Kia Optima Hybrid Owner's Manual Quiz
Automatic Transmission

Transmission Control Module (TCM) Description and Operation

In this manual: Automatic Transmission
General Information — 4Engine Mechanical System — 50Engine Electrical System — 20Emission Control System — 30Engine Control System/Fuel System — 84Automatic Transmission — 98Drive Shaft and Axle — 15Suspension System — 36Steering — 12Restraints — 50Brake System — 38Body (Interior and Exterior) — 54Body Electrical System — 233Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning — 57
~1min read

Description

The Transmission Control Module (TCM) is the brain of the automatic transmission control system. The module receives and processes signals from various sensors and performs a wide range of transmission control functions to provide optimal driving conditions for the driver. The TCM is programmed to respond optimally to any driving situation. In the event of a transmission failure or malfunction, the TCM stores fault information in memory so that the technician can refer to the code and quickly repair the transmission. Functions
  • Monitors vehicle operating conditions to determine the optimal gear shift schedule.
  • Performs a gear shift if the current gear setting differs from the determined optimal gear setting.
  • Calculates the optimal line pressure level by continuously monitoring the torque level and adjusting the pressure accordingly.
  • Diagnoses the automatic transmission for malfunctions and failures.

Test yourself

A quick Kia Optima Hybrid Owner's Manual quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.