FREE REPAIR MANUALS & LABOR GUIDES 1982-2013 Vehicles
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Transmission Drive Cycle Test




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. Malfunctions must occur 4 times consecutively for shift error DTC to be set, and 5 times consecutively for continuous Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) code to set.

NOTE: Refer to the Solenoid Operation Chart for correct solenoid operation when performing the Transmission Drive Cycle Test.

Use the Transmission Drive Cycle Test for checking codes after performing a self-test.

1. Record then clear the DTCs.

2. Warm engine to normal operating temperature.

3. Make sure the transmission fluid level is correct.

4. With the selector lever in (D), moderately accelerate from stop to 80 km/h (50 mph) allowing the transmission to shift into 6th gear. Keep vehicle speed and throttle steady for a minimum of 15 seconds.

5. With the transmission in 6th gear and maintaining steady speed and throttle, lightly apply and release the brake to operate stop lamps. Then, hold speed and throttle steady for a minimum of 5 seconds.

6. Brake to a stop and remain stopped for a minimum of 20 seconds.

7. Repeat Steps 4 through 6 five times.

8. Perform a self-test and record DTCs.
- If DTCs are present, refer to the DTC Chart Automatic Transmission/Transaxle. Repair all non-transmission DTCs first as they can directly affect the operation of the transmission. Repeat the self-test and road test the vehicle to verify the repair. Clear the DTCs. Perform the drive cycle test and repeat the self-test after completing the repair.

- If the tests pass and a concern is still present, refer to Diagnosis By Symptom Diagnosis By Symptom, OASIS (On-Line Automotive Service Information System) messages and TSBs regarding concern.


After On-Board Diagnostic (OBD)

NOTE: The vehicle wiring harness, PCM and non-transmission sensors may affect transmission operations. Repair these concerns first.

Repair all DTCs after the On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) test procedures are completed.

Begin with non-transmission related DTCs, then repair any transmission related DTCs. Use the DTC Chart for information on condition and symptoms. This chart is helpful referring to the correct information(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 the vehicle wiring harness and the PCM are diagnosed as well. Computers and Control Systems Information aids in diagnosing non-transmission electronic components.