
3.2.6 SKREEM OPERATION
When ignition power is supplied to the SKREEM,
the SKREEM performs an internal self-test. After
the self-test is complete, the SKREEM energizes
the antenna (this activates the transponder chip)
and sends a challenge to the transponder chip. The
transponder chip responds to the challenge by gen-
erating an encrypted response message.
After responding to the coded message, the tran-
sponder sends a transponder ID message to the
SKREEM. The SKREEM compares the transpon-
der ID message to the available valid key codes in
SKREEM memory (8 key maximum at any one
time). After validating the ignition key the
SKREEM sends a CAN Bus message request to the
ECM, then waits for the ECM response. If the ECM
does not respond, the SKREEM will send the re-
quest again. If the ECM does not respond again, the
SKREEM will stop sending the request and store a
trouble code in memory. If the ECM sends a correct
response to the SKREEM, the SKREEM sends a
valid/invalid key message to the ECM. The ECM
will allow or disallow engine operation based on this
message.
Secret Key - an electronically stored value (iden-
tification number) that is unique to each SKREEM.
The secret key is stored in the SKREEM, ECM and
all ignition key transponders.
Challenge - a random number that is generated by
the SKREEM at each ignition key cycle.
The secret key and challenge are the two vari-
ables used in the algorithm that produces the
encrypted response message. The transponder uses
the crypto algorithm to receive, decode and respond
to the message sent by the SKREEM. After re-
sponding to the coded message, the transponder
sends a transponder ID message to the SKREEM.
3.3 DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES
Each diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is diagnosed
by following a specific procedure. The diagnostic
test procedure contains step-by-step instruction for
determining the cause of the DTC as well as no
trouble code problems. It is not necessary to per-
form all of the tests in this book to diagnose an
individual code.
Always begin diagnosis by reading the DTCs
using the DRBIIIt. This will direct you to the
specific test(s) that must be performed.
3.3.1 HARD CODE
A DTC that comes back within one cycle of the
ignition key is a hard code. This means that the
problem is current every time the ECM/SKREEM
checks that circuit or function. Procedures in this
manual verify if the DTC is a hard code at thebeginning of each test. When the fault is not a hard
code, an intermittent test must be performed.
NOTE: If the DRBIIITdisplays faults for
multiple components (i.e. ECT, MAF, IAT
sensors) identify and check the shared
circuits for possible problems before
continuing (i.e. sensor grounds or 5-volt
supply circuits). Refer to the appropriate
schematic to identify shared circuits.
3.3.2 INTERMITTENT CODE
A DTC that is not current every time the ECM/
SKREEM checks the circuit or function is an inter-
mittent code. Most intermittent DTCs are caused
by wiring or connector problems. Problems that
come and go like this are the most difficult to
diagnose; they must be looked for under specific
conditions that cause them. The following checks
may assist you in identifying a possible intermit-
tent problem.
± Visually inspect the related wire harness con-
nectors. Look for broken, bent, pushed out or
corroded terminals.
± Visually inspect the related wire harness.
Look for chafed, pierced or partially broken
wire.
± Refer to hotlines or technical service bulletins
that may apply.
NOTE: Electromagnetic (radio) interference
can cause an intermittent system
malfunction. This interference can interrupt
communication between the ignition key
transponder and the SKREEM.
3.3.3 ECM DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES
IMPORTANT NOTE: Before replacing the
ECM for a failed driver, control circuit or
ground circuit, be sure to check the related
component/circuit integrity for failures not
detected due to a double fault in the circuit.
Most ECM driver/control circuit failures are
caused by internal failures to components
(i.e. relays and solenoids) and shorted
circuits (i.e. sensor pull-ups, drivers and
ground circuits). These faults are difficult to
detect when a double fault has occurred and
only one DTC has set.
