VOLVO
TCM-012D - Gear shift function. Wrong gearratio
System
Transmission Control Module (TCM)
Volvo models this fault code applies to
Applies to the following models:
4 modelsS60 (2001–2009), V70 (2000–2008), V70 XC / XC70 (2001–2007), XC90 (2003–)
Show models by year and engine (9)
- Volvo S60 (2001–2009)2006–2007Engine B5254T4, D5244T4, D5244T5 only · Transmission TF-80SC, TF-80SC AWD only
- Volvo S60 (2001–2009)2008–2009Engine D5244T4, D5244T5 only · Transmission TF-80SC only
- Volvo V70 (2000–2008)2006–2007Engine B5254T4, D5244T4, D5244T5 only · Transmission TF-80SC, TF-80SC AWD only
- Volvo V70 (2000–2008)2008Engine D5244T5 only · Transmission TF-80SC only
- Volvo V70 XC / XC70 (2001–2007)2006–2007Engine D5244T4 only · Transmission TF-80SC AWD only
- Volvo XC90 (2003–)2006–2007Engine D5244T4 only · Transmission TF-80SC AWD only
- Volvo XC90 (2003–)2008–2010Engine D5244T4, D5244T5 only · Transmission TF-80SC AWD only
- Volvo XC90 (2003–)2011Engine D5244T18, D5244T4, D5244T5 only · Transmission TF-80SC, TF-80SC AWD only
- Volvo XC90 (2003–)2012All engines except: B5254T2, B6324S5 · All transmissions except: AW50/51 AWD
What does this fault code mean?
The transmission control module (TCM) compares the input and output speed from the gearbox's two speed sensors and works out the gear ratio. The fault code is set when the control module registers that the gearbox is mechanically in neutral although the gear selector is in D or R. The cause can be an internal fault in the control system or worn components that cause slipping.
Possible causes
- Internal malfunction in the gearbox control system
- Mechanical fault in the gearbox, where worn components cause slipping or too low system pressure
What you can do
- 1Read and clear the fault code, road test the car and see whether it returns
- 2With a diagnostic tool, read input and output speed in live data and check that they follow each other smoothly when accelerating through the gears
- 3If slipping or failure to shift occurs, worn components in the gearbox may be the cause
- 4Have a workshop check the transmission fluid level and quality, since too low a system pressure can cause slipping
- 5Have a workshop decide whether the gearbox needs replacing; after a repair the adaptation and fluid quality counter are reset
Symptoms you may notice5
- The general warning lamp is lit
- The malfunction indicator lamp is lit
- Gears slip abnormally
- Harsh gear changes
- Gear changes do not occur
What the fault can affect1
- An auxiliary program in the control module is activated
General guidance for car owners. Diagnosis on the car can point to a different cause.