Description & Operation: Notes

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 1996 Saturn SW2, 1996 Saturn SW1, 1996 Saturn SL2, 1996 Saturn SL1, and 1996 Saturn SC2. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Vehicles use a 4-speed, fully automatic, electronically controlled transaxle with shift mode select function and self-diagnostic function.

The transaxle uses 5 electronic valves (line actuators), controlled by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The PCM controls all transaxle shifts, shift feel, Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) lock-up and self-diagnostics. PCM is located behind right side of dash. PCM has two 32-pin connectors and two 24-pin connectors.

If an electrical circuit or component problem occurs, MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT (MIL) may come on or start flashing. PCM will store Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) in memory. A stored DTC indicates PCM has detected a fault in engine or transaxle circuits or components.

PCM is capable of operating in 2 different modes. The differences between the 2 modes are shift points. NORMAL mode or PERFORMANCE mode may be selected using mode switch. Mode switch is located on center console.