Jeep Grand Cherokee: Failed Drivetrain Control Module

In this video I bring a Jeep Grand Cherokee that I looked at months prior to fixing. I made the call on the drivetrain control module because the vehicle was binding while making turns on blacktop. The DTCM would receive inputs but not make any changes to the transfer case. The part is off backorder finally and ready to install. -Enjoy!
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Disclaimer:
Due to factors beyond the control of South Main Auto Repair, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information, or improper use of this information. South Main Auto Repair assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. South Main Auto Repair recommends safe practices when working with power tools, automotive lifts, lifting tools, jack stands, electrical equipment, blunt instruments, chemicals, lubricants, or any other tools or equipment seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of South Main Auto Repair, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or the information contained.

[@spelunkerd]

You seemed a little down on your job, on the last video. Even if you get tired of the day to day grind, remember that you aren't just a mechanic, you're one of the best diagnostic teachers in the industry. Then consider the numbers. A typical college teacher influenced a couple of hundred students every year. You get the privilege to guide millions, and everybody who attends actually wants to be here. Many of us, myself included will remember your insight for decades.

[@mikeguiggey2586]

Well said..🎯

[@freetolook3727]

Needs a vacation.

[@SouthMainAuto]

I really appreciate that thank you

[@Santiago-je5ki]

Great comment, and you 100% Right.

[@maureenmiller632]

I appreciate your knowledge and sense of humor, I'd have my car towed there for you to look at cuz I think you would put a real effort to finding the problem but its pretty costly.

[@kastooMcFry]

"Chevrolet, see-through edition" - lol. Thanks, Eric.

[@deanmckee1385]

Get to work on ford truck at the power company what does XL mean

[@dalemyers3945]

I have a 2006 gmc w/t that I bought new, it has 2 knobs on the radio, a manual heat control, manual window cranks, manual seats. My wife says I should get a new one but after watching your videos I’m going to keep it until it dies. I enjoy driving this truck because it’s so simple, like me.

[@patrickcayton3072]

That's funny. I just bought a 2005 Gmc.

[@jimurrata6785]

I'm still driving a truck with a carburetor, crank windows and cable actuated climate control. 😂 No Cat, no airbags, no stability or antilock, not even an electric fuel pump. It may suck on gas but it's only stranded me once in 35 years.

[@dshaffer3731]

Never a stupid or dumb video with S.M.A. love the vids even if they are just simply replacing a mod. Keep up the good work

[@joeythedime1838]

Eric - thank you for putting out some new content over the last few days. We all really appreciate the effort you put in to get the content out to us.

[@basshunter428]

Anything Jeep is fun to watch, but still wishing you tried climbing that snow mound! ❄○|||||||○ 😆👍

[@DougDade]

Just wanted to report that my 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland was making a ticking sound and started having tightness in steering when pulling into parking spaces! Was diagnosed and told I needed to replace or rebuild transfer case (approx. $5000). After watching this video I bought a transfer case control module for $90 and that fixed the problem!! So thank you for your post

[@murphysdad2]

"Chevy see through edition". I'm still laughing! Thank you!

[@flatdaddio]

The fact that the part shows up and you can install it without having to re-diagnose the problem is a testament to your diagnostic abilities. You would not have ordered it on a guess.. Great Fix!

[@mikeexelby]

Ivan would be proud of the bonus footage.

[@monsterq6]

Hey Mr O, I work as a theatre electrician and honestly your philosophies on trouble shooting help me every day. You're a very good teacher and a bit of a mentor. You're helping people in every industry out there!!! It was great to see you and get a lil video even if it was short. Be well sir.

[@robertl.fallin7062]

All the GREAT ONES ( aka Eric O) follow a systematic repeatable process.

[@shawn_530]

ANOTHER SMA video this week!!! It's like CHRISTMAS!!!

[@automotivated5934]

He’s cranking the vids out again. Lol.... niiccee!

