross counts
P1875....4WD Low Switch circuit electrical
P1886....Transaxle Shift, Timing Solenoid performance
P1887....TCC Release Switch malfunction
P1890....Throttle Position signal input
P1891....Throttle position sensor circuit signal low
P1892....Throttle position sensor circuit signal high
P1895....Engine torque delivered circuit

Rav4 hard/abnormal shifting P0750, P0753, P0755, P0758, P1760 2001-2003


Owners of a 2001-2004 Rav4 often complain of abnormal shifting, sometimes in conjunction with a check engine
light and shift solenoid codes (P0750, P0753, P0755, P0758 and/or P1760). The 2-3 upshift can be particularly
harsh, the condition can come and go, and in many cases is incorrectly diagnosed by aftermarket shops
unfamiliar with the problem. The problem is so widespread Toyota extended that warranty for this specific issue
to 10 years or 150k miles. CARspec had a 2003 Rav4 with this condition last night and we wanted to share our
.solution to help others that may have the same issue

In the majority of cases this condition is caused by the Engine Control Module (the main control brain of the car).
For reasons unknown, the symptoms start to appear around 80k miles and gradually worsen over time harsh
shifting, poor gear kickdown, and abrupt starts from a stop. The symptoms can come and go, but never
disappear entirely. Driving with the symptoms can potentially lead to transmission failure, requiring the
.replacement of both the module and the transmission
Toyota offers an updated Engine Control Module for the condition which corrects the condition for most owners.
While relatively expensive, the repair is effective in alleviating the harsh shifts and preserving the life of the
.transmission
!We hope this helps any Rav4 owners or other technicians correctly identify this issue and get it resolved
P1760 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan
P1760 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan - Overrun Clutch Solenoid Valve
Possible causes
Faulty overrun clutch solenoid valve Overrun clutch solenoid valve harness is open or shorted Overrun clutch solenoid valve circuit poor electrical connection ?What does this mean
?When is the code detected
The P1760 code is detected when the Transmission Control Module (TCM) detects an improper voltage drop
.when it tries to operate the solenoid valve
Possible symptoms
Engine Light ON (or Service Engine Soon Warning Light) P1760 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan Description

The overrun clutch solenoid valve is activated by the Transmission Control Module (TCM) in response to signals
sent from the Park/Neutral Position (PNP) switch, overdrive control switch, vehicle speed and Engine Control
.Module (ECM)

?Need more help


Do you need more help with the P1760 2002 Nissan Altima Sedan code? ask a question to our users or search
the top hand picked automotive forums for more information
PROBLEM WITH BLOWN FUSE FOR GUAGES
Nissan Altima 1995
Electrical problem
Nissan Altima 4 cyl Front Wheel Drive Automatic 1995
I have a 95 Nissan Altima that suddenly started blowing the 10 amp fuse that controls all the guages when the car
is placed in Drive only. Everything is fine in all the other gears except Drive. What could it be and where would it
be located? Thanks
Toyota U140/U240 Series Diagnostic Information

Jeff Parlee
This transmission has some unique problems that can cause you to scratch your head. Add the lack of information
available from the manufacturer and your frustration level can skyrocket. Here are some common problems and
.suggestions on how to resolve them

:Binding On the 1-2 Shift

Binding on the 1-2 shift is a common complaint with this transmission. A quick way to determine if you have a
valve body/solenoid problem or a faulty ECM is to see if you have reverse with the electrical connector
disconnected from the transmission. If you do NOT have reverse, suspect the B2 control valve stuck on or pushed
to the apply position by cross leaks or a DSL solenoid stuck open. If the transmission engages into reverse, suspect
.a faulty ECM
Here's why. The DSL solenoid, also known as the TCC solenoid, doesn't just come on for lock up. The DSL
solenoid is also energized in manual low and is used to inhibit reverse. The DSL solenoid is a normally closed
solenoid. When energized, it allows oil pressure to stroke the B2 control valve, apply the B2 clutch in manual low,
and block oil to the B2 clutch in reverse. If the DSL solenoid is stuck open in drive, the B2 clutch will apply in 1st
as it does in manual low. When the 1-2 shift occurs with the B2 clutch applied, one too many clutches are applied

and the transmission binds up. If the DSL solenoid is stuck open when reverse is selected, the B2 control valve
.will block oil to the B2 clutch, inhibiting reverse
The engine and the transmission are controlled by the ECM (Engine Control Module), more commonly known as
the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) in these units. It is not uncommon for 2001 2003 RAV4 vehicles to have
a faulty ECM. Many times the vehicle will have binding or harsh shifts, which are often be accompanied by codes
P0750, P0753, P0755, P0758, and P1760. For more information, see Toyota bulletin # TC002-06 with an issue
.date of March 3, 2006
Before you order a new ECM, be aware of the following. Keep in mind that adaptive strategy is used to control
this transmission and the learned adapts must be reset to avoid damage to the transmission after a transmission
overhaul or valve body replacement. Remember that the reset procedure will reset all of the ECM learned adapts,
not just the transmission adapts. The Toyota factory scanner is capable of resetting the ECM adapts. Resetting the
adapts should be followed by performing a re-learn procedure. Bring the transaxle to operating temperature. Next,
drive the vehicle at light steady throttle through all of the shifts and repeat until the shifts feel normal. You may
find that resetting the shift adapts will correct any binding on the shift, without having to replace the ECM. I
.would highly recommend performing the ECM reset first, before replacing the ECM
Gear

SL1

SL2

SL4

*DSL/TCC

1st

On

On

Of

2nd

Of

On

Of

3rd

Of

Of

Of

3rd TCC on

Of

Of

Of

4th

Of

Of

On

4th TCC on

Of

Of

On

On

Manual 1st

On

On

Of

On

On

:Slip, Flare/Delayed or No Reverse 2-3

The direct clutch sealing rings wear into the ring grooves in the cover and the direct drum is frequently ring
grooved. Proper clearance between the sealing ring and the ring land is .003" to .005". Direct drums with damage
where the sealing rings ride should be replaced. Do NOT
.try to salvage the drum by sanding out the damage
Another cause of pressure loss to the direct clutch is a
missing or incorrectly positioned rubber washer type seal
.between the case and the rear cover

:Slips in Reverse or No Reverse

In addition to the direct clutch problems, a DSL solenoid


that is stuck "on," a B2 control valve that is stuck in the
stroked position, or missing or damaged B2 seals between the valve body and case can cause reverse to be
.delayed, slip or be missing altogether

:Various Shift and Engagement Feel Concerns

Various shift and engagement feel concerns can be due to accumulator spring mix up. The chart below shows the
.location, color and dimensions of each accumulator spring in the case

The C1 accumulator is for neutral to drive engagement feel.

The C3 accumulator is for the 3-4 shift feel.

The B3 accumulator will afect the 4-3 downshift feel.

Bore

Spring Location

Color

Free Length

Dia.

# Of Coils

Wire Dia.

C1

Case side

Red

3.555"

.727"

14.5

.075"

C3 Outer

VB side

White

3.645"

.738"

14

.117"

C3 Inner

VB side

Plain

.470"

.450"

.078"

B3 Outer

Case side

Blue

2.945"

.856"

10

.098"

B3 Inner

Case side

Green

2.370"

.625"

12

.085"

.As always, information is the key to fixing it right the first time

How Can I Tell If My Automatic


Transmission Needs an Overhaul?
This tutorial is a primer that'll help you find out if the problem with your Dodge or Jeep's 42RE, 44RE or 46RE
computer controlled transmission is electrical in nature or if the problem is due to internal damage that'll require
an overhaul (without having to drop it and tear it down).
To be a bit more specific, this article will explore the specific symptoms an automatic transmission displays when
its shifting issue/problem is due to an electrical fault (like a bad shift solenoid) or due to an internal/mechanical
failure.
Here are the contents of this article at a quick glance:

42RE, 44RE, 46RE Automatic Transmission Basics.

Two of the Most Common Transmission Failures.

How Can I Tell If It's Just a Solenoid Failure?

How Can I Tell If It's Internal Transmission Damage Requiring an Overhaul?

Transmission with Both Solenoid Failure and Internal Damage.

More Diagnostic/Troubleshooting Tutorials.

Let's get started...

42RE, 44RE, 46RE Automatic Transmission Basics


Vehicles covered by this tutorial use one of the following rear wheel drive (RWD) automatic transmissions: 42RE,
44RE, 46RE. All 3 of these are computer controlled and have an electrically operated valve body to control the
upshifts and downshifts.
All three also provide a self-diagnostic feature as part of their transmission control program. So, if you have a
scan tool... you're able to retrieve transmission diagnostic trouble codes stored in the PCM or TCM (when
something goes wrong with the transmission) to help you troubleshoot the issue/s.
Here are some more specifics:
42RE Automatic Transmission

This is an updated medium-duty A500 with overdrive and electronic control.

Used mainly on the 3.9L V6 equipped RWD vehicles.

Found in:
o 1996-2003 Dodge Dakota 3.9L V6
o 1998-1999 Dodge Durango 3.9L V6
o 1996-2001 Dodge Ram 1500 3.9L

44RE Automatic Transmission

This is an updated heavy-duty A500 with overdrive and electronic control.

Used mainly on the 5.2L equipped Dodge and Jeep vehicles.

Found in:
o 1996-1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee 5.2L V8
o 1998-2000 Dodge Durango 5.2L V8 (4WD (98-99) or 2WD (99-00))

46RE Automatic Transmission

This is an updated A518 with overdrive and electronic control.

