GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Time lag is when a shock can be felt when shifting from neutral (N) to drive (D) and neutral (N) to reverse (R) while the engine is idling.

The time lag test can inspect hydraulic condition and clutch/brake condition.

  1. Wedge the 4 wheels and apply the parking brake fully. Lock the vehicle in place.
  2. Important: Make sure to take 3 measurements and use the average value.

  3. Using a stop watch, measure the time lag from the moment when the shift lever is shifted from neutral (N) to drive (D) and from neutral (N) to reverse (R), until slight shock can be felt.
  4. Specifications

        • The time lag from neutral (N) to drive (D) is less than 0.7 seconds.
        • The time lag from neutral (N) to reverse (R) is less than 1.2 seconds.
  5. Make sure to keep interval for more than 1 minute between time lag tests. Clutch/brake pressure left unfinished will be removed.

Result of Time Lag Test

Cause of Failure

Longer than standards when shifting from neutral (N) to drive (D)

    • Lower line pressure
       - Pressure control solenoid (PCS) failure
       - Primary regulator valve failure
    • Forward clutch (C1) failure, slipping
    • Timing solenoid failure
    • Oil leak for drive (D) range circuit

Longer than standards when shifting from neutral (N) to reverse (R)

    • Lower line pressure
       - PCS failure
       - Primary regulator valve failure
    • Reverse clutch (C3) failure, slipping
    • 1st and reverse brake (B3) failure, slipping
    • Oil leak for reverse (R) range circuit