Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) Cycling, Shudder, Chatter

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 Ford Pickup, 2010 Ford F550 Super Duty, 2010 Ford F450 Super Duty, and 2010 Ford Cab & Chassis. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

DIAGNOSTIC ROUTINES - TORQUE CONVERTER CLUTCH

Possible Component	Reference/Action
252 - ROUTINE
Powertrain Control System
PCM (gasoline engines), Transmission Control Module (TCM) (diesel engines), vehicle wiring harnesses, transmission internal wiring harness, Pressure Control Solenoid A (PCA), Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) solenoid, Brake Pedal Position (BPP) switch, Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor, tow/haul switch	Carry out On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) tests. Refer to the INTRODUCTION - GASOLINE MODELS for diagnosis and testing of the PCM. For gasoline engines, GO to PINPOINT TEST A and GO to PINPOINT TEST E . For diesel engines, GO to PINPOINT TEST F and GO to PINPOINT TEST J . Repair as necessary. Clear the DTCs, road test and rerun OBD test.
Incorrect Line Pressures
High/low TCC pressures	Check pressure at line tap. Carry out Line Pressure Test. Refer to SPECIAL TESTING PROCEDURES . Follow the pressure diagnosis test as required.
Solenoid Body Assembly
Bolts not tightened to specification	Tighten to specification.
Filter gasket damaged	Inspect for damage. If damaged, install a new filter gasket.
Contamination	Disassemble and clean.
PCA , TCC solenoid(s) damaged, stuck or bore damaged. Manual valve damaged, stuck or bore damaged	If damaged or parts are missing, install a new solenoid body assembly. If misassembled, reassemble correctly.
Fluid Pump Assembly
Bolts not tightened to specification	Tighten to specification.
Gasket damaged	Inspect for damage. If damaged, install a new gasket.
Porosity, cross leaks, cup plug missing, plugged hole	Inspect for damage. If damaged, repair as necessary.
Pump gears and/or gear pocket damaged	Inspect for damage. Install a new pump.
Control valves, converter charge limit valve, converter pressure regulator valve springs or seals damaged, stuck or not assembled correctly	Inspect for damage. Install a new seal or pump assembly.
Torque Converter
Internal components failure preventing TCC from releasing	Remove the transmission. Inspect for damage. Refer to TORQUE CONVERTER CONTAMINATION INSPECTION . If the torque converter fails to pass the criteria for replacement or is damaged, install a new or remanufactured torque converter.