Anyone get their transmission computer updated?

[NorCal_MP3]

Like going in to get the ECU/TCU with updates? I hate how ours shifts and it is probably the original software from 2018.

 

[Lazy2.5]

Last I heard, it was difficult to get this done on our TCU's. I don't know how/if the situation has changed now.

I agree there are some aspects of the transmission's factory tune which need changing.

What exactly don't you like about the transmissions behavior?

We were just having a discussion about this over on a concerned @GFrosty 's recent post. Highly recommend you give this one a read:

G

Post in thread 'Sluggish frequent pedal/throttle response. Need suggestions'

Nov 18, 2025

Mashing the throttle and ordering downshifts inherently go against the drivetrains fundamental tuning process and cannot be changed no matter how often you reset the transmission or request more throttle. The problem is with your expectations simply not aligning with the fundamental tuning strategy of the vehicle, which is to save fuel and keep emissions as low as possible.

I fully agree, with the tuning of the CX-5 being out-of-line with normal and customary expectations of responsiveness in vehicles.

As I noted, a similar-vintage Mazda 3 2.5L A/T vehicle (though not SkyActiv)...

• GFrosty

 

[cz5gt]

I have done it on my 2018.

There are few versions for the ecu(pcm) and one newer for the tcm. At least in 2022 when I did.

Nowadays there may be more.

 

[wag]

I have done it on my 2018.

There are few versions for the ecu(pcm) and one newer for the tcm. At least in 2022 when I did.

Nowadays there may be more.

Have you noticed any difference?

 

[cz5gt]

Yes.

 

[RokkuAni]

Have you try unplugging the car battery for 30 min. Then driving 500 miles on it? Once it reset, it might be better. For example my ex drive slow, no zoom zoom. So car transmission adjusted to her. She got a new car, I took over old one. Drove horrible. After I reset it, it drove much better to my liking.

 

[ADS-B]

See this post

2017~2025 How to reset Mazda Skyactiv transmission

 

[Yo'sDad]

23 CX5 Carbon NA. I contacted my service advisor about the flare between the 2-3 shift when cold. Eventually, they contacted me about a re-programming of the transmission. I had them do that (free) and immediately the flare was gone. Transmission shifts perfectly now.

 

[N7turbo]

23 CX5 Carbon NA. I contacted my service advisor about the flare between the 2-3 shift when cold. Eventually, they contacted me about a re-programming of the transmission. I had them do that (free) and immediately the flare was gone. Transmission shifts perfectly now.

Interesting, the shift logic must be different with the turbo and non-turbo trans. So far I have not experienced that.

 

[Yo'sDad]

Interesting, the shift logic must be different with the turbo and non-turbo trans. So far I have not experienced that.

Mine did the flare every time when it was cold since new. I was told it was normal (ever hear that story before? haha). It only did it for the first one or two shifts from 2 to 3 within a mile of my start, then it shifted normally. I did the Calisto reprogramming but that did not fix anything. I decided I would just live with it. Then out of the blue there was an announcement of a TSB. There is a post on this site somewhere about the TSB. The dealer admitted the issue and the reprogramming totally fixed it. Glad you don't have the issue.

 

[N7turbo]

Did a little bit of looking around and I think it is:

Mazda Service Bulletin 05-006/24

AI Overview

Mazda Service Bulletin 05-006/24 addresses a harsh, shuddering shift shock from 2nd to 3rd gear, especially when cold, in certain 2018-2025 non-turbo Skyactiv-G CX-5s (specific VIN range) due to improper TCM (Transmission Control Module) logic, requiring a PCM/TCM software update to reprogram the module and fix torque converter issues, covered under warranty if within time/mileage.

What it addresses:

• Symptom: A noticeable, jerky, or harsh shift from 2nd to 3rd gear, felt as a "shock" or longitudinal vibration when the engine is cold.
• Cause: Torque fluctuation and torsional resonance in the torque converter, linked to TCM control logic.
• Affected Vehicles: Specific 2018-2025 non-turbo CX-5s with Skyactiv-G A/T, with VINs lower than a certain number (pre-August 27, 2024 production).

The Fix:

• Reprogram PCM/TCM: The solution involves reprogramming the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) or Transmission Control Module (TCM) with updated software to reduce torque fluctuations.
• Warranty: This repair is typically covered under the Federal Emission Warranty or the powertrain warranty if the vehicle is still within its warranty period (e.g., 5-year/60,000-mile).

What to do if you experience this:

1. Note Symptoms: Be specific about the harsh shift from 2nd to 3rd when cold.
2. Ask Your Dealer: Request they check for Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) #05-006/24 and perform the TCM recalibration as described.
3. Verify Warranty: Confirm coverage with your service advisor, as it should be free if under warranty, or expect a labor charge if out of warranty.