LEMON Manuals: Even more car manuals for everyone: 1960-2025
Home >> Volvo >> 2012 >> XC90 R-Design, FWD >> Repair and Diagnosis (Single Page) >> Steering >> Steering Column >> Electrical Components - Design And Function >> Transmission Control Module (TCM) (Aw50/51 AWD; Aw55-50/51SN; 2003-2007) >> Function >> Other Modes
April 5, 2026: LEMON Manuals is launched! Read the announcement.

Other Modes

Adaptation 

The transmission control module (TCM) monitors each shift during all driving conditions to fulfill optimal and smooth shifting. This is carried out by the control module either lowering or increasing the hydraulic line pressure used during the shift itself. The changed pressure levels are stored in the control module memory when the car has been switched off and are retrieved on start-up. This provides improved shifting comfort and increased service life.

Adaptation occurs when the following conditions have been met:

Catalytic converter start 

Shifting occurs differently during engine warm up. This function is used to help the engine reach its operating temperature by preventing torque converter lock-up and by delaying up shifts. This function works in the D-position but not in the winter mode (W). Because of this function, it is normal for the 1-2 and 2-3 shift to be noticeably delayed when the car engine is cold. This is a normal consequence of this function.

Temperature controlled lock-up 

If the transmission temperature increases abnormally as a result of heavy load under high ambient temperature conditions, the torque converter lock-up function is activated as often as possible (temperature controlled lock-up). This reduces slippage and the generation of heat in the transmission. If the temperature drops below +20° C the lock-up function will not be used.

Slipping lock-up 

The slipping lock-up function provides smoother engagement with reduced vibration and decreased noise when a gear is engaged. In this mode, the torque converter clutch is engaged, but not fully locked.

The following must be met in order for the function to activate:

Due to the torque converter slipping between 50-200 rpm, the friction properties of the transmission fluid are very important. The transmission fluid differs from conventional ATF oil properties. Always use the specified fluid for this transmission. Failure to do so may compromise the function and set a diagnostic trouble code (DTC).

The engine coolant must reach a certain temperature before the function engages.

Driving uphill 

The transmission control module (TCM) may change the gear shift pattern slightly when driving uphill. This is to avoid busy shifting.

Neutral control (only available on certain models) 

This function is activated when the driver stops the car and the car is stationary, at traffic lights for example. The transmission control module (TCM) then disengages the C1 clutch which releases the forward drive of the transmission and reduces the load on the engine. The function improves fuel consumption and reduces vibrations at idle speed. When the driver releases the brake, the C1 clutch engages and drive is resumed.

The following conditions must be met for the Neutral control function to be activated:

There are two time factors for engagement: There is a 2 second delay in position D when stationary and a 5 second delay at N to D.