Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Check Trans Light Test: Description
When ignition is turned on, CHECK TRANS light on instrument panel should come on for about 2-3 seconds while PCM is performing a self-test of the circuit and components, then light should go off. When ignition is on and PCM detects an electrical failure in the transmission electronic control system, the PCM will flash CHECK TRANS light and may store a diagnostic trouble code in memory.
NO RELATED
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.