Overdrive Transmission - How to Test the Overdrive Solenoid

Overdrive not engaging? Most likely it is the Overdrive Solenoid that is acting up. Our Moss Motors Tech department runs you through the steps needed to test how it is functioning

[@shawncardin4962]

This guy is the Bob Ross of mechanics!

[@spelunkerd]

These are more complicated than I thought, thanks for a little free breakfast education.

[@eleanorcastro6192]

We changed our pressure sensor and pressure solenoid an filter and gasket on the pan and our check engine light went off but now it won't go in to gear and they were working before so now what.

[@maintayne]

Is there such a thing as a weak solenoid? My MG OD stopped working and I suspect the solenoid. I can hear it operating and know that it basically works, but I worry it may not be strong enough to hold the position necessary to function properly

[@spurgear4]

My GT has burnt out two, now I know, Thanks

[@cayceb8105]

Because you know the voltage, and this video displays the resistance of this particular device it seems like you can reasonably determine that it is operating properly by measuring the current, inline, without having to remove the device from the vehicle. By my calculations and using ohm's law (E=IR), we might expect what he refers to as operating current as 12v / .7ohms or 17Amps, and maintenance current as 12v / 12ohms or 1amp. Is this correct? Of course, the numbers will differ for each person's device, but we're looking for a difference being present, not an actual number. On my gt6, these little buggers are very difficult to install while the transmission is in place. A testing method for a while the device is in the car it certainly useful.

[@zerep11]

I own a 2005 Hyundai Accent GT (since new), with an Automatic Transmission (Model A4AF3 - Made by Mitsubishi) and 89K miles. The issue is that when it goes into overdrive at 40 MPH plus, the transmission seems to float between drive and overdrive when cruising. Once I put pressure on the accelerator, it firmly holds overdrive. However, during cruising it is felt, heard, and also reflects via RPMs. The car is in mint shape. Maintenance has always been key with all of my vehicles. For example, the XMSN Fluid/Filter is changed every 25K (started using Valvoline MaxLife at 58K). So far I have replaced the speed sensors and overdrive needle bearing. There are no DTCs, and mass research has yielded nothing. Any suggestions? Thank you.

[@jonathanalers11]

Hi. Have you solve this problem of yours? My 2001 Nissan Xterra does the same as described...

[@rayfletcher3683]

Check the throttle position sensor

[@flyonbyya]

Hello I’m getting intermittent function of my over-drive in my 2003 Toyota Matrix. When over-drive fails to engage. I stop, put in park, turn-off ignition, start, engage trans in drive…over-drive then engages…not always, but usually. What might be the cause, and what fix can I perform to regain consistent operation?

[@peterboston7011]

Hi, can you please help me. I have a Jaguar 1967 Mk2. I have live going into the Overdrive lever and coming out. I have put 2 new Inhibitor switches in and new loom, have tested the them and all is good but i don't have a live feed going to the Overdrive solenoid when in 4th. i can put a tester on it earth it out but nothing lights up, should that wire be live? If there is a break somewhere can i take it from the overdrive lever power out straight down to the Solenoid.

[@georgewhitlock3894]

could a bad overdrive solenoid cause a 2010 kia sportage to jump back and forth to fourth gear at a steady speed of say 60 mph

[@shadislandguy1424]

Where is this solenoid located???

[@AthelstanEngland]

On a TR3 it’s on side of gearbox/overdrive unit so need tunnel cover off to see it. Probably similar on lots of classics.

[@GumGats]

This guy sounds just a little bit like Christopher Walken.

[@alcantarainterior8078]

New yawk accent