What it means
The TCM has not yet completed adaptive learning for the auto-shift manual mode. Drive style or shift pattern adaptation is still in progress.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
How it works
The transmission control module learns adjustments for the vehicle's automated manual shifting so it can adapt shift operation over time. P0949 sets when that adaptive learning has not yet completed, for example after learned values were lost or before enough suitable drive cycles have occurred.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Adaptation lost after battery disconnect
- Insufficient drive cycles for completion
Symptoms
- Check engine or transmission warning light on
- Harsh, delayed, or missing shifts
- Possible limp mode (locked in one gear)
- Slipping or shuddering during gear changes
How to diagnose it
- Save freeze-frame data and confirm whether the code is current or stored, since a stored code may relate to a recent loss of learned values.
- Check whether the battery was disconnected or replaced recently, or whether other work may have erased transmission adaptations.
- Review live transmission data and related codes for faults that could prevent learning from progressing.
- Check the vehicle's service information for the specified adaptive learning conditions and determine whether they have been met.
- If learning remains incomplete, follow the vehicle manufacturer's procedure and verify that the status completes without new faults.
Common fixes
- Allow the specified drive cycles under the conditions required for adaptation.
- Perform the manufacturer's adaptive learning procedure if the vehicle requires it.
- Repair any transmission fault or low-voltage problem that is preventing learning from completing.
Can I keep driving?
If shifting is only mildly different and remains predictable, drive gently while adaptation completes and avoid hard acceleration. Stop if the transmission slips, loses drive, or enters limp mode.
A code shows where the control module detected a fault, not always which part failed. Check the causes in order and confirm with a test before replacing parts. Have several codes? Check them together
This is a generic code: it means the same on every make. The car’s maker may add more detail in its own service information.