Diagnostic Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Saturn Vue and 2002 Saturn Vue. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Drive vehicle for 3 minutes. Using scan tool, monitor transmission fluid temperature. Is transmission fluid temperature greater than 284°F (140°C)? If so, go to next step. If not, problem is intermittent. See DIAGNOSTIC AIDS .
Perform a transmission fluid level checking procedure. See appropriate AUTOMATIC article in TRANSMISSION SERVICING. Was fluid level low? If so, inspect for leaks and repair as necessary. If not, go to next step.
Inspect the transaxle cooling system for the following conditions:
- Air flow restrictions or blockage.
- Check ECM for cooling fan relay DTCs.
- Use scan tool cooling fan relay command to check the operation of the cooling fan.
Was problem found with the cooling system? If so, repair as necessary. If not, go to next step.
Inspect the transmission oil cooler system for restrictions, bends in oil cooler lines, leaking seals and restricted transmission oil cooler. Was a problem found with the transmission oil cooler system? If so, repair/replace as necessary. If not, go to next step.
Perform a line pressure test. See HYDRAULIC PRESSURE TESTS under PERFORMANCE TESTS. Were the pressure readings within the specifications? If so, go to next step. If not, go to step 7 .
Inspect the following and repair as necessary:
- Faulty control solenoid valve assembly.
- Torque converter for stator damage.
- Poor connection at the TCM.
- Inoperative TCM.
Inspect for clogged fluid filter assembly. If okay, replace transmission fluid pump assembly. See appropriate OVERHAUL article.