Reset Subaru Transmission Control Module: The Most Easy Way

Learning how to reset Subaru transmission control module is easy for anyone: Just put the key in the ignition and turn it twice, press the gas pedal to the floor, and hold for at least 5 seconds; switch off the ignition before releasing the pedal, wait patiently for about 5 minutes, then drive your car to complete the reset.

 

If you’re wondering how do I reset my transmission control module you’re in the right place!

How To Reprogram Your Subaru’s TCM?

To reprogram your Subaru’s TCM, insert the key into the ignition and turn it twice. Depress the gas pedal and hold for about 10-15 seconds, then turn the key off while still pressing the pedal. Release the pedal and wait 5 minutes, then drive your car normally.

The transmission control module (TCM) in your Subaru is vital to the vehicle’s automatic transmission. It controls the power and speed of your car. The TCM chooses the ideal gear at any time during our driving.
The TCM maintains the best driving performance to ensure a reliable and smooth driving experience. Your Subaru’s TCM can last the entire life of the vehicle. However, it’s not immune to mechanical issues from time to time.

When the module malfunctions, it will cause erratic gear shifting and several other annoying mishaps. Fortunately, a reset can restore the component’s health and get it to perform as it should. So, let’s help you discover how to reset a Subaru transmission control module TCM.

Take note that you don’t need any tools to perform the reset procedure. Just sit in the driver’s seat with the car key in hand.

1.Insert the Key Into the Ignition and Turn It Twice

With your Subaru parked on a flat and solid spot and the engine turned off, insert the key into the ignition. Turn it twice (electronic mode) so the dashboard lights turn on. Ensure you don’t start the engine.

2.Press the Gas Pedal and Hold for 10-15 Seconds

Put your foot on the accelerator and depress it until the kick-down switch is activated. That means pushing the pedal down past the click. Your foot should be nearly against the floor. You’ll hold the foot in that position for 10 to 15 seconds.

3.Turn the Key to Off, Release the Accelerator, and Wait

While holding the gas pedal down, return the key to the off position. Next, release the pedal. Wait for about 5 minutes and don’t do anything. You shouldn’t also open the doors, use a smartphone or make the slightest motion. Just wait patiently.

4.Drive Your Car Normally

After following the steps and waiting 5 minutes without disrupting your Subaru at learning mode (resetting mode), you must drive the car to complete the process. Drive normally. During the driving, the control module will work with the engine control unit to monitor your driving patterns. That will help the TCM learn the driving patterns and control the throttle input appropriately.

You should drive for at least 30 minutes. After that, the module should reset. If it doesn’t, you’ll need to take the vehicle to a specialist for an accurate diagnosis and repair.

Will disconnecting battery reset transmission? Cutting off the vehicle’s power resets the electronics in your car. Therefore, it may also reset TCM when you reconnect the power. However, cutting the power isn’t always a good idea as it may trigger some mechanical issues, depending on your car model.

How To Know Whether You Have a Malfunctioning TCM?

To know whether you have a malfunctioning TCM, recognize the different symptoms of a bad transmission control module. They include ruined fuel efficiency, delayed gear shifting, getting stuck in the same gear, and struggling to downshift. A faulty TCM will also cause the engine warning light to turn on.

Try not to ignore the mentioned signs of a bad TCM. If you don’t act quickly, the module can damage other vital components and, consequently, a costly repair. Let’s take you through the details of how to test transmission control modules:

• Monitor Your Fuel Consumption

One notorious sign of a faulty TCM is poor fuel economy. So, if you’ve noticed an increased consumption lately, it’s likely that your TCM is no longer functioning efficiently. You want to avoid paying more for fuel.

Try to reset the module by following the steps described above. If that doesn’t work, take your vehicle to a reliable auto repair shop to check what’s wrong with the system.

• Delayed Gear Shifting

When you drive faster, gradually, down a freeway, the transmission should shift into higher gears accordingly and at the right time. But when your TCM is bad probably due to transmission fluid leak within the transmission system or other reason, that may not happen.

The delayed shifting can constantly increase the engine’s RPM instead of dropping slightly as the gears shift. That can result in you never attaining the speed you desire. Replacing the TCM can sometimes be the best way to deal with this issue.

• You’re Stuck in the Same Gear

The problem can occur in the form of being stuck in the first gear or neutral. That means either the vehicle won’t go anywhere or move faster than the speed of the first gear. The situation can be very annoying.
The transmission control module is usually the main culprit when your car gets stuck in the same gear. It’s the one that sends the gear shifting signals to the ECU.

Being stuck in the same gear can be a safety concern. It’s a problem you must fix immediately. If resetting doesn’t work, a replacement would be the solution.

• Struggle With Downshifting

A problematic TCM could also cause problems with downshifting. When driving from a high speed and gradually reducing to a stop, the transmission should go into lower gears as the speed decreases. And once you stop the vehicle, it should shift into first gear.

When the TCM malfunctions, you might discover that you’re still in high gear when you’re coming to a stop. The worst part of this problem is that your Subaru may refuse to move if you’re in too-high gear while at a stop. A reset may help, but you may eventually need to replace the faulty part.

• The Check Engine Light (CEL) Turns On

The warning light can pop up on your Subaru dashboard for many reasons. However, if it turns on when you’re experiencing shifting issues, it’s likely indicating a problem within the TCM or another component inside the transmission system.

For many car owners, it takes work to diagnose the problem using the DIY approach accurately. If you have a scan tool, use use it to find out what Diagnostic Trouble Codes appear. You may need to allow a professional to handle the problems for you.

FAQs

– What Is the Average Lifespan of a TCM?

The average lifespan of a TCM is 200,000 miles. Transmission control models are one of the vehicle’s components designed to last the entire life of a car. However, since they are electronics, factors like moisture, high temperature, vibration, and manufacturing errors impact them.

– How Risky Is It To Drive With a Faulty TCM?

Driving with a faulty TCM is extremely risky, especially on busy highways. A defective transmission control module causes your gear-shifting experience to be very unpredictable. You should troubleshoot the module or contact a professional if you notice any signs of malfunctioning.

Conclusion

The above was our guide on “how to reset a Subaru transmission control module.”

Here’s a recap:

• Resetting the TCM can help fix different issues with your automatic transmission.
• The reset procedure is an easy DIY repair that will take a little of your time.
• Disconnecting your car battery’s negative terminal may sometimes help reset the TCM, but it’s essential to consult a professional first.
• A faulty TCM can present many symptoms, including unusually high fuel consumption.
• Other notorious signs of a malfunctioning TCM are gear-shifting issues, such as hampered or unpredictable shifting and being stuck in the same gear.

Now you’ve got all the information you need. So, grab your car key, sit on the driver’s seat, and try to reset the module.