Used mainly on 5.9L V8 equipped Dodge and Jeep vehicles.

Found in:
o 1996 Dodge Dakota V8 (Also 98-03 Dakota 5.9L R/T)
o 1996-2002 Dodge Ram 1500/2500/3500 V8
o 1998-2003 Dodge Durango 5.9L V8 (4WD or 2WD)
o 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee 5.9L V8 (4WD)

o Introduced in the early 1990s, it was used in trucks, vans, and Jeep Grand Cherokees

equipped with a 5.9 Liter V-8.

Two of the Most Common Transmission Failures


The most important thing to know, when trying to troubleshoot a transmission problem, is that the 42RE, 44RE, or
46RE automatic transmission usually fails in one of two ways:
1. Transmission is slipping.

This is the classic symptom of a transmission that's got internal mechanical damage.

NOTE 1: Low transmission fluid level (usually due to a transmission fluid leak) can also
cause the transmission to slip.

NOTE 2: An automatic transmission that's slipping can be best described as having it go


into neutral all of a sudden (as you're driving down the road) or when you stick the
tranny in Drive or Reverse.

2. Transmission does not shift out of 2nd gear.

This generally happens when the PCM senses an electrical problem and commands the
transmission to stay in what is known as Limp In Mode.

In Limp In Mode, the automatic transmission will not downshift or upshift at all.

The usual cause of this condition is an electrical issue, like a bad shift solenoid...
although some internal mechanical problem/damage can also cause this.

In the next couple of paragraphs, we'll explore the above symptoms more in-depth...

How Can I Tell If It's Just a Solenoid Failure?


The electronically controlled 42RE, 44RE, and 46RE automatic transmissions have several solenoids
and sensors that the PCM (or Transmission Control Module = TCM) needs to control the upshifts and
downshifts. If any one of these sensors/solenoids fail or the fuse(s) that supplies the solenoids gets
blown... the transmission will go into Limp In Mode.
What makes it pretty easy to tell if the automatic transmission failure is just a solenoid related issue... is
the fact that, in 99.9% of the cases, the transmission doesn't slip.
Here are some very specific symptoms you'll see when a transmission solenoid goes bad:
1. The PCM is also gonna' light up the check engine light (CEL) and store a specific shift
solenoid diagnostic trouble code (DTC). All generic OBD II transmission diagnostic
troubles codes start with: P07XX (the XX being the last 2 digits of the DTC).
2. You'll see one or several of the following transmission diagnostic trouble codes:
P0700: Transmission Control System Malfunction
P0711: Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
P0712: Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Input
P0713: Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit High Input

P0720: Output Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction


P0740: Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Malfunction
P0743: Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Electrical
P0748: Pressure Control Solenoid Electrical
P0753: Shift Solenoid A Electrical
P0783: 3-4 Shift Malfunction
3. You may see one, or several, of the following Manufacturer Specific DTCs:
P1756: Governor Pressure Not Equal To Target At 15-20 PSI
P1757: Governor Pressure Above 3 PSI When Request Is 0 PSI
P1762: Governor Pressure Sensor Offset Improper Voltage
P1763: Governor Pressure Sensor Voltage Too High
P1764: Governor Pressure Sensor Voltage Too Low
P1765: Trans 12 Volt Supply Relay Control Circuit
4. The speedometer does not work and you might have one of the following trouble codes:
P0500: Vehicle Speed Sensor Malfunction
P0501: Vehicle Speed Sensor Range/Performance
P0502: Vehicle Speed Sensor Low Input
P0503: Vehicle Speed Sensor Intermittent/Erratic/High
5. Your 42RE, 44RE, or 46RE automatic transmission will stay in Limp In Mode, which
means it'll stay in 2nd gear no matter what the vehicle speed.
6. As you accelerate your vehicle, it feels very underpowered. This is due to the fact that the
transmission is starting out in 2nd gear.
7. At speeds over 35 MPH, the engine feels like it's over-revving. This is also due to the fact
that the transmission is staying in 2nd gear and the gear ratio provided by 2nd gear is
gonna' keep the engine working pretty hard at any speed above 35 MPH.
Remember, what will tell you that you have a solenoid or internal transmission sensor problem is:
1. You'll have a specific transmission diagnostic trouble code (or a Speed sensor diagnostic
trouble code).
2. The automatic transmission does not slip, no matter how many times you road test your
vehicle.
3. The 42RE, 44RE, or 46RE stays in Limp In Mode.

Let's move on to the next subheading and find out more about the specific symptoms a 42RE, 44RE, or
46RE with internal damage...

How Can I Tell If It's Internal


Transmission Damage Requiring an Overhaul?
The biggest give-away, that you're vehicle's automatic transmission is kaput and in need of an overhaul
or replacement is that it will slip.
Here are some more specifics that will let you know if it's time for an overhaul or replacement:
1. The transmission fluid level is OK, but it's very dark to black and has a burned out smell.
2. Usually (but not always), the PCM will set a gear ratio error transmission diagnostic
trouble code. Here are some more specifics:
P0730: Incorrect Gear Ratio
P0731: Gear 1 Incorrect ratio
P0732: Gear 2 Incorrect ratio
P0733: Gear 3 Incorrect ratio
P0734: Gear 4 Incorrect ratio
A gear ratio error trouble code is the PCM's way of letting you know that it knows the
transmission is slipping.
3. As you accelerate your vehicle, the transmission feels like it was thrown into neutral all of
a sudden.
4. No 1st gear... specifically, you put the transmission in drive but no matter how much you
accelerate the engine, your vehicle does not move.
5. The transmission shifts into 1st gear a few seconds after you've come to a complete stop
causing a very noticeable jolt (this jolt is more pronounced the faster you've been
traveling and the quicker you come to a complete stop). The normal behavior is the
transmission shifting into 1st gear before you come to a complete stop.
6. No Reverse gear, although the transmission seems to work fine in Drive.
7. When you remove the transmission oil pan, you find dark sediment. This sediment is the
friction material that has fallen off the friction discs (which are located inside the
transmission).
8. You may find metal shavings in the fluid pan mixed in with the friction material sediment
on the transmission's oil pan.
Removing the transmission oil pan to see if you have metal shavings and/or friction material sediment
on the pan is what will give you the definite proof that you have internal transmission damage (and in
need of a transmission overhaul).

Transmission with Both


Solenoid Failure and Internal Damage
I wanted to make you aware that it's possible for your 42RE, 44RE, or 46RE equipped vehicle to have a
failed shift solenoid and internal transmission damage. This is especially true in cases where the
internal damage is in the components that create 3rd or 4th gear. What makes the slippage (this
damage creates) unnoticeable is the simple fact that the transmission doesn't upshift into its higher
gears because it's in Limp In Mode.
From personal experience... I have seen cases where the vehicle had a solenoid or transmission sensor
issue, along with a specific transmission trouble code and a bad shift solenoid or bad transmission
sensor... and yet once the failed solenoid/sensor was replaced and the transmission started shifting
again... it started to slip in 3rd or 4th gear.
There are a few ways to find out if this is the case in your particular case (like checking for sediment and
metal shavings in the pan as you're replacing the shift solenoids)... but ultimately it all boils down to
replacing the defective solenoid/sensor and road testing the vehicle.

In Conclusion
Hopefully this article has given you the info you need to be able to say that the issue affecting your
automatic transmission is an electrical issue or an internal issue (that requires an overhaul).
If you'd like to share your particular experience with the rest of us (which I'll include in an update to this
article), you can use the contact form below:
Symptom:
P1765-TRANS 12 VOLT SUPPLY RELAY CTRL CIRCUIT
When Monitored and Set Condition:
P1765-TRANS 12 VOLT SUPPLY RELAY CTRL CIRCUIT
When Monitored: Continuously with the key on.
Set Condition: This code will set if the voltage detected on the Transmission Relay
Control circuit at the PCM is different than the expected voltage for 3 seconds.
POSSIBLE CAUSES
TRANSMISSION CONTROL RELAY
INTERMITTENT TRANS 12 VOLT SUPPLY RELAY
GENERATOR SOURCE CIRCUIT SHORTED TO GROUND
TRANSMISSION RELAY CONTROL CIRCUIT SHORTED TO GROUND
GENERATOR SOURCE CIRCUIT OPEN

TRANSMISSION RELAY CONTROL CIRCUIT OPEN


PCM
TEST ACTION APPLICABILITY
1 Turn the ignition on.
With the DRB, read DTCs.
Is the Specific Good Trip Counter for P-1765 displayed and equal to 0?
All
Yes Go To 2
No Go To 9
2 Turn the ignition on.
With the DRB, actuate the Transmission Control Relay.
Is the Transmission Control Relay clicking?
All
Yes Go To 9
No Go To 3
3 Turn the ignition off.
Remove the Transmission Control Relay from the PDC.
Check connectors - Clean/repair as necessary.
Install a substitute relay in place of the Transmission Control Relay.
Turn the ignition on.
With the DRB, erase trouble codes.
Start the engine.
With the DRB, read DTCs.
Does the DRB display 9Trans 12 Volt Supply Relay Ctrl Circuit9?
All
Yes Go To 4
No Replace the Transmission Control Relay.

Perform the Transmission DTC Verification test.


