Transmission Controls

Electronic Control System:

GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The electronic control system of the A245E 4-speed automatic transaxle provides precise control of the gearshift timing and torque converter clutch (TCC) lockup timing in response to driving conditions which are evaluated by the powertrain control module (PCM). The A245E electronic control system can be divided into three main component groups: information sensors, the PCM and actuators. The electronic control system is also equipped with a self-diagnosis system and a fail-safe mode. The self-diagnosis system will diagnose malfunctions of electronically controlled components and will warn the driver of a malfunction by a continuous on-off blinking of the "O/D OFF" indicator. The fail-safe mode will provide the driver with minimum driveability until the malfunction can be corrected.

"O/D OFF" Indicator Operation:

OVERDRIVE DESCRIPTION
The A245E is equipped with an overdrive (O/D) gear which is engaged by depressing the "OVERDRIVE" switch located on the manual selector. An "O/D OFF" indicator will be displayed on the instrument cluster whenever the "OVERDRIVE" switch is not depressed. When the "OVERDRIVE" switch is depressed the "O/D OFF" indicator will not be displayed. During diagnosis of the electronic control system, the "O/D OFF" indicator is also used to determine diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

OPERATING RANGES
The A245E 4-speed automatic transaxle can be operated in any one of seven different ranges.

"P" - Park position prevents the vehicle from rolling either forward or backward. For reasons of safety, the parking brake should be used in addition to the park position at all times.

"R" - Reverse position allows the vehicle to be operated in a rearward direction.

"N" - Neutral position allows the engine to be started and operated without driving the vehicle. If necessary, this position may be selected if the engine must be restarted with the vehicle moving.

"O/D" - Overdrive ("D" position with "OVERDRIVE" switch depressed) is used for all normal driving conditions. It provides four gear ratios plus torque converter clutch (TCC) operation. Downshifts are available for safe passing by depressing the accelerator pedal.

"D" - Drive position is used for city traffic and hilly terrain. It provides three gear ratios, with available downshifts for safe passing, by depressing the accelerator pedal.

"2" - Manual second is used to provide acceleration and engine braking. This range should be selected only when vehicle speed is below 48 km/h (30 mph).

"L" - Manual low is used to provide maximum engine braking. This range should be selected only when vehicle speed is below 24 km/h (15 mph).