I have a 2003 Sebring that is leaving a very small pool of transmission fluid when I turn the engine off. A mechanic said the transmission control gasket was leaking. I enjoy working on cars and am somewhat of a weekend mechanic so replacing a gasket is no real problem. The question is whether the TCM needs to be recalibrated after just changing a gasket? I know it needs to be done when replacing a module, just not sure about just the gasket.

 

Most probably, it's the solenoid pack, not the TCM. It's a known issue. You'll need to replace the whole thing, not just the gasket. Search the forum here for several threads discussing it. It's an easy repair. You don't need to recalibrate afterwards.

 

Call your local dealer and give them your VIN number. The last two that I did, the Gasket and Spacer pkg was available without the entire unit.

As for Calibration...... Yes and No....You should perform a "QUICK LEARN" procedure after disrupting any of the fluid passages, But it isnt absolutely necessary. Just be gentle and let it learn on its own.

I personally find it easier to drop the pan and drain the fluid first, but that is up to you.....Just wait until it finishes leaking before you try to put the gasket on.

 

Yes, you can buy the gasket separately, but the leak is usually not at the gasket, but in the solenoid pack itself.
Agree 100% about the "Quick Learn" procedure. By the time the DIYer drives the car over to the dealer for the "Quick Learn" procedure, the car will have pretty much taken care of the problem itself.