338
TEST ACTION APPLICABILITY
4 Turn the ignition off.
Remove the Transmission Control Relay from the PDC.
Disconnect the PCM harness connectors.
Check connectors - Clean/repair as necessary.
Measure the resistance between ground and the generator source circuit in the
Transmission Control Relay connector.
Is the resistance below 5.0 ohms?
All
Yes Repair the generator source circuit for a short to ground.
Perform the Transmission DTC Verification test.
No Go To 5
5 Turn the ignition off.
Remove the Transmission Control Relay from the PDC.
Disconnect the PCM C2 harness connector.
Check connectors - Clean/repair as necessary.
Measure the resistance between ground and the transmission control relay control
circuit in the Transmission Control Relay connector.
Is the resistance below 5.0 ohms?
All
Yes Repair the transmission control relay control circuit for a short to
ground.
Perform the Transmission DTC Verification test.
No Go To 6
6 Turn the ignition off.

Remove the Transmission Control Relay from the PDC.


Check connectors - Clean/repair as necessary.
Turn the ignition on.
With the DRB, actuate the Generator Field.
Measure the voltage of the generator source circuit in the Transmission Control
Relay connector.
Is the voltage above 10.0 volts?
All
Yes Go To 7
No Repair the generator source circuit for an open.
Perform the Transmission DTC Verification test.
7 Turn the ignition off.
Remove the Transmission Control Relay from the PDC.
Disconnect the PCM C2 harness connector.
Check connectors - Clean/repair as necessary.
Measure the resistance of the transmission control relay control circuit between the
Transmission Control Relay connector and the PCM C2 harness connector.
Is the resistance below 5.0 ohms?
All
Yes Go To 8
No Repair the transmission control relay control circuit for an open.
Perform the Transmission DTC Verification test.
8 If there are no possible causes remaining, view repair. All
Repair
Replace the Powertrain Control Module.
Perform the Transmission DTC Verification test.
339

TRANSMISSION
P1765-TRANS 12 VOLT SUPPLY RELAY CTRL CIRCUIT - Continued
DTC is ''Diagnostic Trouble Code''; this is your P1765
DRB is the Chrysler Diagnostic
Scanner that is necessary for many diagnostic functions.

Here is the PCM location on the


Firewall

1 - POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE (PCM)

2 - WIPER MOTOR

3 - PCM MOUNTING BOLTS (3)

4 -XXXXXCONNECTORS (3)

============================

How Can I Tell If My Automatic


Transmission Needs an Overhaul?
This tutorial is a primer that'll help you find out if the problem with your Dodge or Jeep's 42RE, 44RE or 46RE
computer controlled transmission is electrical in nature or if the problem is due to internal damage that'll require
an overhaul (without having to drop it and tear it down).

To be a bit more specific, this article will explore the specific symptoms an automatic transmission displays when
its shifting issue/problem is due to an electrical fault (like a bad shift solenoid) or due to an internal/mechanical
failure.
Here are the contents of this article at a quick glance:
Let's get started...

42RE, 44RE, 46RE Automatic Transmission Basics


Vehicles covered by this tutorial use one of the following rear wheel drive (RWD) automatic transmissions: 42RE,
44RE, 46RE. All 3 of these are computer controlled and have an electrically operated valve body to control the
upshifts and downshifts.
All three also provide a self-diagnostic feature as part of their transmission control program. So, if you have a
scan tool... you're able to retrieve transmission diagnostic trouble codes stored in the PCM or TCM (when
something goes wrong with the transmission) to help you troubleshoot the issue/s.
Here are some more specifics:
42RE Automatic Transmission

This is an updated medium-duty A500 with overdrive and electronic control.

Used mainly on the 3.9L V6 equipped RWD vehicles.

Found in:
o 1996-2003 Dodge Dakota 3.9L V6
o 1998-1999 Dodge Durango 3.9L V6
o 1996-2001 Dodge Ram 1500 3.9L

44RE Automatic Transmission

This is an updated heavy-duty A500 with overdrive and electronic control.

Used mainly on the 5.2L equipped Dodge and Jeep vehicles.

Found in:
o 1996-1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee 5.2L V8
o 1998-2000 Dodge Durango 5.2L V8 (4WD (98-99) or 2WD (99-00))

46RE Automatic Transmission

This is an updated A518 with overdrive and electronic control.

Used mainly on 5.9L V8 equipped Dodge and Jeep vehicles.

Found in:
o 1996 Dodge Dakota V8 (Also 98-03 Dakota 5.9L R/T)

o 1996-2002 Dodge Ram 1500/2500/3500 V8


o 1998-2003 Dodge Durango 5.9L V8 (4WD or 2WD)
o 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee 5.9L V8 (4WD)
o Introduced in the early 1990s, it was used in trucks, vans, and Jeep Grand Cherokees

equipped with a 5.9 Liter V-8.

Two of the Most Common Transmission Failures


The most important thing to know, when trying to troubleshoot a transmission problem, is that the 42RE, 44RE, or
46RE automatic transmission usually fails in one of two ways:
1. Transmission is slipping.

This is the classic symptom of a transmission that's got internal mechanical damage.

NOTE 1: Low transmission fluid level (usually due to a transmission fluid leak) can also
cause the transmission to slip.

NOTE 2: An automatic transmission that's slipping can be best described as having it go


into neutral all of a sudden (as you're driving down the road) or when you stick the
tranny in Drive or Reverse.

2. Transmission does not shift out of 2nd gear.

This generally happens when the PCM senses an electrical problem and commands the
transmission to stay in what is known as Limp In Mode.

In Limp In Mode, the automatic transmission will not downshift or upshift at all.

The usual cause of this condition is an electrical issue, like a bad shift solenoid...
although some internal mechanical problem/damage can also cause this.

In the next couple of paragraphs, we'll explore the above symptoms more in-depth...

How Can I Tell If It's Just a Solenoid Failure?


The electronically controlled 42RE, 44RE, and 46RE automatic transmissions have several solenoids
and sensors that the PCM (or Transmission Control Module = TCM) needs to control the upshifts and
downshifts. If any one of these sensors/solenoids fail or the fuse(s) that supplies the solenoids gets
blown... the transmission will go into Limp In Mode.
What makes it pretty easy to tell if the automatic transmission failure is just a solenoid related issue... is
the fact that, in 99.9% of the cases, the transmission doesn't slip.
Here are some very specific symptoms you'll see when a transmission solenoid goes bad:
1. The PCM is also gonna' light up the check engine light (CEL) and store a specific shift
solenoid diagnostic trouble code (DTC). All generic OBD II transmission diagnostic
troubles codes start with: P07XX (the XX being the last 2 digits of the DTC).
2. You'll see one or several of the following transmission diagnostic trouble codes:
P0700: Transmission Control System Malfunction

P0711: Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance


P0712: Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Input
P0713: Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit High Input
P0720: Output Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction
P0740: Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Malfunction
P0743: Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Electrical
P0748: Pressure Control Solenoid Electrical
P0753: Shift Solenoid A Electrical
P0783: 3-4 Shift Malfunction
3. You may see one, or several, of the following Manufacturer Specific DTCs:
P1756: Governor Pressure Not Equal To Target At 15-20 PSI
P1757: Governor Pressure Above 3 PSI When Request Is 0 PSI
P1762: Governor Pressure Sensor Offset Improper Voltage
P1763: Governor Pressure Sensor Voltage Too High
P1764: Governor Pressure Sensor Voltage Too Low
P1765: Trans 12 Volt Supply Relay Control Circuit
4. The speedometer does not work and you might have one of the following trouble codes:
P0500: Vehicle Speed Sensor Malfunction
P0501: Vehicle Speed Sensor Range/Performance
P0502: Vehicle Speed Sensor Low Input
P0503: Vehicle Speed Sensor Intermittent/Erratic/High
5. Your 42RE, 44RE, or 46RE automatic transmission will stay in Limp In Mode, which
means it'll stay in 2nd gear no matter what the vehicle speed.
6. As you accelerate your vehicle, it feels very underpowered. This is due to the fact that the
transmission is starting out in 2nd gear.
7. At speeds over 35 MPH, the engine feels like it's over-revving. This is also due to the fact
that the transmission is staying in 2nd gear and the gear ratio provided by 2nd gear is
gonna' keep the engine working pretty hard at any speed above 35 MPH.
Remember, what will tell you that you have a solenoid or internal transmission sensor problem is:

1. You'll have a specific transmission diagnostic trouble code (or a Speed sensor diagnostic
trouble code).
2. The automatic transmission does not slip, no matter how many times you road test your
vehicle.
3. The 42RE, 44RE, or 46RE stays in Limp In Mode.
Let's move on to the next subheading and find out more about the specific symptoms a 42RE, 44RE, or
46RE with internal damage...

How Can I Tell If It's Internal


Transmission Damage Requiring an Overhaul?
The biggest give-away, that you're vehicle's automatic transmission is kaput and in need of an overhaul
or replacement is that it will slip.
Here are some more specifics that will let you know if it's time for an overhaul or replacement:
1. The transmission fluid level is OK, but it's very dark to black and has a burned out smell.
2. Usually (but not always), the PCM will set a gear ratio error transmission diagnostic
trouble code. Here are some more specifics:
P0730: Incorrect Gear Ratio
P0731: Gear 1 Incorrect ratio
P0732: Gear 2 Incorrect ratio
P0733: Gear 3 Incorrect ratio
P0734: Gear 4 Incorrect ratio
A gear ratio error trouble code is the PCM's way of letting you know that it knows the
transmission is slipping.
3. As you accelerate your vehicle, the transmission feels like it was thrown into neutral all of
a sudden.
4. No 1st gear... specifically, you put the transmission in drive but no matter how much you
accelerate the engine, your vehicle does not move.
5. The transmission shifts into 1st gear a few seconds after you've come to a complete stop
causing a very noticeable jolt (this jolt is more pronounced the faster you've been
traveling and the quicker you come to a complete stop). The normal behavior is the
transmission shifting into 1st gear before you come to a complete stop.
6. No Reverse gear, although the transmission seems to work fine in Drive.
7. When you remove the transmission oil pan, you find dark sediment. This sediment is the
friction material that has fallen off the friction discs (which are located inside the
transmission).
8. You may find metal shavings in the fluid pan mixed in with the friction material sediment
on the transmission's oil pan.

