Theory Of Operation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2015 RAM 1500. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

If the Transmission Control System looses electrical power, the solenoids (L/R, 2C, OD, UD, 4C) will go to their respective power off state. Some solenoids are normally vented and some are normally applied in their power off state. The transmission is designed to default to 3rd gear with all of the solenoids in this state. However, if power is restored, the Transmission Control System will power-up and normal operation will be restored.

This DTC identifies that power to the Transmission Control System was restored when the gear selector was in a DRIVE position while the vehicle was moving above 32 Km/h (20 mph). This DTC does not indicate a problem with the Transmission or Transmission Control System, instead it suggests intermittent problems in the fused ignition switch output, fused B (+) or ground circuits to the TCM. Alternately, if a rolling restart maneuver is performed by the driver, the DTC will set. Therefore, it is critical that this condition be investigated if the vehicle is experiencing intermittent 3rd gear operation and a subsequent return to normal operation.