What is TCM (Transmission Control Module)? It’s also called the Transmission/Gear Box Control Unit.
TCM is a self-propelled ECU (Electronic Control Unit) that controls electronically automated transmissions. It scans the transmission performance, calibrating it based on the vehicle’s model, make, and specifications.
TCM’s internal memory stores all the information regarding the gear percentage operated by the vehicle’s engine, clutch button, and other significant codes.
Why is it essential to learn how to test TCM Duramax?
Well, there are a few reasons behind this. Firstly, it enables the vehicle’s automatic transmissions to work consistently. There are high chances of TCM breaking down if continuously engaged for heavy-duty and high-speed driving for longer times.
A failed TCM results in the non-working of the transmission. It demands replacing the TCM Duramax.
A perfectly calibrated TCM is a must for a smooth drive. And it’s simple if you keep it well-maintained.
Contents
How to test TCM Duramax: Step-by-Step Guide
Testing TCM Durmax involves a few tools and careful execution. Let’s look at these steps to understand how to test TCM Duramax. We will also go through any potential problems related to it.
Tools you will require:
- Test light
- 12-volt battery
- Wire brush
- Clean rag
- Electrical tape
- OBD-II scanner
- Voltmeter/Multimeter
- Glasses and gloves for safety
- TCM software transfer device
- OBD-II Cable
- Jumper wires set
You can find TMC near the firewall, alongside the passenger side of the engine.
testing the battery
The first step involves testing the battery. A weak battery for a prolonged time is to be replaced with a new one. Check for blown or unblown fuses to ensure the proper working of the vehicle’s electrical system.
Be gentle with the wires, as a few are linked to the ECU. Ideally, disconnecting all the wires originating from the TCM is a safer option before you conduct the TCM test.
diagnostic tools
Testing TCM requires a few diagnostic tools, such as an OBD-II detector/scanner and jumper wires set. The scanner connects to the vehicle’s diagnostic port. Codes derived from the memory of TCM Duramax are read through this scanner.
Along with the scanner, a T-type OBD-II wire is also required for accessing the message codes. The vehicle’s manual will help you understand the problem corresponding to the code displayed.
digital voltmeter
Keep ready with you a digital voltmeter and jumper cable/wire harness. These two tools help to establish communication between the OBD-II detector and TCM Duramax. You can buy them from any auto repair workshop or auto parts shop.
check the TCM Duramax functionality
The foremost step to check the TCM Duramax functionality is calibration. Before testing the assembly of the transmission control shaft and shift actuator, calibration is mandatory.
Detach the battery by disengaging its cable from the negative terminal of your vehicle. Now, crank the engine to keep it idling.
temperature measurement tool
The majority of vehicles are equipped with a temperature measurement tool in their toolkit. You can find the appropriate temperature range by scanning the specifications provided by the manufacturer. It will help you to regulate the degree of temperature within the recommended degree.
temperature
Idling the vehicle will eventually heat up the engine to an acceptable temperature range. Take off the spark plugs once you reach that point. Disengage the cabling harness from the coil assembly. Removing all required connections will help you to prevent other components from shorting out.
cooled-down engine
A cooled-down engine helps you to detect flaws in the TCM Duramax. When you expose the fasteners to high pressure and heat, the fasteners loose-up.This happens due to long time usage, ultimately leading to depreciation.
TCM’s performance
Check the TCM’s performance with a voltmeter. Connect the voltmeter to the volt terminals. Now you can check for short or open circuits. In addition, you can also interpret high resistance in the spark plug boot.
Check each voltage point in your spark plug boot in compliance with the voltage specified. After checking out, you still will have to check TCM Duramax.
Another way of testing TCM Duramax
- Disconnect the negative battery cord.
- After locating the TCM, clean it with a wire brush to dust off any debris from its surface. Wipe out the TCM’s surface using the rag.
- Now, reconnect the negative battery cord and crank the engine one.
- The engine lights will flash for a couple of seconds and disappear again.
- The engine lights staying on indicate a problem with the TCM. It’s better to show your vehicle to a professional mechanic for further check-ups.
- If the engine lights do not stay and go off, go on to the next step.
- Now it is a clear signal of the TCM receiving power. The next step is to test the TCM’s output. It can be done by connecting one end of the test light to each TCM terminal and the other to the ground.
- An illuminating test light indicates the correct working of the TCM.
- If not, the TCM is faulty and needs to be taken to the workshop for an additional check-up.
Can You Test TCM Duramax With Ohmmeter?
Yes, you can also test TCM with an ohmmeter. It involves placing one lead of the ohmmeter on each TCM’s terminals and checking resistance. If you notice resistance, the TCM is good. No resistance, then TCM is faulty.
