[canubaru]

i have a 2000 lego L, auto, 85k miles, with a very similar problem.

but mine is downshifting when it should not and then up shifting again. i get the flashing AT Temp light most times when driving the car, but not always. and re-starting the engine will usually clear the flashing for a bit, but not long.

when running flat and steady at any speed, the trans will downshift for no reason, any amount of acceleration will cause it to downshift. and it usually up shifts soon there after.

if i move the shifter to 2 it will not downshift. but in 3 or 4 it will.

but here is the kicker, no CELs and the AT Temp light is NEVER flashing at start up, never. it flashes only when driving the car. the TCU never throws a code, at start up, at least the AT Temp light never indicates one at start up.

2 days before this started, i replaced an axle and as a result i had 4 CELs. but i re-seated all 3 of the wire connectors on the rear of the engine and the codes went away. i have since re-checked all 3 connectors again and it did not help.

i could only find one thread with similar issues. it was a 96 outback auto with a flashing AT Temp light while driving. but there wasn't a definitive solution posted. the owner took it to the dealer, and reported they ''found a loose ground wire''.

thanks, john

 

[canubaru]

I'm considering replacing the TCM (looks like $100 off ebay) myself since the manual indicates it's fairly straightforward and no programming is needed. Is this a good "first" step if all else fails before replacing both at the same time?

the ECU is just as easy to replace. if you can do one you can do the other. ebay is one source, Car-Part.com--Used Auto Parts Market is another.

good luck and let us know what you learn.

 

[canubaru]

the ECU is under the carpet on the passenger side up against the fire wall. there are a coulpe of plastic plugs/ screws / clips that go through the carpet. one in each forward corner, and then the door sill cover and the plastic trim on the door column in front of the door. peel the carpet back and then remove the protective metal cover, 3 - 4 bolts and then 3 bolts for the ECU. not a hard job.

 

[canubaru]

success,

i did a fair amount of research and and today the weather and my day off cooperated.

i went in to clean every wire connection on the engine as well as every ground point. i did the 3 main connectors on the rear of the engine and found no ills as well as the TPS no ills.

but as i was looking for the grounding wires on the engine i found a loose on right next to the coil on the intake. so i removed and cleaned it and then re-installed . problem gone.

woo-hoo.