6L80 / 6L90 TEHCM Problems & Solutions

In an effort to consolidate multiple transmission parts into a single unit, the 6L80 / 6L90 TEHCM combines the functions of the TCM (transmission control module), solenoids, pressure switches and temperature sensors. It’s bolted to the 6L80 / 6L90 valve body, and can be found in vehicles like the Chevy Camaro 6L80, Chevrolet Silverado 1500 6L80 / 6L90, GMC Sierra 3500 6L90, Chevy Suburban 6L80 / 6L90, GMC Yukon 6L80 as well as many others. In most cases, this vital piece of the 6L80 / 6L90 transmission can be fairly reliable. However, 6L80 / 6L90 TEHCM problems can happen. So let’s find out what you can do about them.

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6L80 / 6L90 TEHCM Applications & Compatibility

The 6L80 / 6L90 TEHCM sends and receives data from the ECU to the TCM, then distributes actionable commands to the various components like shift solenoids and pressure control solenoids. It also receives data from the various components, which it then sends back to the TCM and ECU, so it can decide which shift program to use for a given situation. All of this happens along the data bus, which is extremely important to making everything work. To facilitate this, there is a 16-pin connector on the side of the TCM, through which all of the data flows.

The 6L80 / 6L90 TEHCM is a single component that contains the following transmission parts:
6L80 / 6L90 line pressure control solenoid
6L80 / 6L90 pressure control solenoid (4)
6L80 / 6L90 shift solenoid (2)
6L80 / 6L90 TCC pressure control solenoid (torque converter clutch)
6L80 / 6L90 pressure switch (4)
6L80 / 6L90 transmission fluid temperature sensor
6L80 / 6L90 TCM

6L80 / 6L90 TEHCM Problems

6L80 / 6L90 solenoid failure
6L80 / 6L90 pressure control switch failure
6L80 / 6L90 torque converter engagement and disengagement problems
Slipping
Unusually harsh shifts
Failed shifts
Loss of gears
Limp mode

Common Causes of 6L80 / 6L90 TEHCM Problems

Metal debris and sludge can damage the solenoids connected to the TEHCM
OE design flaws
Overheating
High mileage
Extended severe use (towing, driving in the mountains etc.)

6L80 / 6L90 TEHCM Diagnostic Trouble Codes | DTC

6L & 6T Programming Problems

In this new global economy, General Motors, along with many other major manufacturers, have switched to “global platforms” that meet the government regulations in all markets. From emissions to safety compliance, these new global cars are saving GM a boatload of money because they only have to manufacture single components to be used around the world. An unfortunate byproduct of the GM Global A Architecture electrical system, is that Europe and Australia require automakers to secure vehicle modules in a single “environment” to prevent them from being used on other vehicles and ultimately sold on the black market. This theft deterrence measure also allows GM to simplify its diagnostic processes, which obviously saves them money. But all of that can create problems with programming and replacement.

The following modules cannot be swapped into another vehicle:

Engine Control Unit/ECU
TEHCM
Transmission Control Module/TCM
Body Control Module/BCM
Electronic Brake Control Module/EBCM
Vehicle Communications Interface Module
Hybrid Powertrain Control Module
Sensing and Diagnostic Module/SDM
Electric power steering
Instrument panel cluster
Radio

These modules are hardcoded with the vehicle’s VIN number, which allows the GM Global A Architecture to recognize the different modules on the network. There is no way to change the VIN number as there was before. Therefore, if a used 6L or 6T TEHCM is installed, the ECU will automatically command it into limp mode, where it will prevent the engine from starting, thus rendering it useless.

Installing software updates to a GM 6L or 6T TEHCM

Thanks to advances in manufacturing and technology, today’s transmissions are much more efficient than they have ever been. The downside of that is, the electronics now command the mechanical functions. Which means that software updates can often fix a mechanical issue. However, the GM Global A Architecture often prevents software updates to the 6L or 6T transmission. The technician may see a “program failed” error message when they go to install a software update to the TCM/TEHCM, at which point, the transmission will be in locked in limp mode.

