Description & Operation: Introduction

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Toyota RAV4, 2002 Toyota RAV4, 2002 Toyota Highlander, 2001 Toyota RAV4, and 2001 Toyota Highlander. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The U241E automatic transaxle is electronically controlled. Transaxle shifting and torque converter clutch lock-up are controlled by an Engine Control Module (ECM). The ECM receives information from various input devices and uses this information to control shift solenoids for transaxle shifting and torque converter clutch lock-up.

An Overdrive (O/D) switch is mounted on the gearshift lever. When O/D main switch is pressed to ON position, transaxle will shift into 4th gear when gearshift lever is in "D" position, and O/D OFF light on instrument panel will go off. When O/D main switch is released to OFF position, transaxle will shift into 3rd gear, and O/D OFF light will illuminate.

Transaxle is equipped with a shift lock and key lock system. Shift lock system prevents gearshift lever from being moved from Park unless brake pedal is depressed. In case of a malfunction, gearshift lever can be released by depressing shift lock override button, located near gearshift lever. Key lock system prevents ignition key from being moved from ACC to LOCK position unless gearshift lever is in Park. For more information on shift lock and key lock system, see SHIFT INTERLOCK SYSTEMS - LEXUS & TOYOTA article.