If the DRBIIItdisplays faults for multiple com-
ponents (i.e. MAF, ECT, ENG OIL, etc.), identify
and check the shared circuits for possible problems
before continuing (i.e. sensor grounds or 5-volt
3
GENERAL INFORMATION

(3) Using a voltmeter connected to the battery
posts (see the instructions provided by the manufac-
turer of the voltmeter), measure the open-circuit volt-
age (Fig. 5).
See the Open-Circuit Voltage Table. This voltage
reading will indicate the battery state-of-charge, but
will not reveal its cranking capacity. If a battery has
an open-circuit voltage reading of 12.4 volts or
greater, it may be load tested to reveal its cranking
capacity (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/BATTERY SYS-
TEM/BATTERY - STANDARD PROCEDURE).
OPEN CIRCUIT VOLTAGE TABLE
Open Circuit Voltage Charge Percentage
11.7 volts or less 0%
12.0 volts 25%
12.2 volts 50%
12.4 volts 75%
12.6 volts or more 100%
STANDARD PROCEDURE - IGNITION - OFF
DRAW TEST
The term Ignition-Off Draw (IOD) identifies a nor-
mal condition where power is being drained from the
battery with the ignition switch in the Off position. A
normal vehicle electrical system will draw from five
to thirty-five milliamperes (0.005 to 0.035 ampere)
with the ignition switch in the Off position, and all
non-ignition controlled circuits in proper working
order. Up to thirty-five milliamperes are needed to
enable the memory functions for the Powertrain Con-
trol Module (PCM), digital clock, electronically tuned
radio, and other modules which may vary with the
vehicle equipment.A vehicle that has not been operated for approxi-
mately twenty days, may discharge the battery to an
inadequate level. When a vehicle will not be used for
twenty days or more (stored), remove the IOD fuse
from the fuseblock. This will reduce battery discharg-
ing.
Excessive IOD can be caused by:
²Electrical items left on.
²Faulty or improperly adjusted switches.
²Faulty or shorted electronic modules and compo-
nents.
²An internally shorted generator.
²Intermittent shorts in the wiring.
If the IOD is over thirty-five milliamperes, the
problem must be found and corrected before replac-
ing a battery. In most cases, the battery can be
charged and returned to service after the excessive
IOD condition has been corrected.
(1) Verify that all electrical accessories are off.
Turn off all lamps, remove the ignition key, and close
all doors. If the vehicle is equipped with an illumi-
nated entry system or an electronically tuned radio,
allow the electronic timer function of these systems
to automatically shut off (time out). This may take
up to three minutes.
(2) Determine that the underhood lamp is operat-
ing properly, then disconnect the lamp wire harness
connector or remove the lamp bulb.
(3) Disconnect the battery negative cable.
(4) Set an electronic digital multi-meter to its
highest amperage scale. Connect the multi-meter
between the disconnected battery negative cable ter-
minal clamp and the battery negative terminal post.
Make sure that the doors remain closed so that the
illuminated entry system is not activated. The multi-
meter amperage reading may remain high for up to
three minutes, or may not give any reading at all
while set in the highest amperage scale, depending
upon the electrical equipment in the vehicle. The
multi-meter leads must be securely clamped to the
battery negative cable terminal clamp and the bat-
tery negative terminal post. If continuity between the
battery negative terminal post and the negative cable
terminal clamp is lost during any part of the IOD
test, the electronic timer function will be activated
and all of the tests will have to be repeated.
(5) After about three minutes, the high-amperage
IOD reading on the multi-meter should become very
low or nonexistent, depending upon the electrical
equipment in the vehicle. If the amperage reading
remains high, remove and replace each fuse or circuit
breaker in the Fuse Blocks, one at a time until the
amperage reading becomes very low, or nonexistent.
Refer to the appropriate wiring information in this
service manual for complete fuseblock fuse, circuit
breaker, and circuit identification. This will isolate
Fig. 5 Testing Open Circuit Voltage
8F - 10 BATTERY SYSTEMVA

1.0 INTRODUCTION
The procedures contained in this manual include
all of the specifications, instructions, and graphics
needed to diagnose NAG1 Electronic Automatic
Transmission and Shift Lever Assembly problems.
