Circuit Description
The transmission internal mode switch (IMS) is a sliding contact switch attached to the selector detent inside the transmission side cover. The four inputs to the PCM indicate the position of the transmission range selector. The input voltage level at the PCM is high, B+, when the IMS is open and low when the switch is closed to ground. The four input parameters represented are Signals A, B, C and P - Parity. Refer to Transmission Internal Mode Switch Logic .
If the PCM detects that IMS Signal A is always low, then DTC P1820 sets. DTC P1820 is a type C DTC.
Conditions for Running the DTC
| • | No MAP DTC P0107 or P0108. |
| • | Engine torque is 55-407 N·m (40-300 lb ft). |
Conditions for Setting the DTC
The IMS Signal A is continuously low this ignition cycle, and the following conditions occur:
| • | The IMS indicates PARK for 2 seconds, then; |
| • | The IMS indicates transitional position D4-D3 for 60 seconds. |
Action Taken When the DTC Sets
| • | The PCM does not illuminate the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL). |
| • | The PCM commands maximum line pressure. |
| • | The PCM freezes transmission adaptive functions. |
| • | The PCM assumes D4 for shifting. |
| • | The PCM records the operating conditions when the Conditions for Setting the DTC are met. The PCM stores this information as Failure Records. |
| • | The PCM stores DTC P1820 in PCM history. |
Conditions for Clearing the DTC
| • | A scan tool can clear the DTC. |
| • | The PCM clears the DTC from PCM history if the vehicle completes 40 warm-up cycles without a non-emission-related diagnostic fault occurring. |
| • | The PCM cancels the DTC default actions when the ignition switch is OFF long enough in order to power down the PCM. |
Test Description
The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.
-
A low value for Signal A indicates a short to ground in the engine harness or the PCM.
-
This step tests the internal transmission harness. A value of LOW for Signal A indicates the fault is in the harness. Otherwise the fault will be in the switch.
Step | Action | Value(s) | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Did you perform the Diagnostic System Check? | -- | Go to Step 2 | Go to Diagnostic System Check - Engine Controls in Engine Controls - 3.8L |
2 |
Important: Before clearing the DTC, use the scan tool in order to record the Failure Records. Using the Clear Info function erases the Failure Records from the PCM. Does the scan tool IMS parameter indicate Drive 4? | -- | Go to Intermittent Conditions in Engine Controls -3.8L | Go to Step 3 |
Does IMS signal A indicate LOW? | -- | Go to Step 4 | Go to Step 5 | |
4 | Test the signal A circuit (CKT 771) of the IMS for a short to ground between the PCM connector C2 and the AT Inline 20-way connector. Refer to Testing for Short to Ground and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems. Did you find and correct the condition? | -- | Go to Step 9 | Go to Step 8 |
Does IMS signal A indicate LOW? | -- | Go to Step 6 | Go to Step 7 | |
6 | Replace the automatic transmission wiring harness. Refer to Wiring Harness Replacement . Did you complete the replacement? | -- | Go to Step 9 | -- |
7 | Replace the lever assembly-manual shaft detent with internal mode switch. Refer to Manual Shift Detent Lever with Shaft Position Switch Assembly Removal in Transmission Unit Repair Manual. Did you complete the replacement? | -- | Go to Step 9 | -- |
8 | Replace the PCM. Refer to Powertrain Control Module Replacement in Engine Controls - 3.8L. Did you complete the replacement? | -- | Go to Step 9 | -- |
9 | Perform the following procedure in order to verify the repair:
Has the test run and passed? | -- | Go to Step 10 | Go to Step 2 |
10 | With a scan tool, observe the stored information, capture info and DTC info. Does the scan tool display any DTCs that you have not diagnosed? | Go to Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List in Engine Controls - 3.8L | System OK |
