Automatic Transmission
Transmission Control Module (TCM) Repair Procedures
In this manual: Automatic Transmission
12steps
~72min
3/5difficulty
Done 0 of 12
Inspection
TCM Troubleshooting Procedure
- TCM GROUND CIRCUIT INSPECTION: Measure the resistance between the TCM and chassis ground using the rear side of the TCM harness connector as the TCM side test point. If a problem is found, repair it.
Specification: Below 1 Ω
- Inspect the TCM connector: Disconnect the TCM connector and visually inspect the ground terminals on the TCM side and the harness side for bent pins or poor contact tension. If a problem is found, repair it.
- If no problem is found in steps 1 and 2, the TCM may be faulty. If so, before replacing the TCM, make sure there are no DTCs, then replace the TCM with a new one and recheck the vehicle. If DTCs were detected, check them first before replacing the TCM.
- Retest the original TCM: Install the original TCM (may be faulty) into a known good vehicle and inspect the vehicle. If the problem recurs, replace the original TCM with a new one. If the problem does not occur, the problem is intermittent.
Removal
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- Disconnect the negative (-) battery cable from the 12V battery.
- Remove the air duct (A).
Tightening torque: 7.8 ~ 9.8 N·m
- Remove the air cleaner assembly.
- Disconnect the breather hose (A).
- Disconnect the air intake hose (B) and remove the air cleaner assembly (C).

- When installing the air intake hose, align the clamp plate with the hose stopper.
- When installing the air intake hose, align the center of the mark on the hose with the rib of the throttle body.
- Disconnect the TCM connector (A) and remove the cover of the passenger compartment relay block (B).
- Remove the resolver mounting bolt (A) and the drain tube fixing bolt (B), then position the HPCU.
Tightening torque: 3.9 ~ 5.9 N·m
- Disconnect the (+) battery cable (A) after loosening the nut.
- Move the (+) battery cable (A) aside and remove the TCM bracket mounting bolt (B).
Tightening torque: 9.8 ~ 11.8 N·m
- Remove the TCM (A) by removing the TCM bracket mounting nut.
Tightening torque: 9.8 ~ 11.8 N·m
Installation
- Install in the reverse order of removal.

- Perform the procedure to store the TCM adaptive values. (Refer to "Automatic Transmission Control System - Repair Procedures")
- After replacing the TCM, perform the procedures related to the ECM. (Refer to Engine Control/Fuel System - Engine Control Module)
Test yourself
A quick Kia Optima Hybrid Owner's Manual quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.
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