Does your 5R110W or 5R115W need a relearn procedure?

We are asked this question a lot, probably a hundred thousand times since 2003.  There's so

much misinformation online, mostly due to poor transmission tuning, excuses, and trying to cover

up other problems.

In reality, the trans will relearn on it's own.  This is true for all vehicles.  There's a set of adaptive

tables that are learned values that take in consideration driving habits and in some cases clutch

wear.  However, anytime you unhook the battery for a long period of time or simply reset them in a

scanner, they will quickly relearn.   They will not cause the vehicle to shift completely differently,

just some minor adjustments in small percentages.  

The best way to perform a relearn is to drive the vehicle normal for about 50-100 miles or so.

  This will give the transmission time to adapt.  Trying to force a relearn by driving in varying pedal

positions won't cover all the relearn areas, it simply takes time.  However, there are times when

you need to change programs and hit the road.  For example, if you change programming and

hook up a trailer or hit the track, no worries the trans will be just fine.  The occasional very firm

shift may occur or just feel a little different until it adapts. The transmission adapts and relearns

constantly over the life of the transmission. It never reaches a "fully learned" point. The TCM will

adapt to changes as the trans ages, so it's always learning.

The official procedure is below, for anyone interested:

Any time the battery is disconnected for any reason, a new PCM has been installed, or the

calibration has been reflashed, the adaptive strategy for the "Engagement Schedule" must be

updated. This procedure will prevent the customer from returning with firm or harsh engagement

complaints.

Procedure is as follows: 

Note: All of the following engagements must be performed, in order for engagement pressures to

correctly adapt with the new calibration. 

1. Install diagnostic equipment and monitor TFT.
2. Warm the transmission fluid to 54°C (130°F) as indicated by the TFT.
3. Perform 5 engagements from Park to Reverse. Each engagement must be five seconds apart.
4. Perform 5 engagements from Drive to Reverse. Each engagement must be five seconds apart.
5. Perform 5 engagements from Reverse to Drive. Each engagement must be five seconds apart.
6. Perform 5 engagements from Neutral to Drive. Each engagement must be five seconds apart.