Do you intend to buy an automobile? Or you have owned your car, but recently, your gearbox does not work well? You may care about how to reset Transmission Control Module Chevy Silverado (TCM) if you have those needs or problems.

The car industry is broad and expensive. Thus, you must equip yourself with accurate information so as not to throw your money out of the window. 

In this article, let’s take a trip to get enough information about the Transmission Control Module. These useful pieces of knowledge will assist you in protecting your car in the future.

What is a Transmission Control Module?

When the car moves, the TCM works as a clever robot with the engine and transmission. It calculates appropriate times and places to shift gears. Those calculations contribute to your best experience and safety.

Another function of TCM is to issue warnings in the form of OBD II code. Whenever TCM detects your vehicle’s transmission troubles, it sends a message to your system. The message is not the same in cars but is easily recognizable. The signal, for instance, is eye-catching by light on the dashboard or voice message by the virtual assistant.

 

Also Read: Fixing P0300 Code Chevy Silverado Issues

Importance of transmission control module

TCM is the crucial connection between your vehicle’s computer and transmission. It takes charge of announcing you to adjust the right gears for suitable situations. Moreover, it can detect the risk and warn the driver immediately. Thus, your driving job becomes easier than ever because TCM has handled all the problems.

Types of Transmission

There are 4 common types of transmission today that customers need to know:

01. Manual Transmission

Manual Transmission is the simplest and oldest transmission of 4 types. It is totally under control by humans. And due to its simple structure, it causes inconvenient experiences for drivers. Thus, today, it almost disappeared in the latest automobile. 

02. Automatic Transmission

Automatic Transmission is incorporated into most cars today. It has minimized driver work with the gearshift. The trade-off for simpler driving also costs expensive repair. 

03. Continuously variable transmission (CVT)

Despite an automatic transmission, CTV uses pulleys instead of gears for operation. A CVT car is good at saving energy and has a low repair cost. The fixed limitation of CVT cars is the noise when operating.

04. Semi-automatic and dual-clutch transmissions 

It is effortless to guess from the name that it is a mix of Manual and Automatic Transmission. These transmissions mainly appear in racing cars and high-end cars. Their repair costs are also not cheap at all. 

How does the Automatic Transmission Control Module work? 

Understanding how Automatic Transmission works will assist you in utilizing it the most. Some components, such as the Torque Converter, Planetary Gears, and Turbine, are critical.

The Torque Converter’s pump receives power from the engine.

After that, the energy is delivered to the Torque Converter’s Turbine by the transmission fluid.

The Turbine then returns the transmission fluid to the pump through the state. The Stato multiplies the transmission fluid’s power.

The pump transmits this power to the Turbine once again to make it rotate.

The axis rotates following the Turbine, which transmits energy to the planetary gear system.

Finally, it will determine which component rotates or does not based on calculations. 

Or you can access the link below to see how it works.

Two up-to-date Transmissions that boost the system efficiency are 4L60E and 4L65E.

 

Specifications of 4L60E transmission: 

• Type: 4-Speed Longitudinal Automatic
• Length: 21.9 inches
• Input Shaft: 298mm
• Weight: 146 pounds 
• Fluid Capacity: 8.8 to 11.4 quarts
• Max Input Torque: 350 lb-ft
• RPO Code: M30

Specifications of 4L65E transmission

• Type: 4-Speed Longitudinal Automatic
• Length: 22 inches
• Input Shaft: 300mm 
• Weight: 194,6 pounds
• Fluid Capacity: 8.8 to 11.4 quarts
• Max Input Torque: 380 lb-ft
• RPO Code: M32

Signs of degraded Transmission Control Module

Transmission not only plays the role of shifting gears to help the car run smoother but also warns of dangers to your vehicle. Its structure is quite complicated, so it sometimes leads to failure. You ought to examine whether your automobile has subsequent issues or not. If yes, quickly have your car checked:

01. Unforeseeable Shifting

It can be troublesome when the transmission starts to shift inaccurately and undesirably. Worse, you can be in an accident.

02. Poor Fuel Economy

Automatic Transmission can optimize your vehicle’s fuel economy. If your car runs out of fuel faster than usual, the transmission might be in trouble. 

