AUDI A6 1996 C5 / 2.G 01V Transmission OBD Functions Workshop Manual
Manufacturer: AUDI, Model Year: 1996, Model line: A6, Model: AUDI A6 1996 C5 / 2.GPages: 13, PDF Size: 0.08 MB
Page 1 of 13

01-1
 
     
On Board Diagnostic (OBD), 
function 
      The automatic transmission is controlled electro-
hydraulically.  
      The automatic Transmission Control Module 
(TMC) -J217- receives information from 
components that effect the selection of gears. It 
passes the information on to solenoid valves that 
control the solenoid valves in the valve body. The 
solenoid valves convey the fluid pressure 
generated by the ATF pump to the appropriate 
clutches and brakes to be engaged.  
     
Transmission Control Module (TMC) -J217- 
malfunction recognition  
      The term "On Board Diagnostic (OBD)" applies 
specifically to the electronic/electric control.  
      The control module is equipped with a Diagnostic 
Trouble Code (DTC) memory so in the event of 
an electronic/electrical component failure or on 
open circuit, the malfunction can be determined 
quickly. Malfunctions are recognized by electrical 
signals and stored in the DTC memory together 
with an indication of the type of malfunction and 
malfunction location.  
      The control module recognizes malfunctions 
during vehicle operation and stores them in a 
DTC memory. This information will remain 
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available even if the system voltage fails.  
      The control module distinguishes between 
permanent malfunctions that have occurred and 
sporadic malfunctions.  
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01-2
       If a malfunction is no longer present after a 
certain time or a long drive, it will be converted to 
a sporadic (SP) DTC.   
      A malfunction will also be converted to sporadic 
when the DTC memory is not erased after 
repairs.  
      Malfunctions which are stored in the memory as 
sporadic malfunctions, will be displayed as 
"sporadic DTCs" when checked by the scan tool 
V.A.G 1551. In such cases "SP" appears on the 
right of the display. If the printer is switched on, 
the print-out will show "sporadic DTC" after the 
identification of the malfunction.   
      If the sporadic DTC does not occur again after 40 
cold engine starts and subsequent transmission 
warm-up, the malfunction in DTC memory will be 
automatically erased.   
      The possibilities offered by On Board Diagnostic 
can only be used with the Vehicle Diagnostic, 
Testing and Information System VAS 5051 or the 
V.A.G 1551 scan tool (mode 1, rapid data 
transfer).  
      Available functions of Vehicle Diagnostic, Testing 
and Information System VAS 5051 or the 
V.A.G1551 scan tool   page 01
-42
 .  
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01-3
      
Security functions of the Transmission 
Control Module (TCM)  
      When one or more components or sensors fail, 
the Transmission Control Module (TCM) -J217- 
activates the appropriate alternate functions or 
emergency programs. This ensures destruction-
free operation of the automatic transmission with 
some effect on the function and quality of 
shifting.  
      When critical malfunctions occur with an active 
TCM, the current selected gear will be held. 
"Mechanical emergency running mode with the 
control module active" is activated by the TCM as 
soon as the driving situation regarding 
transmission security and engine security permits 
it.  
     
Mechanical backup with active control 
module 
     
-  The transmission shifts out of all forward gears 
into hydraulic 4th gear. The torque converter 
clutch is unlocked (not applied). All solenoid 
valves are de-energized. 
     
-  Maximum shift pressure is applied to the power-
transmitting elements. 
     
- 
Reverse gear can be engaged. The shift lock 
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solenoid is active (in "P" and "N"). 
    
-  All segments of the transmission range selector lever display light up.
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01-4
      
-  The Multi-function Indicator Light (MIL) lights up 
after 2 driving cycles (Dcy); check DTC memory 
(  page 01
-43
 and compare with DTC table   
page 01
-45
 ). 
      If the TCM -J217- malfunctions (e.g. if the power 
supply is faulty or the connector becomes 
disconnected), the transmission will immediately 
switch to "mechanical back-up mode with 
inactive control module" and continue to 
operate.  
     
Mechanical backup with non-active control 
module 
     
-  The transmission shifts out of all forward gears 
into hydraulic 4th gear. The torque converter 
clutch is unlocked (not applied). All solenoid 
valves are de-energized. 
     
-  Maximum shift pressure is applied to the power-
transmitting elements. 
     
-  Reverse gear can be engaged. The shift lock 
solenoid is active (in "P" and "N"). 
    
-  All of the segments transmission range selector lever display are dark.
- 
The MIL lights up when the Engine Control Module (ECM) has 
recognized a CAN-bus malfunction (missing data exchange between 
engine and transmission control modules) (after 2 Dcy); check DTC 
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memory of the control module. 
-  Transmission Control Module (TCM) -J217- does not function at all, i.e. 
it cannot be checked via On Board Diagnostic (OBD). 
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01-5
      
Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) 
function, checking
 
      If emissions malfunctions are recognized by the 
TCM, the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) will 
be switched on.  
    
Location of the MIL: integrated in speedometer in instrument cluster  
Notes:  
When the MIL is switched on, it will either blink or light continuously. The 
DTC memory for the TCM must be checked   page 01
-43
 . 
MIL flashing: there is a malfunction that could damage the Three Way 
Catalytic Converter (TWC). In this case, drive only with reduced 
power. MIL continuously on: there is a malfunction that degrades emissions. 
Check DTC memory of the Engine Control Module (ECM) or the TCM. If there are driveability problems (e.g. a customer complaint) and the 
MIL is not on, perform the MIL functional because malfunctions can be 
stored that do not switch the MIL on. 
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01-6
      
MIL functional check  
     
-  Switch ignition on: MIL must come on.
     
   If the MIL does not come on when the ignition is 
switched on (with the engine not running): 
Check DTC memory   page 01
-43
 . If 
necessary, check wiring per wiring diagram or 
replace light bulb. 
     
-  Start engine and let idle: MIL must switch off 
after several seconds. 
     
   If the MIL does not switch off after the engine is 
started: Check DTC memory   page 01
-43
 . 
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01-7
      
Conditions for recognition of a driving 
cycle (Dcy)
 
      A driving cycle (Dcy) is complete when the 
ignition is switched on one time, the engine 
starts, the engine start is recognized by the 
control module, and the ignition is switched off.  
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