Troubleshooting and repairing TCM issues
Let’s first understand the reasons behind TCM failures. Herewith are a few reasons leading to a faulty TCM.
Long-time use and aging
A vehicle getting older and usage leads to wear and tear of the vehicle. Other factors, such as road conditions, corrosive foreign elements, weather, and poor maintenance contribute to vehicle deterioration.
Engine heat
TCM comprises electronic parts prone to get damaged by heat. Despite the plastic and metallic protection on the TCM, the heat may damage the TCM.
Bad Soldering
A defective soldering in the TMC circuit may lead it to fail before completing its lifespan.
Bad wiring
A blundered wiring between the control modules and TCM can short it. It leads to overloading the TCM and ultimately burning it out. Electronic components are sensitive. A spike in voltage or amperage can lead in failing of these components. Always check for outdated decayed or severed wires in your car.
Vibrations
The vehicle’s vibration may also cause in failure of TCM.
Tips for troubleshooting and repairing TCM issues
A burnt circuit or flawed transistor/resistor can cause problems with TCM. A professional mechanic can identify the problem and repair it. If the TCM is out of repair, it calls for an entire replacement of the TCU module.
Before implementing troubleshooting your TCM, ensure to consult a professional mechanic. Incorrect operation while troubleshooting may lead to damaging your TCM or the entire vehicle. Most importantly, it may result in your injury too.
Most of the time, the problem with TCM can be solved by simply cleaning and draining the component. Locating the TCM will require you to have an appropriate acquaintance with the car’s engine. If you don’t have one, take your vehicle to a professional mechanic.
What you will need:
- Phillips-head Turnscrew
- Universal Socket Set
- Electrical Connector Spray Cleaner
Steps:
- Turn off the ignition and disconnect the battery.
- Apply handbrakes and shift the transmission to neutral.
- Locate the TCM.
- Open the bonnet and locate the distributor cap.
- Loosen up the Phillips head screws to remove the distributor cap. Ensure you don’t spark the plug cords in the distributor cap.
- Take out the TCM. Remove the nuts and bolts that hold the TCU.
- Drain the TCU fluid. Clean the TCU and its connectors with an electronic connector spray cleaner.
- Replace the nuts, bolts, and cord connectors to reposition the connector back to its original place.
The TCM should work now. If not, it’s time to take it to a professional or replace it with a new one.
How do I reset my TCM Duramax?
Herewith are the steps to help you reset your TCM.
- Turn on the ignition: Insert your key into the ignition. To flash on the lights on the dashboard, turn the key twice. Remember, you just have to key in the ignition and not start the vehicle.
- Foot on the accelerator: Now, press the accelerator until you hear a clicking sound. The click sound indicates the activation of the kick-down switch. Keep pushing the accelerator till it reaches the floor level. Let it be in the same position for about 10 to 15 seconds.
- Turn off the key and release the accelerator: With the accelerator still pressed down, turn off the key. Now, release the accelerator.
- Wait for 2 to 5 mins: Now, you just have to wait for about 2 to 5 mins. Do nothing with your vehicle, and do not disturb any of its systems.
- Drive: The above steps comprise resetting a TCM. Once done, the TCU and ECU will team up to understand how you drive by understanding your driving pattern. You can drive your vehicle now. Drive ordinarily to allow your transmission to understand and respond to the throttle input in the way you are looking for.
If the TCM doesn’t reset with the above steps, then you should check issues with other ECU components.
Does resetting TCM work?
Resetting a TCM is essential for the efficient performance of the vehicle. Before arriving to conclude a faulty TCM, it’s ideal to try resetting the TCM. If resetting clears the issues, you can save considerable time and money. Resetting should be done after every 6 months.
How To Test Duramax For Bad Inputs?
Connecting a scanning tool to the car helps in testing the codes. The manual method involves the connection of jumper wires from the battery terminals. The TCM will beep for about two seconds once you turn on the ignition. If no sound is emitted, it’s essential to check the connection of all cables and if they are secure.
How To Test Duramax For Bad Outputs?
The scan tool will read the diagnostic code after testing for outputs. A faulty code can be checked for a corresponding reason. It will help you to narrow down the defective component, the one causing the problem.
Conclusion:
Transmission Control Module (TCM) is one of the crucial components of your vehicle. It’s vital to keep it well-maintained for the smooth operation of your car.
A flawed TCM may also pass the problem to other components, leading to an expensive affair if you neglect it initially. Regular check-ups of the vehicle help you to diagnose any issues beforehand. It will help you avert any mishaps, saving you time and money.