03. The check engine light

Maybe the computer detected some conflict in the system and automatically switched this light on. If the code P0700 appears, it’s properly your transmission’s error.

04. Degraded Problem

This issue is easy to find out. Speeding up or slowing down but the shift gears are not smooth can cause a degradation in transmission. 

05. Stuck in the Same Gear

Whatever you do with your vehicle, there are still no shift gears. Of course, your task now is to take your car to the garage

Why does it need to reset the Transmission Control Module?

If you wonder whether to reinstall the TCM, the answer is yes. Here are the reasons why you should:

01. Updated Program

The module needs resetting to match the program. This will help your system to decide more precisely. Moreover, you will have a better driving experience once the system works. Most vehicles today come with an installed program. Your job needs to sit in the car and perform simple operations. Then, the Transmission Control Module will be reset.

02. Long time use

A reason why your Transmission Control Module no longer works well is due to long-term use. This sometimes causes the system to make incorrect decisions. As a result, you will have bad experiences in the car. Those problems directly affect you. Thus, resetting the module will bring back the accurate transmission decision.

03. Adapt with other equipment in your vehicle

Resetting the Transmission Control Module can make it better adapted to other vehicle components. Since then, it will give more standard calculations. For example, the Transmission can adjust the gears to cut your vehicle’s fuel consumption. This helps you save a significant amount of fuel costs.

Preparation for resetting the Transmission Control Module

Time

The time for reinstalling TCM is relatively long. The car cannot be available during the resetting process. Hence, managing your time and schedule would be best to avoid disrupting it during that period.

Key

The system requires an operation to start resetting. So remember to bring the key along with you. Moreover, rotate the key to the right position to operate the resetting program. 

Read instruction carefully

You must read the instructions carefully before resetting the transmission. The instructions have useful information to begin resetting your transmission. So please read it carefully instead of reading it during the process. If you haven’t known yet, follow the instructions below. We will show you how to reset the Transmission Control Module.

Simple Steps for How to Reset Transmission Control Module Chevy Silverado

Instead of paying to buy a new transmission, why don’t you reset it? Resetting the Transmission Control Module Chevy will update the program and restore the device’s initial state.

Consequently, you have reduced an enormous expense to have a new module. If you don’t know how to reset it, don’t be worried because the detailed instructions is available below:

01. Switch the ignition key on

First, you enter your car and put the key into the hollow. Then, turn it to the ON position to start the car. This is the initial and crucial step, so focus.

To check if the key is in the right position, check the dashboard’s lights. If the lights are on, it is available to proceed. Another way to ensure is to listen to the key when operating. As you put the key into the electrical outlet and hear 2 clicks when rotated, it’s in the right position.

Don’t rush to step on the gas or start the engine. The hurry will cause you to carry on the process repeatedly. 

02. Put enough pressure on the accelerator:

Pick your foot on the gas pedal and put moderate pressure to push it down. Increase leg strength until the pedal gets to the ground. Do not leave your foot when pressing the pedal to the ground; hold for 10-15 seconds.

03. Wait and keep calm

As noted above, you mustn’t be in the race. Be patient and hold the acceleration for 10-15 seconds. This will force the resetting program to start.

04. Switch the key off

In this step, you can switch off the key but mustn’t release the pressure on the pedal. You still have to hold it. Now your job is to turn the key back to the original position (position 0)

Stay the key right there, and don’t take it out. Chevy relies on the implementation of resetting the transmission control module. 

05. Put the pressure out of the accelerator

Ensure your key is in zero position and you are still pushing on the accelerator the whole time before. Now, you can relax and release the pressure out of the accelerator.

This is almost the last step; you won’t want to know what you missed. That’s why we constantly remind you of the former steps.

06. Operate the car and enjoy the moment

Right after releasing the pressure, the system will restart quickly.

After completion, go in your car and test driving for 15-20 minutes. The TCM is reset, so it needs a little time to get accustomed to the engine and other components.

Check the gearshift when you speed up, decelerate, or stop the car. If everything works in accord, congratulations! You have successfully reset the TCM Chevy.

If it still has problems, you should get the mechanic to repair your car.

Where is the Transmission Control Module Located in a Chevy?

