This procedure addresses a non-existent component on the 2018-2024 Toyota Camry 2.5L I4, which uses an electronically-controlled automatic transmission without a kickdown cable.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Throttle position sensor (if faulty) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Verify the concern relates to transmission downshift performance or throttle response
2. Connect OBD-II scanner and retrieve any stored diagnostic trouble codes
3. Ensure battery is in good condition with at least 12.4V at rest
4. Park vehicle on level ground with transmission in Park and parking brake engaged
5. Allow engine to cool to ambient temperature if recently operated

Procedure

1. 1

   Verify transmission type and control system
   Confirm vehicle is equipped with U660E or U760E electronically-controlled automatic transmission. Locate the transmission identification label on the transmission case. Verify there is no mechanical kickdown cable present - this transmission uses electronic throttle control and transmission control solenoids exclusively.
2. 2

   Scan for diagnostic trouble codes
   Using OBD-II scanner, retrieve all powertrain codes from engine control module (ECM) and transmission control module (TCM). Pay particular attention to P0120-P0124 (throttle position sensor codes), P0700-P0799 (transmission control codes), and P2100-P2135 (electronic throttle control codes). Record all codes and freeze frame data.
3. 3

   Inspect throttle position sensor operation
   With ignition on and engine off, connect multimeter to throttle position sensor signal wire. Slowly press accelerator pedal from rest to wide open throttle while monitoring voltage. Signal should sweep smoothly from approximately 0.5V to 4.5V without dropouts or erratic readings. Perform same test with engine running and verify ECM is receiving correct data via scanner live data.
4. 4

   Test accelerator pedal position sensor
   Access accelerator pedal position sensor connector (two redundant sensors in pedal assembly). With ignition on, verify both APP sensor outputs change smoothly and proportionally when pedal is depressed. Sensor 1 and Sensor 2 should maintain specific voltage relationship per Toyota specifications. Any deviation indicates pedal assembly replacement is required.
5. 5

   Verify transmission fluid level and condition
   Start engine and allow to reach operating temperature (coolant temp above 160°F). With engine running and transmission in Park on level ground, remove transmission fill plug. Fluid should be at bottom edge of fill hole. Check fluid color - should be pink/red, not dark brown or burnt smelling. Low fluid or degraded fluid can cause delayed or soft shifts that mimic kickdown cable issues.
6. 6

   Inspect transmission control solenoids
   Using scanner with active test capability (Techstream preferred), command individual transmission solenoids on/off while monitoring transmission response. Verify linear solenoid SLT (line pressure), solenoid SL1, SL2, SL3, and SLU (lock-up) all respond to commands. Failed solenoids prevent proper shift timing and kickdown response.
7. 7

   Check engine and transmission grounds
   Locate primary ECM ground (on engine block near bellhousing) and transmission case ground strap. Using multimeter, verify resistance from ground terminal to battery negative is less than 0.5 ohms. Clean and tighten ground connections if resistance is elevated. Poor grounds cause erratic electronic control behavior.
8. 8

   Perform transmission adaptation reset
   If all sensors and solenoids test normal but shift quality is poor, perform transmission adaptation value reset using Techstream or equivalent. This clears learned shift pressures and timing. After reset, perform drive cycle: 15 minutes of varied driving including gentle acceleration, moderate acceleration, highway cruising, and several deliberate downshift events from 45mph to 30mph under moderate throttle.
9. 9

   Road test and verify kickdown function
   Drive vehicle at steady 40-45mph in top gear. Quickly depress accelerator pedal to 75-100% throttle. Transmission should immediately downshift 1-2 gears and engine RPM should rise 1500-2500rpm. If downshift occurs but is delayed more than 0.5 seconds, suspect transmission valve body or solenoid issues. If no downshift occurs, recheck throttle position sensor and ECM communication.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated with locking tabs engaged
2. Clear diagnostic trouble codes after repairs are completed
3. Verify transmission fluid level is correct after any fluid service

Verification

• Perform multiple kickdown tests from various speeds (30mph, 45mph, 60mph) - transmission should downshift promptly with firm accelerator pedal application
• Verify no diagnostic trouble codes are present after test drive
• Confirm smooth acceleration through all gears without harsh shifts or slipping
• Check that throttle response is immediate with no hesitation or dead pedal conditions

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