If you’re experiencing transmission problems with your Chevy, the transmission control module needs to be located to be reset as it’s likely faulty.
The transmission control module component controls all aspects of the transmission, so your car will definitely have issues if it’s not working correctly.
This article will tell you in-depth where the transmission control module is located on your Chevy car or truck and show you how to reset it if it’s not working as intended.
Chevy Where is Transmission Control Module Located?
Like most people, you probably don’t know where your transmission control module (TCM) is located, so where exactly is the chevy transmission module located?
The transmission control module is most likely located under the cover at the transmission case’s rear, below the electronic control module (ECM). The TCM can also be found under the hood, near the battery, or even under the interior center console on some makes and models.
How To Reset Transmission Control Module Chevy
If your chevy is experiencing transmission problems, you may need to reset the Transmission Control Module (TCM).
Here’s how to reset the TCM on your Chevy:
1. Turn the Key to “ON” Position
Insert the key and turn it to the “ON” position. Do not start the engine.
Wait for all warning lights on your dash to illuminate. This should only take a few seconds.
After the warning lights have come on, proceed to the next step.
2. Depress the Gas Pedal
With your foot on the brake, depress the gas pedal all the way down. Your foot should almost be touching the floor.
3. Hold the Gas Pedal Down for 15 Seconds
After depressing the gas pedal, keep your foot down for at least 15 seconds.
This will allow the TCM to relearn its shift points.
If your chevy has an automatic transmission, you’ll need to do this step while the car is in park.
You may also need to do this step while the car is in neutral if your chevy has a manual transmission.
4. Turn the Key to “OFF” Position
With the foot still pressing the brake and gas pedal, turn the key to the “OFF” position.
Do not remove the key.
5. Release the Gas Pedal
Slowly release the gas pedal after turning the key to the “OFF” position.
6. Wait for 5 Minutes
Now you have to wait for about 5 minutes without disturbing the vehicle’s electrical system.
This includes no phone charging, not opening the doors, not starting the vehicle, etc.
After waiting for the allotted time, proceed to the next step.
7. The Transmission Control Module is Now Reset
The previous steps will complete the TCM relearning process.
You should now be able to start your chevy without any transmission problems.
If your chevy is still experiencing transmission problems, you may need to take it to a mechanic for further diagnosis.
How Do I Know If My Transmission Control Module Is Bad?
If your chevy is experiencing any of the following symptoms, it may have a bad TCM:
1. Erratic Shifting
If your chevy is experiencing erratic shifting, it may signify that the TCM is going bad.
Erratic shifting can include the car hesitating to shift gears, shifting too soon, or shifting too late.
2. Delayed Shifting
Delayed shifting could also be a sign of a bad TCM.
If your chevy is taking too long to shift gears, it may be a sign that the TCM needs to be replaced or reset.
3. Issues when Downshifting
Downshifting problems can also indicate a bad TCM.
A vehicle having problems downshifting may feel like it’s being pushed too hard or jerking when shifting gears.
4. The Transmission is not Shifting Gears
If your chevy’s transmission is not shifting gears, a faulty TCM may be to blame.
A bad TCM may also cause the transmission to slip or not engage at all.
The transmission may also make grinding or whining noises if the TCM is bad.
5. Shifting Issues Increase at Higher Speeds
If your chevy’s shifting issues seem to worsen the faster you go, a bad TCM may be the culprit.
At higher speeds, the TCM has to work harder to control the transmission, so any issues with the TCM will be more pronounced.
6. The Transmission Won’t Shift when Stationary
If your chevy’s transmission doesn’t shift when the car is stationary, it may be a sign of a bad TCM.
A bad TCM may also cause the car to lurch or jerk when trying to shift gears.
7. Check Engine Light
If your chevy’s check engine light is on, the TCM may be to blame.
A bad TCM can cause various engine problems, which will trigger the check engine light.
Other problems may cause these symptoms, so it’s always best to consult a mechanic if you’re experiencing any of them.
8. P0613, P0700, or P0706 OBD-II Code
If your chevy’s OBD-II system gives any of these codes, the TCM may need to be replaced or reset.
P0613 is a code for transmission control system malfunction, P0700 is a code for transmission control system (TCS) malfunction, and P0706 is a code for transmission range sensor circuit high input.
All of these codes indicate that there is a problem with the TCM.
What makes a TCM go bad?
There are a few things that can cause a TCM to go bad:
Physical Damage
If the TCM is damaged physically, it may not work correctly.
A damaged TCM needs to be replaced.
Voltage Overload
If the TCM is exposed to too much voltage, it can be damaged.
This can happen if there’s an electrical short in the car or if the TCM is exposed to a voltage spike.
Circuits are Being Subjected to a Short Circuit
If the circuits in the TCM are being subjected to a short circuit, it can damage the TCM.
A short circuit can happen if the TCM is exposed to water or if there’s an electrical problem in the car.
Short Circuit in the Solenoid or Actuator Circuits
If the solenoid or actuator circuits are shorted, it can damage the TCM.
A short circuit can happen if a circuit is exposed to water, or if there’s an electrical problem in the vehicle’s system.
Water Damaged Circuits
If the TCM’s circuits are water damaged, it can prevent the TCM from working correctly.
Water damage can happen if the car is driven through a flooded area or if the TCM is exposed to moisture.
Excessive Vibration
Excessive vibration can damage the TCM.
This can happen if the car is driven on a lot of rough roads, or if the vehicle is driven too fast over bumps.
Thermal Stress
Thermal stress can damage the TCM.
This can happen if the car is driven in very hot or cold temperatures or if the TCM is exposed to extreme changes in temperature.
FAQs
How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Transmission Control Module?
The cost of replacing a transmission control module varies depending on the make and model of the vehicle. It will cost between $500 and $1000 to replace the TCM in most cases.
How Long Does It Take to Replace a Transmission Control Module?
It takes about an hour to replace a transmission control module for a professional mechanic. It may take longer for an amateur, though.
Does a New Transmission Control Module Need to Be Programmed?
In most cases, a new transmission control module will need to be programmed by a dealer or mechanic using dealership level tools.
What Does Lost Communication with TCM Mean?
If your vehicle’s computer shows a “lost communication with TCM” error, it means that the computer can’t communicate with the TCM. This can be caused by a variety of things, including a bad connection, a blown a fuse, or a problem with the TCM itself.
How Much Does It Cost to Reprogram a Transmission Control Module?
The cost of reprogramming a transmission control module varies depending on the make and model of the vehicle. In most cases, it will cost between $210 and $1,100 to reprogram the TCM.
Summary
If your chevy has transmission problems, the TCM may be to blame.
A bad TCM can cause various engine problems, which could trigger the check engine light.
The TCM can be reset by following a specific procedure in some cases.
In other cases, the TCM will need to be replaced.
The cost of replacing a TCM varies depending on the make and model of chevy but is typically between $500 and $1000.
In most cases, a new TCM will need to be programmed by a dealer or mechanic.
If your chevy’s computer shows a “lost communication with TCM” error, it means that the computer can’t communicate with the TCM.
This can be caused by a variety of things, including a bad connection, a blown a fuse, or a problem with the TCM itself.
If you think your chevy’s TCM has problems, take it to a mechanic or dealer for diagnosis and repair.
Have you had problems with your chevy’s TCM? Let us know in the comments!