A Chevrolet vehicle’s Transmission Control Module (TCM) is typically located in the engine compartment or under the dashboard. For many models, it’s mounted on or near the transmission itself or within the engine bay, often on the passenger side. However, the exact location can vary depending on the model and year of the Chevrolet. It’s advisable to consult the vehicle’s manual or a professional technician for the precise location of your specific Chevy model.

Will Disconnect the Battery Reset the Transmission Control Module?

Yes, disconnecting the battery can reset the Transmission Control Module (TCM) in many vehicles. This action can clear the module’s short-term memory, including error codes or erratic transmission behavior. However, this temporary fix does not address underlying mechanical issues. It’s also important to note that disconnecting the battery can reset other vehicle systems, so you may need to reprogram certain settings afterward. For a permanent solution to transmission problems, it’s advisable to consult a professional mechanic.

Cost to change the Transmission Control Module?

If you have reset the TCM, but it doesn’t work normally, take your vehicle to the garage. They will check everything and give the solution for your vehicle. The worst situation that can come out is to alter the Transmission Control Module.

And the fee is not cheap at all. On average, the expense for the replacement of the Transmission Control Module is between $250 to $1250. TCM costs $200 – $750, and the labor costs $50 to $500.

Also Read: How to Reset AC on Chevy Silverado

FAQs about How to Reset Transmission Control Module Chevy Silverado

01. Can a car run without TCM?

TCM is an inseparable part of a car. Assume that a car runs without TCM; it cannot run effectively. Thus, if TCM suddenly disappears, the car won’t run normally and cause accidents on the street. 

02. What are the Benefits and Drawbacks of Automatic Transmission?

• Benefits: Compared to manual transmission, automatic transmission brings a more comfortable experience to the driver. Instead of driving while calculating the next gear to shift, the driver can only focus on driving. 
• Drawbacks: The Automatic Transmission system is very complex to bring the best convenience for the driver. Thus, it is hard to fix and also requires more expense. 

03. Can I replace the transmission control module myself?

Yes, of course, it seems to be easy to replace TCM in many vehicles. However, it isn’t easy to realize the TCM’s position. After installation, the TCM needs adjusting to be consistent with your vehicle. Thus, it should be left to an expert mechanic.

04. What is the average lifespan of a transmission control module?

Knowing the longevity of TCM encourages you to have it repaired or replaced. For broken TCM, the common range is between 75,000 and 125,000 miles.

05. Where do I find the Transmission Control Module?

To locate the TCM position in your car, refer to familiar garages or ask an authorized dealer.

06. What is the price for a fixed Transmission Control Module?

The cost for transmission fixed is cheaper than replacement. It costs around $300 on average and can be changed in different places

07. What should you do when the P0700 code appears on the dashboard?

This is a danger warning. You absolutely mustn’t drive when this error appears. It directly affects your safety and that of the people around you. 

08. Does a transmission control module need to be reprogrammed?

Yes, a Transmission Control Module (TCM) often must be reprogrammed after installation or when updating its software to ensure it operates correctly with the vehicle’s specific parameters and performance requirements. Reprogramming helps to optimize transmission behavior, improve efficiency, and solve issues related to shifting patterns or gear engagement. A professional should use the appropriate diagnostic tools and software to carry out this process.

09. How long does it take for a transmission to relearn?

The time it takes for a transmission to complete a relearn process varies depending on the vehicle model and driving conditions. Still, generally, it can take a few minutes to several days of normal driving. The relearning process involves the transmission control module (TCM) adjusting to driving habits and conditions to optimize performance and shifting patterns. City and highway driving is necessary for most vehicles to provide the TCM with a comprehensive range of operating conditions for relearning.

Conclusion

Resetting the Transmission Control Module (TCM) in a Chevy Silverado involves a straightforward procedure that can help address shifting issues or clear error codes without needing professional tools. Typically, this process involves turning the ignition key to the ON position without starting the engine, pressing the gas pedal down for a specific period, and then turning the ignition off. However, the exact steps can vary by model year and should be followed as per the vehicle’s manual.

While this reset can temporarily improve transmission performance, it’s important to understand that it does not fix underlying mechanical issues. If problems persist after a reset, it is advisable to seek professional diagnostics and repair to ensure the longevity and safety of the vehicle’s transmission system.