Transmission Fluid Temperature (TFT) Sensor
The TFT sensor is located on the internal wiring harness to the solenoid valves in the fluid pan.
It is a resistor and measures the transmission fluid temperature.
The transmission fluid temperature is used by the PCM for the following functions
- Applying the torque converter clutch is not permitted until the transmission fluid reaches a certain temperature
- engagement of fourth gear is prevented in extreme sub-zero temperatures until the normal operating temperature is reached
- if the transmission fluid temperature is excessive, a pre-set fixed shift curve is selected and the torque converter lock-up clutch is closed in "2", "3" and "4"; of the transmission warning indicator is activated. No substitute signal is available for the TFT sensor.
Scheme 118
The O/D switch transmits a signal to the PCM to select or suppress fourth gear in manual selector lever position "D".
The signal of the O/D switch is used for the following functions
- as an input signal to convey the driver's intent to the PCM.
- to display the driver's intent with the O/D indicator in the instrument cluster.
No substitute signal is available for the O/D switch. If it should fail, it is always possible to shift into fourth gear in manual selector lever position "D".
Scheme 119
When the ignition is switched on, the manual selector lever shift lock solenoid is actuated by depressing the brake (signal from the stoplamp switch). This retracts the locking pin so that he manual selector lever can be moved out of position "P".
Scheme 120
If the brake signal should fail due to a malfunction, manual unlocking is possible.
For this, the cover of the release mechanism must be removed and a suitable object (ignition key) pressed into the opening until the manual selector lever can be moved out of position "P".
Note. If "P" is selected again, the manual selector lever is locked again.
Check Fluid Level
Under normal conditions, there is no requirement to check the transaxle fluid level. However, if the transaxle is not functioning correctly, the transaxle may slip, shift slowly or there may be some sign of fluid leakage, the fluid level should be checked.
| CAUTION | The vehicle should not be driven if the fluid level is below the bottom line on the fluid level indicator and the ambient temperature is above 10 °C (50°F). |
Note. Automatic transmission fluid expands when warmed. To obtain an accurate fluid level check, drive the vehicle until normal operating temperature is reached, approximately 30 km (20 miles).
Note. If the vehicle has been operated for an extended period at high speeds, in city traffic, during hot weather or while pulling a trailer the vehicle should be turned OFF for approximately 30 minutes to allow the fluid to cool before checking.
Note. Incorrect fluid level may affect the transaxle operation and could result in transaxle damage. To correctly check and add fluid to the transaxle, refer to PRELIMINARY INSPECTION .
Scheme 121
- Drive the vehicle 30 km (20 miles) or until the vehicle reaches normal operating temperature.
- Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
- With your foot on the brake, start the engine and move the range selector lever through all the gear ranges. Allow sufficient time for each gear to engage.
- Place the range selector in "P" PARK and leave the engine running.
- Remove the fluid level indicator and wipe it clean with a lint free cloth.
- Install the fluid level indicator, making sure that it is fully seated in the filler tube.
- Remove the fluid level indicator. The fluid should be within the designated areas.
High Fluid Level
A fluid level that is too high may cause the fluid to become aerated due to the churning action of the rotating internal parts. This will cause erratic control pressure, foaming, loss of fluid from the vent tube and possible transaxle damage. If an overfill reading is indicated, adjust fluid to correct level.
Low Fluid Level
A low fluid level could result in poor transaxle engagement, slipping or damage. This could also indicate a leak in one of the transaxle seals or gaskets.
Adding Fluid
| CAUTION | The use of any other type of transaxle fluid than specified could result in transaxle damage. |
If fluid needs to be added, add fluid in 0.25L (1/2 pint) increments through the oil filler tube. Do not overfill the fluid. For fluid type, refer to SPECIFICATION .
Check The Fluid Condition
- Check the fluid level. Refer to «PRELIMINARY INSPECTION»(ref-207762-S14453387462005120200000) .
- Observe the color and the odor. The color under normal circumstances should be reddish, not brown or black.
- Allow the fluid to drip onto a facial tissue and examine the stain.
- If evidence of solid material is found, the transaxle fluid pan should be removed for further inspection.
- If fluid contamination or transaxle failure is confirmed by the sediment in the bottom of the transaxle fluid pan, the transaxle must be disassembled and completely cleaned.
- Carry out diagnostic checks and adjustments. Refer to «DIAGNOSIS BY SYMPTOM»(ref-207762-S42303105312005120200000) .
Transmission Fluid Cooler
| CAUTION | Whenever the transaxle has been disassembled to install new parts, clean and backflush the transaxle fluid cooler tubes and install a new transaxle fluid cooler. |
Note. Cleaning and backflushing the transaxle fluid cooling system along with normal cleaning and inspection procedures as outlined during disassembly and reassembly will keep contamination from reentering the transaxle and causing a repeat repair.
When internal wear or damage has occurred in the transaxle, metal particles, clutch plate material, or band material may have been carried into the torque converter and transaxle fluid cooler. These contaminants are a major cause of recurring transaxle troubles and must be removed from the system before the transaxle is put back in use.
Routine 261/361 - Other Concerns: Fluid Venting or Foaming
| Possible Component | Reference/Action |
|---|---|
| 261 -- ELECTRICAL ROUTINE | |
| Powertrain Control System | |
| No electrical concerns. | |
| 361 - HYDRAULIC/MECHANICAL ROUTINE | |
| Fluid | |
| Incorrect level. | Adjust to correct level. Refer to PRELIMINARY INSPECTION . |
| Condition. | Carry out Fluid Condition Check. Refer to PRELIMINARY INSPECTION . |
| Fluid Pump Assembly | |
| Bolts not tightened to specification. | Tighten to specifications. |
| Gasket damaged. | Inspect for damage. If damaged, repair as necessary. |
| Porosity, cross leaks, plugged hole. | Inspect for damage. If damaged, repair as necessary. |
| Case | |
| Case vent damaged. | Inspect for damage. If damaged, repair as necessary. |
| Other | |
| Transaxle overheating. | Refer to OTHER CONCERNS: OVERHEATING . |
ROUTINE 261/361 - OTHER CONCERNS: FLUID VENTING OR FOAMING