Transmission Control Module (TCM) Initial Learning

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Mercury Montego and 2006 Ford Five Hundred. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

SPECIAL TOOL(S)

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Worldwide Diagnostic System (WDS)
Vehicle Communication Module (VCM) with appropriate adapters, or equivalent diagnostic tool

CAUTION: Do not raise the transmission fluid temperature by stalling the engine, internal transaxle damage will occur.

NOTE:

Clear all DTCs first.
When installing a new transmission, transmission control module or reflashing the TCM, the initialized learned values will need to be carried out.
This procedure cannot be carried out if the transmission fluid is not within the correct temperature specification.

With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. For additional information, refer to JACKING & LIFTING .
Install the diagnostic tool.
Monitor and note the engagement and shift harshness on the diagnostic tool.
With the engine idling, monitor the transmission fluid temperature. The fluid temperature should be between 66-110°C (151-230°F).
With your foot on the brake, move the shift lever to NEUTRAL and hold for 3 seconds. Then move the shift lever to DRIVE and hold for 3 seconds. Carry this out 5 times. Then move the shift lever to PARK.
With your foot on the brake, move the shift lever to NEUTRAL and hold for 3 seconds. Then move the shift lever to REVERSE and hold for 3 seconds. Carry this out 5 times. Then move the shift lever to PARK.
Drive the vehicle and monitor the diagnostic tool.
Drive the vehicle with the throttle opening between 25-30%. Drive until the vehicle reaches 6th gear, not to exceed 80 km/h (50 mph). Then release the accelerator and coast to a stop within 60 seconds. Carry this out 10 times.
The engagement and shift harshness have decreased.