Removing the transmission oil pan to see if you have metal shavings and/or friction material sediment
on the pan is what will give you the definite proof that you have internal transmission damage (and in
need of a transmission overhaul).

Transmission with Both


Solenoid Failure and Internal Damage
I wanted to make you aware that it's possible for your 42RE, 44RE, or 46RE equipped vehicle to have a
failed shift solenoid and internal transmission damage. This is especially true in cases where the
internal damage is in the components that create 3rd or 4th gear. What makes the slippage (this
damage creates) unnoticeable is the simple fact that the transmission doesn't upshift into its higher
gears because it's in Limp In Mode.
From personal experience... I have seen cases where the vehicle had a solenoid or transmission sensor
issue, along with a specific transmission trouble code and a bad shift solenoid or bad transmission
sensor... and yet once the failed solenoid/sensor was replaced and the transmission started shifting
again... it started to slip in 3rd or 4th gear.
There are a few ways to find out if this is the case in your particular case (like checking for sediment and
metal shavings in the pan as you're replacing the shift solenoids)... but ultimately it all boils down to
replacing the defective solenoid/sensor and road testing the vehicle.

In Conclusion
Hopefully this article has given you the info you need to be able to say that the issue affecting your
automatic transmission is an electrical issue or an internal issue (that requires an overhaul).
If you'd like to share your particular experience with the rest of us (which I'll include in an update to this
article), you can use the contact form below:

Dodge Durango: 5.9l 4X4..check engine light..error 1999


codes..12 VOLT
Customer Question

I have a 1999 Dodge Durango 5.9l 4X4


The check engine light turned on so i went to auto zone and they scanned it.
it showed error codes
P1765-TRANS 12 VOLT SUPPLY RELAY CTRL CIRCUIT
P0753-TRANS 3-4 SHIFT SOL/TRANS RELAY CIRCUITS
I replaced the relay and cleared the codes, then a few days later the light came back with the same
codes.
And now i can tell the transmision isn't shifting properly.
It seems to not be shifting into O/D on the highway
and also seems to start up in 2 or 3 gear from a stand still.
Sounds like the pcm is going to be bad or the center connector at the pcm is not making contact. The
transmission is in limp in mode. Ground the Pink wire at pin 30 in the center Powertrain Control Module
connector when plugged in. If the transmission shifts OK now, check the terminal at pin 30. If OK,

replace the PCM. The pcm grounds this circuit to activate the relay you changed.

--------------------

Kia Spectra: 2003 Kia Spectra base w/ automatic


transmission
o

Customer Question

2003 Kia Spectra base w/ automatic transmission When in drive, I only have second gear. I can manually shift down into 1st, but when it's in drive I only
have 2nd. No overdrive light when I push the button. OBD2 codes P1693 and P1765. This car has given
me problems with loose connectors (throttle position sensor, etc.) in the past. What's my least expensive
option?

Ok, with both of these codes, the possible causes are the same - either a short to ground, open in
circuit or faulty ECM/TCM.

check for loose wiring at the ECM/TCM connectors, check for chafing or breaking of the wiring harness
where it goes thru the firewall. If all is ok, then there is only one other option - replace the ECM/TCM

P1693

Function

The Malfunction lndicator Lamp (MIL), which is located in the instrument cluster, comes on to
notify the driver that there may be a problem with the vehicle and that service is needed. Lmmediately after
the ignition switch turnson, the malfunction indicator lamp is lit to indicate that the MIL operates normally
and goes off after starting.

DTC Description

ECM sets DTC P1693 if the ECM detects that the MIL control circuit is open or shorted ground or
bettery..

DTC Detecting Condition

Detecting Condition

Possible Cause

Item

Signal check

Contact resistance in
connectors

DTC Strategy

Open or short in circuit


TCM/ECM

Enable Conditions

High / low check

20 sec

2 Driving Cycles

Threshold Value

Diagnostic Time

MIL On Condition

o
P1765
o

Function

o
o

ECM(Engine Control Module) uses torque reduction signal from TCM to reduce the shift shock by
controlling ignition timing. If duty ratio is approx. 9%, ECM advances ignition timing to approx. 20
degrees and If duty ratio is approx. 90%, ECM retards ignition timing to approx. 20 degrees.

o
o

DTC Description

o
o

o
o

o
o

This DTC is set when the value is out of threshold value.

DTC Detecting Condition

o
o

o
o

Detecting Condition

Possible Cause

Contact resistance in

Item

DTC

Signal check

Open or short in circuit

Strategy

TCM/ECM

Torque reduction status /


clutch status

Enable

Conditions

Duty cycle from TCM <


5% or >95%

Threshold

o
Value

connectors

Continuous

2 Driving Cycles

Diagnostic

o
Time

MIL On
Condition

o
o

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o
------------------o

P1720 Nissan

P1720 Nissan - Vehicle Speed Meter Circuit Malfunction

Possible causes

- VDC/TCS/ABS to ECM circuit harness is open or shorted


- TCM to ECM circuit harness is open or shorted
- VDC/TCS/ABS to ECM circuit connectors
- TCM to ECM circuit connectors
- Faulty revolution sensor

What does this mean?

When is the code detected?

Malfunction is detected when ECM detects a difference between two vehicle speed sensor signals is
out of the specified range.

Possible symptoms

- Engine Light ON (or Service Engine Soon Warning Light)

P1720 Nissan Description

The Engine Control Module (ECM) receives two vehicle speed sensor signals via the Control Area
Network (CAN) communication line. One is sent from Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) / Traction Control
System (TCS) / Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) control unit, and the other is from Transmission Control
Module (TCM). ECM uses these two signals for engine control.

Nissan Altima 2007-2012 Service Manual: P1720 VSS

Description

ECM receives two vehicle speed signals via the CAN communication line. One is sent from
ABS actuator and electric unit (control unit) via the combination meter, and the other is from
TCM (Transmission control module).

ECM uses these signals for engine control.

DTC Logic

DTC DETECTION LOGIC

NOTE: If DTC P1720 is displayed with DTC UXXXX first perform the trouble diagnosis for
DTC UXXXX. Refer to EC-1179, "DTC Logic".

If DTC P1720 is displayed with DTC P0607, first perform the trouble diagnosis for DTC
P0607. Refer to EC-1378, "DTC Logic".

o
o

DTC CONFIRMATION PROCEDURE

1.PRECONDITIONING

If DTC Confirmation Procedure has been previously conducted, always perform the following
before conducting the next test.

1. Turn ignition switch OFF and wait at least 10 seconds.

2. Turn ignition switch ON.

3. Turn ignition switch OFF and wait at least 10 seconds.

>> GO TO 2.

2.PERFORM DTC CONFIRMATION PROCEDURE

1. Start engine.

2. Drive vehicle at a speed of 20 km/h (12 MPH) or more for at least 5 seconds without depressing
the brake pedal.

3. Check 1st trip DTC.

Is 1st trip DTC detected? YES >> Go to EC-1426, "Diagnosis Procedure".

NO >> INSPECTION END

Diagnosis Procedure

1.CHECK DTC WITH TCM

Check DTC with TCM. Refer to TM-221, "DTC Index".

Is the inspection result normal? YES >> GO TO 2.

NO >> Perform trouble shooting relevant to DTC indicated.

2.CHECK DTC WITH ABS ACTUATOR AND ELECTRIC UNIT (CONTROL UNIT)

Refer to BRC-223, "DTC No. Index".

Is the inspection result normal? YES >> GO TO 3.

NO >> perform trouble shooting relevant to DTC indicated.

3.CHECK COMBINATION METER FUNCTION

Refer to MWI-95, "DTC Index".

Transmission Shift And Drivability Enhancements DTCs P0711, P0887, P1720, P1D98, P215C,
U0401 2014 Jeep Cherokee

SUBJECT:

Flash: Transmission Shift And Drivability Enhancements

o
o

OVERVIEW:

This bulletin involves reprogramming the Transmission Control Module (TCM) with the latest
available software followed by a drive validation.

o
o

MODELS:

2014

NOTE: This bulletin applies to vehicles equipped with a 2.0L Turbo Diesel engine (Sales Code

(KL)

Jeep Cherokee (International only)

EBT) and a 948TE 9-speed automatic transmission (Sales Code DFH or DFJ).
o
o

SYMPTOM/CONDITION:

The following software enhancement, for the 948TE 9-speed transmission, is being released to
improve diagnostics for the following Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs):

P0711 Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor A Circuit Range-Performance

P0887 TCM Power Control Circuit High

P1720 Output Speed Sensor-Wheel Speed Rationality

P1D98 Incorrect Gear Ratio Clutch B or D Defective

P215C Output Shaft Speed Wheel Speed Correlation

U0401 Implausible Data Received From ECM-PCM

The software also enables DTC P07A7 Transmission Friction Element C Stuck On to set in the
case of a dislodged C-clutch snap-ring.

o
o

DIAGNOSIS:

Using a Scan Tool (wiTECH) with the appropriate Diagnostic Procedures available in
TechCONNECT, verify all engine systems are functioning as designed. If DTCs or symptom conditions,
other than the ones listed above are present, record the issues on the repair order and repair as necessary
before proceeding further with this bulletin.

