What is OBD-II Code P079E – Transmission Friction Element E Slip Detected
Modern cars employ advanced technologies that make driving smooth and effortless. One such technology is the onboard diagnostic system (OBD), which tracks and monitors various vehicle systems, including the transmission system. The OBD detects faults in the transmission system and alerts the driver by illuminating the check engine light on the dashboard. Whenever the check engine light comes on, it’s essential to have the car checked by an experienced mechanic to identify and fix the issue. One of the most common OBD-II codes related to the transmission system is P079E – Transmission Friction Element E Slip Detected.
This article aims to provide an overview of OBD-II code P079E – Transmission Friction Element E Slip Detected, what it means, and how to repair the issue. We’ll cover how the transmission friction element works, what causes the code to appear, and what to do when you encounter this fault code.
What does OBD-II Code P079E – Transmission Friction Element E Slip Detected mean?
Before we dive into what the code means, let’s briefly discuss the automatic transmission system’s basics. The automatic transmission is made up of several components, including the torque converter, planetary gears, clutch packs, and bands. The clutch packs and bands assist in shifting gears while transmitting power to the wheels.
The friction element E is a component of the automatic transmission system that controls the transmission of power between the clutch pack and the band. It operates by applying friction against the band or clutch pack, allowing the gear to shift seamlessly. In other words, the friction element E is responsible for starting and stopping the movement of the transmission gears.
Now let’s move to what code P079E – Transmission Friction Element E Slip Detected means. This OBD-II code appears when the friction element E fails to engage, causing a slip in the transmission. A slip means the transmission is struggling to change gear or maintain a gear, which generally results in poor car performance.
What are the causes of OBD-II Code P079E – Transmission Friction Element E Slip Detected?
Knowing the cause of P079E – Transmission Friction Element E Slip Detected is an essential step in fixing the issue. The common causes of P079E include:
1. Faulty friction element E: A defective friction element E may cause the automatic transmission to slip, leading to the appearance of this fault code.
2. Damaged transmission bands: The transmission bands are designed to hold the planetary gear in place during gear changes. If the transmission bands are damaged or broken, it may lead to the appearance of P079E.
3. Low transmission fluid: Automatic transmissions use a specific type of fluid to lubricate the transmission’s internal components. If the transmission fluid is low, contaminated, or burnt, it may cause a delay in gear changes, leading to the appearance of P079E.
4. Failed transmission solenoid: The solenoid is responsible for regulating the pressure in the transmission system, which helps control gear changes. If the transmission solenoid fails, it may cause a slip in the friction element E, leading to P079E.
How to fix OBD-II Code P079E – Transmission Friction Element E Slip Detected
Fixing P079E requires diagnosing the issue and applying the necessary repair procedure. Here’s how to fix P079E:
1. Diagnose the transmission system: The first step in fixing P079E is to diagnose the transmission system. A qualified mechanic can use specialized equipment to check the transmission system, including the sensors, solenoids, and the friction element E.
2. Replace damaged components: Once the cause of the code has been diagnosed, the next step is to replace the damaged or worn-out component. If the friction element E is faulty, it may need to be replaced.
3. Add or replace transmission fluid: If the transmission fluid is low or burnt, it may need to be added or replaced. In some cases, dirty fluid may also cause gear slipping, leading to the appearance of P079E.
4. Repair or replace the transmission solenoid: If the transmission solenoid has failed, it may need to be repaired or replaced. The solenoid is usually located inside the transmission valve body and must be accessed by removing the transmission pan.
5. Test drive the car: After fixing the issue, it’s essential to test drive the car to ensure the issue has been resolved. The mechanic may use specialized equipment to monitor the car’s transmission system and check for any fault codes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I drive with OBD-II code P079E – Transmission Friction Element E Slip Detected?
It’s not recommended to drive with P079E as it may cause significant damage to the transmission system if left unchanged.
2. How long does it take to fix P079E?
The time required to fix P079E depends on the cause of the issue. Replacing the friction element E may take a few hours, while rebuilding the transmission system may take several days.
3. How can I prevent automatic transmission issues like P079E?
Performing regular maintenance on your car can help prevent automatic transmission issues. This includes regularly checking and changing the transmission fluid, ensuring the correct fluid type is used, and fixing any leaks.
4. What happens if I ignore P079E?
If you ignore P079E, the transmission system may continue to deteriorate, causing significant damage to the engine and transmission system, leading to costly repairs.
5. Can I fix P079E myself?
Unless you’re a qualified mechanic, fixing P079E yourself is not advisable. The transmission system is highly sensitive and requires specialized equipment and tools to diagnose and repair.
Conclusion
OBD-II code P079E – Transmission Friction Element E Slip Detected is a vital fault code that alerts you to an issue with the automatic transmission system. It’s essential to have a qualified mechanic diagnose and fix the problem to ensure the system operates correctly, preventing significant damage to the car. Inspecting and maintaining the transmission system regularly may help prevent issues like P079E, ensuring the longevity of the car’s automatic transmission system.
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