Opel Vectra A Model 1995 - 2.0 cc Automatic Transmition

#1 · Sep 19, 2023, 6:34 am

My car was opel vectra A model 1995 - engine 2.0 cc with automatic transmission

The problem was at the gearbox - suddenly while i was driving the sign "S" appeared at the dashboard cluster (ON) - direct without flashing & the Power of the engine goes down & the press switch at the selector handle does not working

when i switch the ignition off & turned it on again every thing returned back to the normal edition & the switch for sport mode "S" was working on & off

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#2 · Sep 19, 2023, 3:33 pm

Quote from CarGuy on Sep 19, 2023, 3:33 pm
The issue you're describing with your 1995 Opel Vectra A, particularly the sudden illumination of the "S" light on the dashboard, is typically related to the car's transmission system. The "S" light usually refers to "Sport" mode in many automatic transmissions, which adjusts the shifting patterns for a more sporty and aggressive drive. However, when the light comes on without user input and is accompanied by drivability issues, it usually indicates a problem.

Let's break this down step-by-step:

1. **Transmission Control Module (TCM) or Electronic Control Unit (ECU):** Modern cars, even those from the '90s, use computer modules to control various functions, including the operation of the automatic transmission. If there's an issue with the TCM/ECU or its related sensors, it might inadvertently activate the sport mode or go into a 'limp' mode, which restricts engine power to prevent further damage.

2. **Solenoids and Sensors:** The automatic transmission operates using a combination of solenoids and sensors. These solenoids control the flow of transmission fluid and, subsequently, the shifting of gears. If a solenoid is malfunctioning or a sensor provides incorrect data, it can lead to unexpected behaviors, like the one you described.

3. **Wiring Issues:** The wiring harness that connects the transmission and its controls can sometimes develop faults, either from wear and tear, corrosion, or damage. A short or open circuit can lead to intermittent problems like the one you've mentioned.

4. **Physical Transmission Issues:** While the problem you've described seems more electronic in nature (given that it resets with a restart of the car), it's still worth checking the physical components of the transmission. This includes the transmission fluid level and quality. Old or contaminated fluid can lead to erratic transmission behavior.

5. **Sport Mode Switch:** The button or switch that controls the activation of sport mode might be malfunctioning. Although this seems less likely given the nature of the problem, it's still worth checking.

**Steps to Diagnose and Address the Issue:**

1. **Diagnostic Scan:** The first step should be to run a diagnostic scan. Since the problem is intermittent and can be 'reset' with a restart, there might be stored error codes in the TCM or ECU that can provide insights into the root cause.

2. **Check Transmission Fluid:** Ensure the fluid is at the correct level and is not dirty or burnt smelling. If unsure, a transmission fluid change might be beneficial.

3. **Inspect Wiring:** Look for any visible damage or signs of wear on the wiring related to the transmission and its controls.

4. **Mechanical Inspection:** If the problem persists and no clear electronic or sensor-based issue is found, it might be worth having a mechanic inspect the transmission for any physical problems.

5. **Switch Testing:** Test the sport mode switch to ensure it's operating correctly.

In any case, given the age of the car and the potential complexities of automatic transmission issues, it might be best to consult with a mechanic or a specialist familiar with Opel transmissions. They can provide a hands-on diagnosis and recommend the best course of action.

The issue you're describing with your 1995 Opel Vectra A, particularly the sudden illumination of the "S" light on the dashboard, is typically related to the car's transmission system. The "S" light usually refers to "Sport" mode in many automatic transmissions, which adjusts the shifting patterns for a more sporty and aggressive drive. However, when the light comes on without user input and is accompanied by drivability issues, it usually indicates a problem.

Let's break this down step-by-step:

1. **Transmission Control Module (TCM) or Electronic Control Unit (ECU):** Modern cars, even those from the '90s, use computer modules to control various functions, including the operation of the automatic transmission. If there's an issue with the TCM/ECU or its related sensors, it might inadvertently activate the sport mode or go into a 'limp' mode, which restricts engine power to prevent further damage.

2. **Solenoids and Sensors:** The automatic transmission operates using a combination of solenoids and sensors. These solenoids control the flow of transmission fluid and, subsequently, the shifting of gears. If a solenoid is malfunctioning or a sensor provides incorrect data, it can lead to unexpected behaviors, like the one you described.

3. **Wiring Issues:** The wiring harness that connects the transmission and its controls can sometimes develop faults, either from wear and tear, corrosion, or damage. A short or open circuit can lead to intermittent problems like the one you've mentioned.

4. **Physical Transmission Issues:** While the problem you've described seems more electronic in nature (given that it resets with a restart of the car), it's still worth checking the physical components of the transmission. This includes the transmission fluid level and quality. Old or contaminated fluid can lead to erratic transmission behavior.

5. **Sport Mode Switch:** The button or switch that controls the activation of sport mode might be malfunctioning. Although this seems less likely given the nature of the problem, it's still worth checking.

**Steps to Diagnose and Address the Issue:**

1. **Diagnostic Scan:** The first step should be to run a diagnostic scan. Since the problem is intermittent and can be 'reset' with a restart, there might be stored error codes in the TCM or ECU that can provide insights into the root cause.

2. **Check Transmission Fluid:** Ensure the fluid is at the correct level and is not dirty or burnt smelling. If unsure, a transmission fluid change might be beneficial.

3. **Inspect Wiring:** Look for any visible damage or signs of wear on the wiring related to the transmission and its controls.

4. **Mechanical Inspection:** If the problem persists and no clear electronic or sensor-based issue is found, it might be worth having a mechanic inspect the transmission for any physical problems.

5. **Switch Testing:** Test the sport mode switch to ensure it's operating correctly.

In any case, given the age of the car and the potential complexities of automatic transmission issues, it might be best to consult with a mechanic or a specialist familiar with Opel transmissions. They can provide a hands-on diagnosis and recommend the best course of action.