P0773 - shift solenoid e circuit electrical

Solenoid E, IIRC, is the one responsible for torque converter lock up.
Typically on a Toyota this is on the outside of the transmission near
the neutral safety switch. If you take it to highway speeds and
maintain steady cruising, a malfunctioning solenoid won't make the
converter lock up and give you a lower RPM (saves fuel).

These Toyota Aisin transmissions are quite dirty. That's why I say a
strainer no longer than 30K miles. Drain/refill no longer than 15K
miles, if not more often. Cleanliness and fluid level accuracy are
important when dealing with transmissions.

Check rockauto.com and transtarindustries.com for Solenoid E prices.




On Dec 13, 11:52 am, "badgolferman" <REMOVETHISbadgolfer....RemoveThis@gmail.com>
wrote:
> That is the code of the Check Engine light which came on today.  I had
> just pulled out of a parking lot when it illuminated.  Nothing felt
> different when driving.  I became nervous since I had my kid in the car
> and had just changed my oil earlier this morning.  I was wondering if
> the oil was leaking out or something funny was happeneing since I used
> Castrol instead of the usual Valvoline.
>
> I took it to Advance Auto and they hooked up the OBDII analyzer and
> gave me the code {P0773 - shift solenoid e circuit electrical}.  I
> asked for it to be reset but he said they can't however if I was
> holding the analyzer I could.  I erased the code and have driven around
> for a few miles and it remains normal.
>
> What is the code in relation to and what should I be wary of?  Is it
> serious?
 >> Stay informed about: P0773 - shift solenoid e circuit electrical 

On Sat, 13 Dec 2008 19:52:42 +0000, badgolferman wrote:

> That is the code of the Check Engine light which came on today. I had
> just pulled out of a parking lot when it illuminated. Nothing felt
> different when driving. I became nervous since I had my kid in the car
> and had just changed my oil earlier this morning. I was wondering if
> the oil was leaking out or something funny was happeneing since I used
> Castrol instead of the usual Valvoline.
>
> I took it to Advance Auto and they hooked up the OBDII analyzer and
> gave me the code {P0773 - shift solenoid e circuit electrical}. I
> asked for it to be reset but he said they can't however if I was
> holding the analyzer I could. I erased the code and have driven around
> for a few miles and it remains normal.
>
> What is the code in relation to and what should I be wary of? Is it
> serious?

The shift solenoids are in the transmission. I believe the way they work
is to actuate and change the flow of ATF through the system, but I'm not
completely sure, so don't quote me. In the Supra they are 1,2, 3 and
Lock-Up. I would guess shift solenoid E is the last one in the system,
and probably controls the lockup torque converter. You won't notice it in
town, but if you get to a situation where you're >45 MPH you may notice
the last 'gear' isn't engaging.

It could be gummed up fluid and requires a flushing or removing the pan
and cleaning, or, worst case, they've gone back to using the solenoids
they were using in the 86.5-90 Supra and needs to be replaced. They should
be visible when you drop the pan.

IIRC, solenoids for my Supra are $135 each, or in my case I can get them
from Chrysler (they used the same tranny in Jeep Grand Cherokees) for $72
each...
 >> Stay informed about: P0773 - shift solenoid e circuit electrical 

Jeff, 12/13/2008,4:22:36 PM, wrote:

> On Dec 13, 2:52 pm, "badgolferman" <REMOVETHISbadgolfer....DeleteThis@gmail.com>
> wrote:
> > That is the code of the Check Engine light which came on today.  I
> > had just pulled out of a parking lot when it illuminated.  Nothing
> > felt different when driving.  I became nervous since I had my kid
> > in the car and had just changed my oil earlier this morning.  I was
> > wondering if the oil was leaking out or something funny was
> > happeneing since I used Castrol instead of the usual Valvoline.
> >
> > I took it to Advance Auto and they hooked up the OBDII analyzer and
> > gave me the code {P0773 - shift solenoid e circuit electrical}.  I
> > asked for it to be reset but he said they can't however if I was
> > holding the analyzer I could.  I erased the code and have driven
> > around for a few miles and it remains normal.
> >
> > What is the code in relation to and what should I be wary of?  Is it
> > serious?
>
> Details, please:
>
> What model, year, mileage on the car, truck or other type of vehicle?

1997 Camry LE 2.2. 164,000 miles
 >> Stay informed about: P0773 - shift solenoid e circuit electrical 

"badgolferman" <REMOVETHISbadgolferman.TakeThisOut@gmail.com> wrote in message
news:xn0fyvkaze3iu000@reader.motzarella.org...
> That is the code of the Check Engine light which came on today. I had
> just pulled out of a parking lot when it illuminated. Nothing felt
> different when driving. I became nervous since I had my kid in the car
> and had just changed my oil earlier this morning. I was wondering if
> the oil was leaking out or something funny was happeneing since I used
> Castrol instead of the usual Valvoline.
>
> I took it to Advance Auto and they hooked up the OBDII analyzer and
> gave me the code {P0773 - shift solenoid e circuit electrical}. I
> asked for it to be reset but he said they can't however if I was
> holding the analyzer I could. I erased the code and have driven around
> for a few miles and it remains normal.
>
> What is the code in relation to and what should I be wary of? Is it
> serious?

