Hyundai Repair: P1723 on a 02 Hyundai GLS Sonata, electrical diagnosis, engine control module ecm


Question
Transmission gets stuck in 3rd gear safe mode. Sometimes worked if I shut off the car and restart. Now that doesnt work much. Cleared code and car drove fine. (I am sure code will come back of course).

This code refers to the A/T Control relay. Where is this located on this car? How do I troubleshoot from there? (I can use a multimeter)

Answer
The A/T control relay is located under the center of the dash, in front of the engine control module (ECM), to the right of the accelerator pedal.  You'll be able to see a very nice picture if this at www.hmaservice.com, Hyundai's service information website.  To do so, first go to the website and register.  Then, go to the site requirements link and verify you have SVG viewer, flash, and acrobat as indicated.  Next, click on "service information" and ETM (electrical troubleshooting manual).  Select the automatic transmission control system link and go to page 3 of this schematic.  There, click on the blue connector number for the relay.  A window will pop up showing a diagram of the connector.  In this window, click on the "component" link, and you'll see a picture of the relay.

There is also an excellent technical service bulletin (TSB) regarding diagnosis of this trouble code.  It's TSB 04-40-015.  This is available on hmaservice.com as well.

Since you have an intermittent condition, you won't be able to conduct meaningful electrical diagnosis unless the problem is occurring during this diagnosis.  It's a safe presumption, however, that the fuse isn't blown since you've been able to clear the code and have the vehicle drive normally.  Typically, the problem is in the relay itself in these cases.