If the customer describes the symptom/condition listed above or if the technician finds the DTC,
perform the Repair Procedure.

o
o

REPAIR PROCEDURE:

CAUTION: The Engine Control Module (ECM) must be updated to the latest available software at
the conclusion of this repair procedure. Refer to all applicable published service bulletins for detailed
repair procedures and labor times regarding updating the ECM software.

NOTE: Install a battery charger to ensure battery voltage does not drop below 13.2 volts. Do not
allow the charging voltage to climb above 13.5 volts during the flash process.

NOTE: If this flash process is interrupted/aborted, the flash should be restarted.

1. Reprogram the TCM with the latest available software. Detailed instructions for flashing control
modules using the wiTECH Diagnostic Application are available by selecting the HELP tab on the upper
portion of the wiTECH window, then HELP CONTENTS. This will open the Welcome to wiTECH Help
screen where help topics can be selected.

2. Using wiTECH, perform the TCM VIN Verification routine located in the TCM Misc
Functions menu and follow the on-screen prompts.

3. Using wiTECH, perform a PROXI Configuration Alignment routine located in the Vehicle
Preparations tab on the main vehicle view screen.

4. Clear any DTCs that may have been set in any modules due to reprogramming. The wiTECH
application will automatically present all DTCs after the flash and allow the them to be cleared.

5. Turn the ignition off, disconnect the wiTECH, open and close the door and let vehicle sit for 1
minute.NOTE: Before proceeding to the next step, verify the ECM is programmed with the latest available

software. Refer to all applicable published service bulletins for detailed repair procedures and labor times
regarding updating the ECM software.
o

NOTE: Verify that the Clutch Filling Counters and Fast Filling Counters were not reset to 0 (zero)
after flashing using Wi-Tech. If they have reset then 9 Speed Adaptation Drive Learn will have to be
performed at the conclusion of this service bulletin.

o
o

6. Perform a Transmission Drive Verification Test by performing the following steps:

a. Start the vehicle and allow the coolant temperature to reach between 35C and 105C (95F and
221F).

b. Allow the transmission temperature to reach between 50C and 115C (122F and 239F).

c. Ensure the vehicle is below an attitude of 2.4 km (8000 ft.).

d. With the vehicle located in a suitable area and traveling in a straight line, bring the vehicle to a
minimum of 48 kph (30 mph) (5th gear) and perform a 0 throttle coasting deceleration until the
transmission downshifts from 5th gear to 4th gear.

e. Repeat this coasting downshift 10 times.

7. Did the TCM set DTC P07A7 as active?

Yes>>> Refer to all current, normal diagnostics published in DealerCONNECT/TechCONNECT


regarding the DTC P07A7 and repair as necessary following normal warranty repair guidelines.

No>>> If all of the Clutch Filling Counters and Fast Filling Counters were reset to 0 (zero) after
flashing, the 9 Speed Adaptation Drive Learn must be performed. Refer to all applicable published service
bulletins regarding the 9 Speed Adaptation Drive Learn for detailed repair procedures and labor times. If
they have not reset, then no further action is required.

P1720 VSS

Description

ECM receives two vehicle speed signals via the CAN communication line. One is sent from "ABS actuator
and electric unit (control unit)" via the combination meter, and the other is from TCM (Transmission
control module). ECM uses these signals for engine control.

DTC Logic

DTC DETECTION LOGIC

NOTE:
o

If DTC P1720 is displayed with DTC UXXXX first perform the trouble diagnosis for DTC
UXXXX. Refer to See: U Code Charts\U0101.

If DTC P1720 is displayed with DTC P0607, first perform the trouble diagnosis for DTC P0607.
Refer to See: P0607.

o
DTC CONFIRMATION PROCEDURE
1.PRECONDITIONING
If DTC Confirmation Procedure has been previously conducted, always perform the following before
conducting the next test.

Turn ignition switch OFF and wait at least 10 seconds.

Turn ignition switch ON.

Turn ignition switch OFF and wait at least 10 seconds. >> GO TO 2.

2.PERFORM DTC CONFIRMATION PROCEDURE

Start engine.

Drive vehicle at a speed of 20 km/h (12 MPH) or more for at least 5 seconds without depressing the
brake pedal.

Check 1st trip DTC. Is 1st trip DTC detected?

YES >> Go to Diagnosis Procedure.


NO >> Inspection END

Diagnosis Procedure
1.CHECK DTC WITH TCM
Check DTC with TCM. Refer to See: Testing and Inspection.
Is the Inspection result normal?
YES >> GO TO 2.
NO >> Perform trouble shooting relevant to DTC indicated.
2.CHECK DTC WITH "ABS ACTUATOR AND ELECTRIC UNIT (CONTROL UNIT)"
Refer to See: Testing and Inspection.
Is the Inspection result normal?
YES >> GO TO 3.
NO >> perform trouble shooting relevant to DTC indicated.
3.CHECK COMBINATION METER FUNCTION
Refer to See: Testing and Inspection.
>> Inspection END
-=======================
P1794 OBD Trouble Code

P1794 - Kia

Powertrain - Manufacturer Controlled DTC - Manufacturer Controlled

Type

Description

Cause

Supply voltage

Wiring, fuse, battery

DTC P1794:16 [ADVANCED KEYLESS ENTRY AND PUSH


BUTTON START SYSTEM]
id09021c933100
Low voltage in power supply circuit (+B2)
Keyless control module power supply circuit (+B2) voltage is less than 8.5 V for 5 s.

DESCRIPTION
DETECTION CONDITION

Charging system malfunction


PCM DTC is stored
Battery malfunction
Generator malfunction
Keyless control module connector or terminals malfunction
Open circuit or short to ground in keyless control module power supply circuit
Short to ground in wiring harness between battery positive terminal and keyless
control module terminal 1F
ENG+B 10 A fuse malfunction
Open circuit in wiring harness between battery positive terminal and keyless control
module terminal 1F
Keyless control module malfunction

POSSIBLE CAUSE

Low voltage in power supply circuit (+B2)

DESCRIPTION

Diagnostic Procedure
Action

Inspection

Go to the applicable DTC inspection.

CONFIRM PCM DTC

(See DTC TABLE [MZR 1.5, MZR 1.6].)

Perform the PCM DTC inspection using the M-MDS.

(See DTC TABLE [MZR 2.0, MZR 2.5].)

(See ON-BOARD DIAGNOSTIC TEST [MZR 1.5, MZR


1.6].)

(See DTC TABLE [MZR 2.0 DISI i-stop].)

Yes

Step

(See ON-BOARD DIAGNOSTIC TEST [MZR 2.0, MZR


2.5].)

(See DTC TABLE [MZR 2.3 DISI Turbo].)


(See DTC TABLE [MZR-CD 2.2].)

(See ON-BOARD DIAGNOSTIC TEST [MZR 2.0 DISI istop].)

(See DTC TABLE [SKYACTIV-G 2.0].)

(See ON-BOARD DIAGNOSTIC TEST [MZR 2.3 DISI


Turbo].)
(See ON-BOARD DIAGNOSTIC TEST [MZR-CD 2.2].)
Go to the next step.

No

(See ON-BOARD DIAGNOSTIC TEST [SKYACTIV-G


2.0].)
Are any DTCs present?

Recharge or replace the battery, then go to Step 6.

Yes INSPECT BATTERY

(See BATTERY RECHARGING [MZR 1.5, MZR 1.6].)

Inspect the battery.

(See BATTERY RECHARGING [MZR 2.0, MZR 2.5].)

(See BATTERY INSPECTION [MZR 1.5, MZR 1.6].)

(See BATTERY RECHARGING [MZR 2.0 DISI i-stop].)

(See BATTERY INSPECTION [MZR 2.0, MZR 2.5].)

(See BATTERY RECHARGING [MZR 2.3 DISI Turbo].)

(See BATTERY INSPECTION [MZR 2.0 DISI i-stop].)

(See BATTERY RECHARGING [MZR-CD 2.2].)

(See BATTERY INSPECTION [MZR 2.3 DISI Turbo].)

(See BATTERY RECHARGING [SKYACTIV-G 2.0].)

(See BATTERY INSPECTION [MZR-CD 2.2].)

(See BATTERY REMOVAL/INSTALLATION [MZR 1.5,


MZR 1.6].)

(See BATTERY INSPECTION [SKYACTIV-G 2.0].)

(See BATTERY REMOVAL/INSTALLATION [MZR 2.0,


MZR 2.5].)

Is there any malfunction?

Action

Inspection

Step

(See BATTERY REMOVAL/INSTALLATION [MZR 2.0


DISI i-stop].)
(See BATTERY REMOVAL/INSTALLATION [MZR 2.3
DISI Turbo].)
(See BATTERY REMOVAL/INSTALLATION [MZR-CD
2.2].)
(See BATTERY REMOVAL/INSTALLATION
[SKYACTIV-G 2.0].)
Go to the next step.

