GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Diagnostic Instructions

    • Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure.
    • Review Strategy Based Diagnosis for an overview of the diagnostic approach.
    •  Diagnostic Procedure Instructions provides an overview of each diagnostic category.

DTC Descriptor

DTC P077B: Output Speed Sensor Direction Incorrect

Diagnostic Fault Information

Circuit

Short to Ground

Open/High Resistance

Short to Voltage

Signal Performance

OSS Supply Voltage

P0722, P0723

P0722, P0723

P0722, P0723

P0721, P077B

OSS Signal

P0722, P0723

P0722, P0723

P0722, P0723

P0721, P077B

Typical Scan Tool Data

Output Shaft Direction

Circuit

Normal Range

Open/High Resistance

Short to Voltage

Operating Conditions: Engine running, normal operating temperature

OSS Signal

Forward/Reverse

Out of Range

Out of Range

OSS Supply Voltage

OK

Out of Range

Out of Range

Circuit/System Description

The output speed sensor (OSS) assembly has 2 internal hall-effect type sensors, and is capable of sensing both speed and direction. The OSS mounts to the A/T rear case assembly and is connected to the control solenoid (w/body and TCM) valve assembly through a wire harness and connector. The sensor faces the hybrid direct, 2-3-4 clutch housing assembly machined teeth surface. The sensor receives 8.3-9.3 volts on the OSS supply voltage circuit from the transmission control module (TCM). As the output shaft rotates, the sensor produces a signal frequency based on the machined surface of the output shaft.

The two sensor elements in the OSS assembly are spaced approximately 1/2 a tooth apart.

    • When the vehicle is moving in a forward direction, sensor A detects a particular tooth before sensor B.
    • When the vehicle is moving in a reverse direction, sensor B detects a particular tooth before sensor A.

The electronics in the sensor combine the two signals and send a signal with a different pulse width. This signal is interpreted by the TCM for speed and direction and is transmitted through the GMLAN circuits to the engine control module (ECM) and the hybrid powertrain control module (HPCM). The ECM, HPCM, and TCM compare the OSS signal with the ABS wheel speed sensor signal. The HPCM also compares the output shaft direction with the drive motor 1 and drive motor 2 direction.

Conditions for Running the DTC

    • The OSS is less than 50 RPM.
    • The drive motor estimated output speed is greater than 50 RPM.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The HPCM or the TCM detects an incorrect OSS direction.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

HPCM

The HPCM calculates OSS direction based on drive motor 1 and drive motor 2 direction.

TCM

    • The TCM freezes transmission adaptive functions.
    • The TCM turns OFF all solenoids.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

HPCM

P077B is a Type A DTC.

TCM

P077B is a Type A DTC.

Diagnostic Aids

Inspect the OSS, harness, connector and control solenoid (w/body and TCM) valve assembly pins for metallic debris and output shaft machined face for damage or misalignment. Proper torque of the OSS mounting bolt is critical to proper OSS operation. Use a terminal test kit for any test that requires probing the control solenoid (w/body and TCM) valve assembly harness connector or a component harness connector.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Automatic Transmission Controls Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Component Connector End Views

Electrical Information Reference

    •  Circuit Testing
    •  Connector Repairs
    •  Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections
    •  Wiring Repairs

DTC Type Reference

Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Type Definitions

Scan Tool Reference

Control Module References for scan tool information.

Special Tools

J 38522 Variable Signal Generator

Circuit/System Verification

  1. Verify that DTCs P0721, P0722, P0723, P0966, P0967, P0969, P0970, P0971, P0973, P0974, P0976, P0977, P2720, P2721, P2728, P2729, or P2730 are not set.
  2. If any of the DTCs are set, refer to Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List - Vehicle .
  3. Operate the vehicle at 16-32 km/h (10-20 mph) while observing the Transmission Data Output Shaft Direction parameter on the scan tool.
  4. The Output Shaft Direction parameter should match vehicle direction.

Circuit/System Testing

  1. Operate the vehicle at 16-32 km/h (10-20 mph) while observing the Transmission Data Output Shaft Direction parameter on the scan tool.
  2. If the Output Shaft Direction parameter corresponds with the vehicle direction and DTC P077B is set in the HPCM and not the TCM, replace the HPCM.
    If DTC P077B is also set in the TCM continue testing.
  3. Disconnect the OSS connector.
  4. Test for 8.3-9.3 volts between the OSS supply voltage circuit and ground.
  5. If less than 8.3 volts, test the OSS supply voltage circuit for an open/high resistance or short to ground.
    If greater than 9.3 volts, test the OSS supply voltage circuit for a short to voltage.
  6. Perform the Control Solenoid Valve and Transmission Control Module Assembly Output Shaft Speed Input Test .
  7. If the OSS signal is not within the specified range, test the OSS signal circuit for an open/high resistance, short to ground, or a short to voltage.
    If the circuit tests normal, replace the control solenoid (w/body and TCM) valve assembly.
    If the OSS signal is within the specified range, visually inspect the OSS and the output shaft machined surface for damage or misalignment. If OK, replace the OSS.

Component Testing

Perform the Control Solenoid Valve and Transmission Control Module Assembly Output Shaft Speed Input Test .

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

    •  Output Speed Sensor Replacement
    •  Control Module References for control solenoid (w/body and TCM) valve assembly replacement, setup, and programming.
    •  Control Solenoid Valve and Transmission Control Module Assembly Inspection .
    •  Control Solenoid Valve and Transmission Control Module Assembly Output Shaft Speed Input Test .