The newer Chevy Silverado’s transmission control module (TCM) detects engine issues quicker than ever. It collects data from the vital engine parts, including brakes, transmission fluid temperature sensor, engine, throttle, etc. By using these data, it adjusts the gear shifting smoothly. If you are having any issues with your gear shifting, it is better to reset TCM.
How to reset transmission control module chevy Silverado? Turn on the key without starting the engine. Then press the gas pedal for 10 seconds and turn off the key. Release the gas pedal and wait for a few minutes, then start the car and take it for a test drive for a few km.
From my experience, I feel that you need to know more about TCM reset to understand it better. So here I’ve tried to clarify all the doubts about how to reset the transmission control module on your Chevy Silverado.
How To Reset Transmission Control Module Chevy Silverado?
2014 Silverado transmission problems once gave me a hard time. Do not make the same mistake- follow every step below.
Turn The Key On
Start the resetting process by setting the key position to 2. Then the dashboard light will turn on to confirm that you are doing the right thing. Also, you will hear two clicking sounds.
Do not start the car at this moment.
Press The Gas pedal
After turning on the key, press the gas pedal all the way down to the bottom. Here, you need to wait for around 15 seconds. At this point, you may make a mistake often. Keep pressing down the gas pedal and give your TCM time to reset.
Turn Off The Key
While pressing down the gas pedal for more than 15 seconds, turn off the key in the previous position. It is the reverse of the first step. However, you do not have to remove the key from the ignition. Let it be there and follow the next step.
Release The Gas pedal
Once you turn the key in the home position, you can release the gas pedal. But never release the gas pedal before turning off the key. After that, there is nothing much to do rather than waiting.
Giving the truck around 5 minutes will ensure a successful reset. You should not hurry and start the truck right after releasing the gas pedal. It will not give the result that you are expecting.
Drive The Truck For 15-20 Minutes
Since you have done all the steps correctly, it is time to go for a test drive. You can drive for around 20 minutes to improve the TCM configuration and work smoothly. After that, you’re resetting procedures are complete. Now, you should not have any transmission problems in your Chevy Silverado.
That is how you can reset Chevy Silverado TCM. However, there is another way to reset this. It is called a hard reset. Let’s talk about that further.
Hard Reset TCM for Chevy Silverado
If you know how to locate TCM on your Chevy Silverado, it would be an easier and most reliable way to go for a hard reset. Usually, you will find it on the driver’s side of the engine. It should locate near the firewall or somewhere in that area. It can vary from model to model. Although it is called hard reset, it is the best method to reset TCM. Here is how you can do that.
- Disconnect the battery by pulling out the positive and negative terminals using a socket wrench (check out a good one here) just to ensure safety precautions. Some say disconnecting the battery is enough to reset TCM. I do not agree with that. If you want to perform a proper reset (hard reset), disconnecting the power source is not going to help that much. Thus, you have to continue with the next steps.
- Now, locate the TCM on your truck. It should be connected with a larger cable. Gently pull out all the cables and disconnect TCM from the engine.
- Then, wait for a few minutes (5-10 minutes)
- Finally, reassemble the TCM and then connect the battery again.
It should do the job and reset the transmission control module. By doing a test drive, you can check if it is working fine or not.
When And Why You Need To Reset TCM On A Chevy Silverado?
There are various problems can occur due to bad TCM. For example, once I encountered a 2008 Chevrolet Silverado 5.3 firing order issue because of the bad TCM. So let’s check out bad transmission module symptoms that urge you to reset it.
- Gear shifting is not working properly
- Stalling while trying to change gears
- Low fuel economy
- Stuck in neutral mode
- Unusual gear shifting
If you face any of these issues, you need to reset TCM or replace it in some cases.
FAQs
Let’s check out the answers to the popular questions regarding the Chevy Silverado TCM reset.
Yes, after installing a new TCM on your car, you have to program it properly. It should be done by the dealer with the proper equipment. Also, programming needs to be done on the vehicle to calibrate it correctly. It will ensure a smooth driving experience when everything is done.
Either you can reset the TCM or reprogram it by a professional. I already told you about the resetting process. Turn on the key, press the gas pedal, turn off the key, and after waiting five seconds, then release the gas pedal. Finally, wait for 5 minutes before taking it for the test drive.
You will see various issues in the car. Firstly, your car will have trouble downshifting while it slows down. Also, the engine roars, and it is hard to shift to the higher gears.
It will take somewhere between 25-35 minutes to reprogram a TCM. If you are using the right tool, it should not take longer than that. However, if you are trying it for the first time without having any experience, it can take longer.
Conclusion
Almost all Chevy Silverado TCM requires a similar method to reset. If you are not an expert, try to follow the regular resetting method. However, it would be better to use the hard reset method with the proper gear. But you should do it if the regular reset method doesn’t work.
Resetting TCM will ensure better fuel economy and a smooth driving experience. Since it is mostly related to gear shifting, it will prevent accidents that can occur due to gear shifting issues. Lastly, if you are not sure yet, go to the nearest mechanic to let a professional handle it.