No

Replace the generator, then go to Step 6.


(See GENERATOR REMOVAL/INSTALLATION [MZR
1.5, MZR 1.6].)

INSPECT GENERATOR
Inspect the generator.

(See GENERATOR REMOVAL/INSTALLATION [MZR


2.0, MZR 2.5].)
(See GENERATOR REMOVAL/INSTALLATION [MZR
2.0 DISI i-stop].)

(See GENERATOR INSPECTION [MZR 1.5, MZR 1.6].)


Yes

(See GENERATOR INSPECTION [MZR 2.0, MZR 2.5].)


(See GENERATOR INSPECTION [MZR 2.0 DISI i-stop].)

(See GENERATOR REMOVAL/INSTALLATION [MZR


2.3 DISI Turbo].)

(See GENERATOR INSPECTION [MZR 2.3 DISI Turbo].)


(See GENERATOR INSPECTION [MZR-CD 2.2].)

(See GENERATOR REMOVAL/INSTALLATION [MZRCD 2.2].)

(See GENERATOR INSPECTION [SKYACTIV-G 2.0].)

(See GENERATOR REMOVAL/INSTALLATION


[SKYACTIV-G 2.0].)

Is there any malfunction?

Go to the next step.

No

Repair or replace the connector or terminals, then go


to Step 6.

Yes

INSPECT KEYLESS CONTROL MODULE


CONNECTOR AND TERMINALS
Switch the ignition to off.
Disconnect the negative battery cable.
4

Go to the next step.

No

Disconnect the keyless control module connector.


Inspect the connector and terminals (corrosion,
damage, pin disconnection).
Is there any malfunction?

Go to the next step.


Inspect the ENG+B 10 A fuse.
If the fuse is melt:
Repair or replace the wiring harness for a
possible short to ground.
Replace the fuse.
If the fuse is deterioration:

Yes INSPECT POWER SUPPLY CIRCUIT (+B2) FOR OPEN


CIRCUIT OR SHORT TO GROUND
No
Keyless control module connector is disconnected.
Reconnect the negative battery cable.
(See BATTERY REMOVAL/INSTALLATION [MZR 1.5,
MZR 1.6].)
(See BATTERY REMOVAL/INSTALLATION [MZR 2.0,
MZR 2.5].)

Action

Inspection

Step

Replace the fuse.


If the fuse is normal:
Repair or replace the wiring harness for a
possible open circuit.
Go to the next step.

(See BATTERY REMOVAL/INSTALLATION [MZR 2.0


DISI i-stop].)
(See BATTERY REMOVAL/INSTALLATION [MZR 2.3
DISI Turbo].)
(See BATTERY REMOVAL/INSTALLATION [MZR-CD
2.2].)

Replace the keyless control module, then go to the


next step.
(See KEYLESS CONTROL MODULE
REMOVAL/INSTALLATION.)

(See BATTERY REMOVAL/INSTALLATION [SKYACTIVVERIFY TROUBLESHOOTING COMPLETED


G 2.0].)
Yes Make sure to reconnect the disconnected connectors.
Measure the voltage at the following terminal (wiring
harness-side):
Reconnect the negative battery cable.
Keyless
control module terminal [MZR
1F 1.5,
(See BATTERY
REMOVAL/INSTALLATION
MZR 1.6].)
Is the voltage B+?
(See BATTERY REMOVAL/INSTALLATION [MZR 2.0,
MZR 2.5].)
(See BATTERY REMOVAL/INSTALLATION [MZR 2.0
DISI i-stop].)
(See BATTERY REMOVAL/INSTALLATION [MZR 2.3
DISI Turbo].)
(See BATTERY REMOVAL/INSTALLATION [MZR-CD
2.2].)
(See BATTERY REMOVAL/INSTALLATION [SKYACTIVG 2.0].)

Go to the next step.

No Operate the advanced key to activate the keyless


control module.
Clear the DTC from the keyless control module using
the M-MDS.
(See CLEARING DTC [ADVANCED KEYLESS ENTRY
AND PUSH BUTTON START SYSTEM].)
Operate the advanced key to activate the keyless
control module.
Perform the advanced keyless entry and push button
start system DTC inspection using the M-MDS.
(See DTC INSPECTION [ADVANCED KEYLESS ENTRY
AND PUSH BUTTON START SYSTEM].)
Is the same DTC present?

Go to the applicable DTC inspection.

Yes VERIFY THAT NO OTHER DTCs ARE PRESENT

Action

Inspection

(See DTC TABLE [ADVANCED KEYLESS ENTRY


AND PUSH BUTTON START SYSTEM].)
DTC troubleshooting completed.

Step

Are any DTCs present?


No

DTC P1794:17 [ADVANCED KEYLESS ENTRY AND PUSH


BUTTON START SYSTEM]
id09021c933200
High voltage in power supply circuit (+B2)

DESCRIPTION

Keyless control module power supply circuit (+B2) voltage is 16.5 V or more for 0.5 s.

DETECTION CONDITION

PCM DTC is stored


Generator malfunction

POSSIBLE CAUSE

Keyless control module malfunction


Diagnostic Procedure
Action

Inspection

Go to the applicable DTC inspection.

CONFIRM PCM DTC

(See DTC TABLE [MZR 1.5, MZR 1.6].)

Perform the PCM DTC inspection using the M-MDS.

(See DTC TABLE [MZR 2.0, MZR 2.5].)

(See ON-BOARD DIAGNOSTIC TEST [MZR 1.5, MZR


1.6].)

(See DTC TABLE [MZR 2.0 DISI i-stop].)

Yes

Step

(See ON-BOARD DIAGNOSTIC TEST [MZR 2.0, MZR


2.5].)

(See DTC TABLE [MZR 2.3 DISI Turbo].)


(See DTC TABLE [MZR-CD 2.2].)

(See ON-BOARD DIAGNOSTIC TEST [MZR 2.0 DISI istop].)

(See DTC TABLE [SKYACTIV-G 2.0].)

(See ON-BOARD DIAGNOSTIC TEST [MZR 2.3 DISI


Turbo].)
(See ON-BOARD DIAGNOSTIC TEST [MZR-CD 2.2].)
Go to the next step.

No

(See ON-BOARD DIAGNOSTIC TEST [SKYACTIV-G


2.0].)
Are any DTCs present?

Replace the generator, then go to the next step.


(See GENERATOR REMOVAL/INSTALLATION [MZR
1.5, MZR 1.6].)
(See GENERATOR REMOVAL/INSTALLATION [MZR
2.0, MZR 2.5].)

Yes INSPECT GENERATOR


Inspect the generator.
(See GENERATOR INSPECTION [MZR 1.5, MZR 1.6].)
(See GENERATOR INSPECTION [MZR 2.0, MZR 2.5].)

Action

Inspection

(See GENERATOR REMOVAL/INSTALLATION [MZR


2.0 DISI i-stop].)

Step

(See GENERATOR INSPECTION [MZR 2.0 DISI istop].)

(See GENERATOR REMOVAL/INSTALLATION [MZR


2.3 DISI Turbo].)

(See GENERATOR INSPECTION [MZR 2.3 DISI


Turbo].)

(See GENERATOR REMOVAL/INSTALLATION [MZRCD 2.2].)

(See GENERATOR INSPECTION [MZR-CD 2.2].)

(See GENERATOR REMOVAL/INSTALLATION


[SKYACTIV-G 2.0].)

(See GENERATOR INSPECTION [SKYACTIV-G 2.0].)


Is there any malfunction?

Go to the next step.

No

Replace the keyless control module, then go to the next


step.
(See KEYLESS CONTROL MODULE
REMOVAL/INSTALLATION.)

VERIFY TROUBLESHOOTING COMPLETED


Yes Operate the advanced key to activate the keyless
control module.
Clear the DTC from the keyless control module using
the M-MDS.
(See CLEARING DTC [ADVANCED KEYLESS ENTRY
AND PUSH BUTTON START SYSTEM].)
3
Operate the advanced key to activate the keyless
control module.

Go to the next step.

No

Perform the advanced keyless entry and push button


start system DTC inspection using the M-MDS.
(See DTC INSPECTION [ADVANCED KEYLESS
ENTRY AND PUSH BUTTON START SYSTEM].)
Is the same DTC present?

Go to the applicable DTC inspection.


(See DTC TABLE [ADVANCED KEYLESS ENTRY AND Yes VERIFY THAT NO OTHER DTCs ARE PRESENT
PUSH BUTTON START SYSTEM].)
Are any DTCs present?
DTC troubleshooting completed.

