How to Perform Trouble Diagnosis For Quick and Accurate Repair
How to Perform Trouble Diagnosis for Quick and Accurate RepairINTRODUCTION
The TCM receives a signal from the vehicle speed sensor, accelerator pedal position sensor or PNP switch and provides shift control or lock-up control via A/T solenoid valves.
The TCM also communicates with the ECM by means of a signal sent from sensing elements used with the OBD related parts of the A/T system for malfunction-diagnostic purposes. The TCM is capable of diagnosing malfunctioning parts while the ECM can store malfunctions in its memory.
Input and output signals must always be correct and stable in the operation of the A/T system. The A/T system must be in good operating condition and be free of valve seizure, solenoid valve malfunction, etc.
It is much more difficult to diagnose a malfunction that occurs intermittently rather than continuously. Most intermittent malfunctions are caused by poor electric connections or improper wiring. In this case, careful checking of suspected circuits may help prevent the replacement of good parts.
A visual check only, may not find the cause of the malfunctions. A road test with CONSULT-III or a circuit tester connected should be performed. Follow the "WORK FLOW".
Before undertaking actual checks, take a few minutes to talk with a customer who approaches with a driveability complaint. The customer can supply good information about such malfunctions, especially intermittent ones. Find out what symptoms are present and under what conditions they occur. A "DIAGNOSTIC WORKSHEET" like the example ("DIAGNOSTIC WORKSHEET") should be used. Start your diagnosis by looking for "conventional" malfunctions first This will help troubleshoot driveability malfunctions on an electronically controlled engine vehicle.
Also check related Service bulletins for information.
WORK FLOW
A good understanding of the malfunction conditions can make troubleshooting faster and more accurate. In general, each customer feels differently about a malfunction. It is important to fully understand the symptoms or conditions for a customer complaint.
Make good use of the two sheets provided, "Information from customer" and "Diagnostic Worksheet Chart", to perform the best troubleshooting possible.
Work Flow Chart:
DIAGNOSTIC WORKSHEET
Information from Customer
KEY POINTS
^ WHAT Vehicle & A/T model
^ WHEN Date, Frequencies
^ WHERE Road conditions
^ HOW Operating conditions, Symptoms
