Expert: Roland Finston - 7/8/2011

Question
Hi Roland,

I have a 2001 Sebring Lx, that has gone into "limp-in" mode.  The codes came out P0700 (P0605), P1684, and P1686.  Thanks to your detailed responses to similar situations I have been able to trouble shoot a bit.

The TCM seems to be the culprit, as per previous posts, I double checked the ground (pin 53 and 57) and power (pin 56) and it everything was good there.  I checked the ground between the TCM and the chasis and it was good as well.

So does that mean the TCM needs to be replaced for sure?  A new TCM really isn't an option for me right now, so I am looking at used/refurbished TCM's as an option.  I will have to get the TCM programmed, should I be aware of any potential side effect from programming a used unit?  I have seen "deals" saying all they need is the VIN and it will be pre-programmed (with up-to-date info) and is advertised as "plug and play".  Once it arrives all I need to do is plug it in ... is that possible?

On a side note, there were two other codes that were/are coming up (P1684,P1686).  One is for a battery disconnected (which was there before I recently disconnected the battery), and something about the SKIM bus.  (There was a remote-start kit previously installed, and I don't think it was done 100% correctly) Could that be related.

Thanks for you time,
Steve

Answer
Hi Steve,
The pre-programming that is needed is the correct pinion factor (to have accurate mph for the shifting and the speedo/odo) and perhaps the VIN (that is clearly an issue with a PCM replacement but unclear about a TCM). Then you can either do a quick learn procedure which involves doing a number of gear shifts at various speeds, and that can be facilitiated with a diagnostic readout box, but if not I think the tcm will 'learn' the characteristics of the transmission over a period of time.
It would appear with the 0605 that a tcm change is appropriate as you have verified the power and ground circuits.
The remote starter may have been the reason for a SKIM to have been set unless you have the SKIM feature (the ignition key would have a plastic bulge hiding a chip if so).
Roland
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