No

P1884 CADILLAC
P1884 CADILLAC - TCC Enable/Shift Light Circuit

P1797
P1797 - Neutral Switch Circuit Malfunction

Possible symptoms
- Engine Light ON (or Service Engine Soon Warning Light)
P1797: Clutch Pedal Position Switch Or Neutral Switch Malfunction

Definition of Diagnostic Trouble Code P1797


Audi:
Vehicle Speed Signal Circuit Short to B+
Chrysler:
Manual Shift Overheat
Dodge:
Manual Shift Overheat
Ford:
Neutral Switch Circuit
Jaguar:
CAN TCM/ECM Circuit Malfunction
Jeep:
Manual Shift Overheat
Kia:
P or N Range Signal or CPP Switch Open or Short
Lincoln:
Neutral Switch Circuit
Mazda:
Clutch Pedal Position Switch/Neutral Switch Circuit
Mercury:
Neutral Switch Circuit
Volkswagen:
Vehicle Speed Signal Circuit Short to B+

Latest News
Automotive Electro-Mechanical Relays Types / Faults / Diagnosis
May 2013

We need to relay this important information


With the amount of electrical components and controls now fitted to the modern vehicle, it is important that the targeted load
is supplied with the necessary voltage / current as required to ensure continuous, uninterrupted operation.
That is, to reduce voltage drop to the component during broad temperature changes and high vibration in all climate
operation. As an example, whether its a radiator cooling fan, an air conditioning compressor or a starter motor, any relay
interruption may cause at least an uncomfortable journey or possibly a trip on the tow truck. All this from a low cost, readily

available, easily tested and replaced, small but important component that gets generally verbally abused when it fails. Ask
me how I know.
Lets look at the types of vehicle relays and the importance of fitting the correct replacement
Typical commonly used automotive types.
Mini Relays electromechanically operated contact switches. May be 4 pin / 5 pin or 6 pin configuration.

The 4 pin configuration may either be:


A Normally open (NO) relay where the internal mechanical contacts are held open when the relay is in a disconnected
state. The contacts close when activated. This is the most common type found on the vehicle. A specifically produced power
relay may resemble this unit but is manufactured for switching nominal current of 50A or more, making them suitable as
operating relays for starting motors, glow plug operation, motor relay for antilock braking systems, to name a few.

A normally closed (NC) relay where the internal mechanical contacts are held closed when the relay is in a disconnected
state.

The 5 pin configuration may be:


A Change over relay where 2 sets of contacts are used with one set normally open and the other set normally closed.
These of course will alternate once the relay is activated. This type of relay will generally display 2 current ratings (for each
contact circuit) and it is important that a replacement relay unit is matched to the original relay specifications.

A Normally open, dual output 5 pin relay

But wait theres more.


Even on these common relay types there are more variations and features and fitting any old relay is not an option.

Resistor protected or Diode Protected

Terminals 36 and 86 exchanged

Amperage variations and variations in contact material.

Micro Relays
These units are ideal, due to their size, for space restricted areas. The micro relays vary in pin configuration to the mini
relays but are still available in 4 and 5 pin with similar variations and features.

Pin identification may vary to the mini relays as follows.

Faults/ Diagnosis/Testing.
The relay may intermittently fail under certain conditions or fail totally. This may be confused with harness or socket terminal
faults so it is important to correctly verify the fault.
Simple test equipment is available to quickly identify some circuit or relay faults and carry out time saving quick tests.

We need to get excited about it.


A common occurring vehicle system fault is the lack of relay winding excitation that can stop the relay functioning and can
cause the vehicle to stall. A typical example may be the petrol fuel pump relay which switches off whilst driving that is caused
by a fault in the ECM and not in the relay itself.

Renewing the relay and sending the vehicle on its way is not a thorough test. Unfortunately, by the time the Technician has
been called out and proceeds to carry out any tests on the vehicle the ECM has cooled down and may function normally.
Thorough testing again is required to pin point the area of concern.
Simple test equipment again may assist the Technician to carry out this task. Bridging relay socket pins for the inexperienced
or semi educated may result in damage or unrepairable damage to the fuel pump control circuit in the ECM. You may be
surprised on how many times this has occurred. Then again you may not!

P1306
P1306 - Kickdown Relay Pull In Circuit Fault

Symptoms
- Engine Light ON (or Service Engine Soon Warning Light)

P1306 Description
Kickdown Relay Pull In Circuit Fault is one of the definitions for the P1306; however your vehicle's
manufacturer may have a different definition for the P1306 code. Please check below for your specific
make.

P1306 FORD
P1306 FORD - Kickdown Relay Pull In Circuit Fault

Symptoms
- Engine Light ON (or Service Engine Soon Warning Light)

Alan
==========
:I made a schematic annotation to help power flow

Theo
Porsche 928 GTS midnight blue 1992
The Netherlands

Kickdown relay (two versions, this is the pre-1989, starting 1989 the relay has extra inputs)
?What is the sole purpose of kickdown switch relay and how will I know that it is malfunctioning
Bora Ertung
==========================================
Hello Bora, The kick-down switch closes a circuit to the automatic transmission and forces a
downshift to the lowest possible gear for the speed/RPM of the car. A relay is a switch, with the
"open/close" controlled by a relatively small current compared to the amount of current flowing

through the actual switch. A relay is used when it is desirable to control a large amount of current
with a small current. The kick-down switch (and wires) at the throttle are small compared to what
would be necessary to manage the solenoids in the transmission. If the kick-down relay isn't
working, you will see two possible scenarios; - if it is stuck in the open position, you get no kickdown when stomping the throttle petal to the floor - if it is stuck closed, you will always be in kickdown mode and will have a much too aggressive shift program for normal driving (always revving
.to near the redline prior to upshift) My guess is being stuck in the closed position would be rare
Rich
s with kick-down switches '928 2
============================================
For all those auto. trans. out there. I installed a temporary switch to bypass the kickdown process
for my '85. I've read a few messages on the list that extoll the new found gitty-up that there cars
seem to have at lower speeds without having to put the pedal through the floor. Well, after I
screwed up a $10 job, (pinched wire = meltdown), I had my mechanic go through it, (now $200 job
w/wire harness, accordion conduit around the wires etc.), and it is functional. However, the only
real benefit I have found is at the higher cruising speeds where if you need to pass, with a simple
press of this button, (mine is on the left footpad), it shifts down into 3rd for that added response.
But that is it! From what I read on the list, I was expecting it to send it to 1st or 2nd for that true
"kickdown" efect. It absolutely had no benefit for freeway onramp acceleration. Am I missing
,something? Thanks
Rory Hart '85S A/T
==============================================
Dear Roy: On my previous 86 928S AT I installed a parallel kick down switch. When pressed once it
was on. To turn it of, it had to be pressed again. During autocrosses I would "set it, and forget it." I
was always in the lowest possible gear that did not exceed redline. During DE, I prefer to determine
the gear I want on my own, so it rarely was used. For street use, it was good for a few low speed
thrills, but not often. Besides my mileage was not great to begin with, and using it made it much
worse. The fact that your AT is not shifting down to the lowest gear possible may indicate there are
other problems. Try the following experiment. First, do not use the kick-down switch at all. Second,
from a standing start, place the gear selector in "2". Accelerate slowly to 25 MPH (40 KPH) and take
notice of the Tach. (You should be in 1st gear). When you get to 4,000 RPM move the selector to "3"
and back to "2" quickly. (You should now be in 2nd gear.) Continue to accelerate and at 3,000 RPM
move the selector to "3" and leave it there. (You should be in 3rd gear.) Finally, move the selector
~to "D". You should now be in 4th. Merry motoring. ~Ed
=============================================
:At 08:46 PM 7/24/01, Dennis Wilson wrote
I recently tried doing the "kickdown switch modification" as documented on many sites. Result <
was no discernable change in shifting behavior. After checking my connections and ensuring the
toggle switch is really switching the circuit (probing continuity across the foot switch connector),
I'm fairly sure there is nothing wrong with my wiring job. That leaves me to suspect faults in how
this circuit is sending control signals to the AT. I think I'm in for some under-car exploration... Has
.anyone BTDT? I'm guessing there may be some kind of relay involved
?Anyone know how/where the kickdown circuit connects to the AT <
TIA dw<

.... As usual, it would have been nice to know the specific year model, but
The automatic transmission is primarily controlled by internal hydraulic pressures. This includes the
.speed at which up shifts and downshifts occur, and the firmness of the shifts
The kickdown solenoid is only one of several devices that adjust the control pressure to change the
shifts. When the kickdown switch is made (closed), power flows from fuse #10 (on the '87) thru the
switch, then into the 30 terminal of the kickdown relay (XV on the '87), thru the normally closed
contacts of the relay, and out the 87a terminal to the kickdown solenoid mounted inside the
transmission. When the solenoid is energized, it reduces control pressure, raising the shift speed
.close to the maximum speed
The kickdown relay doesn't do what most people think that it does. The power flow from the switch
to the solenoid is thru the NORMALLY CLOSED contacts of the relay. This means that the power
normally flows thru the relay. In order to control the shift points more precisely (since the speed is
very close to engine redline), the kickdown relay receives a signal from the tachometer when
engine speed hits 5800 +/-60 RPM (USA and Japan - it's 100 RPM higher for the ROW). This signal
open the contacts in the kickdown relay, breaking the power to the kickdown solenoid. This has the
same efect as instantaneously lifting your foot from the throttle switch, causing an instant shift. As
soon as the engine speed goes back below 5800, the relay closes the contacts, lowering the control
.pressure to hold the next shift
So, the kickdown switch (and the added parallel kickdown switch) supplies power to the kickdown
solenoid only when the engine speed is below 5800 RPM. Above that speed, the kickdown relay
.opens, breaking the circuit
You can check by pulling relay XV (on the '87) and jumpering terminals 30 and 87a in the socket,
then driving the car. If there is now a diference in the shift speeds, relay XV or the contacts for it
.are bad
.I would suggest that you NOT try the full throttle shift points with the relay jumpered
Wally Plumley
Specialists 928
===========
I recently learned more about the kick down relay operation (even though I don't have one). It is
.not intuitive
The relay is not activated by the switch (or a bypass installed instead). Instead it is activated
.(variously over the years by engine RPM, throttle position, speed, dynamic throttle inputs
The relay terminals are normally closed and the solenoid is activated directly by the kick down
switch (or bypass) though these normally closed contacts. When the solenoid is activated the AT
.control pressure is lowered & the shift point speeds are raised
The kick down relay is activated primarily by an engine RPM signal (at high RPM points - from dash)
which causes the relay to turn of the solenoid - this is what causes the shift to happen - which itself

causes the RPM to drop and reengages the solenoid to hold the next gear until it gets to high RPM
...again
So bottom line is you will engage the solenoid almost full-time if your kick down is always
activated/bypassed. It does not seem to be a major reliability factor since I haven't seen reports of
solenoid failure and as far as I can see its just operating a pressure relief valve so is probably quite
...low power
:So in summary
.The kick down switch causes the trans to hold in gear to higher RPM/speed
.The relay momentarily breaking the connection causes the high RPM shifts to happen

