This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the Transmission Control Module (TCM) on a 2012-2017 Toyota Camry with the 2.5L I4 engine and automatic transmission.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Transmission Control Module × 1 — Use OEM specification
• TCM mounting bolts (if corroded) × 3 — M8x1.25 bolts

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Ensure engine and transmission are completely cool
3. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 3 minutes for system capacitors to discharge
4. Gather all necessary tools and replacement TCM

Procedure

1. 1

   Access the battery compartment
   Open the hood and locate the battery in the engine bay. Using the appropriate battery terminal wrench, loosen and remove the negative battery cable. Secure the cable away from the battery terminal to prevent accidental reconnection.
2. 2

   Remove the battery
   Remove the positive battery cable. Remove the battery hold-down bracket using a 10mm socket. Carefully lift the battery out of the tray and set it aside in a safe location.
3. 3

   Remove the battery tray
   Locate the battery tray mounting bolts (typically three 12mm bolts). Remove all mounting bolts and lift the battery tray out of the engine bay. This provides access to the transmission control module mounted on the side of the transmission.
4. 4

   Locate the TCM
   The TCM is mounted on the driver's side of the transmission case, behind where the battery tray was located. It is a rectangular metal module with two large electrical connectors on top. Inspect the area and identify the module before proceeding.
5. 5

   Disconnect TCM electrical connectors
   Locate the two large electrical connectors on top of the TCM. Press the locking tab on each connector and carefully pull straight up to disconnect. The connectors may be tight; wiggle gently while pulling if needed. Do not pull on the wiring harness itself.
6. 6

   Remove TCM mounting bolts
   Using a 10mm socket with extension, remove the three mounting bolts securing the TCM to the transmission case. Keep track of these bolts as they may have different lengths. Note the position of any ground wires that may be attached.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts27 Nm (20 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Remove the TCM
   Carefully pull the TCM away from the transmission case. The module may have an O-ring seal; do not force it. Wiggle gently if resistance is felt. Once free, remove the TCM from the vehicle and inspect the mounting surface for any ATF leakage.
8. 8

   Prepare new TCM for installation
   Inspect the new TCM to ensure it matches the original unit. Check that the O-ring seal is properly seated on the new module. If the seal appears damaged or is missing, transfer the seal from the old module or obtain a new one.
9. 9

   Install new TCM
   Position the new TCM onto the transmission case, ensuring proper alignment with the mounting holes. Hand-thread all three mounting bolts before tightening any of them. Tighten the mounting bolts in a diagonal pattern to 27.0 Nm (20 lb-ft) using a torque wrench.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts27 Nm (20 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reconnect electrical connectors
    Reconnect both electrical connectors to the TCM. Push down firmly until each connector clicks into place. Verify the locking tabs are fully engaged by attempting to gently pull the connectors upward.
11. 11

    Reinstall battery tray and battery
    Position the battery tray back into the engine bay and secure with the three mounting bolts, tightening to 27.0 Nm (20 lb-ft). Place the battery back into the tray and install the hold-down bracket. Reconnect the positive battery cable first, then the negative cable.
    Torque spec

    Mounting Bolts27 Nm (20 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
2. Verify battery cables are tight and corrosion-free
3. Double-check that all mounting bolts are torqued to specification

Verification

• Reconnect an OBD-II scanner and turn the ignition to ON (do not start engine)
• Use Toyota Techstream or equivalent to program/initialize the new TCM to the vehicle VIN
• Clear any diagnostic trouble codes stored during the procedure
• Start the engine and verify it runs normally without transmission warning lights
• Test drive the vehicle through all gear ranges to confirm proper shifting operation
• Verify no new diagnostic codes are present after test drive
• Check for any ATF leaks around the TCM mounting area after test drive

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