7 Dodge Charger TCM Problems: A Comprehensive Guide With Its Reasons+ Solutions!
What are the common problems with Dodge Charger TCM? One common problem with the Dodge Charger’s TCM is that it can become corrupted, which can cause several issues. The transmission can slip or jerk when TCM fails, and the car may not go into gear. In some cases, the TCM may need to be replaced.
Dodge Chargers are known for their speed and power. But many drivers don’t know that these cars also have a history of transmission problems. In this article, we’ll look at some of the most common Dodge Charger TCM problems reported by the owners and see if there are any easy fixes.
Dodge Charger TCM Problems
There are 3 Dodge Charger transmission models. They are 4-speed 42RLE transmission, 5-speed W5A580 (NAG1) transmission, and 8-speed 8HP70 transmission. You can find 42RLE and W5A580 transmissions on Dodge Charger models between the 2006-2010 year model.
Also, you can find W5A580 and 8HP70 transmissions on Dodge Charger models from 2011 to the present. People face many TCM problems on these three types of Dodge Charger transmissions. The most common issues that users face among them are shuddering during gear shifting, decreased acceleration, and intermittent hard shifting.
Dodge Charger TCM Problems | Probable Reasons |
Shuddering during gear shifting | Mechanical failures |
Hard downshift from fourth to third | Mechanical failures |
Rough shifts and slipping of the transmission | Wiring problem between ECM and TCM or corrosion in the ten-pin solenoid harness connector |
Car jumps or kicks unexpectedly | A faulty transmission control module |
Rough 1-2 shifts | The transmission fluid of the car’s system is not proper |
Other transmission control module problems | Outdated transmission control module software |
In the below guide, you will get a more detailed view of the TCM problems of a Dodge Charger car.
Shuddering During Gear Shifting
If you have 2006 Dodge Charger Sedan 4D R/T and want to know about 2006 Dodge Charger TCM problems, this is the most common problem. It happens at higher mileages, on average, about 97,000, gear shifting of the car starts shuddering or hesitating.
The problem lies within the transmission control and powertrain control modules (TCM/PCM). It often happens for Dodge Charger models from 2006 to 2017. This issue mainly occurs for mechanical failures.
Solution:
To solve this issue, you need to update the software to the transmission control and powertrain control modules. However, you should diagnose appropriately before trying to do any software upgrades.
Hard Downshift From Fourth To Third
A hard downshift from fourth to third is one of the familiar 2011 Dodge Charger TCM problems and can also occur in the Dodge Charger models between 2006 and 2016. This downshifting quality problem tends to present about the 100,000 miles mark.
The reason behind this issue is also mechanical failures. When you face this problem, you must address it instantly to avoid your car handling it unpredictably, which can have severe outcomes like an accident.
Solution:
In this case, you need a proper and up-to-date software update to your transmission control module. If the problem has not been esolved, a revised transmission control module software is available to address these concerns.
Rough Shifts And Slipping Of The Transmission
Many people who have the 2009 Dodge Charger SXT complained that they are facing rough shifts and slipping of the transmission. They also get the P0750, P0755, P0765, P0760, P0846, P0871, and P0841 ECU codes. Wiring issues between the ECU and TCM or rust in the ten-pin solenoid harness connector cause problems.
Solution:
To solve this problem, you must change the solenoid harness connector and rewire the wires between the engine control unit and transmission control module. The 2009 Dodge Charger TCM location is under the dashboard of the car.
Car Jumps Or Kicks Unexpectedly
Sometimes your 2013 Dodge Charger SE can jump or kick unexpectedly. It happens for a faulty transmission control module (TCM). A defective TCM will cause other transmission issues when it fails to properly blend the air or fuel ratio.
Solution:
You need to do a 2013 Dodge Charger TCM reset in this case. If the problem persists, you need to replace the transmission control module.
Rough 1-2 Shifts
It is another common transmission control module problem of the Dodge Charger. You will also see that the check engine light is repeatedly flashing. It occurs when the car’s system’s transmission fluid is improper.
Solution:
To solve this problem, you have to change the transmission fluid. Also, you are required to change the oil filter to ensure that all old transmission fluid is out of the car’s system.
Decreased Acceleration
According to a new report, Dodge Charger TCM problems can lead to decreased acceleration. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration released the information. It says that the problem can reduce the responsiveness of the accelerator, making it harder to accelerate from a stop.
This is often caused by a failure of the TCM to interpret signals from the accelerator pedal correctly. As a result, the car may not accelerate as quickly as expected or stall. Some other possible causes include electrical issues or a problem with the transmission itself.
Solution:
The report recommends that drivers who experience this problem take their car to a dealer to have it repaired. This is not a problem that can be easily fixed on your own, and fix it as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your car.
For the time being, motorists are advised to drive with extreme caution and be ready to stop suddenly if the situation calls for it.
Other Transmission Control Module Problems
We found out that users face some other common transmission control module problems. They are intermittent hard shifting, suffering from slippage, and decreased acceleration.
However, when these issues occur, you will see that the car shakes whenever the wheel is turned, brakes applied or is driven. You may also find out that the car is loud at idle. All these issues occur for outdated transmission control module software.
Solution:
In this circumstance, you can address this issue swiftly by updating your car’s transmission control module software.
A Helpful Tutorial You May Need!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I know if my TCM is faulty?
It is possible to determine this in a variety of pathways. The first thing is to inspect the transmission fluid’s level and quality. If the fluid level is low or it looks dirty, it could mean that the TCM isn’t working right. Another way to tell if your TCM is faulty is to check the transmission. If the transmission is slipping or shifting erratically, it could be a sign that the TCM is failing.
How do I reset my TCM Dodge?
To reset your TCM Dodge, you must first disconnect the battery. Once the battery is disconnected, you will need to press and hold the “Learn” button on the TCM for approximately 5 seconds. Once the light on the TCM turns green, you will need to reconnect the battery and start the vehicle. The TCM will then go through a relearn process.
What causes TCM failure?
There are many possible causes of TCM failure. The most common cause is a loss of power to the TCM. This can be caused by a variety of things, such as a blown fuse, a loose connection, or a power outage. Other possible causes of TCM failure include physical damage to the TCM, software glitches, and hardware malfunctions.
Conclusion
Dodge Charger is famous for its long, rich performance history, rebellious personality, and dominance on the track. Ownership of such a beloved and classic car is rewarding for those who have owned a Dodge Charger, whether it is presently parked in the garage or in years past. Though the Charger is one reliable car, it still has its fair portion of problems.
Several Dodge Charger owners have shared Dodge Charger TCM problems during their ownership experience. This article discusses all those problems, their reasons, and solutions.
Whether the solution is to reset the TCM Dodge Charger or any other solution, this article will surely help you to solve these problems easily.
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Meet our diagnostic technician expert managing all the topics related to diagnosing vehicle problems, especially the problems with ECU or PCM. He is sharing his years of working experience troubleshooting modern car programs and dashboard issues with all. In his free time, Zain is found playing his guitar, tuning a new tune.