TCM- Transmission Control Module Location (Everything You Need To Know About It)

Is your car suddenly stuttering or jittering? If so, then this problem might be occurring due to issues in shifting gears.

Mind you, a bad Transmission Control Module (TCM) is probably to blame for this issue. But why? It’s because the TCM is responsible for shifting gears smoothly and handling the operations of the transmission case.

Now, if you want to replace the faulty TCM, you’ll have to know the Transmission Control Module location, right? Well, it’s most probably located on the back cover of your transmission case and right beside the Engine Control Unit (ECU). Wait, this can vary, too!

However, do you know how to replace the TCM after locating it? Luckily for you, we have laid down everything you need to know about TCMs in the discussion below. So, check it out right now.

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Where Is The TCM Located In Your Car?

As mentioned above, your TCM is likely located right at the back of your transmission case. And your Engine Control Unit (ECU) is probably also located right beside it. As said, this is not the case for all car models.

Many car manufacturers place that TCM in other locations as well. Consequently, it is difficult for newbies to find the TCM module in their cars.

That’s why, for you, we have suggested a few probable locations where you will most probably be able to find your TCM module:

On top of your transmission (gearbox)

If you are having a hard time locating your TCM, you should look for it around your transmission case. Commonly, TCM will be located right on top of the transmission case. It should look somewhat like the below image:

Right beside the car battery

If you can’t find your TCM in the close vicinity of your gearbox/transmission case, you should look for it right beside your car’s battery.

Some car manufacturers put the TCM beside the car battery. For example, the 2010 Nissan Altima 2.5L has its TCM right beside its battery (according to the 2010 Nissan Altima owner manual).

Check out the image below to have a better understanding of where your TCM is likely to be located:

Below the dashboard of your car

In some cases, the TCM can also be located below the dashboard of your car. Commonly, it’s under the dashboard on the passenger side. For instance, the 2001 Mitsubishi Giant has its TCM located below the passenger side dashboard.

Note: If you can’t find the TCM in your car even after looking in the above-mentioned locations, you should know that TCMs can also be placed in unusual locations by car manufacturers.

So, we suggest checking the manufacturer’s manual for your car model to pinpoint the exact location of your TCM. Or, you can just call the customer care line of your car manufacturer to know the location of your TCM as well.

How To Replace The TCM In My Car?

The Transmission Control Module replacement process is a DIY job that anyone can do, with the right knowledge. Below, we have shown some simple steps that you can follow to replace/change your TCM:

1. Locate at your TCM

The first step in replacing your TCM is to locate exactly where it is. Use the guide we have provided above to locate the TCM in your car.

In most cases, you’ll be able to easily locate your TCM right beside the transmission case/gearbox.

However, smart car Transmission Control Module locations can be different from traditional car models. The TCM in electric vehicles will be located in a different location compared to gasoline-based cars.

So, it’s best to check the manufacturer’s manual of your car to locate the TCM.

2. Disassemble the bolts and nuts that are securing the TCM

Your TCM is probably embedded in your car through several nuts and bolts to secure it in its place. So, to replace it, you’ll have to uninstall the nuts and bolts that are securing it.

3. Eject the old TCM and mount the new one

At this point, you will have to put out your existing TCM and mount the new one into its place.

Note: It’s not the final stage of securing your new TCM to your vehicle, so don’t install the nuts and bolts yet.

4. Connect the electrical cords and connectors

In this step, you’ll have to connect the electrical cords and connector(s) to your TCM. Be careful in this step and try to follow the manufacturer’s manual while connecting your new TCM to its electrical connector(s).

5. Secure the new TCM with its nuts and bolts

In this last step, you just have to install the nuts and bolts back to secure your new TCM in its place.

This May Help Know More About TCM

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are a few of the common last questions regarding TCMs and their answers. Check them out:

How do you fix a Transmission Control Module?

In most cases, you can’t fix a bad TCM. So, you might have to replace it if it’s problematic.
However, sometimes, doing a Transmission Control Module reset can also solve issues related to TCMs. So, you may try doing that.

How to check Transmission Control Module (TCM) faults in my car?

To check whether your TCM is indeed problematic or not, you can check the symptoms that we have mentioned above. However, sometimes TCMs can malfunction due to problems in solenoid switches as well.
So, you may replace your solenoid switches to pinpoint whether your TCM is faulty or not. If your TCM is still malfunctioning after changing the solenoid switches, you’ve got no other option but to replace your TCM.

How much does it cost to replace a TCM?

The Transmission Control Module repair cost/replacement cost entirely depends on the price of the TCM in your car. In general, TCMs can cost anything between $400 to $900. Plus, the installation cost can be anything between $50 to $200.

Conclusion

Well, that’s all. As you can see from this discussion, knowing the Transmission Control Module location is the key step in replacing your faulty TCM. So, it’s something that you must know.

Consider following the guide we have provided here to locate your TCM and troubleshoot its problems.

Happy riding!

You Can Also Read:

TCM- Transmission Control Module Location (Everything You Need To Know About It)