Shift solenoid e is solenoid SL in the valve body and controls the torque
converter lock-up. If the solenoid fails, it fails safe so that you will
end up with a 4 speed transmission without a lockup torque converter. To
check the solenoid, you will need a replacement transmission pan gasket and
some replacement ATF (Check to be sure, but I believe your car takes Dexron
III). Drain the transmission pan, remove the pan. If you are in the rust
belt, be careful removing the pan bolts as they may be rusted. If they are
rusted, apply a rust penetrant like PB Blaster, wait an hour, apply again,
then carefully loosen the bolts. Remove shift solenoid SL from the valve
body and measure resistance between the two terminals on the wires connected
to the solenoid. It should measure between 11 and 15 ohms. If that checks
out, apply 2 volts to the 2 terminals and see if it makes a clicking sound.
If the resistance is not correct or if you do not hear clicking, replace the
solenoid. Before you replace the transmission pan, take a look at the
screen. It will probably be clean, but while you are in there, looks are
free

When you replace the transmission pan, tighten the bolts finger-tight, then
tighten in a star pattern and refill with ATF.

Good luck!
--

Ray O
(correct punctuation to reply)
 >> Stay informed about: P0773 - shift solenoid e circuit electrical 

Ray O, 12/13/2008,11:23:55 PM, wrote:

>
> "badgolferman" <REMOVETHISbadgolferman.DeleteThis@gmail.com> wrote in message
> news:xn0fyvkaze3iu000@reader.motzarella.org...
> > That is the code of the Check Engine light which came on today. I
> > had just pulled out of a parking lot when it illuminated. Nothing
> > felt different when driving. I became nervous since I had my kid
> > in the car and had just changed my oil earlier this morning. I was
> > wondering if the oil was leaking out or something funny was
> > happeneing since I used Castrol instead of the usual Valvoline.
> >
> > I took it to Advance Auto and they hooked up the OBDII analyzer and
> > gave me the code {P0773 - shift solenoid e circuit electrical}. I
> > asked for it to be reset but he said they can't however if I was
> > holding the analyzer I could. I erased the code and have driven
> > around for a few miles and it remains normal.
> >
> > What is the code in relation to and what should I be wary of? Is it
> > serious?
>
> Shift solenoid e is solenoid SL in the valve body and controls the
> torque converter lock-up. If the solenoid fails, it fails safe so
> that you will end up with a 4 speed transmission without a lockup
> torque converter. To check the solenoid, you will need a replacement
> transmission pan gasket and some replacement ATF (Check to be sure,
> but I believe your car takes Dexron III). Drain the transmission
> pan, remove the pan. If you are in the rust belt, be careful
> removing the pan bolts as they may be rusted. If they are rusted,
> apply a rust penetrant like PB Blaster, wait an hour, apply again,
> then carefully loosen the bolts. Remove shift solenoid SL from the
> valve body and measure resistance between the two terminals on the
> wires connected to the solenoid. It should measure between 11 and 15
> ohms. If that checks out, apply 2 volts to the 2 terminals and see
> if it makes a clicking sound. If the resistance is not correct or if
> you do not hear clicking, replace the solenoid. Before you replace
> the transmission pan, take a look at the screen. It will probably be
> clean, but while you are in there, looks are free
>
> When you replace the transmission pan, tighten the bolts
> finger-tight, then tighten in a star pattern and refill with ATF.
>
> Good luck!

The light has come and gone twice now. The dealer says there is a
broken wire in the harness that goes from the computer to the
transmission. Labor alone is $375. No full quote yet. I asked what
if I don't do get this fixed? He says over time the transmission will
begin to act up since it won't get proper information. Any thoughts?
 >> Stay informed about: P0773 - shift solenoid e circuit electrical 

"badgolferman" <REMOVETHISbadgolferman.RemoveThis@gmail.com> wrote in message
news:xn0fzdtc3mclb27000@news.albasani.net...
> Ray O, 12/13/2008,11:23:55 PM, wrote:
>
>>
>> "badgolferman" <REMOVETHISbadgolferman.RemoveThis@gmail.com> wrote in message
>> news:xn0fyvkaze3iu000@reader.motzarella.org...
>> > That is the code of the Check Engine light which came on today. I
>> > had just pulled out of a parking lot when it illuminated. Nothing
>> > felt different when driving. I became nervous since I had my kid
>> > in the car and had just changed my oil earlier this morning. I was
>> > wondering if the oil was leaking out or something funny was
>> > happeneing since I used Castrol instead of the usual Valvoline.
>> >
>> > I took it to Advance Auto and they hooked up the OBDII analyzer and
>> > gave me the code {P0773 - shift solenoid e circuit electrical}. I
>> > asked for it to be reset but he said they can't however if I was
>> > holding the analyzer I could. I erased the code and have driven
>> > around for a few miles and it remains normal.
>> >
>> > What is the code in relation to and what should I be wary of? Is it
>> > serious?
>>
>> Shift solenoid e is solenoid SL in the valve body and controls the
>> torque converter lock-up. If the solenoid fails, it fails safe so
>> that you will end up with a 4 speed transmission without a lockup
>> torque converter. To check the solenoid, you will need a replacement
>> transmission pan gasket and some replacement ATF (Check to be sure,
>> but I believe your car takes Dexron III). Drain the transmission
>> pan, remove the pan. If you are in the rust belt, be careful
>> removing the pan bolts as they may be rusted. If they are rusted,
>> apply a rust penetrant like PB Blaster, wait an hour, apply again,
>> then carefully loosen the bolts. Remove shift solenoid SL from the
>> valve body and measure resistance between the two terminals on the
>> wires connected to the solenoid. It should measure between 11 and 15
>> ohms. If that checks out, apply 2 volts to the 2 terminals and see
>> if it makes a clicking sound. If the resistance is not correct or if
>> you do not hear clicking, replace the solenoid. Before you replace
>> the transmission pan, take a look at the screen. It will probably be
>> clean, but while you are in there, looks are free
>>
>> When you replace the transmission pan, tighten the bolts
>> finger-tight, then tighten in a star pattern and refill with ATF.
>>
>> Good luck!
>
> The light has come and gone twice now. The dealer says there is a
> broken wire in the harness that goes from the computer to the
> transmission. Labor alone is $375. No full quote yet. I asked what
> if I don't do get this fixed? He says over time the transmission will
> begin to act up since it won't get proper information. Any thoughts?

