SureTrack Real Fix: Toyota Limp Mode

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Real Fixes from the SureTrack® expert information resource are documented issues from actual shop repair records and community discussions.  Read on to see how SureTrack can help you correct issues that are not easily diagnosed using OEM information alone. SureTrack is available at no additional cost in our ProDemand product.

This fix illustrates the power of the SureTrack community to quickly help a fellow tech solve a problem in less than 60 minutes. SureTrack community member AVT-David had a Toyota Camry in the shop with a transmission issue. They posed the question to the community, and with the help of fellow community members 1Quick6 and others, they were able to resolve the issue quickly.

The following Community Fix summarizes the interaction between members of the community that led to the solution.

Vehicle
2008 Toyota Camry Solara Sporta

Title
Transmission limp mode, low pressures on hydraulic test, burnt fluid, ECU & transmission harness replaced.

Complaint
A year after TCC solenoid and service were performed, customer returned stating transmission is stuck in limp mode with cel on.

Diagnostic Steps Performed/Parts Replaced
Scan tool pulled code P0778 Pressure Control Solenoid B Electrical(SL2), but code did not clear. Transmission pan was removed, found fluid was really dark/burnt and found no obvious faults with wiring or sensor. Customer agreed to have transmission overhauled as pressures were low on last hydraulic test and fluid was burnt. A new SL2 solenoid was installed for safe measures and used the Mitchell 1 diagram to indicate the proper solenoid. After repairs, the transmission worked fine for several test drives until the customer picked it up – after a few miles, cel turns on with the same P0778 code and will not shut off.

Solenoid was replaced, wiring is not damaged, what could throw P0778? Bad ECM?

Best Answer from Community Member 1Quick6
Have a close look at that circuit. It would not be the first time running into a bad Toyota PCM that throws up hard transaxle code.

Cause
Burnt transmission fluid and faulty transmission harness.

Correction
ECU was replaced and then a TCC code appeared. Found a faulty transmission harness getting power from ECU but not sending it to the TCC solenoid. Replaced harness and car worked great after.

SureTrack® adds to the power of ProDemand® with an exclusive combination of real-world knowledge and powerful diagnostic tools, all wrapped in an interactive community of professional technicians. Designed to help automotive shops increase accuracy and efficiency from diagnosis to completed repair, the industry’s most comprehensive repair information resource is just a few clicks away.

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About the Author

Abagail Lucero

Abagail Lucero is the Product Marketing Manager for ProDemand. She joined the company in 2011 as a member of the SocialCRM shop marketing team and has served in many roles at Mitchell1, lastly as Security and Compliance Supervisor. Abagail holds a Bachelor of Science degree from California University of Pennsylvania.