During Special Test for Actuators the TFP and TCC Actuators Do Not Test Correctly

When using a portable diagnostic tool (PDT), with data cartridge 204036 installed in PDT, or Scan tool to perform the "Special Test" for "Actuators" (called the "Transaxle Actuator Quick Check" in the service manual), on a base automatic transaxle, the transaxle fluid pressure (TFP) actuator will pulse width modulate (PWM) at a lower frequency than intended (8 Hz instead of 32 Hz). Also, the torque converter clutch (TCC) actuator will not pulse width modulate, but only click once.

Important: The "Transaxle Actuator Quick Check" for 2nd 3rd, and 4th gear actuators functions normally.

PCM calibration does not have parameters for the 1996 base automatic transaxle that are necessary for performing the "Transaxle Actuator Quick Check" for the TFP and TCC actuators.

Check for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and perform the following procedure.

1. Connect PDT (with data cartridge 204036 installed in PDT), or Scan tool and record any DTCs that may be stored in PCM memory.

1.1.	If one or more of the following transaxle fluid pressure and/or TCC actuator DTCs have been set in PCM memory, they must be diagnosed after the new service calibration has been download into the PCM since the Actuator Quick Check will not operate correctly.

Transaxle fluid pressure and TCC actuator DTCs: P0740, P0742, P0744, P0745, P0746, P0747, P0748, and P0749. Make sure to keep a list of these DTC(s) for diagnosis after the new service calibration has been downloaded into the PCM.

If any one or combination of the above listed DTC(s) have been stored in memory, proceed to step 2 in this bulletin and download the new service calibration into the PCM.

1.2.	If any DTCs other than the DTCs listed DTC(s), proceed to step 2 of this bulletin and download the new service calibration into the PCM.

Important: If there are DTCs mentioned in both steps 1.1 and 1.2, diagnose and repair the DTCs that are not transaxle fluid pressure actuator or TCC actuator related, then proceed to step 2. The DTCs mentioned in step 1.1 will have to be diagnosed after the new service calibration is downloaded.

2. Download the new service calibration. Refer to "PCM Flash Programming" under "General Description" in the "PCM Serial Data" section of the "1996 Powertrain Controls Service Manual" or the Service Stall Users Guide" for proper recalibration procedures. The service stall system (SSS) and PDT must be at version 32.51 or greater.

Important: If SSS version 32.51 or greater is not available, call Saturn Customer Support Center at 1-800-7SATURN (1 800 772-8876), prompt 3.

3. After the new service calibration has been downloaded into the PCM, diagnose any transaxle fluid pressure and/or TCC actuator DTCs that were recorded previously. Refer to the "1996 Powertrain Controls Service Manual" for diagnosis

To receive credit for this repair during the warranty coverage period, submit a claim through the Saturn Dealer System as follows: