Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Monitors, Trips, Drive Cycles and Readiness Codes

Transmission Drive Cycle Test

NOTE: Always drive the vehicle in a safe manner according to driving conditions and obey all traffic laws.

NOTE: The Transmission Drive Cycle Test must be followed exactly. Malfunctions must occur 4 times consecutively for shift error DTC to be set and 5 times consecutively for continuous torque converter clutch (TCC) code to set.

NOTE: When carrying out the Transmission Drive Cycle Test, refer to the Solenoid Application Chart for correct solenoid operation.

After carrying out the Quick Test, use the Transmission Drive Cycle Test for checking continuous codes.
1. Record and then erase Quick Test codes.
2. Warm engine to normal operating temperature.
3. Make sure transmission fluid level is correct.
4. With transmission in OVERDRIVE, moderately accelerate from stop to 80 km/h (50 mph). This allows the transmission to shift into 4th gear. Hold speed and throttle open steady for a minimum of 15 seconds.
5. With transmission in 4th gear and maintaining steady speed and throttle opening, lightly apply and release brake to operate stoplamps. Then hold speed and throttle steady for a minimum of 5 seconds.
6. Brake to a stop and remain stopped for a minimum of 20 seconds.
7. Repeat Steps 4 through 6 at least 5 times.
8. Carry out Quick Test and record continuous DTCs.
^ If the DTCs are still present, refer to the DTC Chart. Repair all non transmission DTCs first as they can directly affect the operation of the transmission. Repeat the Quick Test and the Road Test to verify the correction. Erase the DTCs, carry out the Drive Cycle Test and repeat the Quick Test after completing repair on the DTC.
^ If the continuous test passes and a concern is still present, refer to Diagnosis By Symptom, and TSBs for concerns.

After On-Board Diagnostic

NOTE: The vehicle wiring harness, PCM and non-transmission sensors may affect transmission operations. Repair these concerns first.

After the on-board diagnostic procedures are completed, repair all DTCs.

Begin with non-transmission related DTCs, then repair any transmission related DTCs. Use the diagnostic trouble code chart for information on condition and symptoms. This chart aids in diagnosing internal transmission concerns and external non-transmission inputs. The pinpoint tests are used in diagnosing transmission electrical concerns. Make sure that the vehicle wiring harness and the PCM are diagnosed as well.

Before Pinpoint Tests

NOTE: Prior to entering pinpoint tests, check the PCM wiring harness for tight connections, bent or broken pins, corrosion, loose wires, correct routing, correct seals and their condition. Check the PCM, sensors and actuators for damage. Refer to Computers and Control Systems.

NOTE: If a concern still exists after electrical diagnosis has been carried out, refer to Diagnosis By Symptom. If DTCs appear while carrying out the on-board diagnostics, refer to the Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Charts for the appropriate repair procedure. Prior to entering pinpoint tests, refer to any TSB messages for transmission concerns.