The skip shift solenoid is a performance feature which forces the driver to
shift from first gear to fourth gear during light acceleration and low engine load
conditions. This feature is used to ensure good fuel economy and compliance with federal
economy standards. The skip shift system consist of the following components:
| • | The powertrain control module (PCM) |
| • | The skip shift solenoid |
With the ignition ON, battery voltage is supplied directly to the skip shift
solenoid. The PCM controls the solenoid by grounding the control circuit. When the
skip shift system is active the PCM also grounds the control circuit of the skip shift
lamp. The lamp illuminates to inform the driver that the 1-4 skip shift is engaged.
The PCM determines when the skip shift system is active when the following parameters
are met:
| • | The vehicle speed is between 24-31 km/h (15-19 mph). |
| • | The engine coolant temperature (ECT) is greater than 77°C (171°F). |
| • | The barometric pressure (BARO) is greater than 76 kPa. |
| • | The accelerator pedal position (APP) is less than 26 percent. |
When the conditions are met the PCM grounds the skip shift solenoid control
circuit. This energizes the skip shift solenoid and mechanically blocks the gear shift
lever from going into the second or third gear positions. When the driver pulls back
on the shift lever with the system enabled, the transmission will go into fourth gear.
When the conditions for skip shift engagement are no longer met the PCM disables
the skip shift solenoid, allowing the driver to use second and third gears.
Once the skip shift solenoid is enabled the system will not be re-enabled until
the vehicle speed returns to 0 km/h (0 mph) and the conditions for enabling
skip shift solenoid are met.
