Half-clutched State

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Nissan Xterra. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The current output from the TCM to the torque converter clutch solenoid is varied to gradually increase the torque converter clutch solenoid pressure.
In this way, the lock-up apply pressure gradually rises and while the torque converter clutch piston is put into half-clutched status, the torque converter clutch piston operating pressure is increased and the coupling is completed smoothly.