I would invest $10 for access to techinfo.toyota.com to get the wiring
diagram for your vehicle so you know which color wire you are tracing, then
do a continuity check between the connector for the solenoid and the
transmission ECU. The easiest repair would be to solder splice a new wire
between the connectors.

The problem if you don't get it fixed is that you will have a check engine
light illuminated most of the time, and the vehicle will not pass an
emissions test with a check engine light illuminated or a trouble code
stored in the ECU.
--

Ray O
(correct punctuation to reply)
 >> Stay informed about: P0773 - shift solenoid e circuit electrical 

Ray O, 12/26/2008,4:35:16 PM, wrote:

>
> "badgolferman" <REMOVETHISbadgolferman.RemoveThis@gmail.com> wrote in message
> news:xn0fzdtc3mclb27000@news.albasani.net...
> > Ray O, 12/13/2008,11:23:55 PM, wrote:
> >
> > >
> >>"badgolferman" <REMOVETHISbadgolferman.RemoveThis@gmail.com> wrote in message
> > > news:xn0fyvkaze3iu000@reader.motzarella.org...
> >>> That is the code of the Check Engine light which came on today. I
> >>> had just pulled out of a parking lot when it illuminated. Nothing
> >>> felt different when driving. I became nervous since I had my kid
> >>> in the car and had just changed my oil earlier this morning. I
> was >>> wondering if the oil was leaking out or something funny was
> >>> happeneing since I used Castrol instead of the usual Valvoline.
> > > >
> >>> I took it to Advance Auto and they hooked up the OBDII analyzer
> and >>> gave me the code {P0773 - shift solenoid e circuit
> electrical}. I >>> asked for it to be reset but he said they can't
> however if I was >>> holding the analyzer I could. I erased the code
> and have driven >>> around for a few miles and it remains normal.
> > > >
> >>> What is the code in relation to and what should I be wary of? Is
> it >>> serious?
> > >
> > > Shift solenoid e is solenoid SL in the valve body and controls the
> > > torque converter lock-up. If the solenoid fails, it fails safe so
> > > that you will end up with a 4 speed transmission without a lockup
> > > torque converter. To check the solenoid, you will need a
> > > replacement transmission pan gasket and some replacement ATF
> > > (Check to be sure, but I believe your car takes Dexron III).
> > > Drain the transmission pan, remove the pan. If you are in the
> > > rust belt, be careful removing the pan bolts as they may be
> > > rusted. If they are rusted, apply a rust penetrant like PB
> > > Blaster, wait an hour, apply again, then carefully loosen the
> > > bolts. Remove shift solenoid SL from the valve body and measure
> > > resistance between the two terminals on the wires connected to
> > > the solenoid. It should measure between 11 and 15 ohms. If that
> > > checks out, apply 2 volts to the 2 terminals and see if it makes
> > > a clicking sound. If the resistance is not correct or if you do
> > > not hear clicking, replace the solenoid. Before you replace the
> > > transmission pan, take a look at the screen. It will probably be
> > > clean, but while you are in there, looks are free
> > >
> > > When you replace the transmission pan, tighten the bolts
> > > finger-tight, then tighten in a star pattern and refill with ATF.
> > >
> > > Good luck!
> >
> > The light has come and gone twice now. The dealer says there is a
> > broken wire in the harness that goes from the computer to the
> > transmission. Labor alone is $375. No full quote yet. I asked
> > what if I don't do get this fixed? He says over time the
> > transmission will begin to act up since it won't get proper
> > information. Any thoughts?
>
> I would invest $10 for access to techinfo.toyota.com to get the
> wiring diagram for your vehicle so you know which color wire you are
> tracing, then do a continuity check between the connector for the
> solenoid and the transmission ECU. The easiest repair would be to
> solder splice a new wire between the connectors.
>
> The problem if you don't get it fixed is that you will have a check
> engine light illuminated most of the time, and the vehicle will not
> pass an emissions test with a check engine light illuminated or a
> trouble code stored in the ECU.

I gave them the go-ahead to do the job. The dealer called me back
hours later and said the defective wire has been replaced but the code
still appears. The Check Engine light comes and goes. They did not
charge me for the work already done and asked me if I could leave the
car. I told them I need it over the weekend. I'm supposed to take it
back on Monday now.

