Pressure Control Solenoid Valve

The Pressure Control (PC) solenoid valve is a precision electronic pressure regulator that controls transmission line pressure based on current flow through its coil windings. See Figure and Fig 1 . As current flow is increased, the magnetic field which is produced by the coil moves the solenoid's plunger further away from the exhaust port. Opening the exhaust port decreases the output fluid pressure, which is regulated by the PC solenoid valve. This ultimately decreases line pressure. The PCM controls the PC solenoid valve based upon various inputs including throttle position, fluid temperature, MAP sensor, and gear operation.

The PCM controls the PC solenoid valve on a positive duty cycle at a fixed frequency of 585 Hz (cycles per second). Duty cycle is defined as the percentage of time when current flows through the solenoid coil during each cycle. A higher duty cycle provides a greater current flow through the solenoid. The high (positive) side of the PC solenoid valve electrical circuit at the PCM controls the PC solenoid valve operation. The PCM provides a ground path for the circuit, monitors average current, and continuously varies the PC solenoid valve duty cycle to maintain the correct average current flowing through the PC solenoid valve. See PC SOLENOID VALVE DUTY CYCLE  table.

The PC solenoid valve resistance should measure between 3-5 ohms when measured at 68°F (20°C).

Fig 1: Identifying Pressure Control (PC) Solenoid

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.