Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Torque Converter Clutch Break-In Procedure (CONCORDE, Intrepid & 300M): Description
The Transmission Control Module (TCM) employs a strategy which modifies Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) operation. This strategy conditions the TCC disc for optimum converter clutch engagement and feel throughout the life of the transaxle. The cycle inhibits Full Electronically Modulated Converter Clutch (FEMCC) until six hours of Partial Electronically Modulated Converter Clutch (PEMCC) operation have taken place, or the vehicle has been driven 3750 miles. The cycle automatically terminates when either the time or mileage has been achieved, however, the mileage may vary slightly from vehicle to vehicle. The TCC break-in cycle must be restarted using the DRBIII® scan tool, and upon the following:
- Replacement of TCM on vehicle with less than 3750 miles or less than 6 hours of PEMCC operation.
- Replacement of torque converter assembly at any vehicle mileage.
This procedure is used to properly condition TCC to prevent shudder during clutch engagement. Break-in procedure must be used if torque converter is replaced at any vehicle mileage, or PCM is replaced with vehicle mileage less than 3750 miles.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.