Kia Optima DL3 Quiz
Automatic Transmission

Transmission Control Module (TCM)

In this manual: Automatic Transmission
General Information — 8Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) — 21Maintenance — 27Engine Mechanical System — 45Engine Electrical System — 11Emission Control System — 11Engine Control System/Fuel System — 25Automatic Transmission — 20Drive Shaft and Axle — 7Suspension System — 22Steering — 7Restraints — 11Brake System — 22Body (Interior and Exterior) — 116Body Electrical System — 90Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning — 32
4steps
~24min
2/5difficulty
Done 0 of 4

Description and Operation

Description

The module receives and processes signals from various sensors and devices to control the transmission and provide optimal driving conditions for the driver.

Functions

  • Monitors vehicle operating conditions to determine the optimal gear setting.

  • Performs gear shifting when the current gear position differs from the identified optimal gear position.

  • Determines whether to activate the torque converter clutch and engages the clutch accordingly.

  • Calculates the optimal line pressure level by constantly monitoring the torque level and adjusts the pressure accordingly.

  • Diagnoses malfunctions and failures of the automatic transmission.

Operation

Repair Procedures

Inspection

  1. The automatic transmission system can be diagnosed for malfunctions more quickly using the Kia Diagnostic System (KDS).

    KDS provides the following information.

    1. Self-diagnosis: Checks and displays diagnostic trouble codes (DTC).

    2. Data list: Checks the input/output values of the system.

    3. Active test: Checks the operating condition of the system.

    4. Additional functions: System option control, zero point adjustment, and other functions.

Component Inspection

  1. TCM Ground Circuit Inspection: Measure the resistance between the TCM and chassis ground. (Inspect the terminal connected to chassis ground at the rear of the harness connector as the check point on the TCM side.)

    Specification: Less than 1 ohm

  2. TCM Connector Inspection: Disconnect the TCM connector and visually inspect the ground terminals on the TCM side and harness side for bent pins or poor contact pressure.

  3. If the problem is not found in steps 1 and 2, the TCM may be faulty.

    If so, replace the TCM with a new one, then recheck the vehicle. If the vehicle operates normally, the problem was most likely caused by the TCM.

  4. Recheck the original TCM: Install the original (suspected faulty) TCM in a known good vehicle and check the vehicle. If the problem recurs, replace the original TCM with a new one.

    If the problem does not recur, the problem is intermittent and another part may be faulty.

Removal

  1. Remove the TCM.

    (Refer to Engine Control/Fuel System - "Engine Control Module")

Installation

  1. Install the TCM.

    (Refer to Engine Control/Fuel System - "Engine Control Module")

Test yourself

A quick Kia Optima DL3 quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.