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How to reset the transmission control module in a Chevy?
My Chevy Tahoe is having some rough shifts. A buddy suggested I reset the TCM. I’m not a car guy. I had to Google what a TCM is! So how do I reset the transmission control module in a Chevy?
Matt Terzi · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
We’re sorry you’re having some transmission troubles. And your friend is right: resetting the transmission control module, or TCM, is usually a great place to start when diagnosing transmission trouble.
Before we begin, here’s a little disclaimer: if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Meaning, if your transmission is fine, don’t mess with your TCM. But in this case—rough shifts, or early or late shifting—it’s worth a try. And unlike replacing a transmission, it’s free, so why not?
- Turn your key to the second position, so the dash is lit up but the engine isn’t running. You’ll hear two clicks as you rotate the key. If the car starts up, you went too far.
- Wait about 10 to 20 seconds. The beeps should’ve ended already by then
- With the engine off but the dashboard lit up, push your accelerator (the gas pedal) all the way down to the floor, and hold it there for about 15 seconds
- Keep your foot on the gas pedal and turn the key back to zero (off). Don’t take the key out of the ignition
- With the key back in the zero position, take your foot off the gas pedal
- Leave the key in the zero/ off position and keep your foot off the gas pedal for five full minutes. Do not open doors or touch anything in the car. Just sit there patiently for five minutes. This is a great chance to kill some time on social media.
- After waiting the full five minutes, take your car for a drive for about 30 consecutive minutes. You’ll be teaching your reset TCM how you drive, so it’s important you try to drive as you would normally.
If you’re still having trouble, you’ll want to take your car to a mechanic and have them diagnose it further. Otherwise, enjoy your driving!
By the way, did you know you could be saving hundreds or even thousands of dollars per year on
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- Gregory R.
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