Automatic Transmission/Transaxle Flashcards

A transmission overheats during towing but operates normally otherwise. What is the MOST likely cause?

Answer: Restricted or inadequate transmission cooler

Heavy loads generate more heat, and a restricted or undersized cooler cannot dissipate it, causing overheating.

What does the manual valve in the valve body do?

Answer: Direct fluid to circuits based on gear selector position

The manual valve is moved by the shift linkage to route fluid according to the selected gear range.

A whining noise that changes with engine RPM in Park or Neutral most likely indicates which fault?

Answer: Worn or failing oil pump

Because the pump is engine-driven, a worn pump whines in Park and Neutral and varies with engine speed.

When measuring band adjustment, what is typically used to set the proper apply clearance?

Answer: A torque wrench on the adjusting screw to a specified value

Many bands are set by torquing the adjusting screw to spec and then backing it off a set number of turns.

Which condition would most likely cause a transmission to have reverse but no forward gears?

Answer: Failed forward clutch

The forward clutch applies in all forward ranges, so its failure leaves only reverse functional.

During a pressure test, line pressure that does not rise with throttle/load points to a problem in which area?

Answer: Pressure regulator or throttle/EPC control

Line pressure should increase with load; if it doesn't, the pressure regulator or throttle/EPC control circuit is at fault.

What is the correct procedure for checking automatic transmission fluid level on most vehicles with a dipstick?

Answer: Engine running, at operating temperature, in Park on level ground

Most ATF is checked warm with the engine idling in Park on level ground for an accurate reading.