2009 Kia Rio Base, AutomaticFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Power Flow: Notes

SELECTOR LEVER POSITION-POWER FLOW CHART

Selector lever position Gear position Clutches Brakes Remarks
F/C R/C E/C K/D L&R OWC
P Parking             * □
R Reverse ◦       ◦    
N Neutral             *
D O/D S/W ON O/D S/W OFF 1st   ◦       ◦  
2nd   ◦   ◦      
3rd ◦ ◦ Δ        
4th     ◦ ◦      
2 1st   ◦       ◦  
2nd   ◦   ◦      
L 1st   ◦     ◦    
* - Engine start possible
□ - Parking mechanism
◦ - Element engaged in each gear position
Δ - Pre-engaged element
  • F/C: Front Clutch
  • R/C: Rear Clutch
  • E/C: End Clutch
  • OWC: One Way Clutch
  • K/D: Kickdown brake
  • L&R: Low & Reverse brake

For each shift condition, certain holding units in the transaxle are used. Knowing which holding element is used and how they are connected in the transaxle, we can trace the power flow through the transaxle for each shift condition. One set of pinions, the short pinions, meshes with the reverse sun gear.

The other set, the long pinions, meshes with both the forward sun gear and with the annulus gear. The two sets of pinions also mesh with each other in pairs. The pinion carrier is built as a unit with the low reverse brake hub and the outer race of the one-way clutch. Power input is to either of the two sun gears.

The reverse sun gear is connected to the front clutch retainer through the kick-down drum. The forward sun gear is connected to the rear clutch hub. So by engaging either the front or the rear clutch, power is directed to either the reverse or the forward sun gear. When both front and rear clutches are engaged, the gear set is locked, and power passes directly through the transaxle. Power output is through the annulus gear, which has the parking sprag on the outer circumference and is connected to the output flange.

Factory Service Tools

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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.

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