What are the chances the transmission fluid and the filter just need to
be serviced?
 >> Stay informed about: P0773 - shift solenoid e circuit electrical 

"badgolferman" <REMOVETHISbadgolferman RemoveThis @gmail.com> wrote in message
news:xn0fze5sodtosr003@news.albasani.net...
> Ray O, 12/26/2008,4:35:16 PM, wrote:
>
>>
>> "badgolferman" <REMOVETHISbadgolferman RemoveThis @gmail.com> wrote in message
>> news:xn0fzdtc3mclb27000@news.albasani.net...
>> > Ray O, 12/13/2008,11:23:55 PM, wrote:
>> >
>> > >
>> >>"badgolferman" <REMOVETHISbadgolferman RemoveThis @gmail.com> wrote in message
>> > > news:xn0fyvkaze3iu000@reader.motzarella.org...
>> >>> That is the code of the Check Engine light which came on today. I
>> >>> had just pulled out of a parking lot when it illuminated. Nothing
>> >>> felt different when driving. I became nervous since I had my kid
>> >>> in the car and had just changed my oil earlier this morning. I
>> was >>> wondering if the oil was leaking out or something funny was
>> >>> happeneing since I used Castrol instead of the usual Valvoline.
>> > > >
>> >>> I took it to Advance Auto and they hooked up the OBDII analyzer
>> and >>> gave me the code {P0773 - shift solenoid e circuit
>> electrical}. I >>> asked for it to be reset but he said they can't
>> however if I was >>> holding the analyzer I could. I erased the code
>> and have driven >>> around for a few miles and it remains normal.
>> > > >
>> >>> What is the code in relation to and what should I be wary of? Is
>> it >>> serious?
>> > >
>> > > Shift solenoid e is solenoid SL in the valve body and controls the
>> > > torque converter lock-up. If the solenoid fails, it fails safe so
>> > > that you will end up with a 4 speed transmission without a lockup
>> > > torque converter. To check the solenoid, you will need a
>> > > replacement transmission pan gasket and some replacement ATF
>> > > (Check to be sure, but I believe your car takes Dexron III).
>> > > Drain the transmission pan, remove the pan. If you are in the
>> > > rust belt, be careful removing the pan bolts as they may be
>> > > rusted. If they are rusted, apply a rust penetrant like PB
>> > > Blaster, wait an hour, apply again, then carefully loosen the
>> > > bolts. Remove shift solenoid SL from the valve body and measure
>> > > resistance between the two terminals on the wires connected to
>> > > the solenoid. It should measure between 11 and 15 ohms. If that
>> > > checks out, apply 2 volts to the 2 terminals and see if it makes
>> > > a clicking sound. If the resistance is not correct or if you do
>> > > not hear clicking, replace the solenoid. Before you replace the
>> > > transmission pan, take a look at the screen. It will probably be
>> > > clean, but while you are in there, looks are free
>> > >
>> > > When you replace the transmission pan, tighten the bolts
>> > > finger-tight, then tighten in a star pattern and refill with ATF.
>> > >
>> > > Good luck!
>> >
>> > The light has come and gone twice now. The dealer says there is a
>> > broken wire in the harness that goes from the computer to the
>> > transmission. Labor alone is $375. No full quote yet. I asked
>> > what if I don't do get this fixed? He says over time the
>> > transmission will begin to act up since it won't get proper
>> > information. Any thoughts?
>>
>> I would invest $10 for access to techinfo.toyota.com to get the
>> wiring diagram for your vehicle so you know which color wire you are
>> tracing, then do a continuity check between the connector for the
>> solenoid and the transmission ECU. The easiest repair would be to
>> solder splice a new wire between the connectors.
>>
>> The problem if you don't get it fixed is that you will have a check
>> engine light illuminated most of the time, and the vehicle will not
>> pass an emissions test with a check engine light illuminated or a
>> trouble code stored in the ECU.
>
> I gave them the go-ahead to do the job. The dealer called me back
> hours later and said the defective wire has been replaced but the code
> still appears. The Check Engine light comes and goes. They did not
> charge me for the work already done and asked me if I could leave the
> car. I told them I need it over the weekend. I'm supposed to take it
> back on Monday now.
>
> What are the chances the transmission fluid and the filter just need to
> be serviced?

Unfortunately, pretty slim. The next step is to drop the transmission pan
and test the solenoid itself.
--

Ray O
(correct punctuation to reply)
 >> Stay informed about: P0773 - shift solenoid e circuit electrical 

Ray O, 12/27/2008,1:38:15 AM, wrote:

