Mazda 3 drivers generally do not face technical issues as long as the Transmission Control Module works well and adjust the gears and lets you have an economical ride. But with a faulty TCM, you can face issues with shifting gears, acceleration, stuck gears, and so on.
In that case, you should reset the TCM or replace it if there’s no other way. So, how to reset the transmission control module Mazda 3?
To reset the transmission control module of Mazda 3, you need to disconnect the terminals and wait for some hours. Then, turn on the engine, drive for some minutes, shift the transmission, and decelerate the car naturally.
However, this answer is not elaborative enough. Please go through the detailed steps we’ve shared in the article before you troubleshoot the TCM. You won’t regret it!
How to Inspect A Faulty TCM Unit of Mazda 3?
To understand when the TCM of your Mazda 3 requires a factory reset, you must be familiar with the symptoms of a faulty Transmission Control Module. Let’s get to know about some of the most common symptoms.
Speeding up issues
If you know about the speeding process of your vehicle, you already know that the vehicle’s speed depends on the cyclic rotation of several gears at the right time. The control module of your automatic transmission regulates speed, clutch engagement, and gear changes.
With a faulty TCM, you may experience slower rotation of the gears. Eventually, it will impact the overall acceleration of your vehicle and you won’t like the overall performance.
Facing Issues While Shifting Gears
As you increase the speed gradually or you want to surpass your car moving slowly, the transmission should keep shifting to the higher or lower gear at the exact time. In case, it doesn’t happen at the right time, your vehicle will fail to shift the gears when needed.
Suddenly Gear Changes to Neutral or Get Stuck
Have you ever noticed your vehicle is stuck in neutral or first gear? If yes, you already know how a faulty transmission causes your vehicle to not move. Sometimes, you may never shift from the first gear, and notice very slow speeds.
Poor Fuel Economy
Remember whether you noticed the engine working harder than usual. If you can remember the day, your car consumed more fuel that day. Yes, because automatic transmissions are meant to give you optimal gear selection and timing which offers you high fuel efficiency as well.
So, when having an inadequate control module, know that you need to spend huge dollars at the gas pumps.
The Engine Warning Light Turns On
If you notice the engine light pop on the vehicle’s dash, it can mean different issues. But when you notice the light while having problematic shifting, chances are higher that the issue comes from the TCM. In this situation, it’s best to talk to a professional so you can be sure of the problem and take care of it.
How To Reset Transmission Control Module Mazda 3?
Find out the sickness through signs and then reset the TCM by triggering the main component of the Mazda 3 truck.
Share this Infographic On Your Website By Copying the code below:
<a href="https://autoglobes.com/mazda-3-transmission-control-module" title="https://autoglobes.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/8-steps-To-Reset-Transmission-Control-Module-Mazda-3.png"><img src="https://autoglobes.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/4-Best-Shocks-for-Towing.png" width="100%" style="max-width: 850px;" alt="https://autoglobes.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/8-steps-To-Reset-Transmission-Control-Module-Mazda-3.png"></a><br>Infographic by <a href="https://autoglobes.com/" target="_blank">Autoglobes.com</a>The Mazda 3 TCM reset is a bit tricky method that might need a little time, energy, and patience. And, it can’t be explained in 3 lines since there are a lot of things you need to do.
For Your Information: The location of TCM is below the battery tray or exactly above the car engine.
Besides, the steps would be pretty dissimilar to resetting the Ford TCM unit. In case you own it, be sure to check how to reset Ford transmission which I think will help. Now, let’s get familiar with the symptoms and step-by-step guide.
Step-by-step Procedure:
Step 0: Disconnect The Terminals
This is step zero because you have to detach the terminals some hours beforehand to help it drain the charge.
Step 1: Turn on The Engine
Turn on your engine like a cold start. Then, hold the brake using one foot and start the engine, by shifting the transmission from the park (P) to the first gear (L) of your truck. Do this 3-4 times.
Step 2: Continue Driving for 5 Minutes
For 5 minutes, drive the car at a low speed (not above 15.55 MPH) with slow acceleration. After that, slow down so that it automatically goes to a full stop position. Do not use the brake. Idle the truck for 1-2 minutes. And, let the truck be like this for 1 minute.
Step 3: Shift The Transmission
Place your one foot on the brake and shift the transmission from the park to the low gear. Again, do the same procedure then drive the truck for 5-6 minutes at a higher speed (not above 50 MPH).
Step 4: Decelerate The Vehicle Naturally
This time, decelerate the truck naturally without pressing the brake pedal until it stops. Finally, idle the car for a couple of minutes. Do not try hard acceleration after that or brake.
Done resetting!
Note: The above method is best for the 2010 Mazda 3 TCM reset and other models.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much does it cost to get a transmission control module fixed?
To fix any issue with the TCM unit, it will take between $700 to $800 for an expert. However, you might need to count some extra bucks for tax, fees, or location reasons.
2. How long does it take to replace a transmission module?
It will take around 1 to 2 days to change the transmission module on average. However, sometimes the time limit can be fast or late depending on the repairer’s skill and intelligence.
3. Do all cars have a transmission control module?
Nearly all modern cars own a TCM unit instead of a mechanical or hydraulic control unit. But in older models, some mightn’t have it.
Wrap Up
Done explaining how to reset transmission control module Mazda 3 which is pretty simple TBH. While it can be seen as puzzling at first, trust me you’ll do great if following the directions without skipping a beat.
But if, this feels hard to try in the real world, then be sure to take your car to the local garage to make a reset which will take less effort and time with expert skills. Good Luck!