[@mikechiodetti4482]

Sometimes you beat the dragon! Your last video with the HMI module you seemed like it was a bad day at SMA! I know the feeling. You've had so many successes in the past that we've all seen, so just realize that there's a reason why people come to you! Think about the one that you and Ivan worked on together with the twisted (overhead) camshaft! How many out there could have found that problem! You need a vacation so you can relax a while and recharge your batteries. Just my 2 cents worth. Good job Mr. O!

[@larryfine4498]

I have yet to click on a S.M.A. video that I didn't watch all the way to the end, even the ones Eric thinks aren't worth it. Eric you're video standards are as high as your repair standards. Top notch.

[@gregeconomeier1476]

Mr O, thank you for the recent emergence of several videos. I know it takes alot of your time and effort to do this. BTW, I really enjoy the diagnostic vids.

[@patrickcayton3072]

If you only knew how many of us you have helped with tips and tricks to get through different jobs without the hashle and (swear words). You the man Eric.

[@jackgreen412]

The practical things you teach are much more beneficial than 90% of the garbage they throw at us in college,

[@547Rick]

Never dought your ability to make a mundane video into a great one. The remark you made on the Chevy truck is now a classic! Its been a while since I had coffee up my nose laughing so hard!

[@Supersonicff-dw6bs]

The door opener on the hat bill cracked me up! Great video as always, and keep up the stellar work!

[@thomasfletcher4765]

Whether it's a simple replacement , a full on diagnostic or a brake job , we aren't bored with what videos you put out . Those srt jeeps are a blast to drive ( 180+ mph jeep , who'da thunk ? )

[@markh.6687]

Bumpersticker on the Heap: "If you can read this, please flip me back over."

[@truthreporter1709]

No such thing as a bad SMA video - every one makes my day better. The best to you sir.

[@richardvastine7486]

Wit, wisdom and education all wrapped up in every SMA video. Thanks Mr. O.

[@ian_b5518]

Really enjoyed your reaction to the forgotten diag working. Afraid cars are only going to be more and more complex so best to prepare yourself so you stay happy.

[@markh.6687]

"Prepare yourself" Snap-On Rep: "We now sell liquor!"

[@JesudeGannes]

Many manufacturers are insisting that modules be purchased only through them. Lock outs, ensuring that old modules can't be used in other cars, etc. They're all going the route of pre programming at the factory. Maybe in preparation for a time when tools that program modules will be illegal.

[@TheOtherBill]

The Apple/John Deere School of Manufacturing.

[@dlewis9760]

@@TheOtherBill Time for Lou Rossman when that happens. Not sure he's a sure thing, but he's not afraid to speak out. He's testified at government hearings about that.

[@galegregory97comcast]

I was going to say I think you're slipping. But you saved your butt by making all the proper notes needed for your work estimate. Good job

[@billyyoder8171]

No need to apologize Dr. O. It's always nice to see you. Have a blessed weekend to you and your family.

[@davedennis6042]

NONE of your videos are stupid or pointless. This video will probably help someone fix their Jeep. Thanks. Keep em rollin

[@A-V]

The problem you described, with the crow hopping and trouble with binding & turning in tight circles, is exactly what started happening to my 2013 Overland V8 Grand Cherokee yesterday. I am now almost entirely certain that I have the same issue that you solved in this video You mentioned how this video was silly, and that you did the fix without doing a proper diagnosis - but if you ask me, you did exactly what had to be done to get things working again quickly, easily & inexpensively. Thanks for giving me hope on my screwed-up Jeep I've seen other very helpful & informative videos on this channel. Thank you for posting meaningful & informative stuff - keep up the great work!

[@jonosborne1742]

Hi Eric I love your comment on the see-through Chevrolet New York edition that's so funny have a good day brother

[@timm7885]

Never occurred to me to use the bill of my cap for garage door opener storage... you're a innovator, Dr. O

[@brian2359]

Garage door opener hat is pretty sweet! Having a Quadra Drive II system myself I appreciate the video!