>
> "badgolferman" <REMOVETHISbadgolferman RemoveThis @gmail.com> wrote in message
> news:xn0fze5sodtosr003@news.albasani.net...
> > Ray O, 12/26/2008,4:35:16 PM, wrote:
> >
> > >
> >>"badgolferman" <REMOVETHISbadgolferman RemoveThis @gmail.com> wrote in message
> > > news:xn0fzdtc3mclb27000@news.albasani.net...
> >>> Ray O, 12/13/2008,11:23:55 PM, wrote:
> > > >
> >>> >
> >>>>"badgolferman" <REMOVETHISbadgolferman RemoveThis @gmail.com> wrote in message
> >>> > news:xn0fyvkaze3iu000@reader.motzarella.org...
> >>>>> That is the code of the Check Engine light which came on today.
> I >>>>> had just pulled out of a parking lot when it illuminated.
> Nothing >>>>> felt different when driving. I became nervous since I
> had my kid >>>>> in the car and had just changed my oil earlier this
> morning. I >>was >>> wondering if the oil was leaking out or
> something funny was >>>>> happeneing since I used Castrol instead of
> the usual Valvoline. >>> > >
> >>>>> I took it to Advance Auto and they hooked up the OBDII analyzer
> >>and >>> gave me the code {P0773 - shift solenoid e circuit
> >>electrical}. I >>> asked for it to be reset but he said they can't
> >>however if I was >>> holding the analyzer I could. I erased the
> code >>and have driven >>> around for a few miles and it remains
> normal. >>> > >
> >>>>> What is the code in relation to and what should I be wary of?
> Is >>it >>> serious?
> >>> >
> >>> > Shift solenoid e is solenoid SL in the valve body and controls
> the >>> > torque converter lock-up. If the solenoid fails, it fails
> safe so >>> > that you will end up with a 4 speed transmission
> without a lockup >>> > torque converter. To check the solenoid, you
> will need a >>> > replacement transmission pan gasket and some
> replacement ATF >>> > (Check to be sure, but I believe your car takes
> Dexron III). >>> > Drain the transmission pan, remove the pan. If
> you are in the >>> > rust belt, be careful removing the pan bolts as
> they may be >>> > rusted. If they are rusted, apply a rust penetrant
> like PB >>> > Blaster, wait an hour, apply again, then carefully
> loosen the >>> > bolts. Remove shift solenoid SL from the valve body
> and measure >>> > resistance between the two terminals on the wires
> connected to >>> > the solenoid. It should measure between 11 and 15
> ohms. If that >>> > checks out, apply 2 volts to the 2 terminals and
> see if it makes >>> > a clicking sound. If the resistance is not
> correct or if you do >>> > not hear clicking, replace the solenoid.
> Before you replace the >>> > transmission pan, take a look at the
> screen. It will probably be >>> > clean, but while you are in there,
> looks are free >>> >
> >>> > When you replace the transmission pan, tighten the bolts
> >>> > finger-tight, then tighten in a star pattern and refill with
> ATF. >>> >
> >>> > Good luck!
> > > >
> >>> The light has come and gone twice now. The dealer says there is a
> >>> broken wire in the harness that goes from the computer to the
> >>> transmission. Labor alone is $375. No full quote yet. I asked
> >>> what if I don't do get this fixed? He says over time the
> >>> transmission will begin to act up since it won't get proper
> >>> information. Any thoughts?
> > >
> > > I would invest $10 for access to techinfo.toyota.com to get the
> > > wiring diagram for your vehicle so you know which color wire you
> > > are tracing, then do a continuity check between the connector for
> > > the solenoid and the transmission ECU. The easiest repair would
> > > be to solder splice a new wire between the connectors.
> > >
> > > The problem if you don't get it fixed is that you will have a
> > > check engine light illuminated most of the time, and the vehicle
> > > will not pass an emissions test with a check engine light
> > > illuminated or a trouble code stored in the ECU.
> >
> > I gave them the go-ahead to do the job. The dealer called me back
> > hours later and said the defective wire has been replaced but the
> > code still appears. The Check Engine light comes and goes. They
> > did not charge me for the work already done and asked me if I could
> > leave the car. I told them I need it over the weekend. I'm
> > supposed to take it back on Monday now.
> >
> > What are the chances the transmission fluid and the filter just
> > need to be serviced?
>
> Unfortunately, pretty slim. The next step is to drop the
> transmission pan and test the solenoid itself.

I took the car to the transmission shop. The guy checked it / drove it
around for a while and said mechanically it is working perfectly fine
and was even complimentary of the ride for its advanced age. He
suggested leaving it alone until there is some sort of definitive sign
of trouble.

The Check Engine light comes and goes but apparently the code remains
in memory and can't be cleared permanently. Why would the light reset
itself?
 >> Stay informed about: P0773 - shift solenoid e circuit electrical 

