The question “Where is transmission control module located?” has likely crossed the minds of many car owners, especially those who are new to owning a vehicle.
There are several other people in the same shoes, and that’s understandable considering the awful driving experience when there is a bad transmission control module.
We wish there was an easier answer to the question, but not quite. There are multiple locations for the transmission control module, and we will consider them all in this article.
Contents
Where Can the Transmission Control Module Be Found?
The transmission control module can be found on the transmission of the car itself, the center console in the car’s interior, the front passenger footwell, and more. The exact location of the transmission control module depends on the model and make of the car.
Below, we consider in more detail where you can find the transmission control module (TCM) of your car.
– Beneath the Center Console
This is the most typical location for the transmission control module of the car. The center console refers to the storage compartment between the two front seats, that is the driver and passenger seats. While this location seems within reach, you will need to remove quite a few exterior features to get to the transmission control module.
– On the Car’s Transmission
In some cars, the transmission control module is in the transmission unit. Usually, the TCM will be on the transmission electrohydraulic valve body. The transmission control module may also be beneath the cover at the rear of the transmission case.
– Front Passenger Seat
Some cars have their transmission control module in the front passenger footwell or under the seat. This is typically done to ensure full protection of the module from environmental conditions, like high temperatures. Depending on if the transmission control module is in the footwell or seat, the front passenger carpet or seat may have to be entirely removed to access the TCM.
– Gearbox
The transmission control module can be located inside the gearbox of the vehicle, a system many refer to as the internal location for the TCM. Many car manufacturers like this arrangement as it reduces the wiring to the transmission. The downside, however, is that the TCM is exposed to extreme heat conditions.
– Beneath the Cowl Top
Some vehicles have their transmission control module beneath the cowl top, which is between the hood of the engine and the car’s windshield. While this is arguably the most accessible location for the transmission control module, it also bears the greatest risk of moisture draining into the module.
Speaking of hoods, some cars also have their transmission control module in the hood around their battery. This is also not as common as in other locations.
How Can You Know Where Your Transmission Control Module Is Located?
To know where your transmission control module is located, check in with a mechanic or check the manufacturer’s manual. There are multiple different locations the TCM can be located, and it will save a lot of time to know exactly where it is before trying to access it.
The model of the car, as well as the manufacturer, determines where the transmission control module will be found. Many cars have it in the center console, but newer cars are increasingly favoring the transmission itself.
If you do not know where the transmission control module is, you shouldn’t just guess and start removing your car components. Not only can this waste time and effort, but it increases the risk of reinstallation errors. Your best bet will be to go through the manufacturer’s repair manual or even check online. Alternatively, you can ask a trusted professional or mechanic.
When Should the Transmission Control Module Be Accessed?
The transmission control module should be accessed when there are signs that it is failing. Note that the TCM is key to changing gears in automatic transmission cars, and any fault with it will affect smooth gear transmission, ultimately affecting the driving experience or even constituting a safety risk.
Fortunately, you wouldn’t need to worry too much about the transmission control module too often in your car’s lifespan. Many people never change it at all, in fact. But if the signs are there that the TCM is failing, it is best to get it checked out as soon as possible, either by you, or preferably, a professional.
What Are the Signs of a Failing Transmission Control Module?
The signs of a failing transmission control module include a lit check engine light indicator, difficulty in moving to higher gears, and inefficient fuel management. The effect on the driving experience differs depending on the car. Usually, drivers can easily tell something is wrong, though.
Here are some of the signs and symptoms to look out for if you suspect you have a bad TCM:
– Shifting Issues
The most important sign that the transmission control module is faulty issues with shifting in the car. Unlike manual transmission cars, cars with an automatic transmission rely entirely on the transmission control module for shifting between gears.
Therefore, any fault with the TCM results in different types of problems when the gears try to change automatically. This includes upshifting and downshifting. That is, the car may never reach its intended speed or may have a problem coming to a stop.
There may be unpredictable and erratic shifting. For example, there may be delayed shifting, the car may be stuck in one gear or neutral, or shifting may be incorrect. This may result in mild, annoying inconveniences to more serious problems when driving.
– Inefficient Fuel Management
An automatic transmission car handles the gear shifting in the most efficient way possible. If you notice poor fuel economy, then something may be wrong with the transmission control module. You need to be very observant and insightful here, as there are many different reasons the fuel management of the car may be affected.
– Check Engine Light
As with the fuel economy, this is another vague sign, as this can mean a lot of things. Nonetheless, if there is a problem with your transmission control module, you can expect this light to come on. The same thing applies if there are other issues with your car’s transmission. It is in your best interest to get it examined as soon as possible.
Conclusion
The transmission control module handles gear shifting in automatic transmission vehicles, yet many don’t know where it is located.
Here’s a quick rundown of the points to note:
- The vehicle transmission control module can be located in different locations depending on the model and make of the car.
- Common locations for the transmission control module include the center console, the gearbox, the front passenger seat and footwell, the cowl top, and the transmission itself.
- To figure out the exact location of your vehicle’s transmission control module, refer to the manufacturer’s repair manual or get in touch with a trusted mechanic or engineer.
- You should check your transmission control module when you notice signs with gear shifting and transmission.
- Aside from shifting issues, the check engine light and inefficient fuel management can be cues that your transmission control module is defective.
While you can check your transmission control module yourself, any fault with it should be handled by a professional mechanic or engineer. Although rare, you may need to replace the transmission control module if it is indeed faulty.
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