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Transmission issues/tracs-drive modes

Help, Advice and DIY Tutorials on Volvo's P80 platform cars -- Volvo's 1990s "bread and butter" cars -- powered by the ubiquitous and durable Volvo inline 5-cylinder engine.

1992 - 1997 850, including 850 R, 850 T-5R, 850 T-5, 850 GLT
1997 - 2000 S70, S70 AWD
1997 - 2000 V70, V70 AWD
1997 - 2000 V70-XC
1997 - 2004 C70

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Flametrap666
Posts: 4
Joined: 19 February 2022
Year and Model: 96 850 R
Location: Florida

Transmission issues/tracs-drive modes

Post by Flametrap666 »

I recently purchased a 96 850 2.3 turbo wagon.. when I was driving it home it did the 3rd gear limp mode drop on me. I tried to retrieve codes but no communication. I replaced the TCM the problem is fixed but I'm now missing all my drive modes. Winter, sport, econ.. the light for the switch is also no longer lit up and tracs light is illuminated on the dash (fuses have been checked). The PNP has been replaced and the TCM (used unit) now that I can get into the trans side I have a AT-143 code.. kickdown low voltage code seems odd i would loose the bulb, drive modes, tracs light on. Please no internet parroting.. Help from someone with actual experience would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance.

scot850
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Year and Model: 2000 V70 R
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Post by scot850 »

Was the TCM from the same model (850r)?

Have you tried to swap in the original TCU to see if those functions return? If they do it may be that the TCU software is not compatible with your car without reprogramming.

Neil.
2006 V70 2.5T AWD Polestar tune
2000 V70 R - still being an endless PITA
2006 XC70 - Our son now has this and still parked in our garage
2003 Toyota 4Runner V8 Limited
2015 Kia Sportage EX-L - Sold
1993 850 GLT -Sold
1998 V70 XC - Sold
1997 Volvo 850 SE NA - Went to niece in California - Sold
2000 V70 SE NA - Sold

Flametrap666
Posts: 4
Joined: 19 February 2022
Year and Model: 96 850 R
Location: Florida

Post by Flametrap666 »

It's not the R it's the t5 and the new TCM is an exact match part number wise. I had a guy attempt to fix the original computer and when I got it back the modes didn't function.. hence the used computer (that fixed the shifting issue and no communication issue) I just assumed it would sort out the drive modes as well. I know for a fact the light was lit up before the first computer went out. From what I understand these trans computers aren't married to the car and don't require flashing. 🤷

hausmeister
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Post by hausmeister »

Just checked the aut trans pdf, 143 says short to ground for kickdown (similar to your finding)
I have no experience with this error, but I would start by checking cabling (shorts, damaged wires), connection and kickdown switch. possibly you have some problems there...
Last edited by hausmeister on 27 Jun 2022, 09:03, edited 1 time in total.
850 T5-R '95 auto Image

Flametrap666
Posts: 4
Joined: 19 February 2022
Year and Model: 96 850 R
Location: Florida

Post by Flametrap666 »

Thanks bud! I'm not familiar with it either and I haven't found much information. Thank you for your response I will take a closer look.

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