"badgolferman" <REMOVETHISbadgolferman DeleteThis @gmail.com> wrote in message
news:xn0g4qafj1e0xko003@news.albasani.net...
> Ray O, 12/27/2008,1:38:15 AM, wrote:
>
>>
>> "badgolferman" <REMOVETHISbadgolferman DeleteThis @gmail.com> wrote in message
>> news:xn0fze5sodtosr003@news.albasani.net...
>> > Ray O, 12/26/2008,4:35:16 PM, wrote:
>> >
>> > >
>> >>"badgolferman" <REMOVETHISbadgolferman DeleteThis @gmail.com> wrote in message
>> > > news:xn0fzdtc3mclb27000@news.albasani.net...
>> >>> Ray O, 12/13/2008,11:23:55 PM, wrote:
>> > > >
>> >>> >
>> >>>>"badgolferman" <REMOVETHISbadgolferman DeleteThis @gmail.com> wrote in message
>> >>> > news:xn0fyvkaze3iu000@reader.motzarella.org...
>> >>>>> That is the code of the Check Engine light which came on today.
>> I >>>>> had just pulled out of a parking lot when it illuminated.
>> Nothing >>>>> felt different when driving. I became nervous since I
>> had my kid >>>>> in the car and had just changed my oil earlier this
>> morning. I >>was >>> wondering if the oil was leaking out or
>> something funny was >>>>> happeneing since I used Castrol instead of
>> the usual Valvoline. >>> > >
>> >>>>> I took it to Advance Auto and they hooked up the OBDII analyzer
>> >>and >>> gave me the code {P0773 - shift solenoid e circuit
>> >>electrical}. I >>> asked for it to be reset but he said they can't
>> >>however if I was >>> holding the analyzer I could. I erased the
>> code >>and have driven >>> around for a few miles and it remains
>> normal. >>> > >
>> >>>>> What is the code in relation to and what should I be wary of?
>> Is >>it >>> serious?
>> >>> >
>> >>> > Shift solenoid e is solenoid SL in the valve body and controls
>> the >>> > torque converter lock-up. If the solenoid fails, it fails
>> safe so >>> > that you will end up with a 4 speed transmission
>> without a lockup >>> > torque converter. To check the solenoid, you
>> will need a >>> > replacement transmission pan gasket and some
>> replacement ATF >>> > (Check to be sure, but I believe your car takes
>> Dexron III). >>> > Drain the transmission pan, remove the pan. If
>> you are in the >>> > rust belt, be careful removing the pan bolts as
>> they may be >>> > rusted. If they are rusted, apply a rust penetrant
>> like PB >>> > Blaster, wait an hour, apply again, then carefully
>> loosen the >>> > bolts. Remove shift solenoid SL from the valve body
>> and measure >>> > resistance between the two terminals on the wires
>> connected to >>> > the solenoid. It should measure between 11 and 15
>> ohms. If that >>> > checks out, apply 2 volts to the 2 terminals and
>> see if it makes >>> > a clicking sound. If the resistance is not
>> correct or if you do >>> > not hear clicking, replace the solenoid.
>> Before you replace the >>> > transmission pan, take a look at the
>> screen. It will probably be >>> > clean, but while you are in there,
>> looks are free >>> >
>> >>> > When you replace the transmission pan, tighten the bolts
>> >>> > finger-tight, then tighten in a star pattern and refill with
>> ATF. >>> >
>> >>> > Good luck!
>> > > >
>> >>> The light has come and gone twice now. The dealer says there is a
>> >>> broken wire in the harness that goes from the computer to the
>> >>> transmission. Labor alone is $375. No full quote yet. I asked
>> >>> what if I don't do get this fixed? He says over time the
>> >>> transmission will begin to act up since it won't get proper
>> >>> information. Any thoughts?
>> > >
>> > > I would invest $10 for access to techinfo.toyota.com to get the
>> > > wiring diagram for your vehicle so you know which color wire you
>> > > are tracing, then do a continuity check between the connector for
>> > > the solenoid and the transmission ECU. The easiest repair would
>> > > be to solder splice a new wire between the connectors.
>> > >
>> > > The problem if you don't get it fixed is that you will have a
>> > > check engine light illuminated most of the time, and the vehicle
>> > > will not pass an emissions test with a check engine light
>> > > illuminated or a trouble code stored in the ECU.
>> >
>> > I gave them the go-ahead to do the job. The dealer called me back
>> > hours later and said the defective wire has been replaced but the
>> > code still appears. The Check Engine light comes and goes. They
>> > did not charge me for the work already done and asked me if I could
>> > leave the car. I told them I need it over the weekend. I'm
>> > supposed to take it back on Monday now.
>> >
>> > What are the chances the transmission fluid and the filter just
>> > need to be serviced?
>>
>> Unfortunately, pretty slim. The next step is to drop the
>> transmission pan and test the solenoid itself.
>
> I took the car to the transmission shop. The guy checked it / drove it
> around for a while and said mechanically it is working perfectly fine
> and was even complimentary of the ride for its advanced age. He
> suggested leaving it alone until there is some sort of definitive sign
> of trouble.
>
> The Check Engine light comes and goes but apparently the code remains
> in memory and can't be cleared permanently. Why would the light reset
> itself?

If the problem is intermittent, the light will not be illuminated in the
absence of a problem but the trouble code will probably still be stored in
the car's memory.
--

Ray O
(correct punctuation to reply)
 >> Stay informed about: P0773 - shift solenoid e circuit electrical 

"Ray O" <rokigawa.RemoveThis@NOSPAMtristarassociates.com> wrote in
news:gjpln5$50c$3@news.motzarella.org:

