New Owner/New Theory on ECT button

I am an engineer (not for Toyota). I wrote engine management software. I see no negetive repercussions, other that a slight decrease in mpg, for running in ECT mode. In fact, the engine may last longer in the long run from reducing the lugging.

 

Thanks Brad. I live in a hilly area and the trans needs to shift a lot . I think I will be using the S mode more often from now on . Everything I have read is if the trans shifts a lot , it is not good . What I am concerned about is if the trans torque convertor cannot lock up in S mode, this may cause more heat than the extra shifting in D .
Do you think the trans would run cooler in 4th with higher RPM's than a lot of shifting between 4th and 5th ? There really should be more info from Toyota on this .

 

I would think so. You could always get some electronics to monitor transmission temperatures. I would think that ECT, being designed around towing, would be the right answer. Regearing the front and rear axle is an option, but it is costly. Having the towing package is good if you have it. If not, consider a transmission cooler. Last, be sure your transmission level has been manually checked to assure a proper level. I also am a little aggressive with my drivetrain fluid changes. I use all Toyota products with the exception of the engine oil. I use Penzoil Platinum for the motor oil. Cheers.

 

Lock-up is prohibited from S1-S3.

 

Thats from a dealership....not putting much stock in that.

 

Must be a coincidence then that multiple Toyota dealerships all over the country post excerpts of the same text on their websites to help Tacoma owners understand how ECT works... It's almost like Toyota Corporate provided standard text and suggested that dealerships help their consumers understand such "complex functionality".

http://www.newrochelletoyota.com/blog/toyota-ect-button/

http://www.downeasttoyota.com/blog/what-does-the-toyota-tacoma-ect-button-do/

http://www.whiterivertoyota.com/blog/benefits-of-the-toyota-tacoma-ect-pwr-button/

http://www.rohrmantoyota.com/blog/what-does-the-toyota-ect-button-do/

http://www.toyotaofgreensburg.com/blog/toyota-tacoma-ect-power-feature/

They all seem pretty clear that...

"ECT PWR feature will briefly increase power in various driving situations by manipulating transmission shift points"

and

"When you press the ECT button, the transmission will sharpen throttle response and adjust the rpm levels at which the transmission shifts."

and

"These elements will allow the transmission to hold shift points longer and reach higher RPM levels before shifting. This will provide a quick burst of power and greater control over throttle position."

and

"Don’t get the ECT power button confused with a boost of nitrous — it is not an instant turbo button. Functioning much like the 2016 Toyota Tundra Tow/Haul Mode, the ECT PWR feature will sharpen throttle response in short intervals."

 

It is a marketing publication with some information tied to it. A lot of it is right. But be clear: Toyota is not going to disseminate all of the secret sauce of how their vehicles work. They will leave us to figure it out. Cheers.

 

On my drive to work today, my MPG went UP after i turned ECT on. I'm going to test this theory further.

 

My sticker says payload reduced by 1lb !!! (GST port installed LED cargo/bed lights, I guess.)

Tried it. Computer said throttle was at 20%; pushed ECT; throttle changed to 22%.

 

Never attempt to explain anything again. Ever.

 

I know this is an old thread but I can’t seem to get a straight answer from any search, maybe I’m an idiot but can I switch to ECT mode or whatever while driving or do I have to stop then turn it on then start driving again?

 

Switch on or off at will.

 

nice