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Home >> Ford >> 2000 >> Contour SE, 2.5 L, Standard >> Repair and Diagnosis >> External Pages >> Different car >> Section 474 (Automatic Transmission) >> Diagnosis And Testing >> Pinpoint Tests - OSC Equipped Vehicles >> Pinpoint Tests >> Pinpoint Test D: Electronic Pressure Control (EPC) Solenoid

Pinpoint Test D: Electronic Pressure Control (EPC) Solenoid

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Ford Ranger. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
NOTE: Refer to the TRANSMISSION VEHICLE HARNESS CONNECTOR  illustration preceding these pinpoint tests.
NOTE: Refer to the TRANSMISSION INTERNAL HARNESS CONNECTOR  illustration 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).
  1. 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.
    • Connect the diagnostic tool.
    • Key in ON position.
    • Enter the following diagnostic mode on the diagnostic tool: Diagnostic Data Link.
    • Enter the following diagnostic mode on the diagnostic tool: PCM.
    • Enter the following diagnostic mode on the diagnostic tool: Active Command Modes.
    • Enter the following diagnostic mode on the diagnostic tool: Output State Control (OSC).
    • Enter the following diagnostic mode on the diagnostic tool: Trans-Bench Mode.
    • Does the vehicle enter the Trans-Bench Mode? 
    1. Yes  : REMAIN in Trans-Bench Mode. GO to D2.
    2. No  : REPEAT procedure to ENTER Trans-Bench Mode. If vehicle did not enter OSC, REFER to the INTRODUCTION - CNG, FLEX-FUEL & GASOLINE article for diagnosis of PCM.
  2. D2 SOLENOID FUNCTIONAL TEST 
    • Install 300 psi pressure gauge into EPC tap.
    • Monitor pressure gauge.
    • Enter the following diagnostic mode on the diagnostic tool: Parameter; EPC.
    • 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 diagnostic tool: XXX.
    • Press "SEND".
    • Does the pressure reading match the commanded pressure? 
    1. Yes  : CLEAR DTCs.
    2. No  : GO to D3.
  3. D3 CHECK FOR BATTERY VOLTAGE 
    • Remove the transmission fluid pan. Refer to FLUID PAN, GASKET AND FILTER .
    • Visually inspect all wires and connectors for damage.
    • Key in ON position.
    • Connect DVOM positive lead to VPWR solenoid terminal and negative lead to a good ground.
    • Is the battery voltage present? 
    1. Yes  : GO to D4.
    2. No  : CHECK for open or short circuit in harness.
  4. D4 ELECTRICAL SIGNAL CHECK 
    • Leave positive lead connected to VPWR solenoid terminal and connect negative lead to the signal terminal of the EPC solenoid.
    • Turn the solenoids ON and OFF, while monitoring the voltage reading on the DVOM, solenoid state on the scan tool (ON and OFF), listen for the solenoid to activate (click).
    • Enter the following diagnostic mode on the diagnostic tool: Trans-Bench Mode.
    • Enter the following diagnostic mode on the diagnostic tool: Parameter; EPC.
    • Select a value "0-90 psi".
    • Press "SEND".
    • Select another value "0-90 psi".
    • Press "SEND".
    • Enter the following diagnostic mode on the diagnostic tool: XXX.
    • Press "SEND".
    • Does the voltage and solenoid state change? 
    1. Yes  : GO to D5.
    2. No  : CHECK for open or short circuit in harness or PCM.
  5. D5 CHECK SOLENOID RESISTANCE AT SOLENOID 
    • Disconnect: Transmission Harness.
    • Check solenoid resistance by connecting an ohmmeter at the terminals of the solenoid.
      Fig 1: Checking Solenoid Resistance At Solenoid
      G03275403Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
    • Measure and record the resistance of the EPC solenoid. Resistance should be between 3.7-7.2 ohms.
    • Is the resistance within specifications? 
    1. Yes  : GO to D6.
    2. No  : INSTALL a new solenoid and install the transmission fluid pan.
  6. D6 CHECK SOLENOID FOR SHORT TO GROUND 
    • Check for continuity between engine GROUND and the EPC solenoid terminals with ohmmeter or other low current tester (less than 200 milliamps). Connection should show infinite resistance (no continuity).
      Solenoid Terminal
      EPC +/-
      Fig 2: Checking Solenoid For Short To Ground
      G03275404Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
    • Is there continuity? 
    1. Yes  : INSTALL a new solenoid and install the transmission fluid pan.
    2. No  : REFER to the DIAGNOSIS BY SYMPTOM INDEX  in DIAGNOSIS BY SYMPTOM  for pressure concerns.