2003 Accord Transmission Trouble
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2003 Accord Transmission Trouble
I recently bought a used 2003 Accord EX V6 sedan. The check engine light comes on frequently and then goes off (code p0741 - torque converter circuit performance or stuck off). It's noticeable that the torque converter doesn't lock up above 41mph like its supposed to. I've been trying to diagnose the problem myself before taking it to a repair shop and having them tell me they want to rebuild the transmission for $2000. I checked the lock-up solenoid and the A/T clutch solenoid and they seem fine. I also checked the brake position indicator switch and nothing seemed wrong. Any other suggestions? I really don't have the money for an exensive repair so I'm hopingI can do this myself. Thanks.
Also, I replaced the ATF with Honda Z1, drained and refilled 3 times to try and get all the old fluid out, but it made no difference. However, I can't seem to figure out whether to check the ATF level with the engine idling or not. Different sources give different information. Thanks for your help.
Also, I replaced the ATF with Honda Z1, drained and refilled 3 times to try and get all the old fluid out, but it made no difference. However, I can't seem to figure out whether to check the ATF level with the engine idling or not. Different sources give different information. Thanks for your help.
Super Moderator : And A Texan
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 9,652
From: Katy, TX
RE: 2003 Accord Transmission Trouble
Are you sure the code wasn't P0740 - Torque Converter Lock-up Clutch does not engage.
I have had this code on my 97 Acura TL for some time and have been through all the electrical checks on the LU solenoids to find all OK. I checked the screens on the LU solenoids and they were clear. This code is set when the TCU detects slippage (2-12% depending on vehicle speed) wheel speed vs. engine speed) indicates the LU is not engaged, when it should be. An electrical fault in the LU circuit sets another code, so this is a hydraulic fault. I connected a wire to the electrical circuit driving the solenoids and confirmed that LU solenoids were being energized, however LU was not occurring. Car runs fine except for this fault which causes the CEL to be ON most or all of the time now. I plan to try, when tires get a few more miles, to increase the tire size by the 5-10%, and hopefully this will fool the TCU sufficiently to stop the code P0740. However, I'm unsure how much I canincrease tire size w/o causing interference problems w/ body or suspension.
Once your reach this stage, there is not much to be done; either live w/ the condition or repair/replace the transmission. It won't be fixed in place.
good luck
I have had this code on my 97 Acura TL for some time and have been through all the electrical checks on the LU solenoids to find all OK. I checked the screens on the LU solenoids and they were clear. This code is set when the TCU detects slippage (2-12% depending on vehicle speed) wheel speed vs. engine speed) indicates the LU is not engaged, when it should be. An electrical fault in the LU circuit sets another code, so this is a hydraulic fault. I connected a wire to the electrical circuit driving the solenoids and confirmed that LU solenoids were being energized, however LU was not occurring. Car runs fine except for this fault which causes the CEL to be ON most or all of the time now. I plan to try, when tires get a few more miles, to increase the tire size by the 5-10%, and hopefully this will fool the TCU sufficiently to stop the code P0740. However, I'm unsure how much I canincrease tire size w/o causing interference problems w/ body or suspension.
Once your reach this stage, there is not much to be done; either live w/ the condition or repair/replace the transmission. It won't be fixed in place.
good luck
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