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. Transmission failure must occur four times consecutively for shift error DTC code to be set, and five times consecutively for continuous torque converter clutch code to set.

NOTE: When carrying out the Transmission Drive Cycle Test, use the Solenoid Operation Chart for proper 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 (D) position, moderately accelerate from stop to 80 km/h (50 mph). This allows the transmission to shift into fifth gear. Hold speed and throttle open steady for a minimum of 15 seconds.
5. With transmission in fifth gear and maintaining steady speed and throttle opening, lightly apply and release brake to operate stop lamps. Then hold speed and throttle steady for a minimum of five seconds.
6. Brake to a stop and remain stopped for a minimum of 20 seconds.
7. Repeat steps 4 through 6 at least five times.
8. Carry out Quick Test and record continuous DTCs.

After On-Board Diagnostics

NOTE: The vehicle wiring harness, Powertrain Control Module (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. This chart will be helpful in referring to the correct manual(s) and 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. The will aid in diagnosing non-transmission electronic components.

Before Pinpoint Tests

NOTE: Prior to entering pinpoint tests, check the powertrain control module (PCM) wiring harness for correct connections, bent or broken pins, corrosion, loose wires, correct routing, correct seals and their condition. Check the PCM, sensors and actuators for damage.

NOTE: If a concern still exists after electrical diagnosis, refer to Diagnosis By Symptom. Pinpoint Tests

If DTCs appear while carrying out the on-board diagnostics, refer to the Diagnostic Trouble Code Charts for the appropriate repair procedure. Prior to entering pinpoint tests, refer to any TSBs for transmission concerns. Diagnostic Trouble Code Tests and Associated Procedures