Technical Bulletin #1767: Slipping or Binding Shifts, Solenoid Test
Technical Bulletin #1767: Slipping or Binding Shifts, Solenoid Test
Technical Bulletin #1767: Slipping or Binding Shifts, Solenoid Test
Transmission: U150
Subject: Slipping or Binding Shifts, Solenoid Test
Application: Toyota/Lexus
Issue Date: November, 2016
U150
Slipping or Binding Shifts, Solenoid Test
When working on the Toyota or Lexus vehicle with U150 series transaxles, it may be noticed, either
before or after overhaul the transmission has either slipping or binding shifting. This condition may be
caused by the shift solenoids, valve body wear issues, or defective PCM.
To rule out the likelihood of a defective PCM, follow the voltage test for solenoids SL1, SL2, and SL3.
Refer to figure 1 for the case connector view in order to follow the solenoid test. Refer to figure 2 for a
wiring diagram with wiring colors to assist the technician in identifying the correct wire in the harness.
NOTE: The diagrams in figure 1 and 2 are for 2008 Toyota Sienna. To avoid connector pin configuration
and wire color confusion, please refer to the appropriate factory manual for the vehicle you are
working on.
Figure 1
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U150 #1767
Slipping or Binding Shifts, Solenoid Test
Figure 2
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#1767 U150
Slipping or Binding Shifts, Solenoid Test
Refer to figure 3 for the U150 series solenoid apply chart.
Solenoid Test
Using a voltmeter, back probe the terminals for each of the solenoids SL1, SL2, and SL3.
SL1: Monitor the voltage across terminals 6 and 13 of the transmission case connector. You should see
approx. 7 volts on the meter when you are in 1st gear. When the computer commands an up shift into
2nd gear the voltage should drop from 7 volts to 0 volts in less than ½ second. When the computer
commands third gear you should see the voltage go from 0 volts to about 7 volts in less than ½
second. When the computer commands 4th gear you should see the voltage again go from 7 volts to 0
volts in less than ½ second. This will be normal operation for the SL1.
SL2: monitor the voltage across terminals 5 and 12. You should see approx. 7 volts when the vehicle
is in 1st and 2nd gear. When the computer commands third gear you should see the voltage drop to
approx. 0 volts in less than ½ second. The voltage should stay at 0 volts in 3rd, 4th, and 5th gear.
SL3: Monitor the voltage across terminals 4 and 11. You should see 0 volts when the vehicle is in 1st,
2nd, or 3rd gear. When the computer commands a shift to 4th gear, you should see the voltage go to
approx. 7 volts in less than ½ second. The voltage should remain at 7 volts in 5th gear as well.
These voltage values must be watched carefully. Any difference in voltages may indicate a faulty PCM.