What is a Transmission Control Module

December 4, 2024

At Reeves Auto Repair in San Luis Obispo, we understand the importance of keeping up with and understanding the latest in automotive technology. Gone are the days when fluids and vacuum lines were all that controlled the function of your engine and transmission, and we’ve moved into an era where computer control reigns supreme.



While there are countless benefits to computer-controlled automotive systems, there are also many ways for these systems to fail. When they do, sometimes the symptoms don’t make the issue immediately obvious, and a Transmission Control Module is one such component.


The TCM does what the name states; it controls the transmission. Shift points and the act of shifting itself are controlled by this module, meaning without it, the transmission is essentially one giant paperweight. A TCM is a reliable component...however, it is comprised of many intricate parts, and if one of them fails, the transmission may behave strangely. Your car, truck, or SUV may not shift when it’s supposed to, may shift hard, may shift erratically, or may not shift at all. Typically these conditions are accompanied by a warning light on your dash, but not always.


If your transmission is misbehaving, have one of our mechanics take a look. Whether it’s the TCM or some other issue, our professional technicians will have your issue diagnosed and corrected in no time. For the best transmission maintenance and repair shop in San Luis Obispo, call or visit Reeves Auto Repair today.

Will Resting Your Hand On The Shifter Harm A Manual Transmission?

December 4, 2024
If you drive a standard shift car, truck, or SUV, there’s a good chance you’ve heard this line from a know-it-all buddy in the passenger’s seat: “You know, it’s bad for the transmission when you leave your hand on the shifter.” But, does what your friend says have any merit? Reeves Auto Repair in San Luis Obispo has the answers.

I Can’t Find My Specified Transmission Fluid, What Should I Use?

December 4, 2024
At Reeves Auto Repair in San Luis Obispo, we know that a key aspect of taking care of your transmission is understanding how it works. Here’s some info on transmission fluid types, in case you’re having trouble finding yours.

When Is It To Late To Change Your Transmission Fluid?

December 4, 2024
It’s likely you’ve been exposed to conflicting opinions about having your transmission fluid replaced. You may have heard that cars over a certain mileage should not have the transmission fluid flushed and replaced, because it could damage the transmission, or you may have had someone tell you the first thing you should do at any sign of trouble is have your transmission flushed. At Reeves Auto Repair in San Luis Obispo, our expert mechanics have the answers you’re looking for.

Is it okay to shift into park before stopping?

December 4, 2024
The key to maintaining a healthy transmission is understanding how it works. Here’s the rundown on shifting your car, truck, or SUV into park before it stops, from the professional technicians at Reeves Auto Repair in San Luis Obispo.

Knowing When Your Leaks Occur is Key to Diagnosing the Problem

December 4, 2024
Transmission fluid leaks can often be a pain to track down. If you have a leaky transmission, Reeves Auto Repair in San Luis Obispo has some information for you on what you can expect. We’ve repaired countless leaky transmissions, and now we’re here to share some of our knowledge with you.

Is it Okay to Shift an Automatic Transmission While the Vehicle is Still in Motion?

December 4, 2024
At Reeves Auto Repair in San Luis Obispo, we believe that in order to take care of your car, truck, or SUV properly, you need to know how it works. Today we’re attempting to answer an age-old debate; is it ok to shift from reverse to drive before coming to a complete stop?

Is You Vehicle Vibrating? It May Be Your U-Joints

December 4, 2024
The term u-joints are commonly thrown around when discussing a vehicle that exhibits vibration or driving issues. What exactly is a u-joint, and how do you know if one is bad? Reeves Auto Repair in San Luis Obispo has the answers.