Recall - Automatic Transmission 2nd Gear Inspection: Overview
04-020April 8, 2005
Applies To:
2001-03 3.2CL (including Type S) - ALL
2000-03 3.2TL (including Type S) - ALL
2004 TL - From VIN 19UUA66..4A000001 thru 19UUA66.4A014224
Safety Recall: CL and TL Automatic Transmission 2nd Gear Inspection
(Supersedes 04-020, Safety Recall CL and TL Automatic Transmission Second Gear Inspection, dated November 10, 2004)
Updated information is shown with black bars and asterisks.
BACKGROUND
Certain operating conditions can result in heat build-up between the countershaft and secondary shaft 2nd gears in the A/T. Without enough oil flow to dissipate heat, prolonged operation under these conditions can eventually result in decreased material strength. In higher mileage vehicles, this can result in gear tooth chipping or, in very rare cases, gear breakage.
In most cases, A/T noise will indicate a problem, however it is possible for the A/T to become locked without warning. A locked A/T could result in a crash.
CLIENT NOTIFICATION
All owners of affected vehicles will be sent a notification of this recall. There is a client letter example shown in this bulletin.
Not all vehicles within the VIN ranges are affected by this recall. Before starting work on a vehicle, make sure it is eligible by checking for one or more of these items:
^ The client has a notification letter.
^ The vehicle is listed on your campaign responsibility report.
^ The vehicle is noted as eligible when you do a VIN status inquiry on the interactive network (iN).
Besides checking these items, also check for a punch mark above the 12th character of the engine compartment VIN. A punch mark there means the A/T has already been inspected and repaired.
Some vehicles affected by this recall may be in your new or used vehicle inventory. According to federal law, these vehicles cannot be sold or leased until they are repaired. Before selling a vehicle, do a VIN status inquiry to check if it is affected by this recall.
CORRECTIVE ACTION
Do a VIN status inquiry on the iN. If there is a C to the right of S/B: 04-020 on the VIN STATUS INQUIRY screen, return the vehicle to your client. The vehicle has an updated, remanufactured A/T from a previous repair. These A/Ts have been internally modified to provide sufficient lubrication for 2nd gear. From the outside, they look the same as other remanufactured A/Ts. Doing a VIN status inquiry is the only way to tell if the A/T has this modification. If there is no C shown, do this corrective action based on the vehicle's mileage:
Vehicles with 15,000 miles or less:
Install an A/T Oil Jet Kit.
Vehicles with more than 15,000 miles:
Do a photographic inspection of 2nd gear:
^ Use the digital camera and camera mount in the A/T Gear Inspection Kit to take five clear photos of 2nd gear through the countershaft speed sensor hole.
^ Load your photos onto an iN workstation, then view them on the workstation monitor.
^ Compare the gear color in your photos with the gear colors in the Automatic Transmission Gear Inspection Guide packaged with the camera.
^ If you decide that the gear color in your photos matches condition level # 1 in the inspection guide, then install an A/T Oil Jet Kit.
^ If you decide that the gear color in your photos matches any condition level other than # 1 in the inspection guide, submit a completed A/T order form, with your digital photos attached, to the RPO Tech Line. They will either cancel your order and direct you to install an A/T Oil Jet Kit, or they will process your order so you can install a remanufactured A/T.
^ If you order a remanufactured A/T for a 3.2CL or 3.2TL, you may get an updated PCM and you may also get a new fuel pressure regulator (shipped separately). Make sure you complete the repair by installing the updated PCM, the fuel pressure regulator (if sent), and the remanufactured A/T at the same time.
PARTS INFORMATION
TOOL INFORMATION
A/T Gear Inspection Kit:
NOTE:
This is the same kit you received earlier to inspect MDX A/Ts.
The kit contains these items:
^ Canon Powershot A75 Digital Camera: P/N CNUA75
(Includes Canon Digital Camera Solution Disk Version 17.1 software, USB interface cable, four AA batteries, Compact Flash card, user guide, and quick start guide)
^ Two Streamlight flexible white LED flashlights: P/N STL65618
NOTE:
Order additional cameras and flashlights through the Acura Tool and Equipment Program at 888-424-6857.
^ Numbering stamp (order by description)
^ Ink pad (order by description)
NOTE:
Order additional numbering stamps and ink pads either through the Acura Tool and Equipment Program or from other commercial sources.
^ Camera mount with bracket, spacer, and storage case: P/N 07AAB-PGHA100
^ Color bar stickers: P/N 07AAB-PGHA200
NOTE:
Order additional camera mounts and color bar stickers through normal parts ordering channels.
^ Automatic Transmission Gear Inspection Guide:
Helm Reorder Number E2393. This guide is packaged in the camera mount storage case. Use it to help you decide the gear condition. It includes comparison photos and descriptions of 2nd gear in six condition levels. The gear color determines whether or not you need to replace the A/T. If you need additional guides, call Helm at 800-782-4356.
WARRANTY CLAIM INFORMATION
Failed Part: P/N 23441-P7W-000
Defect Code: 5CS
Symptom Code: P39
Skill Level: Repair Technician
Disclaimer