Theory Of Operation
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Dodge Magnum, 2006 Dodge Charger, and 2006 Chrysler 300. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The internal watchdog is a separate hardware circuit which continuously monitors the microprocessor. To make sure the transmission is operating properly, the watchdog must receive a signal from the microprocessor within a specific time window. MIL on after 10 seconds of vehicle operation and transmission will be placed in limp-in.