>
> "badgolferman" <REMOVETHISbadgolferman.RemoveThis@gmail.com> wrote in message
> news:xn0g4qafj1e0xko003@news.albasani.net...
>> Ray O, 12/27/2008,1:38:15 AM, wrote:
>>
>>>
>>> "badgolferman" <REMOVETHISbadgolferman.RemoveThis@gmail.com> wrote in message
>>> news:xn0fze5sodtosr003@news.albasani.net...
>>> > Ray O, 12/26/2008,4:35:16 PM, wrote:
>>> >
>>> > >
>>> >>"badgolferman" <REMOVETHISbadgolferman.RemoveThis@gmail.com> wrote in
message
>>> > > news:xn0fzdtc3mclb27000@news.albasani.net...
>>> >>> Ray O, 12/13/2008,11:23:55 PM, wrote:
>>> > > >
>>> >>> >
>>> >>>>"badgolferman" <REMOVETHISbadgolferman.RemoveThis@gmail.com> wrote in
>>> >>>>message
>>> >>> > news:xn0fyvkaze3iu000@reader.motzarella.org...
>>> >>>>> That is the code of the Check Engine light which came on
>>> >>>>> today.
>>> I >>>>> had just pulled out of a parking lot when it illuminated.
>>> Nothing >>>>> felt different when driving. I became nervous since
I
>>> had my kid >>>>> in the car and had just changed my oil earlier
this
>>> morning. I >>was >>> wondering if the oil was leaking out or
>>> something funny was >>>>> happeneing since I used Castrol instead
of
>>> the usual Valvoline. >>> > >
>>> >>>>> I took it to Advance Auto and they hooked up the OBDII
>>> >>>>> analyzer
>>> >>and >>> gave me the code {P0773 - shift solenoid e circuit
>>> >>electrical}. I >>> asked for it to be reset but he said they
>>> >>can't however if I was >>> holding the analyzer I could. I
erased
>>> >>the
>>> code >>and have driven >>> around for a few miles and it remains
>>> normal. >>> > >
>>> >>>>> What is the code in relation to and what should I be wary of?
>>> Is >>it >>> serious?
>>> >>> >
>>> >>> > Shift solenoid e is solenoid SL in the valve body and
controls
>>> the >>> > torque converter lock-up. If the solenoid fails, it
fails
>>> safe so >>> > that you will end up with a 4 speed transmission
>>> without a lockup >>> > torque converter. To check the solenoid,
you
>>> will need a >>> > replacement transmission pan gasket and some
>>> replacement ATF >>> > (Check to be sure, but I believe your car
>>> takes Dexron III). >>> > Drain the transmission pan, remove the
>>> pan. If you are in the >>> > rust belt, be careful removing the
pan
>>> bolts as they may be >>> > rusted. If they are rusted, apply a
rust
>>> penetrant like PB >>> > Blaster, wait an hour, apply again, then
>>> carefully loosen the >>> > bolts. Remove shift solenoid SL from
the
>>> valve body and measure >>> > resistance between the two terminals
on
>>> the wires connected to >>> > the solenoid. It should measure
>>> between 11 and 15 ohms. If that >>> > checks out, apply 2 volts to
>>> the 2 terminals and see if it makes >>> > a clicking sound. If the
>>> resistance is not correct or if you do >>> > not hear clicking,
>>> replace the solenoid. Before you replace the >>> > transmission
pan,
>>> take a look at the screen. It will probably be >>> > clean, but
>>> while you are in there, looks are free >>> >
>>> >>> > When you replace the transmission pan, tighten the bolts
>>> >>> > finger-tight, then tighten in a star pattern and refill with
>>> ATF. >>> >
>>> >>> > Good luck!
>>> > > >
>>> >>> The light has come and gone twice now. The dealer says there
is
>>> >>> a broken wire in the harness that goes from the computer to the
>>> >>> transmission. Labor alone is $375. No full quote yet. I
asked
>>> >>> what if I don't do get this fixed? He says over time the
>>> >>> transmission will begin to act up since it won't get proper
>>> >>> information. Any thoughts?
>>> > >
>>> > > I would invest $10 for access to techinfo.toyota.com to get the
>>> > > wiring diagram for your vehicle so you know which color wire
you
>>> > > are tracing, then do a continuity check between the connector
>>> > > for the solenoid and the transmission ECU. The easiest repair
>>> > > would be to solder splice a new wire between the connectors.
>>> > >
>>> > > The problem if you don't get it fixed is that you will have a
>>> > > check engine light illuminated most of the time, and the
vehicle
>>> > > will not pass an emissions test with a check engine light
>>> > > illuminated or a trouble code stored in the ECU.
>>> >
>>> > I gave them the go-ahead to do the job. The dealer called me
back
>>> > hours later and said the defective wire has been replaced but the
>>> > code still appears. The Check Engine light comes and goes. They
>>> > did not charge me for the work already done and asked me if I
>>> > could leave the car. I told them I need it over the weekend.
I'm
>>> > supposed to take it back on Monday now.
>>> >
>>> > What are the chances the transmission fluid and the filter just
>>> > need to be serviced?
>>>
>>> Unfortunately, pretty slim. The next step is to drop the
>>> transmission pan and test the solenoid itself.
>>
>> I took the car to the transmission shop. The guy checked it / drove
>> it around for a while and said mechanically it is working perfectly
>> fine and was even complimentary of the ride for its advanced age.
He
>> suggested leaving it alone until there is some sort of definitive
>> sign of trouble.
>>
>> The Check Engine light comes and goes but apparently the code
remains
>> in memory and can't be cleared permanently. Why would the light
>> reset itself?
>
> If the problem is intermittent, the light will not be illuminated in
> the absence of a problem but the trouble code will probably still be
> stored in the car's memory.

No tranny expert here but my father-in-law had a similiar intermittent
problem albeit w\ a Ford(yuk)couple years ago. Very reputable mechanic
made several attempts at repair & replaced various parts including a
shift solenoid as indicated by the cel. Wound up at the dealer w\ it &
they swapped a known good computer in & kept it & drove it for several
days & to date light has never come back on. Just a thought.
dc
 >> Stay informed about: P0773 - shift solenoid e circuit electrical 

