I got a problem, 91 Accord EX auto is giving me code 7 on the "S" light, car shifts from 1st to what seems to be 3rd or 4th from a dead stop and the TQ seems to be locking and unlocking every time you touch or let off the throttle at highway speed.

code 7 stands for shift control solenoid valve A

I guess my question is which is A and which is B I happen to have an extra set of solenoids so I replaced the upper ones and then took it out for a drive it was good for about 4 miles then shift light came back on and it did same thing still code 7. The lowers solenoids are a much bigger issue to change but I can if I need to, I did a hot wire test on all of them and they all are clicking although the uppers click much louder than the lowers (could simply be from location).

I have recently checked my TCU and it looked good from the standpoint of nothing burnt but could this be an issue with this problem? Honestly this car is about to drive me insane and I am about to run it off a cliff. I have done so much work to it lately and it is a new problem every day...

Thanks in advance for any help it is much welcomed...

 

Suggest downloading the 91 Accord manual from Online Manuals links in DIY forum.

I looked at my 90 Accord Manual and the Shift Control Solenoids are the lower set of solenoids (just below the lockup solenoids) on that model. Likely same for 91 Accord.

You may be able to disconnect the electrical connector and check resistances in place. They should have 12-24 ohms each between each pin and ground.

good luck

 

I ohmed the solenoids out and the were fine but I replaced them anyway and that cured the code 7 and the 1st to 4th shift problem.

Now my issue like I stated above is at highway speed the with even a feather of the throttle the car i believe locks and unlocks the TQ, the rpm changes about 300-400. I am sure this is not good on things and would like to get it figured out. Someone told my it could possably be a TPS? is that and option?

any advise greatly welcomed!!

 

If you don't have any transmission codes (check since some codes don't cause D4 light to flash), the problem is hydraulic and may be difficult to resolve. I would start w/ a complete transmission fluid replacement w/ Honda ATF Z1. Sometimes this can make a difference in shift performance.

Replace all ATF by removing the return ATF cooling line from radiator-transmission at the radiator(not sure which is supply/return). Attach a length of tubing over the flexible hose end and direct flow to a catch bucket. Start engine and run about 1-2 qts out (likely only 10-15 secs run time), refill reservoir w/ 1-2 qts new ATF and repeat until clear ATF comes out of dump line. This will take 6-7 qts of ATF-Z1.

There's a nice youtube video of this procedure. search "atomatic transmission fluid flush" w/ that spelling for the video.

good luck

 

Texas thanks for all your help, I also believe the issue is hydraulic, this is a wrecking yard replacement tranny and I feel there is a problem with it but since this is the 2nd replacement tranny in a month (the first failed n 4 days) I am tired of working on this car and perhaps it is time for it to go down the road.....

 

Good post for other members to read on problems with that code..Thanks Guys!

 

Before throwing in the towel, check the transmission throttle cable adjustment. Adjust linkage until throttle plate and transmission lever begin to move simulataneously. This can have a dramatic impact on shift quality and might affect the lockup circuit also.

good luck

 

DRAIN and FILL the fluid 2 or 3 times. You have crap in your tq. converter.
Make sure to only DRAIN and FILL and to ONLY use HONDA ATF. Drain all your fluid fill then drive for 200-300milles. Drain again and fill. Repeat as many times as you want. the More the better but 2 or 3 times will get all the crap out of the tq. converter since we can’t power flush our transmissions we have to do this drain and fill crap.. Also check you drain plug see how much metal is on the magnet. The more the worse...Also are you using the TCU from the car this trans came out of?? This can change how the trans will shift. Drain and fill then reset you ecu. If it comes back then it's your shift solenoids. But it's not a bad thing to have a trans with fresh fluid...As some ppl neglect trans fluid as is it just as important as engine oil.

 

Multiple trans recently. When replacing them I would have thought the converter was drained then filled along with the case being drained and filled...so I'm with TX in in the 7th post, check the linkage to be sure it is set prop....if the fluid wasn't changed when the trans was by all means do the procedure (multi drain and fills or the other method)

 

fluid was new in every case, this one i put a brand new TQ in, I have however been using NAPA fluid not honda. this problem was not in the other 2 trannys with NAPA fluid and the same TCU. All of the solenoids have been changed.

the transmission lever controls the pressure through the valve body in the tranny correct? I have adjusted it a couple times in small amounts both directions with mixed results, at one time I felt it made a difference it threw the code 7 so I put it back to where as soon as the idle changes on the car the lever is starting to move in unison.

At this point I think my best decision is to run it like it is for a couple hundred miles, change fluid using Honda fluid, and re-adjust the lever.

Can you only get honda fluid at a dealership? I hate dealerships.....lol

thanks again for the reply's!!