Traction Control Module Repair Costs
Below are the typical repair costs for various Traction Control Module (TCM) services. Labor rates are calculated at $125/hour.
Basic TCM Diagnostic ServiceInitial diagnosis and scanning: 1 hour
Total Cost: $125
Diagnostic scan and software update: 1.5 hours
Total Cost: $187.50
Labor: 2-3 hours ($250-$375)
Part cost: $300-$800 (varies by vehicle)
Total Cost: $550-$1,175
Labor: 3-4 hours ($375-$500)
Parts: $100-$300
Total Cost: $475-$800
Please note: Prices may vary depending on vehicle make, model, and year. Additional costs may apply if related components require service. All estimates include diagnostic fees.
Common Additional Services:
- Wheel Speed Sensor Replacement: $150-$300
- ABS Module Testing: $125
- Wiring Harness Repair: $200-$400
*All prices are estimates and subject to change. Please contact us for an accurate quote specific to your vehicle.
Traction Control Module Repair Procedures
Electronic Control Module (ECM/TCM)
Common Issues:Communication failures, sensor input errors, circuit board damage
Repair Steps:
- Perform diagnostic scan to confirm TCM failure
- Remove module from vehicle following manufacturer specifications
- Inspect for visible damage or corrosion
- Clean circuit board connections
- Test and repair damaged components
- Reprogram module with latest software
- Perform calibration and testing
Wheel Speed Sensors
Common Issues:Faulty readings, damaged wiring, contamination
Repair Steps:
- Verify sensor malfunction through diagnostic testing
- Remove wheel and brake components for access
- Inspect sensor and wiring harness
- Clean mounting surface and sensor
- Replace sensor if damaged
- Test sensor operation
- Reassemble components
Hydraulic Control Unit (HCU)
Common Issues:Valve failures, pump malfunctions, internal leaks
Repair Steps:
- Perform system pressure tests
- Drain brake fluid
- Remove HCU carefully to prevent contamination
- Replace or rebuild unit as needed
- Install new unit with proper torque specifications
- Bleed brake system completely
- Perform system calibration
Steering Angle Sensor
Common Issues:Calibration errors, internal failure, communication issues
Repair Steps:
- Verify sensor malfunction with diagnostic tool
- Remove steering wheel components
- Replace sensor module
- Reassemble steering components
- Perform sensor calibration
- Test steering response
- Clear fault codes
Yaw Rate Sensor
Common Issues:Incorrect readings, internal failure, mounting issues
Repair Steps:
- Confirm sensor failure through diagnostics
- Locate sensor (typically under center console)
- Remove necessary interior components
- Replace sensor unit
- Verify proper mounting orientation
- Calibrate new sensor
- Road test vehicle
Important Notes:
- Always follow manufacturer-specific procedures and specifications
- Use appropriate diagnostic tools and equipment
- Ensure proper calibration after any repairs
- Verify all safety systems are functioning correctly before returning vehicle to service
Note: These are general repair procedures. Specific steps may vary by vehicle make and model. Professional diagnosis and repair is recommended for all traction control system issues.
Understanding Traction Control Modules
ATraction Control Module (TCM)is an essential electronic control unit in modern vehicles that helps maintain vehicle stability and control by monitoring and managing wheel spin. Here's a detailed look at different types of traction control modules:
Basic Traction Control Module
The basic TCM works by:
- Monitoring wheel speed sensors to detect wheel slip
- Reducing engine power when slip is detected
- Applying brake pressure to spinning wheels
- Working in conjunction with the ABS system
Electronic Stability Control Module
An advanced form of traction control that:
- Monitors steering angle and vehicle direction
- Controls individual wheel braking
- Helps prevent skidding and loss of control
- Provides enhanced stability during cornering
All-Wheel Drive TCM
Specifically designed for AWD/4WD vehicles:
- Controls torque distribution between front and rear wheels
- Manages power delivery to each wheel independently
- Optimizes traction in varying road conditions
- Works with differential systems
Performance-Oriented TCM
Found in sports and high-performance vehicles:
- Offers multiple driving modes (Sport, Track, etc.)
- Allows partial or full system deactivation
- Provides faster response times
- Features more aggressive intervention thresholds
Terrain-Specific TCM
Common in off-road and SUV vehicles:
- Includes specific modes for different terrains (sand, mud, snow)
- Adjusts wheel slip parameters based on conditions
- Coordinates with hill descent control
- Manages low-speed crawling capabilities
Note: The specific features and capabilities of your vehicle's traction control module may vary depending on make, model, and year. Consult your owner's manual for detailed information about your vehicle's system.
Common Failure Symptoms of Traction Control Modules: Warning Signs to Watch For
Common Signs of Traction Control Module Failure
Traction Control Warning Light
The most immediate sign of a TCM issue is an illuminated traction control warning light on your dashboard. This may appear alongside the ABS warning light.
ABS System Malfunctions
Since the traction control and ABS systems are interconnected, you may experience ABS-related issues such as:
- Pulsating brake pedal when it shouldn't
- ABS engaging at inappropriate times
- Increased stopping distance
Unexpected Loss of Traction Control
The system may randomly engage or disengage without driver input, which can be particularly dangerous in adverse weather conditions.
Engine Power Reduction
You might notice unexpected reductions in engine power or the vehicle entering "limp mode" as a safety measure.
Typical Service Schedule
Regular Inspection
The traction control module should be inspected during routine maintenance, typically every 30,000 miles or when any warning lights appear.
Diagnostic Testing
Professional diagnostic testing is recommended:
- Every 50,000 miles
- After any collision
- When warning lights appear
- If experiencing unusual handling characteristics
Sensor Cleaning and Maintenance
The wheel speed sensors that work with the TCM should be cleaned and inspected:
- Every 30,000 miles
- When performing brake service
- If experiencing erratic speedometer readings
Software Updates
Check with your manufacturer for any available TCM software updates during regular service intervals, typically during annual inspections.
Note: Specific service intervals may vary by vehicle make, model, and year. Always consult your owner's manual for manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedules.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