"doncee" <nopsamdbc9814.RemoveThis@nospamswbell.wanted> wrote in message
news:Xns9B894F468AB30nospamdbc9814nospam@216.196.97.131...
> "Ray O" <rokigawa.RemoveThis@NOSPAMtristarassociates.com> wrote in
> news:gjpln5$50c$3@news.motzarella.org:
>
>>
>> "badgolferman" <REMOVETHISbadgolferman.RemoveThis@gmail.com> wrote in message
>> news:xn0g4qafj1e0xko003@news.albasani.net...
>>> Ray O, 12/27/2008,1:38:15 AM, wrote:
>>>
>>>>
>>>> "badgolferman" <REMOVETHISbadgolferman.RemoveThis@gmail.com> wrote in message
>>>> news:xn0fze5sodtosr003@news.albasani.net...
>>>> > Ray O, 12/26/2008,4:35:16 PM, wrote:
>>>> >
>>>> > >
>>>> >>"badgolferman" <REMOVETHISbadgolferman.RemoveThis@gmail.com> wrote in
> message
>>>> > > news:xn0fzdtc3mclb27000@news.albasani.net...
>>>> >>> Ray O, 12/13/2008,11:23:55 PM, wrote:
>>>> > > >
>>>> >>> >
>>>> >>>>"badgolferman" <REMOVETHISbadgolferman.RemoveThis@gmail.com> wrote in
>>>> >>>>message
>>>> >>> > news:xn0fyvkaze3iu000@reader.motzarella.org...
>>>> >>>>> That is the code of the Check Engine light which came on
>>>> >>>>> today.
>>>> I >>>>> had just pulled out of a parking lot when it illuminated.
>>>> Nothing >>>>> felt different when driving. I became nervous since
> I
>>>> had my kid >>>>> in the car and had just changed my oil earlier
> this
>>>> morning. I >>was >>> wondering if the oil was leaking out or
>>>> something funny was >>>>> happeneing since I used Castrol instead
> of
>>>> the usual Valvoline. >>> > >
>>>> >>>>> I took it to Advance Auto and they hooked up the OBDII
>>>> >>>>> analyzer
>>>> >>and >>> gave me the code {P0773 - shift solenoid e circuit
>>>> >>electrical}. I >>> asked for it to be reset but he said they
>>>> >>can't however if I was >>> holding the analyzer I could. I
> erased
>>>> >>the
>>>> code >>and have driven >>> around for a few miles and it remains
>>>> normal. >>> > >
>>>> >>>>> What is the code in relation to and what should I be wary of?
>>>> Is >>it >>> serious?
>>>> >>> >
>>>> >>> > Shift solenoid e is solenoid SL in the valve body and
> controls
>>>> the >>> > torque converter lock-up. If the solenoid fails, it
> fails
>>>> safe so >>> > that you will end up with a 4 speed transmission
>>>> without a lockup >>> > torque converter. To check the solenoid,
> you
>>>> will need a >>> > replacement transmission pan gasket and some
>>>> replacement ATF >>> > (Check to be sure, but I believe your car
>>>> takes Dexron III). >>> > Drain the transmission pan, remove the
>>>> pan. If you are in the >>> > rust belt, be careful removing the
> pan
>>>> bolts as they may be >>> > rusted. If they are rusted, apply a
> rust
>>>> penetrant like PB >>> > Blaster, wait an hour, apply again, then
>>>> carefully loosen the >>> > bolts. Remove shift solenoid SL from
> the
>>>> valve body and measure >>> > resistance between the two terminals
> on
>>>> the wires connected to >>> > the solenoid. It should measure
>>>> between 11 and 15 ohms. If that >>> > checks out, apply 2 volts to
>>>> the 2 terminals and see if it makes >>> > a clicking sound. If the
>>>> resistance is not correct or if you do >>> > not hear clicking,
>>>> replace the solenoid. Before you replace the >>> > transmission
> pan,
>>>> take a look at the screen. It will probably be >>> > clean, but
>>>> while you are in there, looks are free >>> >
>>>> >>> > When you replace the transmission pan, tighten the bolts
>>>> >>> > finger-tight, then tighten in a star pattern and refill with
>>>> ATF. >>> >
>>>> >>> > Good luck!
>>>> > > >
>>>> >>> The light has come and gone twice now. The dealer says there
> is
>>>> >>> a broken wire in the harness that goes from the computer to the
>>>> >>> transmission. Labor alone is $375. No full quote yet. I
> asked
>>>> >>> what if I don't do get this fixed? He says over time the
>>>> >>> transmission will begin to act up since it won't get proper
>>>> >>> information. Any thoughts?
>>>> > >
>>>> > > I would invest $10 for access to techinfo.toyota.com to get the
>>>> > > wiring diagram for your vehicle so you know which color wire
> you
>>>> > > are tracing, then do a continuity check between the connector
>>>> > > for the solenoid and the transmission ECU. The easiest repair
>>>> > > would be to solder splice a new wire between the connectors.
>>>> > >
>>>> > > The problem if you don't get it fixed is that you will have a
>>>> > > check engine light illuminated most of the time, and the
> vehicle
>>>> > > will not pass an emissions test with a check engine light
>>>> > > illuminated or a trouble code stored in the ECU.
>>>> >
>>>> > I gave them the go-ahead to do the job. The dealer called me
> back
>>>> > hours later and said the defective wire has been replaced but the
>>>> > code still appears. The Check Engine light comes and goes. They
>>>> > did not charge me for the work already done and asked me if I
>>>> > could leave the car. I told them I need it over the weekend.
> I'm
>>>> > supposed to take it back on Monday now.
>>>> >
>>>> > What are the chances the transmission fluid and the filter just
>>>> > need to be serviced?
>>>>
>>>> Unfortunately, pretty slim. The next step is to drop the
>>>> transmission pan and test the solenoid itself.
>>>
>>> I took the car to the transmission shop. The guy checked it / drove
>>> it around for a while and said mechanically it is working perfectly
>>> fine and was even complimentary of the ride for its advanced age.
> He
>>> suggested leaving it alone until there is some sort of definitive
>>> sign of trouble.
>>>
>>> The Check Engine light comes and goes but apparently the code
> remains
>>> in memory and can't be cleared permanently. Why would the light
>>> reset itself?
>>
>> If the problem is intermittent, the light will not be illuminated in
>> the absence of a problem but the trouble code will probably still be
>> stored in the car's memory.
>
> No tranny expert here but my father-in-law had a similiar intermittent
> problem albeit w\ a Ford(yuk)couple years ago. Very reputable mechanic
> made several attempts at repair & replaced various parts including a
> shift solenoid as indicated by the cel. Wound up at the dealer w\ it &
> they swapped a known good computer in & kept it & drove it for several
> days & to date light has never come back on. Just a thought.
> dc

While it is possible that the computer is causing the malfunction indicator
light to illuminate, the likelihood of a computer failing on a Toyota is
very low, something like one in a million.
--

Ray O
(correct punctuation to reply)
 >> Stay informed about: P0773 - shift solenoid e circuit electrical