What Is A TCM (Transmission Control Module) - AAMCO Colorado

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What is a TCM (Transmission Control Module)

Apr 3, 2020 | Blog, Transmissions

Your vehicle’s Transmission Control Module is a vital component of any road-going vehicle that runs on an automatic transmission system. Most modern automobiles come with a TCM unit, which is handy compared to relying on mechanical or hydraulic control.

You’ll probably never have to replace or repair your TCM over the lifespan of your car, however, in some rare cases, your TCM just like any other component in your car will fail. In case you suspect your TCM is faulty, it’s essential to contact your mechanic for an immediate replacement or repair. AAMCO Colorado is a leading transmission repair center in Colorado with state-of-the-art equipment, professional mechanics, and experience to handle any transmission-related issues in your vehicle.

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1. What is a Transmission Control Module?

2. What is the Importance of the Transmission Control Module?

3. Signs of a Faulty Transmission Control Module

4. What AAMCO Can Do to Help a Faulty Transmission Control Module

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What is a Transmission Control Module?

So, what keeps your vehicle running? What transfers power from your engine to the wheels? Well, to be specific, your transmission takes an active role when it comes to moving power, and the TCM is the component behind this operation. Depending on your vehicle’s make and model, this component is on the rear side of your engine.

As you drive down the road, the TCM is what is responsible for calculating the right time and place to shift gears so that you experience a good ride. This component will also send OBD II codes to the vehicle’s main computer in case it detects any problems or issues with your vehicle’s transmission. Depending on your car, these codes will appear as an illuminated check engine light on your dashboard, alerting the driver that the vehicle needs checking. Related: How To Protect Your Transmission While Driving Uphill Related: Transmissions: How Do They Work? Related: What Is Transmission Fluid? Search for:

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What is the Importance of the Transmission Control Module?

Since your TCM controls the transmission and communicates with the main vehicle computer, it offers a vital link between your car transmission system and the engine. It’s crucial to the drivability of any road-going vehicle. Without this component, your automatic transmission vehicle won’t be able to change gears as required. Timely gear changes are not just crucial for drivability and quality of ride, it’s also essential when it comes to the overall gas mileage as well as preventing mechanical issues that could arise from driving on the wrong gear.

The TCM is also designed to improve the quality of the shifts on your automatic transmission vehicle. It means that the shifting on your car will be smoother, which is suitable for the gears. As a result, your transmission gears will not experience excessive wear and tear, keeping the entire transmission system in better shape for longer.

The TCM’s ability to communicate with the central computer is also an excellent way to identify potential issues with your transmission system before it’s too late.

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Signs of a Faulty Transmission Control Module

Like any other component in your vehicle, your Transmission Control Module is likely to fail. Spotting problems with your TCM is essential in preventing further complications in other crucial parts of the car. Fortunately, issues with the TCM are relatively easy to spot. Some of the common signs and symptoms include:

• Failure to change gears
• Your transmission fails to up-shift when accelerating
• The vehicle is unable to shift from neutral mode
• Erratic shifting from one gear to the next
• Slow acceleration or stalling when driving uphill
• Fuel efficiency issues due to driving on the wrong gear
• Not down-shifting properly when you need to stop

In case you experience any of the above Transmission Control Module symptoms, it could point to a problem with the component that needs immediate attention. A qualified and professional mechanic such as one from AAMCO Colorado could perform an inspection service and recommend the appropriate repairs.

Is It Safe to Drive with a Faulty Transmission Control Module?

It’s never safe to drive a car with any faulty component, and worse, a transmission issue. A vehicle with transmission issues that involve shifting gears could mean your vehicle could move into gear or fail to move into gear when required. Both these scenarios are dangerous and could potentially risk the safety of your passengers as well as other road users.

What AAMCO Can Do to Help a Faulty Transmission Control Module

Your TCM is an electronic component that could, in most cases, fail due to a burnt fuse or circuit. It could also be due to a faulty transistor or resistor on the circuit board. Either way, our professional Mechanics at AAMCO Colorado will easily be able to sort that out for you. Our popularity with our clients isn’t by chance; we are a regional leader when it comes to transmission service, maintenance, and repair. We also offer other car services such as brake system service, regular car maintenance service, engine repair and maintenance, and many more.

Does your transmission have erratic behavior with irregular shifts? Your Transmission Control Module could be faulty. Get in touch with us immediately, AAMCO Colorado transmission experts will work to restore your systems to its original form.

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