The Transfer Case Control Module or shortly known as TCCM, controls the transmission, electronic differential locks, and traction in four-wheel drive cars. When the transfer case control module of your Chevy Silverado goes bad, you might encounter several issues.
So, how to reset transfer case control module Silverado? You can reset the transfer case control module in your Silverado by keeping acceleration on for a few minutes. Using jumper cables is another effective way of resetting the TCCM. Besides, a TCCM fuse can also be used to reset the module.
In this blog, I will go into the nitty-gritty of why resetting a transfer case control module is important and how you should do it. Let’s pedal to the metal.
What Is A Transfer Case Control Module?
Modern four-wheel drive vehicles come with the transfer case control module to control functions like electronic shifting, differential locking, traction, etc. The module processes data from speed sensors to calculate the best shifting time for the transmission system.
Shifting from a two-wheel drive system to a four-wheel drive system is mainly controlled by the transfer case control module. It determines whether the speed of the vehicle is safe enough to shift between systems.
How to Determine a Faulty Transfer Case Control Module?
You can identify Chevy Silverado transfer case problems by the following symptoms. Check for them to know whether you need to reset the transfer case control module.
Trouble Shifting Gears
Though there are many reasons behind gear shifting problems, the transfer case control module can be the culprit. You might hear a grinding or growling sound while shifting gears or changing speeds.
As the transfer case control module handles the electronic transmission in Silverado, a faulty gear system can be a big sign that your TCCM has gone bad.
Unable to Engage or Disengage Four-Wheel Drive
The transfer case control module is responsible for shifting between drive systems in your Silverado. So, if the TCCM goes bad, you might face a tough time engaging or disengaging the four-wheel drive mode in your truck.
You might also notice the 4WD light turning on, which is a sign of a faulty transfer case control module.
Truck Doesn’t Stay in Four-Wheel Drive
Even if you can engage the four-wheel drive mode, the truck won’t stay there and automatically shift to two-wheel drive mode if the TCCM is faulty.
Engine Stuttering
If you face difficulties while accelerating the truck and the engine stutters frequently, the TCCM may be the reason behind it.
Other Symptoms
You may also witness more symptoms if the transfer case module fails, such as the engine light coming on, the module getting hot to the touch, producing strange noises, or creating a burning smell.
What Causes Transfer Case Control Module Problems?
The transfer case control module on your Silverado can go wrong for several reasons. Here is a quick overview.
- Loose Wiring
If the module isn’t wired correctly or the connections are loose, the module might not work properly.
- Wet Module
The module can show errors if it gets wet. Water can reach the module while driving in the rain or washing the truck.
- Power Surge
Connecting the module to a faulty battery system can cause a power surge that will damage the internal circuitry of the module. So, the module won’t work properly.
- Extreme Temperature
The transfer case control module might not work properly under extreme weather conditions. Driving or parking the car in extremely hot or cold temperatures can cause errors in the module.
- Accidental Damage
If the module gets hit by something, the damage can cause the module not to work properly.
- End of Service Life
The transfer case control module can show signs of wear by the end of its service life. In such cases, the module will start showing errors.
How to Reset Transfer Case Control Module of Chevy Silverado?
We will discuss four methods of resetting the transfer case control module on your Chevy Silverado. Make sure you follow the steps correctly.
Method 1: Removing the Module
- First, you should turn the truck off and disconnect the battery.
- Then take the module off of the transfer case using a socket wrench.
- Use a screwdriver to take apart the module.
- Check if there is any sign of wetness inside the module. If so, use a blow dryer to remove any moisture.
- Reassemble the module and place it inside the transfer case.
- Turn on the ignition after connecting the battery. The transfer case control module is now reset.
Method 2: Using Accelerator Pedal
- Once the truck is off, you need to turn the ignition key.
- Press the gas pedal at the same time and hold it for some time.
- Turn the ignition key to the off position and then release the accelerator pedal.
- Wait for a few minutes, and then repeat the process three more times.
- The transfer case control module should now be reset.
Method 3: Using Jumper Cables
- Remove the negative cable of the battery and cover it with a non-conductive material.
- Put the negative terminal of the jumper cable on the negative battery terminal and the positive terminal of the jumper cable on the positive battery terminal. Wait for some time until all electronic components get discharged.
- Take the jumper cables off and connect the negative battery cable.
- Turn the truck on and keep it idle for a few minutes.
- Turn the truck off and turn it on again. After you do this a few times, the transfer case control module should be reset.
Method 4: Using Transfer Case Control Module Fuse
- Unmount the transfer case to remove the TCCM fuse.
- After removing the fuse, wait for some time. Meanwhile, check for any visible faults in the fuse. You might need to replace the fuse if it is faulty.
- Reconnect the fuse and mount the transfer case in place.
- Turn the truck on and keep it idle for a few minutes. Then turn it off.
- Turn on the engine again and repeat the process a few times.
- The module should now be reset.
You might need to replace the transfer case control module if it doesn’t work after applying all the methods. Working on all of these methods helped me quite a lot to learn about problematic mirror turn signals.
FAQs
Here are answers to a few commonly asked questions about the transfer case control module in Chevy Silverado.
What does the ‘Service 4WD System’ message indicate?
It may be a symptom of a faulty transfer case module in your Silverado. You should reset it as soon as possible.
Can I drive with a faulty TCCM?
A faulty TCCM will cause trouble while speeding or shifting gears. Continuing to drive in such situations might damage the transmission system. So, you should not do that.
Can I replace the TCCM on my own?
If you have proper knowledge about how to replace it, you can replace the TCCM on your own.
Can I drive without the TCCM?
In modern trucks like Chevy Silverado, TCCM controls multiple functions. Without this module, your truck won’t run properly.
Final Words
The transfer case control module in your Chevy Silverado can go bad for many reasons and cause severe issues with the transmission system. So, you should know how to reset the transfer case control module Silverado to quickly get out of quirky situations.
I hope this blog helps you reset the TCCM in your Chevy Silverado right away.
