Solenoid-Pressure Control: 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 pressure control solenoid (PCS) is a variable force (VFS) style solenoid. A VFS solenoid is an electro-hydraulic actuator, combining a solenoid and a regulating valve.
The transmission control module varies the current for the PCS, which varies the pressure in the line pressure hydraulic circuit. When the current (duty cycle) of the PCS is low, the pressure in the circuit is higher. At 0 current (0% duty cycle), the pressure is at the maximum value. Conversely, when the current is maximized (100% duty cycle), the pressure in the circuit is at the lowest possible value.