What do you need to know about shift solenoids?

What do you need to know about shift solenoids?

The shift solenoids are the means by which this control is physically achieved within the transmission. Shift solenoids are relatively basic in design and principal. Simply put, the shift solenoid has a spring loaded plunger inside of it that will move transmission fluid in and out of different parts…

Where do the shift solenoids in a 4L60E come from?

The short answer would be that the shift solenoids found within the 4L60E transmission receive instructions from the ECU/TCM to open and close. This is where the “E” in 4L60E comes from. It means electronic control. The shift solenoids are the means by which this control is physically achieved within the transmission.

How can I tell if my transmission solenoid is bad?

To read the trouble codes from the transmission control module, you need an OBD2 scanner to read generic and enhanced trouble codes. Most cheaper ones can only read the codes from the engine control module. If the transmission control unit recognizes any shift solenoid problems, it may cause the transmission to shift very slowly.

What causes transmission solenoid to not get both 12 volts and ground?

Measure that you get both 12 volts and ground to the shift solenoid at the plug on the transmission on the affected pin. If you do not get both 12 volts and ground – you may have a wiring problem or a faulty TCM ( transmission control unit ).

What should the reading be on a transmission shift solenoid?

Once done, get the reading off of the voltmeter. If the reading is between 12 or 25, that means there is nothing wrong with the machinery, and the culprit might actually be something else. However, if the reading is below it or over it, that means the shift solenoid is bad.

Why is my Shift Solenoid not working properly?

Diagnosis is key when it comes to transmission problems, as various issues can cause similar problems. Trouble with wiring or sensors could be at fault instead. A faulty shift solenoid should be replaced. In some cases, the solenoid is integrated into the valve body and isn’t serviceable.

How much does it cost to replace a shift solenoid?

In the picture above, you see the shift solenoids located on the valve body. The shift solenoids are the tubes with yellow, green, and black colors. A single shift solenoid’s replacement cost is between 100$ to 350$ and a shift solenoid pack costs between 400$ to 700$, including transmission fluid, filter, parts, and labor work.

What to do if your transmission solenoid is stuck?

If the trouble code tells us that it’s stuck or an electrical problem, it is most likely a wiring or shift solenoid problem. Many shift solenoid-related codes can be solved by doing a transmission fluid replacement or carrying out a transmission flush. A transmission fluid change is often not that expensive and worth doing.

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