The engine light is "on" because the transmission sensor on my 97 Camry needs to be replaced. That's the sensor--not the solenoid. In other words, the solenoid is working fine and the car drives beautifully--as it always has. Turns out that Toyota only sells the sensor as part of the solenoid assembly for about 500 bucks.
Does anyone know whether an aftermarket sensor is made that would greatly reduce my cost in fixing this problem?
P.S. this is an Amerrican-built V6.
At the very real possibility of asking a stupid question, are you sure?
Did you pull the codes to arrive at this diagnosis?
Not a stupid question at all. The dealer ran the diagnostics and came up with codes P0733 and P0120. The latter was replaced for $70.
The transmission has several sensors and solenoids so anyone trying to answer your question would need more information, ie., shift solenoid #1, pressure solenoid, etc.
Also, was the sensor's function actually checked or was the diagnosis made on the basis of a trouble code? Sometimes the problem is nothing more than a loose connector or a chafed wire somewhere.
You may want to try a junk yard to see if they have the part.
P0733 is gear 3 incorrect ratio. Ok, you're looking at a shift solenoid sensor. You can check with places like AAMCO to see what their estimate is or you or the dealer's service department can check with local junkyards to see if the part is available somewhere. Luckily, shift solenoids are usually pretty easy to access and IIRC, do not require transmission removal or teardown.
"Ray O" wrote: snip
But wouldn't it be ironic if the damned 'sensor' itself was deeply buried and required...$$$ to get at?...seems that sometimes we can't win for losing!... :(
It would be bad if the sensor was deeply buried in the transmission. Luckily, shift solenoids are usually accessible without having to crack open the case or remove the transmission.
Yes I understood that Ray, it was just my ill contrived attempt at humour... :)
Sorry,
My wife often accuses me of lacking any sense of humor :-(
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