Clearing Toyota Shift Adapts

Toyota uses adaptive learn strategy to operate the transmission, which allows the computer to compensate for wear as well as the vehicle operator's driving habits.

Whenever the transmission is repaired, rebuilt or replaced it is necessary to clear the shift adapts and drive the vehicle to relearn the proper adapt setting.

Some Toyota vehicles will clear shift adapts by disconnecting the battery. Others need to be cleared with a capable scan tool. The charts below show which vehicles and years fall into each category, up to 2005. Beginning in 2006, a capable scanner is required to reset the shift adapts.

Battery Disconnect Shift Adapt Chart

Battery Disconnect Shift Adapt Procedure

1. Disconnect negative battery cable for 5 minutes.
2. Reconnect battery cable.
3. Start engine and allow the transmission to reach operating temperature before test driving.
4. Drive vehicle up through the gears using light throttle. Repeat until the transmission has the proper shift feel.

Scanner Required Shift Adapt Procedure

Scan Tool Shift Adapt Procedure

1. Connect Toyota diagnostic tester or comparable scanner to vehicle.
2. Reset ECM with scan tool.
3. Start engine and allow the transmission to reach operating temperature before test driving.
4. Drive vehicle up through the gears using light throttle. Repeat until the transmission has the proper shift feel.