[@ViperKillerWannabe]

I come for the repairs and stay for the commentary. You're a funny guy and make these videos a lot of fun.

[@peterfrenzel1826]

its not a nonsense video....all of your videos are outstanding.

[@rodmike3464]

Keep posting videos I can tell from the comments we all love them even the slow boring electronical stuff you teach millions including myself I've learned a lot

[@wildbill23c]

Another great example of why a simple manual shift 4WD lever is a 100% better idea.

[@MarcMercier1971]

I had a 94 Chisler Ram... err... Dodge Ram 2500HD. That hub locker and the linkage on the 4WD was the bane of my existence... other than continual ball joint replacement and brakes. I don't think they figured out the brake issues for years after. Dumped it... someone else's problem. (wow... that was 25yrs ago. CRAZY)

[@dougjones9493]

I don't recall for sure, think it was ,GM that had automatic locking hubs ( mechanical) when you put in 4 wheel drive they locked. To unlock you had to take out of 4 wheel drive and back up. If you didn't unlock them they would distruct on dry pavement. I replaced many of them

[@8avexp]

That's what my '88 Jeep Cherokee has.:)

[@stevenzembriski6761]

Yeah I replaced the auto hubs on my 2002 super duty dually to manual locking hubs but my 54 Willys is the bomb!

[@cutl00senc]

I had a 88 Toyota SR5 4x4 and I can count on one hand the times I put it into 4wd. It simply didn’t need it most of the time.

[@geraldd10]

Man I want to thank you for this video. Our 2012 JGC Overland was crowhopping. Local dealer said it was the transfer case and would cost 5000 dollars to replace!! I watched your video, found another dealer with the module, just installed it and it the binding up stopped, drove like new. Best part was the dealer who sold us the module wanted $256 to install and “program” it. I popped it in just like you showed us and it runs perfect! Thank you so much. 5 stars!!

[@robpeters5204]

You should send that See thru Edition Chevy down to rainman rays repairs in Florida to fix. He’s been getting a little cocky lately. You are still my number one guy E!

[@bolt_husky]

That Overland Hemi will have factory E-lockers front and rear too. Thing probably catches air when it does hop on dry pavement if you turn full lock and creep in to the throttle 😂

[@SouthMainAuto]

Oh it was bad....

[@duanebuck193]

As the owner of a Cherokee Trailhawk, any information that I can learn is a good thing! I have to wait for warmer weather to confirm that my oil cooler is leaking an extremely small amount in the cold (and the replacements are all on backorder - go figure), but your videos have been super worthwhile in explaining and showing what to expect! Thanks, Eric, and please keep ALL of your videos coming.

[@legitdelirium3446]

Those 3.6 oil coolers always leak. And eventually completely blow a hole through them. My '15 wrangler is on oil cooler #6. Horrible design to make it out of plastic

[@thedon5810]

Dorman makes an aluminum one@@legitdelirium3446

[@jonathonwike4284]

Keep up with everything Mr.O. The videos are great. I have learned more about diagnostics from you than my own father who is a machine for the past 35 years. Every video I learn something new no matter how small. Your the BEST!!!!!

[@moegeek]

Not a dumb video. “Past Eric” ordered the parts that “Future Eric” needed, and left good notes. Also, I learned a good place to put then opener so I don’t lose it - on the hat!

[@harveybrimer1054]

Your verry good at your job, wish you were closer to my state lol, love your videos and your wise cracks. Any video from you is a good one, put it up there.

[@wdputman556]

Eric the below comment is right. Very few folks continue to be able to diagnose and fix cars today. Not many shade tree mechanics today. Keep up the great work.

[@davidd8435]

Thanks for the content Mr. “O”, once the industry goes digital you cannot go back.

