• AMBW
  • Motor Age
  • Motor Age Training
  • Professional Distributor
  • PTEN
    1. Service Repair
    2. Video Network
    3. The Trainer

    The Trainer #141: Capitalizing on multiple scan tool functions for transmission analysis

    Sept. 29, 2023
    Using a capable scan tool's features to diagnose transmission concerns is a recipe for efficient transmission diagnostics.

    In my experience navigating through dozens of shops over the last two decades, it’s quite common to find that one of the largest areas of mystery lies with the automatic transmission. Its intricacies include electrical and electronic control of hydraulic circuits to create mechanical outputs. All of them require an inquisitive mindset and gentle touch, and care must be taken during disassembly, inspection, reassembly, and verification processes. But all of that applies only after committing to disassembly.

    Like all facets of the automobile, technology continues to find its way into every component we encounter, including the automatic transmission. Electronic components like transistors and MOSFETs within the transmission control modules or PCMs drive or control solenoids, and it’s these solenoids that will route pressurized hydraulic fluid accordingly to create mechanical movement of the components within the transmission, allow the vehicle to drive down our motorways.     However, we are faced with that initial question at the point a failure occurs. “Is the problem inside or outside the transmission?” And it’s that very question they may mean the difference between a successful/affordable repair or the customer getting rid of the vehicle because the cost of transmission replacement exceeds the value of the car. It’s important we determine easily that the electrical components have everything they need to function and are indeed functioning correctly before condemning a transmission for disassembly.

    In this episode using a diagnostic platform and its multiple features will aid in an efficient diagnosis of a transmission related driveability concern. Beginning in the driver's seat, a global scan for DTCs will be carried out followed by a comprehensive road test capturing graphed transmission data PIDs for analysis. This will lead to logical testing of the solenoids and related circuitry responsible for delivering the pressurized hydraulic transmission fluid to the respective hydraulic components internal to the transaxle. Stick with Motor Age magazine’s Technical Editor Brandon Steckler as he walks you through a logical approach to automatic transmission analysis and diagnosis. 

    Due to factors beyond the control of Endeavor Business Media, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information or improper use of this information. Endeavor Business Media assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. Endeavor Business Media recommends safe practices when working with power tools, automotive lifts, lifting tools, jack stands, electrical equipment, blunt instruments, chemicals, lubricants, or any other tools or equipment seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of Endeavor Business Media, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage, or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not Endeavor Business Media. The tool and/or equipment featured in this video was supplied by the manufacturer and may or may not be retained by the reviewer at no cost.

    About the Author

    Brandon Steckler | Technical Editor | Motor Age

    Brandon began his career in Northampton County Community College in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, where he was a student of GM’s Automotive Service Educational program. In 2001, he graduated top of his class and earned the GM Leadership award for his efforts. He later began working as a technician at a Saturn dealership in Reading, Pennsylvania, where he quickly attained Master Technician status. He later transitioned to working with Hondas, where he aggressively worked to attain another Master Technician status.

    Always having a passion for a full understanding of system/component functionality, he rapidly earned a reputation for deciphering strange failures at an efficient pace and became known as an information specialist among the staff and peers at the dealership. In search of new challenges, he transitioned away from the dealership and to the independent world, where he specialized in diagnostics and driveability. 

    Today, he is an instructor with both Carquest Technical Institute and Worldpac Training Institute. Along with beta testing for Automotive Test Solutions, he develops curriculum/submits case studies for educational purposes. Through Steckler Automotive Technical Services, LLC., Brandon also provides telephone and live technical support, as well as private training, for technicians all across the world.

    Brandon holds ASE certifications A1-A9 as well as C1 (Service Consultant). He is certified as an Advanced Level Specialist in L1 (Advanced Engine Performance), L2 (Advanced Diesel Engine Performance), L3 (Hybrid/EV Specialist), L4 (ADAS) and xEV-Level 2 (Technician electrical safety).

    He contributes weekly to Facebook automotive chat groups, has authored several books and classes, and truly enjoys traveling across the globe to help other technicians attain a level of understanding that will serve them well throughout their careers.  

    Email