GM Bulletin No.: 13120A
Date: April 2013

Service Bulletin

SERVICE UPDATE
SUBJECT:

Service Update for Inventory Vehicles Only
Torque Converter Clutch Sticking
Expires April 30, 2014

MODELS:

2013 Buick Enclave
2013 Cadillac SRX, XTS
2013 Chevrolet Malibu, Traverse
2013 GMC Acadia, Terrain
Equipped with 6-Speed Automatic Transmission (6T70/6T75)

This bulletin has been revised to indicate that both front-wheel and all-wheel drive
vehicles are involved in this update. Please discard all copies of bulletin 13120.
This service update involves vehicles in dealer inventory only and will expire April 30,
2014.
PURPOSE
This bulletin provides a service procedure to reprogram the transmission control module (TCM)
on certain 2013 model year Buick Enclave; Cadillac SRX and XTS; Chevrolet Malibu and
Traverse; and GMC Acadia and Terrain vehicles, equipped with 6-speed automatic
transmission. The torque converter clutch solenoid in the TECHM can stick due to debris in the
transmission. When the vehicle is at the end of a coast-down, as the vehicle is coming to a
stop, a stuck solenoid will fail to release the torque converter clutch. This keeps the engine
directly connected to the driven wheels. As the vehicle stops, the engine speed will be pulled
down below normal idle speed and the engine may stall. The vehicle can be immediately
restarted and driven. The reprogramming will install a revised calibration to correct this
condition.
This service procedure should be completed on involved vehicles currently in dealership
inventory as soon as possible but no later than April 30, 2014, at which time this bulletin
will expire.
VEHICLES INVOLVED
All involved vehicles are identified by VIN in the Global Warranty Management System –
Investigate Vehicle History Application. Dealership technicians should always check this site to
confirm vehicle involvement prior to beginning any required inspections and/or repairs. It is
Copyright 2013 General Motors. All Rights Reserved.

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April 2013

Bulletin No.: 13120

important to routinely use this tool to verify eligibility because not all similar vehicles may be
involved regardless of description or option content.
Additionally, a list of involved vehicles currently in dealer inventory is available on the “Service
Update Bulletin Information” link under the “Service” tab in GM GlobalConnect (US) or attached
to the GlobalConnect message (Canada) used to release this bulletin.
PART INFORMATION
No parts are required for this update.
SERVICE PROCEDURE
Transmission Control Module (TCM) Programming Instructions
Do not attempt to order the calibration number from GM Customer Care and Aftersales. The
calibration numbers required for this service procedure are programmed into control modules
via a Multiple Diagnostic Interface (MDI) with the calibration update. When using a MDI for
reprogramming, ensure that it is updated with the latest software version. Use TIS2WEB on or
after 4/19/13 to obtain the calibration. If you cannot access the calibration, call the Techline
Customer Support Center and it will be provided.
For step-by-step programming instructions, please refer to SI and the Techline Information
System (TIS) terminal.
1.

Verify that there is a battery charge of 12 to 15 volts. The battery must be able to maintain
a charge during programming. Only use an approved Midtronics® PSC 550 Battery
Maintainer (SPS Programming Support Tool EL-49642) or equivalent to maintain proper
battery voltage during programming.

2.

Reprogram the transmission control module (TCM). Refer to SI and Service Programming
System (SPS) documentation for programming instructions, if required.
2.1 Connect the MDI to the vehicle.
2.2 Select J2534 MDI and Reprogram ECU from the SPS Select Diagnostic Tool and
Programming Process screen.
2.3 Select TCM Transmission Control Module -- Programming from the SPS Supported
Controllers screen.
2.4 Follow the on-screen instructions.

3.

Select the “Clear All DTCs” function on the SPS screen at the end of programming.

4. With a scan tool, perform the Reset Transmission Adapts. Refer to Reset Transmission
Adapts in SI.
WARRANTY TRANSACTION INFORMATION
Submit a transaction using the table below. All transactions should be submitted as a ZFAT
transaction type, unless noted otherwise.
Labor
Code
V2816

Description
Reprogram TCM

Labor
Time
0.5

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April 2013

Bulletin No.: 13120

DEALER PROGRAM RESPONSIBILITY
Dealers must take the steps necessary to ensure that the service update correction has been
made to all involved vehicles in dealer inventory before selling or dealer-trading the vehicle, but
no later than April 30, 2014.

GM bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, NOT a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform these technicians of conditions that
may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the tools,
equipment, safety instructions, and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that the bulletin applies to
your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See your dealer for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.

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