[@axispowerdiesel]

Had a 2010 hemi cherokee do the exact same thing $200 OEM made in mexico module fixed it, couldn't believe how poor the wiring wrap looked under the seat! also no coding needed

[@lloydweems6237]

Started watching your videos while I was down with covid last month. I have done most of my own work on my vehicles since the seventies. Your videos provide insight as to whether I can do it myself or take it to a shop. Right now, I have waited a month for an appointment at the dealer for a 2nd opinion on my diagnosis, the part is super expensive, so I want to make sure that I am right. Thanks for your show I have learned a lot.

[@danielgeng2306]

No worries Eric, it was worth the watch for “Chevrolet see through edition “ lol

[@jorgefernandez-mv8hu]

I have a 98 Grand Cherokee. Man do I hope it keeps running. Thank Goodness for you there to diagnose these problems caused by the youngsters with a computer that designed this.

[@chasboomer2588]

Yep Eric you are the MAN regardless of what you think you are teaching millions of DIY people!!! You actually taught me how to use my harbor freight scan tool. I like you don't like just throwing parts until I know what the actual problem is and not waste my money.

[@OddsandSods26]

As a matter of fact, I do own a 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overlander, and I am very glad that you made this video. I don't have problem with it, yet, but I learned that there are electronic components in that fish bowl. I will be careful with water. Thanks.

[@jimhaines8370]

I did one of those a while ago and it had been superseded something like 6 times and it was strange but it came in programmed already also. Chrysler also told us it was empty and needed programmed but like you plugged it in and boom it was ready to go .

[@abhish092145]

Thank you so much for the video !! You just saved me more than thousand dollar in repair cost. I was getting 4WD warning and jerks while driving at low speed. Minimum quote I had was $1600 for DTCM replacement. I ordered Transfer case control module for $310 and replaced it myself. All problems are gone.

[@arifali-wc1dv]

Nice bonus footage. Work orders will save you. Always elaborate. Not a silly video. 😉 keep them coming ! And thank you for making the time to share your daily work life with everyone.

[@dgpuig45]

You were right. from a previous video I think you are right about too many computer thingies to go wrong and to do simple things. I believe that the charge on that job was over $1,000.00 just to get the guy some heat because the faulty part was a Human Interface Module which cost over $700.00 and then the time and labor for the install.

[@Mike_Engel]

I have used many of your lessons when working on my truck.... love the videos no matter what the content... thanks for teaching me how to work on my truck

[@JamesDvorak]

not a silly video. Thanks for this!

[@matt497]

A good upload even if just confirming your original diag and letting us experience what a very relatable repair would be like. Keeping good notes is one of the best things we do for our future selves.

[@damonbrenwald7658]

Dont ya love it when you have to wait a long time for parts, and when you finally get them, you wonder "what the hell did i order this for" lol

[@61rampy65]

I said it yesterday, and I'll say it again today: NONE of your videos are silly or stupid! Why put yourself down, when so many people can learn at least Something about auto repair, or even if people just get a few minutes of clean, wholesome entertainment. Well, maybe not clean, considering all the rustbuckets you get to work on, but still family entertainment. Keep it up!

[@rustybobbitt7559]

We love them, keep them coming. Some of us this is a totally knew look at one of the last real mechanics. The dealerships in my area just have part replacer’s.

[@robertgregilovich2229]

Lot of modules this week. Entertaining and always educational. Thank you SMA

[@cdellbrumley]

I started as a SAAB tech back in the day, before I realized I was too honest to thrive at a dealership and went on a different path. But, I would have been miles ahead if I could have watched these videos and learned from Eric. I love this channel.

[@zupmeoff]

I love the garage door opener holder

[@paulalsup8838]

I really appreciate the videos. Even if it's not for my specific vehicles. It gives great diagnostic guidance and decision making. And Eric's a standup guy with a good sense of humor. Thanks so much for what you do. You impact so many!! Keep it up!

[@lyndonsia5868]

HAVING ALL THE TOOLS AND KNOWLEDGE, REPAIR HAS BECOME SMARTER AND EASY. WELL DONE ON DOCUMENTATION ON YOUR CLIENT.

