P0631 OBD-II Trouble Code: VIN Not Programmed or Incompatible – TCM

Our certified mechanics come to you · Get a fair and transparent estimate upfront

EXCELLENT RATING ON

Cost of diagnosing the P0631 code

P0631 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "VIN Not Programmed or Incompatible – TCM". This can happen for multiple reasons and a mechanic needs to diagnose the specific cause for this code to be triggered in your situation. Our certified mobile mechanics can come to your home or office to perform the Check Engine Light diagnostic for $154.99 . Once we are able to diagnose the problem, you will be provided with an upfront quote for the recommended fix and receive $50.0 off as a credit towards the repair. All our repairs are backed by our 12-month / 12,000-mile warranty.

Cars Estimate* Credit towards follow-up repair Earliest Availability
Ford $154.99 $50.0
Toyota $154.99 $50.0
BMW $164.99 $50.0

*Estimates may vary by market

SCHEDULE P0631 DIAGNOSTIC Get a fair and transparent estimate upfront

P0631 code definition

A P0631 refers to the transmission control module's failure to recognize the vehicle's identification number.

What the P0631 code means

The P0631 indicates that your vehicle's transmission control module has been unable to register its own identification number. Although this may be the result of faulty components, it's most often the cause of an improperly programmed command module.

What causes the P0631 code?

If the vehicle's Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has been replaced, the connected modules will need to be reprogrammed accordingly. If this does not occur, it may result in a debilitating P0631 instance. If the PCM has been damaged or left unpowered for a long enough time, it may lose its memory and require programming. PCM and transmission control module-related wiring may also be a cause for this issue.

What are the symptoms of the P0631 code?

A P0631 trouble code will typically result in the vehicle's inability to start. Although it is a relatively simple and rare malfunction, the vehicle will be completely disabled until such a time where the problem has been solved. In any case, the vehicle computer will store a P0631 OBD-II code for diagnostic purposes and the dashboard light will be illuminated.

How does a mechanic diagnose the P0631 code?

A mechanic may first diagnose the trouble code by hooking up an OBD-II code reader to the vehicle's onboard computer. All of the system-related wiring and connectors should be inspected thoroughly for signs of damage or corrosion.

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P0631 code

If any modules require replacing in order to solve a P0631 code, they may require reprogramming after the fact. Besides that, due to the relative rarity and simplicity of the P0631, there have been few reported instances of misdiagnosing the issue.

How serious is the P0631 code?

Although a P0631 is usually simple to solve, the problem will likely result in the vehicle's failure to start.

What repairs can fix the P0631 code?

The transmission control module and PCM will need to be reprogrammed by a mechanic in order to solve this issue. All wiring relating to the transmission control module should be checked for signs of trouble and react accordingly. After following through with any necessary repairs, make sure to give the vehicle a test drive directly afterwards to see if the trouble code returns.

Additional comments for consideration regarding the P0631 code

The P0631 is noted for its rarity. Mechanics report few cases of this issue. The P0631 is usually avoided entirely by properly reprogramming modules in the first place.

Need help with a P0631 code?

YourMechanic offers certified mobile mechanics who will come to your home or office to diagnose and repair your vehicle. Get a quote and book an appointment online or speak to a service advisor at 1-800-701-6230.

Check Engine Light
trouble codes
P0631

No more waiting rooms! Our mechanics will come to you to diagnose and fix the P0631 code.

SCHEDULE P0631 DIAGNOSTIC
Get a $50 credit for the follow-up repair

Recent Check Engine Light is on Inspection reviews

Excellent Rating

(8600)

Rating Summary
8017
273
65
46
199
8017
273
65
46
199
 at YourMechanic

Brandon

9 years of experience
133 reviews
Brandon
9 years of experience
Ford Escort L4-2.0L - Check Engine Light is on - Nashville, Tennessee
Brandon showed up ahead of schedule, was very personable and diagnosed my problems. He also scheduled my next appointments which will be with him.
 at YourMechanic

William

23 years of experience
33 reviews
William
23 years of experience
Lexus IS250 V6-2.5L - Check Engine Light is on - Mableton, Georgia
Arrived early which was great. William was courteous, and attentive to the issue. Even though it took several attempts I'm so happy he was determined to fix it and he did!
 at YourMechanic

Dan

40 years of experience
1080 reviews
Dan
40 years of experience
Plymouth Grand Voyager - Check Engine Light is on - Lawrenceville, Georgia
Mr. Dan Barber was quite patient, courteous and quite knowledgeable. From my observation, Mr. Barber appears to be quite professional.
 at YourMechanic

Christopher

9 years of experience
120 reviews
Christopher
9 years of experience
Ford Fiesta L4-1.6L - Check Engine Light is on - Smyrna, Georgia
Chris communicated with us each step of the way up until his arrival. He listened well, was knowledgeable, and was prepared. He took the time to diagnose the problem, explained the what, why and how and provided a solution. I would definitely recommend him and will use him again.


More related articles

P2565 OBD-II Trouble Code: Turbocharger Boost Control Position Sensor Circuit High
P2565 P2565 code definition If you were to break down the meaning of each part of the P2565 OBD-II trouble code, it would yield something like “B” Rocker Arm Actuator Control Circuit Open Bank 1. For the average person, that...
P0490 OBD-II Trouble Code: Exhaust Gas Recirculation "A" Control Circuit High
P0490 means the PCM has detected an abnormally high voltage within the exhaust gas recirculation system, often due to clogging.
P0665 OBD-II Trouble Code: Intake Manifold Tuning Valve Control Circuit High Bank 2
P0665 means that there is an electrical malfunction in the intake manifold tuning valve control circuit due to a faulty driver or fuel injector.

Related questions

Engine light came on
The "Check Engine Light" indicates a fault being stored in the engine computer. A triangle shaped light with a circle around it indicates a fault in the electronic stability control. To diagnose these issues the faults will need to be...
When driving the car it feels like it's gone into a higher gear.
Hello, thanks for writing in. Is your Check Engine Light (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/check-engine-light-is-on-inspection) illuminated? Your description sounds like your transmission may be in "limp mode" which is usually 2nd gear in many transmissions. It is also possible that the sensation you are...
Gurgling noise while brake and pumping feeling in reverse
The intermittent illumination of the Check Engine Light (CEL) should be resolved by getting a CEL Diagnostic (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/check-engine-light-is-on-inspection) and then repairing the fault that is identified. Such a diagnostic might provides clues as to the other faults you are writing...

How can we help?

Our service team is available 7 days a week, Monday - Friday from 6 AM to 5 PM PST, Saturday - Sunday 7 AM - 4 PM PST.

1 (855) 347-2779 · hi@yourmechanic.com