Why are some TCMs so cheap and others so expensive?

Discussion
1

Hey everyone, my 2012 Ford Focus is throwing a p0606 error and I need a new transmission control module. Why are some options on Amazon only $170, but others cost $400-$600? Is there any way to avoid reprogramming after installation?

2

From what I’ve seen, it seems like you’ll need reprogramming no matter what. Also, stay away from Dorman—they’re not great, and OEM seems like the best option. That’s the info I’ve got, but I’d wait for more opinions from others.

3

@Sam
Thanks for the reply! That’s what I’ve found too. I didn’t know about Dorman, but I was considering one. Appreciate the heads-up!

4

Be careful with non-factory parts. A lot of them don’t fit right or wear out pretty fast. Learned that the hard way.

5

Axel said:
Be careful with non-factory parts. A lot of them don’t fit right or wear out pretty fast. Learned that the hard way.

Got it! Thanks for the warning!

6

So, from what I’ve read on this forum, there’s a class action lawsuit going on, and TCM replacements are free until June 2025 if you go through a Ford dealership. You can check for recalls on Ford’s website by entering your VIN. My car’s the third or fourth owner, but I checked and my TCM hasn’t been replaced yet, so I think it’s covered by the extended warranty. I haven’t gone in yet, though, just been too busy with work.

7

@Paz
I tried that already, but unfortunately, mine was already out of warranty. Thanks anyway for the suggestion!

8

Vic said:
@Paz
I tried that already, but unfortunately, mine was already out of warranty. Thanks anyway for the suggestion!

That’s strange. Yours shouldn’t be out of warranty—at least it shouldn’t be for Focus models (can’t remember exact years) until June 2025. They’ll probably try to get out of it, though—they did that to me. I’m still driving around with a broken TCM.

9

@Micah
Yeah, that’s exactly what they told me. They said it was a 10-year warranty, and mine’s a 2012 model. What did you do after that?

10

I just had my TCM replaced on my 2012 Focus Titanium hatchback a month ago. It’s under warranty with Ford until June 2025. I had to take it in 3 times before the dealer finally agreed to replace it—they kept saying they ‘reprogrammed’ it, but the right codes didn’t show up until my car died unexpectedly. Ford’s been dealing with class action lawsuits in the US, Australia, and Canada, and they settled everywhere except Canada.