[@victormendoza871]

I have been watching your channel for years I havent seen you defeated yet Thanks for the video what this tells me is that people who have the potential to spill drinks in the car should go thirsty

[@chrismallory3718]

I'm a plumber by trade but have done my fair share of wrenching but never got into the diagnostics of it but enjoy your videos sir

[@agenericaccount3935]

More modules. All the modules. Modules modules modules. Tough week 😄

[@SpecialAgentJamesAki]

My module control module suffered a malfunction of its module control module module.

[@DIYDaveOK]

Eric, I don't often have much in the way of insight to offer in comments; I'm a learner and have learned so much from you that I can realistically work on other cars with a degree of confidence in what I'm doing as a DIYer. I hope it never seems hollow to say I appreciate all your videos and the effort that goes into them, and thanks for all you do. And I'm sure there are thousands out there who would say the same thing. Thanks.

[@dwaynemadsen964]

"If you've got a bunch of fancy electronics, what better place to stick'em than down inside of a plastic tub! This thing will fill right up with water." I watched, all the time thinking there was no way Eric O would drive a customer's vehicle into a snow pile. Thank you for sharing and Stay Safe!

[@RainmanRaysRepairs]

Silly or not, excellent video sir!

[@mrrice117]

Not stupid at all, short or long i enjoy every video. These shorties videos are perfect for watching on my break

[@originalradman9491]

'see through edition'. 🤣❤️ Love it

[@jonhagan7378]

Pshh we love sma vids. On my work orders I always leave a “Note for techs memory: blah blah” at the bottom. Kind of a P.S. lol. I usually let the customer see it too but it’s written for our comprehension and not the customers. Of course the customer gets the “English” version of the problem that’s explained in a way they can comprehend at the beginning of the note. But that little techs note has saved me several times! Super helpful and I think the customer does appreciate seeing some of it even if they don’t fully understand.

[@esousa486]

New Subscriber .... I own a 2016 Jeep G C LTD ..... 82k miles and zero problems, thus far ..... 🤞🤞 Thanks for posting this ... ( I will be watching regularly ... See what repairs you post .... ) Rick from Massachusetts

[@CKJautomotive]

I am siting with a 2014 WK2 that has the same problem. It is intermittent though and seems to only do this after some enthusiastic driving to pass idiotic drivers on their phone. The other symptoms are the 4WD low does not activate and the light/button does not respond. Also when turning Ignition to ON/RUN position before starting, there is a clicking noise coming from the transfer case shift motor. I have tried applying power to this motor to test if it needs replacing and seems to be seized/stuck. The ABs wheel speed sensors also seem to not have exactly the same speed/rotation, but I have not checked this while driving. Great video man! Guys like you help idiots like me look incredibly smart and good at my job😎. Cheers from South Africa.

[@phillipdewitt4454]

I owned one Chrysler product a ‘69 Roadrunner. I learned my lesson.

[@mariosaccoccio1688]

You got me! I was waiting for you to climb up that sno-mound!

[@williamgagnonroadboxservice]

NICE!!! You deserve a break today or the day you did this nice when it all comes together

[@chekelley6861]

I’ve done a couple of those and just had to go into the transfer case module and do a real quick initialization with my Launch. The factory testing flowchart was weird. Check for continuity between the connector inside with the connector on the transfer case.

[@kevinmfb13]

This was a helpful (and hopeful) video for me. I have a 2017 Jeep GC giving me all the symptoms of a transfer case control module going bad. I haven't had the crow hop yet but a new TCCM will he here today to get rid of the Service 4WD light.

[@devthemechanix6110]

not silly, here at the shop trying to diagnose this 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee (4WD) 5.7L V8 MPI gonna try this and hope it works, same issues as this one. thanks for the video.

[@Leroys_Stuff]

Always interesting Eric vehicles have way to many modules keep going big guy a fella really misses your videos I know making them in the middle of diagnosing but I and I’m sure others appreciate your efforts.

