Description

TRANSMISSION

Powerflow Diagram:

Component Operation (Part 1):

Component Operation (Part 2):

The FA4A-EL (F4A-EL) transmission is a front wheel drive transaxle design with electronically regulated shift activation and lockup torque converter. Operation is controlled by the EC-AT (Electronically Controlled Automatic Transmission) control unit (integral with engine control unit for B6 SOHC model, except California). Operation of engine electronic controls and transmission electronic controls are coordinated to provide greater efficiency.

SELF-DIAGNOSIS FUNCTION

System Description
The self-diagnosis system integrated in the EC-AT control unit diagnoses malfunctions of the main input sensors, the output solenoid valves, and the control unit itself. Malfunctions (both hard faults and intermittents) are stored in control unit memory and can be retrieved as service codes.

General Notes
On Federal B6 SOHC models, the dash hold indicator does not flash to indicate service code numbers.

If there is more than one malfunction, code numbers are displayed in numberical order with 4 second interval between, lowest number first.

The dash hold indicator light on B6 SOHC (California) and K8 DOHC, or MIL on B6 SOHC (except California), flashes indicating the same pattern as the buzzer on the Mazda EC-AT tester. When the check connector is not grounded (as during normal driving), the indicator flashes at a constant frequency until the malfunction is corrected. At the same time, a service code is stored in the control unit.

The control unit has a built-in fail safe function for the throttle sensor, speed sensor, speedometer sensor, and all solenoids. If a malfunction occurs, the control unit regulates operation of the remaining components according to a preset fail safe program. The vehicle can still be driven, but driving performance may be affected slightly.

After repairs, turn ignition off, disconnect the negative battery cable for at least 20 seconds, and depress the brake pedal to erase service codes from control unit memory.