No Wheel Movement in Snow or Slippery Surfaces (Reprogram TCM)

Some customers may comment on their vehicle becoming stuck in snow or on a slippery surface in which the wheels will not spin. This condition may occur more frequently on grades where poor traction conditions exist.

This condition may occur when the driver causes a rapid wheel deceleration by stepping on the brake pedal and locking the wheels or when the road surface causes a similar rapid wheel deceleration when the driver lifts his/her foot off the throttle from a wheel spinning condition. The rapid wheel deceleration may invoke a drive belt protection algorithm for the subsequent re-launch. As a result of the protection algorithm, the transaxle ratio can move away from an Underdrive (1st gear) position and move more towards a gear ratio position similar to a typical 2nd or 3rd gear ratio. With subsequent attempts to move the vehicle in slippery conditions, it is possible to achieve a ratio in which the wheels will not spin.

Reprogram the TCM with a new calibration following the procedure outlined in this bulletin.

The new TCM calibration will improve the capability of the transaxle to recover an Underdrive ratio after becoming stuck. Moving the gear selector to the Park ("P") position or turning the vehicle off and restarting the vehicle will return the transaxle to the proper operation. Performing this step will allow the wheels to spin and provide the ability to move the vehicle from this condition.

Important: It is important to communicate to the owner that in the event their vehicle experiences a condition where the wheels will not spin, the following maneuver will restore the transaxle to the proper operation within two to three seconds.

Reprogram the TCM with the updated calibration established from the service matrix listed in this bulletin. Use Saturn Service Stall (SSS) software release TIS 2.5/2004 or higher data CD.

TCM Calibration Reprogram Procedure:

1. Connect the Tech 2 Scan Tool and Saturn Service Stall System to the vehicle.
2. Using the vehicle application and VIN listed in the service matrix, select the proper replacement calibration and program calibration into the TCM.
3. For reprogramming procedures, refer to the Service Programming System (SPS) in the SSS Users Guide.

Program the correct TCM calibrations based on the application. Refer to the table below:

To receive credit for this repair during the warranty coverage period, submit a claim through the Saturn Dealer System for K5364 (TCM - Reprogram).