Driver Shift Control (DSC) is a manual shifting function that uses the automatic transmissions of Pontiac, Chevrolet, Cadillac and Buick cars are equipped. It enables optimal driving comfort and contributes to fuel savings. This system enables engine braking and improves the vehicle's driving dynamics and maneuverability.
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How Driver Shift Control (DSC) works
The DSC function is used in standard automatic transmissions equipped with a hydraulic torque converter, planetary gear set and electronic control. Manual operation is made possible by special firmware. The driver shifts with the shift lever. To switch to manual mode, the driver moves the lever from position “D” to the right (for left-hand drive vehicles) or left (for right-hand drive vehicles) and then to position “+” or “-” to move up or down downshift.
Popular transmissions with DSC function
| Index | Manufacturers | Number of gears | Max. Engine torque, N m | Max. Displacement, l | Type of drive | Year of manufacture | Applicable models |
| 4T65E | GM | 4 | 380 | 3 ,8 | Front Wheel, 4WD | 1996 | Pontiac Grand Prix; Chevrolet Impala; Pontiac Montana; Buick LeSabre; Pontiac Aztec; Buick rendezvous; Chevrolet Malibu; Pontiac Bonneville |
| 4L65E | GM | 4 | 515 | 6, 2 | Rear wheel | 2001 | Chevrolet Silverado; Pontiac GTO; Cadillac Escalade; Chevrolet Corvette |
| 5L50E | GM | 5 | 450 | 4, 6 | Rear wheel, all-wheel | 2000 | Cadillac STS; Pontiac Solstice; Buick Park Avenue; Cadillac SRX; Cadillac XLR |
| 5L40E | GM | 5 | 360 | 3, 6 | Rear, 4WD | 1999 | Pontiac Solstice; Cadillac SRX; Cadillac CTS; Cadillac STS |
| 6L80 | GM | 6 | 800 | 6, 2 | Rear, 4WD | 2006 | Cadillac Escalade; Chevrolet Corvette; Pontiac G8; Cadillac XLR |
| 8L90 | GM | 8 | 1000 | 6, 2 | Rear wheel, all-wheel | 2015 | Cadillac Escalade; Cadillac CT6; Chevrolet Silverado; Cadillac CTS-V; Chevrolet Corvette; Chevrolet Camaro; Cadillac ATS-V |
Frequent defects in transmissions with Driver Shift Control (DSC)
| Defects | Transmission |
| The torque converter friction plates have a short service life. | 4L65E |
| The lines and solenoid valves of the hydraulic valve body are clogged with dirty oil. | 4Т65Е; 8L90; 5L50E; 6L80; 5L40E; 4L65E |
| The clutch pack wears out prematurely. | 4L65E; 4Т65Е |
| The brake band of the transmission is worn out due to frequent driving at high speed. | 4L65E |
| The hydraulic valve body separator plate wears out over time. | 4L65E |
| The transmission pump often fails. It is prone to binding at high engine speeds. | 5L40E; 5L50E; 6L80; 4L65E |
| The bearings are prone to damage. | 4Т65Е |
| The rubber molded pistons melt due to overheating . | 5L40E |
| The clutch pack will burn quickly if the oil pressure is too low. | 5L50E |
| The hub and the bushings of the hydraulic torque converter break easily. | 6L80 |
| The transmission pump leaks due to slipped sealing rings. | 6L80 |