The Best Garage to Replace Your Mercedes TCM in Oakland

If you drive an automatic Mercedes, it is always good to know the signs of when your Transmission Control Module (TCM) needs to be replaced. A failed or faulty TCM is very dangerous for road safety and control of your car. However, if caught early, you can have the parts replaced by a Mercedes professional and be on your way driving safely again.

Let’s discuss the TCM, the warning signs that indicate a failed TCM, and where to go for the best service center in Oakland to get your TCM replaced.

The Transmission Control Module

The transmission control module is located near the engine control module’s position. It is near the car battery. The transmission control sends signals to regulate your car’s gears to shift. Without this mechanism, your transmission wouldn’t be able to shift gears effectively, and you would remain stuck in high gear or any other.

The TCM gathers the information from the sensors, it then determines when the transmission should automatically shift gears. The TCM is only required in an automatic vehicle, as in a manual vehicle, the driver changes the gear themselves.

Some of the sensors that work closely with the transmission control module are the transmission fluid temperature sensor, the turbine speed sensor, and the throttle position sensor.

Warning Signs of a Failing TCM

• Lack of Response: If the vehicle reuses to change gears or there is a hesitation, this could be the sign of a transmission issue.
• Odd Sounds: You are familiar with the sounds your Mercedes makes on acceleration and when shifting gears. However, it is a cause for concern when you hear odd noises like grinding or whining when the TCM is shifting for you. This may be a sign that a transmission oil change is needed.
• Leaking Fluid: Leaking transmission fluid is very easy to detect. Transmission fluid is red and smells sweet, if you find this on the ground where you have parked or stopped it is advisable to inform your mechanic that your Mercedes is leaking transmission fluid.
• Grinding, Jerking, or Shaking: The problem will begin with hesitation when changing gears. Left unchecked, it will then start grinding or shaking when shifting gears. At this point, it is best to take the car to a professional who can correctly diagnose the problem and replace any necessary parts.
• Burning Smell: When your transmission is overheating, you will notice a burning smell. If the transmission fluid has not been flushed in a while, this old transmission fluid will begin to burn and will smell like burning rubber.
• Won’t Go into Gear: Your car may refuse to change gears, especially from park. You will not be able to engage any other gear to move the vehicle. This will be cause for a tow into a Mercedes service center.
• Service Engine Soon: The check engine light can come on for a variety of issues. A professional will use a coder to diagnose the error and repair your vehicle.
• Noisy Transmission in Neutral: This could take the form of strange noises when the vehicle is in neutral. A Mercedes-certified repair center, such as Germany’s Best, Inc., can be of assistance and get you safely back on the road.
• Slipping Gears: It is both scary and dangerous if your gears slip out while you are driving. If your gears slip, make sure to get your car to the auto repair center immediately, as this could leave you in a terrible situation if you’re merging into traffic and cannot gain speed or if you’re expecting to be able to turn left across busy oncoming traffic.

Call Your Mercedes Specialists: Germany’s Best, Inc.

Our expert technicians at Germany’s Best, Inc. have been servicing Oakland CA and the surrounding areas of Berkeley, Emeryville, and Piedmont for over 25 years. Certified technicians will help diagnose the problem quickly and affordably.

Our amenities include:

• ASE Certified Master Technicians
• BOSCH Certified Service Center
• Fully equipped shop featuring the latest tools and equipment
• Factory grade materials for all services and repairs
• Diagnostic tools for check engine light and other computer services

No matter how big or small your job, we guaranteed service excellence. Call or visit to book an appointment. Remember, getting your car serviced regularly means safer driving!