[@thomasshaffer8547]

Been watching your channel since you advertised your MD at the start of your vid's. Never been a dull video from Avoca!

[@turner0224]

Messing me up Mr. O , was watching Eric and Evan fishing ha ha

[@rolling_marbles]

Nice to know I’m not the only OG still rockin a Hotmail email! LOL

[@titaniam88]

There never any silly videos - they all provide value - thanks

[@dullonion797]

Sorry to hear that working on (some modern) cars and trucks is wearing on you(last video, GMC truck with heater control module). I hear ya…I was the same way in a different repair type arena. But, suffice to say, your knowledge and expertise make for many satisfied customers. If they aren’t appreciative, screw ‘em, there’s always 5%. Their money still spends.

[@Torsee]

I love it… you made able to return to its comfortable environment…it can turn ON pavement. Where it will live it’s entire life

[@JackdeDuCoeur]

Nice work. ( and I'm surprised that this electronic part was apparently returnable!) Always a good vid, and glad to se ya publishing again.

[@blautens]

No apologies, sir. Every SMA video is a winner.

[@merk247]

Just had 2018 grand Cherokee u0403. After diagnosis wasn’t sure if this was going to fix it or if it had to be programmed, but replacing module worked for me also.

[@j.markkrzystofiak9907]

See thru edition! Thought I had heard them all and then you come in with that freakin gem! Love it!

[@jimurrata6785]

Plug 'n play module is always a great thing! I don't get why you order the part by VIN through the manufacturer and it still needs to be flashed.

[@ouch1011]

Because the same part can fit a dozen different types of vehicle. In order to make it work for your specific car, they’ve have to program it specifically for that one car, which would take too much time from a production line standpoint. They are making parts for the dealership, all dealerships have the ability to program modules.

[@jimurrata6785]

@@ouch1011 Evidently this one only works with two calibration codes. I'm old enough to remember wiping eprom's with a UV light. 🤣 I still think it's ridiculous that you have to order a module for a specific VIN and the manufacturer can't be assed to deliver exactly you paid for. You order through the dealership... but they can't JTAG the damned thing? This dog & pony show is exactly why many of the best mechanics I know have aged out. (_not_ because they won't invest or master the diagnostics)

[@thinman8621]

Thought this video worth watching. Work part time in a very small shop. We work on whatever comes in. Who knows? Jeep Grand Cherokee with Drivetrain Control Module might be next up. Thanks

[@Dave-ei7kk]

I’d love to see you discuss what exactly is going on when you “program” a new module and how you do it. Perhaps that’s an idea for a future video.

[@russellhltn1396]

Depends. It might be just to input the VIN so the security system will be happy. (VINs in the modules have to match - the plan was discourage theft because you couldn't just swap in a stolen part.) It might be to configure the computer so it knows what kind of vehicle it's dealing with. Or, it could be updating the firmware.

[@robpeabo509]

Any video from you is a great video Eric, don't ever think otherwise.

[@pontiacsrule8761]

All your videos are good. You made car repair fun & interesting. Never a dull moment with your teaching skills. Is it me or should this guy have his own show on Motor Trend. Way more interesting them so of those crap shows on there.

[@AntonioClaudioMichael]

Good bonus at the end right part was replaced always makes it tricky when the diag is so long ago before the part shows up @SouthMainAutoRepairLLC

[@howsthis4aname]

Although you may deem this a nonsense video, I can assure you it was still interesting . As was the GMC truck heater control module video etc. . As vehicles become even more technologically advanced ( like my 2021 Canyon ...I shudder at the possible issues ) , your diagnostics are to be marveled at for sure , but just seeing the ridiculous process required to replace a module ,helps the general owner understand why a repair bill was so high ! It won't make having to pay the bill any easier ,but will come with the knowledge that " at least I didn't have to stand on my head and place my tongue at just the right angle to make the repair " !! Please keep up the great content , even if you feel it not worthy ..Thanks Eric O.