Diagnostic Strategies

Transmission problems can be caused by the following:
- Improper maintenance and/or adjustments
- Malfunctions of the electronic control functions
- Malfunctions of mechanical functions
- Hydraulic control functions
- Engine performance problems

To determine the source of a malfunction, get all details concerning the problem from the customer, such as;
- Condition of the problem
- When the problem occurs
- Whether or not the problem has occurred more than once
- Under what conditions the problem occurs









Fluid Level and Condition
1. Drive until the fluid temperature reaches the usual temperature [70-80°C (160-180°F)].
2. Place vehicle on level floor.
3. Move selector lever sequentially to every position to fill torque converter and hydraulic circuit with fluid, then place lever in "N" Neutral position. This operation is necessary to be sure that fluid level check is accurate.
4. Before removing dipstick, wipe all dirt from area around dipstick. Then take out the dipstick and check the condition of the fluid.
The transaxle should be overhauled under the following conditions.
- If there is a "burning" odor.
- If the fluid color has become noticeably blacker.
- If there is a noticeably great amount of metal particles in the fluid.

5. Check to see if fluid level is in "HOT" range on dipstick. If fluid level is low, add automatic transaxle fluid until level reaches "HOT" range.
- Low fluid level can cause a variety of conditions because it allows pump to take in air along with fluid. Air trapped in hydraulic circuit forms bubbles which make fluid spongy. Therefore, pressures will be erratic.
- Improper filling can also raise fluid level too high. When transaxle has too much fluid, gears churn up foam and cause same conditions which occur with low fluid level, resulting in accelerated deterioration of automatic transaxle fluid.
- In either case, air bubbles can cause overheating, fluid oxidation, which can interfere with normal valve, clutch, and servo operation. Foaming can also result in fluid escaping from transaxle vent where it may be mistaken for a leak.
6. Be sure to examine fluid on dipstick closely.

CONTROL CABLE

Note: Whether control cable is properly adjusted can be confirmed by checking whether [1][2]park/neutral position switch is performing well.

1. Apply parking brakes and service brakes securely.
2. Place selector lever to "R" range.
3. Set ignition key to "ST" position.
4. Slowly move the selector lever upward until it clicks as it fits in notch of "P" range. If starter motor operates when lever makes a click, "P" position is correct.
5. Then slowly move selector lever to "N" range by the same procedure as in foregoing paragraph. If starter motor operates when selector lever fits in "N", "N" position is correct.
6. Also check to be sure the vehicle doesn't begin to move and the lever doesn't stop between P-R-N-D.
7. The control cable is properly adjusted if, as described above, the starter motor starts at both the "P" range and the "N" range.