The diagnostics in this manual are based on the
failure condition or symptom being present at the
time of diagnosis.
When repairs are required, refer to the appropri-
ate volume of the service information for the proper
removal and repair procedure.
READ THIS MANUAL BEFORE TRYING TO
DIAGNOSE A VEHICLE TROUBLE CODE.
Diagnostic procedures change every year. New
diagnostic systems may be added and/or carryover
systems may be enhanced. It is recommended that
you review the entire manual to become familiar
with all new and changed diagnostic procedures.
1.1 SYSTEM COVERAGE
This diagnostic procedures manual covers all
Sprinter (VA) equipped with a NAG1 Automatic
Transmission.
1.2 SIX -STEP TROUBLESHOOTING
PROCEDURE
Diagnosis of the NAG1 electronic transmission is
done in six basic steps:
Verification of complaint
Verification of any related symptoms
Symptom analysis
Problem isolation
Repair of isolated problem
Verification of proper operation
2.0 IDENTIFICATION OF
SYSTEM
The NAG1 Transmission family can be identified
by the presence of a 13 pin electrical connector, with
a bayonet lock on the right hand side of the trans-
mission. The connector is oriented horizontally.
3.0 SYSTEM DESCRIPTION AND
FUNCTIONAL OPERATION
3.1 GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The NAG1 electronic transmission is an electron-
ically controlled five speed transmission with a
controlled slip torque converter. The NAG1 elec-tronic transmission is a conventional transmission
in that it uses hydraulically applied clutches to shift
a planetary gear train. However, the electronic
control system replaces many of the mechanical and
hydraulic components used in conventional trans-
mission valve bodies.
The ratios for the gear stages are obtained by 3
planetary gear sets. Fifth Gear is designed as an
Overdrive with a high speed ratio. The gears are
actuated electronically/hydraulically. The electronic
control system enables precise adaptation of pres-
sures to the respective operating conditions and to
the engine output during a shift phase, which
results in a significant improvement in shift qual-
ity.
3.2 FUNCTIONAL OPERATION
The NAG1 electronic transmission has a fully
adaptive control system. The system performs its
functions based on continuous real-time sensor and
switch feedback information. In addition the TCM
receives information from the Shift Lever Assembly,
ECM (engine management) and ABS (chassis sys-
tems) controllers over the CAN bus. The CAN bus is
a high speed communication bus that allows real
time control capability between various controllers.
Most messages are sent every 20 milliseconds, this
means critical information can be shared between
the Transmission, Shifter, Engine and ABS control-
lers. The CAN bus is a two wire bus with aCAN C
Bus (+) circuitand aCAN C Bus (-) circuit. The
CAN bus uses a twisted pair of wires in the harness
to reduce the potential of radio and noise interfer-
ence. The CAN bus also uses a 120 ohm terminating
resistor in both the ECM and Sentry Key Remote
Entry Module (SKREEM) modules. The module
terminating resistance is measured across both
CAN bus circuits at the ECM or SKREEM module.
The control system automatically adapts to
changes in engine performance, vehicle speed, and
transmission temperature variations to provide
consistent shift quality. The control system ensures
that clutch operation during upshifting and down-
shifting is more responsive without increased
harshness. The TCM controls the actuation of sole-
noid valves for modulating shift pressure and gear
change. The required pressure level is calculated
from the load condition, engine speed. Power for the
transmission system is supplied through the Trans-
mission Relay. The TCM is located in the under the
drivers seat of the vehicle.
The Transmission Control Module (TCM) contin-
uously checks for electrical problems, mechanical
problems, and some hydraulic problems. When a
problem is sensed, the TCM stores a diagnostic
trouble code (DTC). Some of these codes cause the
transmission to go into9limp-in9or9default9mode.
1
GENERAL INFORMATION