TEST 1: Resistance Testing The A/T Clutch Pressure Solenoid A Or B
The very first thing we'll do, to get your Honda Civic's clutch pressure control solenoid diagnostic on the way, is to check the resistance of each solenoid with a multimeter in Ohms (Ω) mode.
Both clutch pressure control solenoid A and B share the exact same resistance specification (3-10 Ohms Ω).
NOTE: The easiest and fastest way to test the clutch pressure control solenoids is to test them with the solenoid assembly removed from the transmission case.
OK, this is what you need to do:
- 1
Place your multimeter in Ohms mode.
Don't have a multimeter or need to upgrade yours? Check out my recommendation: Buying A Digital Multimeter For Automotive Diagnostic Testing (found at: easyautodiagnostics.com). - 2
Measure the resistance between solenoid pins #1 and #2.
Remember, this test applies to either A/T clutch pressure control solenoid A or A/T clutch pressure control solenoid B.
NOTE: Clutch pressure control solenoid A's connector is brown and clutch pressure control solenoid B's connector is black. - 3
Your multimeter should register approximately between 3 to 10 Ohms if the A/T clutch pressure control solenoid is within specification.
Let's take a look at what your test results mean:
CASE 1: The resistance of each solenoid was within 3 to 10 Ohms. This test result tells you that the solenoids' internal coil is OK. There's still one more test to do, to make sure the solenoids are OK.
The next step is to bench-test both A/T clutch pressure control solenoid A and B by manually applying 12 Volts and Ground to each. For this test, go to: TEST 2: Manually Applying Power And Ground.
CASE 2: The resistance of one or both solenoids WAS NOT 3 to 10 Ohms. This test result tells you that the A/T clutch pressure control solenoid(s) is bad and that the assembly needs to be replaced.
TEST 2: Manually Applying Power And Ground To The Solenoid
If you've reached this step, you have confirmed that each of the solenoids' resistance is within 3 to 10 Ohms. The next step is to apply battery power and Ground, from your Honda Civic's car battery, and see if you hear the valve make a clicking sound.
The easiest and safest way to do this is using a power probe since a power probe lets you apply both Ground and power with a click of a button but not everyone has one (not too mention that they're kinda' expensive).
You can make your own jumper wires and I suggest using alligator clips with rubber insulating protectors.
Using alligator clips with rubber insulating protectors will help you avoid shorting out the jumper wire that's carrying the juice (from the battery) to the solenoid.
OK, this is what you need to do:
- 1
Connect terminal #2 to battery power of the particular solenoid you're testing (A or B).
NOTE 1: Take all safety precautions when applying these 12 Volts to the terminal.
NOTE 2: Clutch pressure control solenoid A's connector is brown and clutch pressure control solenoid B's connector is black. - 2
Connect terminal #1 to Ground of the particular solenoid you're testing (A or B).
- 3
You should be able to see the valve move, of the solenoid you're testing (inside the assembly) as soon as you Ground solenoid terminal #1.
If all is good, the valve (which is visible from the under-side of the assembly) should move. When you un-Ground the solenoid, the valve should move back to its original position.
Let's interpret your test results:
CASE 1: The A/T clutch pressure control solenoid's valve moved. This is the correct and expected test result.
If you're still having a A/T clutch pressure control solenoid A or B trouble code, take a look at the test suggestions found here: Solenoids Are Good But Transmission Still Not Shifting.
CASE 2: The A/T clutch pressure control solenoid's valve DID NOT move or is binding. This test result tells you that the A/T clutch pressure control solenoid you just got done testing is fried and needs to be replaced.