.I do also think a (left) foot operated momentary switch is probably the best option to control this
Alan
__________________
"GTS Black/Black Manual "AZ Desert Gang 928 1994
=========
Hello Alan
I didn't realize that the relay has normally closed contacts. What I said earlier should have more
correctly stated "Looking at the circuit, the KD switch applies battery volts to the 12v side of the
."CONTACTS of the kick down relay
So as I understand it, the KD relay may be opening its contacts at some predetermined rpm but
until the KD switch is bypassed or normally activated then the KD relay can't activate the gearbox
solenoid because there are no volts available to energize it (and then allow the relay to break those
supply volts)
? Do you agree
__________________
John '86 Euro S2
==========
Yes - the KD relay is actually more of an "anti K-D" relay in most versions. Its job is only to disable
the kick-down when the trans should shift or before a min speed has been reached. This is what is
.not intuitive at all about it - it works quite opposite to the switch
Only in the GTS dynamic kick-down can the relay actually activate the solenoid itself. In that case it
still retains the disable function - its just as if there is now also a parallel kick-down switch inside
the relay. The schematics for the later relay do not show this extra contact set - but they must be
.there
Alan
=========
new TPS & New KD relay and a bit of additional wiring - 1 new wire between the new TPS & the
relay should get you exact GTS 94+ behavior. Actually not that hard to do electrically (but you have
...to pull the intake to swap the TPS. Its a little more complex on 88 and older
See http://forums.rennlist.com/rennforums/showthread.php?t=245964

Alan
==========
:I made a schematic annotation to help understanding the kickdown relay power flow
Electronic Transmissions
Copyright AA1Car Adapted from an article written by Larry Carley for Underhood Service magazine

Todays electronic transmissions use sensors, solenoids and relays to regulate the operation of the clutches, gears and
torque converter. On applications where these functions have not been integrated into the powertrain control module (PCM),
there is a separate transmission control module (TCM) to oversee the operation of the transmission - and that is the focus of
.this article: how TCMs and PCMs interact
Just like the PCM, the TCM needs accurate information to do its job properly. If the transmission computer receives bad
information from the transmissions own internal sensors or bad inputs from the PCM or other engine sensors, it will have an
adverse effect on how the transmission operates. It may not shift smoothly. It may shift at the wrong rpm. It may even go into
.a "limp-in" mode and remain frozen in second or third gear
Essential Information
Electronic transmissions are getting smarter all the time. Most of the current generation units have fully adaptive control
systems that "learn" the best shift points based on real-time sensor inputs and feedback. The transmission computer adapts
the shift strategy to compensate for changes in engine performance and wear in the transmission friction elements in the
clutches. By making subtle changes to the shift points and engagement, the computer tries to maintain consistent shift
.quality
The transmission computer monitors what is happening inside the transmission with various speed and gear range sensors
that tell it if the gears are shifting correctly and at what speeds. But to pick the shift points, it needs certain inputs from the
engine and PCM. The transmission computer needs to know how fast the vehicle is traveling. This information is provided by
.the vehicle speed sensor. It also needs to know engine speed (rpm) and load
On some applications, the rpm signal is hard-wired directly to the transmission computer as well as the PCM. There is a
dedicated circuit between the crankshaft position sensor and TCM to supply the rpm signal. On other applications, the rpm
.signal goes only to the PCM and the PCM forwards it to the TCM via a data bus circuit
Engine load can be determined from throttle position, intake vacuum and airflow. Depending on what type of fuel injection
system is used (speed density or airflow), engine load inputs may come from the throttle position sensor (TPS), manifold
absolute pressure sensor (MAP) and/or a vane airflow sensor (VAF) or mass airflow sensor (MAF). As with the rpm signal,
the information may be shared directly with the transmission computer or it may go through the PCM and forwarded to the
.TCM over the data bus

Effects of Bad Engine Sensor Inputs on the Transmission

Because the transmission needs to know engine speed and load as well as vehicle speed to pick the right shift points, a bad
.sensor input or loss of a signal can create real problems for the transmission computer
The throttle position sensor signal takes the place of the throttle kickdown linkage on older mechanical automatics. So if the
TPS is reading high or low, or has a dead spot, it can affect transmission kickdown shifts when accelerating, as well as
normal upshifts and downshifts, too. If the TCM cannot get a good TPS signal, it may substitute a "calculated" throttle angle
provided by the PCM over the data bus. Or, if this signal is not available, it may substitute a fixed value for the TPS signal.
This will obviously affect the way it shifts (transmission typically hunts for shift points) but not necessarily cause it to go into a
.limp-in mode
A faulty throttle position sensor will not always set a fault code. The PCM has to be smart enough to figure out when the TPS
is working properly and when it is not. Its diagnostic strategies may compare the TPS signal against engine rpm, MAP signal
and/or airflow to determine if the TPS signal makes sense. If the TPS signal does not correspond to other sensor inputs that
can be used to measure engine load, the PCM may set a fault code. Then again, it might not. It all depends on the self.diagnostic strategy, how sensitive it is to faults and how easily the PCM can detect problems

Transmission Limp-In Modes


Under certain conditions, which may include the loss of one or more vital inputs to the TCM, the transmission will go into
some kind of limp-in or "default" mode. When a serious fault is diagnosed (such as loss of an internal speed sensor signal) or
a problem occurs in the wiring circuit to any of the shift solenoids, the TCM will kill the power to the transmission control relay
and deenergize all of the shift solenoids. This usually causes the transmission to freeze in 2nd or 3rd gear. The transmission
will remain in limp-in mode until (1) the problem is diagnosed and repaired, or (2) power to the TCM is momentarily turned off
to "reset" the computer. This may restore normal operation temporarily, but as soon as the TCM detects the fault again, it will
.go back into limp-in mode

Transmission Diagnostic Trouble Codes

Like PCMs, TCMs have the ability to self-diagnose faults and set diagnostic trouble codes that can be read with a scan tool.
So if the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is on and the transmission is not operating properly, the fault may be in the
.transmission - or it may be in the engine. The only way to find out is to pull the code(s) to see what is going on
It is not unusual to blame some engine driveability problems on the transmission and vice versa. A torque converter that
locks up prematurely or fails to release quickly enough can cause a driveline shudder that may feel like an engine misfire or
.vibration. If the torque converter fails to release at all, it can cause the engine to buck and stall when coming to a stop
Any time you encounter a problem with an electronic automatic or find a transmission code, make sure the engine is running
properly and there are no engine codes that could affect the operation of the transmission. In other words, take care of any
.engine problems first before attempting to diagnose a transmission problem
If a vehicle has a data bus communication problem between the TCM and PCM, you probably will not be able to access any
transmission codes until the wiring problem is fixed. Possible causes include an open or short to the ground or battery in the
.PCI bus circuit, or an internal failure of any module or component that is attached to the bus
The data bus is monitored any time the ignition key is on. If no messages are received from the PCM for 10 or more
.seconds, it tells the TCM something is wrong and it sets a data bus code
If the transmission can find an engine speed signal from the crankshaft position
sensor or PCM, the transmission can be forced into the limp-in mode. The
problem should set a crank sensor circuit fault code and turn on the MIL. Possible
causes include an open or short in the crank sensor circuit, a TCM connector
problem, an open or short in the crank sensor ground circuit, or an internal fault in
.the TCM or PCM
On OBD II applications, various transmission codes are included in the "generic"
list of OBD II codes. If the transmission computer detects a problem that may
affect emissions, it will send a request over the data bus to the engine computer to turn on the MIL lamp. A code will be set in
the TCM and remain there until it is cleared or no fault is detected during 40 consecutive drive cycles. The MIL may go out
.but leave the code in memory if no fault is detected during three consecutive drive cycles
Illustration Courtesy of ZF Friedrichshafen AG

Seven Steps for Troubleshooting An Electronic Automatic Transmision


:The recommended procedure for troubleshooting an electronic automatic transmission problem involves seven steps
1. Verify the complaint. Is the transmission really shifting improperly, shuddering, slipping, etc.?
2. Verify any related symptoms. Is the engine overheating, are there engine fault codes or other driveability
problems?
3. Analyze the symptoms and when they occur. Does the complaint only occur when hot, cold, driving at certain
speeds, etc.?
4. Check for any OEM technical service bulletins that might apply to the problem.
5. Isolate the fault. Use the trouble codes and diagnostic charts to narrow down the possibilities. Is the problem
inside or outside the transmission. Is it hydraulic, mechanical or electronic?
6. Repair the fault. Replace the faulty component, replace the transmission or repair the wiring fault.
7. Verify the repair. Did you fix the problem?

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