Flashing HOLD

R0MEO · Post by **R0MEO** » August 10th, 2007, 2:01 pm

I had engine problems when I first got the car. Changed the engine, new tranny, but the HOLD to raise the RPM's begins to flash once I get into the 3rd shift (auto car by the way) since the HOLD begins to flash, it will not allow me to reach the 4th shift.
Would could the problem be?
Help PLEASE

R0MEO · Post by **R0MEO** » August 10th, 2007, 2:06 pm

My mechanic thought a signal may not be reaching the computer from the engine. He split the wires and bypassed one of the modules; I think that's the best way to explain. So in other words, it's direct wiring from the engine to the computer. But it's still flashing HOLD once I get into the 3rd shift(gear)

R0MEO · Post by **R0MEO** » August 10th, 2007, 4:12 pm

I have no clue what it could be, someone please help me and give me some suggestions.

Post by **Mooneggs** » August 10th, 2007, 4:54 pm

I've got a 92 shop manual at home but I won't be able to post any troubleshooting info until monday...

what year is your mx-3?

Tunes67 · Post by **Tunes67** » August 10th, 2007, 4:54 pm

My mechanic thought a signal may not be reaching the computer from the engine. He split the wires and bypassed one of the modules; I think that's the best way to explain. So in other words, it's direct wiring from the engine to the computer.

First things first.. Unless your mechanic is related to you.. dont let him touch your car again. He is a moron. If he IS related to you.. smack him, kick him in the nads and TELL him he is a moron. Though you might want to get him to undo that "Bypass" before you do so.. unless you can do that yourself (which I recommend cause he doesnt know squat) Sorry if this seems extreme.. but I hate it when people start hacking up the wiring harness of cars trying to "fix" things when they have no clue as to what they are doing.

The flashing "HOLD" button has NOTHING to do with the engine.. it is related specifically to your ATX transmission.. thats why there is a HOLD button on the side of your ATX Shifter.. trust me.. its not a coincidence

The first step is to determine what error code is being thrown. Thats what the flashing "HOLD" light is indicating. Use a jumper wire (a paper clip will work fine) and jump the TAT and GND pins on the diagnostic box. Now get into the car and turn the key to the run position. Count the number of flashes that the HOLD light gives you and then refer to the online shop manual to determine what code equates with which issue the transmission is having. There may be more than one code present as well.. it will have a pause between counts. You can find more information on checking codes in the online shop manual. There is a link to it based off the main mx-3.com home page in the left column.

Usually the flashing HOLD light is a "Death Knell" of the ATX. Some times the issue can be repaired.. but more often than not.. it will either need to be rebuilt or replaced. Find a GOOD transmission shop that knows mazda cars.. your mazda dealer may have a couple of ideas where to take it.

Tunes67

R0MEO · Post by **R0MEO** » August 10th, 2007, 9:23 pm

Thanks Tunes67
That's a well detailed explanation..
Im not sure how to do all you explained to me, but I will definately get someone who does.
my Mx3 is 93, auto, V4