TCM Reprogramming For A/T Limp-In (TSB-96-23-009)

WARNING: This page is about the Eclipse GS-T, Automatic, which is a different variant/trim than selected.

Publication date: 1996-07-01
Reference number: TSB-96-23-009

TCM REPROGRAMMING FOR A/T LIMP-IN

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN

Reference Number(s): TSB-96-23-009

TCM REPROGRAMMING FOR A/T LIMP-IN

Model(s): 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse

Group: Automatic Transaxle

Bulletin No.: TSB-96-23-009

Date: July, 1996

AFFECTED VEHICLES

1996 Eclipse models produced before June 6, 1996 (approximate VIN TE414290) equipped with 2.0L non-turbocharged engine and automatic transmission

PURPOSE

On some affected vehicles, the automatic transaxle may have a tendency to enter the limp-in mode for no apparent reason. This bulletin describes how to reprogram the TCM to eliminate this condition.

The current TCM calibration results in an immediate limp-in condition when DTCs 15, 22, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 56, 57, and/or 58 are identified when the key is "ON" and vehicle speed is below 45 mph. After reprogramming the TCM with cartridge MIT992011, the following TCM operational changes from the current calibration occur:

The transaxle will not enter limp-in mode if DTC 24 and/or 37 are set.
The transaxle may not enter limp-in mode unless:
- DTCs 22, 50-58 are identified by the TCM several times within one key start, or
- DTC 22 is identified while the A/T lever is in park or neutral within several key starts.
DTCs 23 and 25-27 will not be set when a problem with two or three of the pressure switch circuits exists. Instead, a single fault code for every affected pressure switch circuit will be set.
It will take hard DTCs (DTCs that occur with every key start) longer and/or more key starts to cause a limp-in condition.
DTCs 21 and 24 will not illuminate the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) and will not allow limp-in mode operation, even though the DTC is set in the TCM.

Reprogramming cartridge MIT992011 was shipped to dealers during the week of July 29, 1996.

PROCEDURE

Perform the appropriate necessary diagnostic troubleshooting steps and repairs for the DTCs read by the MUT II scan tool. Refer to the troubleshooting charts starting on page 23A-114 of the 1996 Eclipse service manual. Then proceed to Step 2 of this bulletin for TCM reprogramming instructions.
Gather the following equipment which is contained in Reprogramming Kit MIT99200A:
Reprogramming Unit Tool No. MIT992000

Reprogramming Cartridge Tool No. MIT992011

EATX III/Engine Harness Tool No. MIT992001

Engine Compartment and Control Module Labels Part No. MSSF-023G-00

CAUTION: DO NOT install the cartridge into the Reprogramming Unit at this time.
Attach the EATX III/Engine harness pin connector to the Reprogramming Unit as described in page 6 of the Reprogramming Unit Instruction Manual. See Fig 1 .
Set the switch on the harness black box to the side labeled TRANSMISSION.
Connect the EATX III/Engine harness 16-pin and 12-pin connectors to the vehicle's data link connectors located under the instrument panel on the driver's side. See Fig 2 .
Install Reprogramming Cartridge MIT992011 into the Reprogramming Unit.
CAUTION: DO NOT disturb the harness cables or connections. Interruption during the reprogramming process could cause the TCM to lose programming data, or prevent future TCM reprogramming.
Follow the instructions displayed on the Reprogramming Unit screen.
The display will ask if you want to change the transmission controller part number. Select Yes. Reprogramming will begin.
NOTE: If the TCM cannot be reprogrammed, the displayed current and replacement TCM part numbers will be the same, or the message "BREAK NOT SEEN" will display. If so, do not continue with this reprogramming procedure.
The current and replacement TCM part numbers will display. Record the displayed replacement TCM part number.
When reprogramming is completed, disconnect the Reprogramming Unit and EATX III/Engine harness.
Test drive the vehicle to ensure that the transaxle shifts normally.
Using the MUT II scan tool, check if any DTCs have been set in the TCM or the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). Perform any required DTC troubleshooting and repairs.
Using a ball-point pen, enter the replacement TCM part number (noted in Step 9), your dealer code, and the current date on the Control Module Label. See Fig 3 .
Remove the center console side cover to access the TCM. Affix the Control Module Label to the side of the TCM. Then reinstall the console side cover. See Fig 4 .
Using a ball-point pen, enter the replacement TCM part number, this TSB number TSB-92009, your dealer code and the date on the Engine Compartment Label. See Fig 5 .
Carefully remove all dirt and oil from the vacant areas shown on the underside of the hood. Affix the Engine Compartment label in the area shown. See Fig 6 .