This issue is sometimes caused by low battery voltage, a wiring issue, interference from aftermarket components, or an issue with the connection between the vehicle and the scan tool or pass-through device. It could also be that the new software/calibrations are not compatible with the TEHCM.

Common reprogramming diagnostic trouble codes

U0101
E4398
E4399
E4403
E4414
E4423
E4491
M4404
M4413

Reprogramming a GM 6L or 6T TEHCM

Because of how the GM Global A Architecture functions, it is now impossible to overwrite the VIN number programmed into the TEHCM. Which means a ‘blank’ TEHCM will have to be installed, in order to program it work with the vehicle.

Vehicles with the GM Global A Architecture include:

2010 – 2012 Buick LaCrosse
2010 – 2012 Buick Regal
2012 Buick Verano
2010 – 2012 Cadillac SRX
2013+ Cadillac ATS
2013+ Cadillac XTS
2012 Chevrolet Sonic
2011 – 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
2011 – 2012 Chevrolet Volt
2010 – 2012 Chevrolet Camaro
2010 – 2012 Chevrolet Equinox
2012 Chevrolet Orlando
2013+ Chevrolet Malibu
2013+ Chevrolet Spark
2013+ Chevrolet Captiva
2010 – 2012 GMC Terrain

Solving 6L80 / 6L90 TEHCM Problems

Due to the design of the 6L80 / 6L90 TEHCM, it’s not possible to simply replace a failed component like a 6L80 / 6L90 pressure switch or solenoid. Instead, you have to install a new 6L80 / 6L90 TEHCM to make sure that all of the components work together properly and wear at the same rate. There are of course, many aftermarket kits that say they can allow you to replace individual components on the TEHCM. But that will only offer a short-term fix, because other components within the TEHCM may be damaged or worn as well. If you replace say, a pressure switch. It will start operating in a much higher capacity than the other switches on the TEHCM, which can lead to increased wear and component failure.

The 6L80 / 6L90 TEHCM is located inside of the transmission on the 6L80 / 6L90 valve body. Objectively, it is a fairly simple repair: simply remove the transmission pan, remove the valve body, unbolt the TEHCM from the valve body and install the new one. But it does take a bit of experience to not damage anything on the valve body or inside the transmission during the install. You must also have the correct tools and a clean workspace to do the job. If you try to go to the cheap route and just replace an individual solenoid or pressure switch, you’ll have to pay the labor charge all over again when one of the other components fail. So if you want to keep your vehicle on the road for as long as possible. And avoid paying more money to fix transmission problems that could have been avoided, you should consider upgrading to a remanufactured 6L80 / 6L90 TEHCM from a company like Street Smart Transmission.

Remanufactured 6L80 / 6L90 TEHCM

Every Street Smart Transmission 6L80 / 6L90 TEHCM build starts with a thorough test of the electrical and communications system. If the core fails, it’s either repaired or completely discarded. Next, all of the pressure switches are replaced with upgraded switches that can withstand heat, vibration and stress much better than the OE pressure switches. New solenoid retainers, filter plates, fluid conduits, pushrods, O-rings and connectors seals are also installed (each remanufactured TEHCM comes with all gaskets, seals and grommets that will be needed for the installation). Once complete, each remanufactured 6L80 / 6L90 TEHCM then undergoes an automated vehicle simulation test, that accurately re-creates on-road driving conditions. This ensures full functionality and a hassle-free installation.

So if you’re serious about extending the life of your vehicle, click here to learn more about the remanufactured 6L80 / 6L90 TEHCM from Street Smart Transmission.

Need a replacement transmission? Get an estimate for replacement transmissions and local installation. Look up your transmission model by vehicle make and model.

What Transmission Do I Have?

GM Valve Body and TEHCM Part Number Table