Hi all, I've got a 2000 Outback, Automatic transmission. It's always felt like the throttle/transmission link was a little "off"--hesitation when I give it throttle, reluctant to downshift. A few times this summer after driving a long time on the highway the AT OIL TEMP light started blinking nonstop and the tranny went into "limp mode." I could pull over and turn off/on the car and it'd be fine. The last few times it happened I got a CEL as well.

 

Plugged in a code reader and got P0122 - Throttle Position Sensor/Switch A Circuit Low Input. I also got an error code from the Transmission Control Module - Code 31 - "Throttle sensor." (used this method to pull that code--very helpful.)

 

Both codes pointed to the TPS. I adjusted the TPS, it's supposed to be between 0.45 and 0.55V when throttle is closed. Mine was hovering between 0.53 and 0.54. I adjusted it to 0.49 and it feels a lot more "in sync," no more lag in response to throttle.

 

I cleared the CEL code, but to clear the TCM code this document says I have to remove an inline fuse for one minute. "The No.4 fuse is located in the line to the memory back-up power supply of the TCM. Removal of this fuse clears the previous trouble codes stored in the TCM memory."

 

I can't find that fuse under the dash. Took off the knee guard panel and found the TCM. It has 2 huge harnesses plugged into it and they both feed into a bigger bundle of cables and disappear into the engine. Anyone know where I might find it, or have that page from the service manual handy, or a wiring diagram?

The No. 4 fuse is the the Number 4 fuse in the fuse box in the driver's footwell. It should be labeled EGI/TCU or something like that.

 

If you have your owner's manual, it should also give you a blow schematic of the fuse box, which numbers the fuses are, and what they do.

 

If all else fails, pull the negative battery lead for 30 minutes.