Engine, A/T Controls - Harsh Shifts/Converter Shudder
NUMBER: 21-003-08GROUP: Transmission
DATE: January 15, 2008
THE StarSCAN(R) FLASH FILES FOR THIS BULLETIN MUST BE RETRIEVED FROM THE INTERNET.
StarSCAN(R) SOFTWARE LEVEL MUST BE AT RELEASE 8.04 OR HIGHER.
StarMOBILE DESKTOP CLIENT MAY ALSO BE USED TO PERFORM THIS PROCEDURE.
SUBJECT:
Flash: Torque Converter Shudder with Coordinated Change OR Shift Quality Improvements
OVERVIEW:
This bulletin involves reprogramming the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) with new software if shift harshness is the symptom/condition - OR - if shudder is the symptom/condition, reprogramming the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) and replacing the torque converter with one that includes revised friction material.
MODELS:
2007 (JS41) Sebring
2007 - 2008 (JS41) Avenger
2008 (JS27) Sebring Convertible
NOTE:
This bulletin applies to models equipped with a 2.7L or 3.5L engine and 41TE or 62TE automatic transmission (Sales Codes DFF or DG2) built prior to July 23, 2007 (MDH0723XX).
NOTE:
This bulletin DOES NOT apply to JS models equipped with a 2.4L engine.
SYMPTOM/CONDITION:
The vehicle operator may experience one or more of the following symptoms:
1. Transmission Shudder
a. This condition can only occur after the vehicle has been driven and the torque convertor is past the break in period. Torque Converter break in can be confirmed with the StarSCAN(R).
b. If experienced, the shudder may occur when the transmission temperature is between 38° C and 54° (100° F and 130° F) during steady state driving with the torque convertor in partial lock (EMCC) operation. The shudder feels like the vehicle is being driven over rumble strips.
2. Torque Converter Pull In Bump
a. This condition can occur due to abrupt torque converter clutch engagement during EMCC initialization.
3. Shift Harshness
a. Models equipped with a 2.7L engine & 41TE transmission may exhibit 1 - 2 upshift harshness.
b. Models equipped with a 3.5L engine & 62TE transmission may exhibit 1 - 2 or 2 - 3 upshift harshness.
DIAGNOSIS:
Using a Scan Tool (StarSCAN(R)) with the appropriate Diagnostic Procedures available in TechCONNECT, verify all engine/transmission systems are functioning as designed. If DTC's are present record them on the repair order and repair as necessary before proceeding further with this bulletin.
If the vehicle operator describes the Symptom/Conditions and they can be verified, perform the appropriate Repair Procedure.
PARTS REQUIRED:
SPECIAL TOOLS / EQUIPMENT REQUIRED:
REPAIR PROCEDURE - USING THE INTERNET TO RETRIEVE THE FLASH FILE:
NOTE:
When performing this Repair Procedure, the software release level in the StarSCAN(R); must be programmed with 8.04 level software or higher. The software release level is visible in the blue header at the top of the StarSCAN(R) screen.
NOTE:
The StarSCAN(R) diagnostic scan tool fully supports Internet connectivity. However, to take advantage of this feature you must first configure the StarSCAN(R) for your dealership's network. Make sure the StarSCAN(R) is configured to the dealership's network before proceeding. For instruction on setting up your StarSCAN(R) for the dealer's network refer to either:
"DealerCONNECT > Service > StarSCAN and StarMOBILE tools > Online Documentation", or refer to the StarSCAN(R) Quick Start Networking Guide. The StarSCAN(R) Quick Start Networking Guide is also available on the website under the "Download Center".
NOTE:
If this flash process is interrupted/aborted, the flash should be restarted.
1. Perform the Repair associated with the Symptom/Condition as follows:
a. If Shudder is experienced begin with step 2 - replace the torque converter and reprogram the PCM.
b. If Shift Harshness is experienced begin with step 3 - reprogram the PCM.
2. Replace the Torque Converter - Use the appropriate part number listed in the parts table above - Follow detailed service procedures listed in DealerCONNECT > TechCONNECT for Torque Converter replacement.
3. Install a battery charger and verify that the charging rate provides approximately 13.5 volts. Set the battery charger to continuous charge. Do not allow the charger to time out during the flash process. Remove the charger from the battery when the flash process is complete.
4. Connect the CH9410 StarSCAN(R) ethernet cable to the StarSCAN(R) and the dealer's network drop.
5. Connect the CH9404D StarSCAN(R) vehicle cable to the StarSCAN(R) and the vehicle.
6. Power ON the StarSCAN(R).
7. Turn the ignition switch on.
8. Retrieve the old PCM part number. Using the StarSCAN(R) at the "Home" screen:
a. Select "ECU View"
b. Touch the screen to highlight the PCM in the list of modules.
c. Select "More Options"
d. Select "ECU Flash"
e. Record the part number at the top of the "Flash PCM" screen for later reference.
f. Select "Browse for New File". Follow the on screen instructions.
g. Select "Download to Scantool".
h. Select "Close" after the download is complete, then select "Back".
i. Highlight the listed calibration.
j. Select "Update Controller". Follow on screen instructions.
k. When the update is complete, select "OK".
l. Verify the part number at the top of the "Flash PCM screen has updated to the new part number.
9. After flash reprogramming, be sure to Perform these additional Repair Steps:
a. Clear the Variable Line Pressure (VLP) Counters, found in the StarSCAN(R) Misc Function Menu. VLP Clear Counters must be completed on all models with a 62TE transmission or if DTC P1745 appears on other transmission applications.
b. Clear any DTC's that may have been set in other modules due to reprogramming.
c. Perform the Quick Learn function, found in the StarSCAN(R) Misc Function Menu.
d. Select the TCC Break In, found in the StarSCAN(R) Misc Function Menu and select "Start TCC Break In".
NOTE:
Due to the PCM programming procedure, a DTC may be set in other modules (TCM, BCM, MIC, SKREEM, etc.) within the vehicle, if so equipped. Some DTC's may cause the MIL to illuminate. From the "Home" screen select "System View". Then select "All DTCs". Press "Clear All Stored DTCs" if there are any DTCs shown on the list.
NOTE:
The following step is required by law when reprogramming a PCM and/or TCM.
10. Type the necessary information on the "Authorized Modification Label p/n 04275086AB and attach near the VECI label (Fig 1).
POLICY:
Reimbursable within the provisions of the warranty.
TIME ALLOWANCE:
FAILURE CODE:
Disclaimer:
This bulletin is supplied as technical information only and is not an authorization for repair.