Pinpoint Test D: Pressure Control (Pc) Solenoids (PCA, PCB, PCC)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Mercury Mountaineer and 2005 Ford Explorer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Refer to Figure preceding these pinpoint tests.

NOTE: Read and record all DTCs. All digital TR Sensor and VSS DTCs must be repaired before entering Output State Control (OSC).

D1 ELECTRONIC DIAGNOSTICS
- Key in OFF position.
- Select PARK.
- Check to make sure the transmission harness connector is fully seated, terminals are fully engaged in the connector and in good condition before proceeding.
- Install 300 psi pressure gauges into Line and PC C tap.
- Connect the scan tool.
- Key in ON position.
- Enter the following diagnostic mode on the scan tool: Diagnostic Data Link.
- Enter the following diagnostic mode on the scan tool: PCM.
- Enter the following diagnostic mode on the scan tool: Active Command Modes.
- Enter the following diagnostic mode on the scan tool: Output State Control (OSC).
- Enter the following diagnostic mode on the scan tool: Trans-Bench Mode.
- Does the vehicle enter the Trans-Bench Mode?
- Yes : REMAIN in Trans-Bench Mode. GO to D2.
- No : REPEAT procedure to ENTER Trans-Bench Mode. If vehicle did not enter OSC, See INTRODUCTION - GASOLINE article for diagnosis of PCM or NGS.
D2 SOLENOID FUNCTIONAL TEST
- Monitor pressure gauges.
- Enter the following diagnostic mode on the scan tool: Parameter; PCx.
- Select PC A, PC B or PC C.
- Select value - 15, 30, 45, 60, 70 or 90 psi.
- Press "SEND".
- Select another value "0-90 psi".
- Press "SEND".
- Enter the following diagnostic mode on the scan tool: XXX.
- Press "SEND".
- For PC A and PC B, does the pressure reading for A or B follow the commanded pressure, (actual A and B pressure will be higher than the commanded pressure)? For PC C, does the pressure reading match the commanded pressure?
- Yes : CLEAR DTCs.
- No : GO to D3.
D3 CHECK FOR BATTERY VOLTAGE
- Disconnect: Transmission Harness Connector.
- Visually inspect all wires and connectors for damage.
- Key in ON position.
- Measure the voltage between pin 3 harness side and ground.
  
  Fig 1: Measuring Voltage Between Pin 3 Harness Side And Ground
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
- Is the voltage greater than 10 volts?
- Yes : GO to D4.
- No : REPAIR the circuit. TEST the system for normal operation.
D4 ELECTRICAL SIGNAL CHECK
- Leave the positive lead connected to pin 3 and connect the negative lead to pins 1, 4 and 11 harness and ground.
  
  Fig 2: Checking Electrical Signal
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
- Activate solenoids (ON and OFF) while monitoring the voltage reading.
- Enter the following diagnostic mode on the scan tool: Trans-Bench Mode.
- Enter the following diagnostic mode on the scan tool: Parameter; PCx.
- Select a value "0-90 psi".
- Press "SEND".
- Select another value "0-90 psi".
- Press "SEND".
- Enter the following diagnostic mode on the scan tool: XXX.
- Press "SEND".
- Does the voltage and solenoid state change?
- Yes : GO to D5.
- No : CHECK for open or short circuit in harness or PCM.
D5 CHECK SOLENOID RESISTANCE AT THE SOLENOID
- Measure and record the resistance between PC solenoid pin 3 and pins 1, 4 and 11. Resistance should be between 3.3 and 7.5 ohms.
  
  Fig 3: Measuring And Record Resistance Between PC Solenoid Pin 3 And Pins 1, 4 And 11
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
- Is the resistance within specifications?
- Yes : GO to D6.
- No : INSTALL a new solenoid body assembly.
D6 CHECK THE SOLENOID FOR A SHORT TO GROUND
- Measure and record the resistance between the PC solenoid pins 1,4, 11 and ground, solenoid side.
  
  Fig 4: Measuring And Record Resistance Between PC Solenoid Pins 1,4, 11 And Ground
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
- Is the resistance less than 10,000 ohms?
- Yes : INSTALL a new solenoid body assembly. TEST the system for normal operation.
- No : REFER to DIAGNOSIS BY SYMPTOM for diagnosis of pressure concerns. TEST the system for normal operation.