A Message To Taxicab and Limousine Owners concerning the Powertrain Control Module (“PCM”)

The PCM is an automotive component that controls more than 100 factors in a car or truck. Its purpose is to monitor the many hundreds of error codes that can occur and indicates through a “Check Engine Light” that some subsection of the car is experiencing a problem.

The PCM is one of several onboard computers, and is essentially the “brain” of the engine control system.

The PCM also tracks the vehicle’s mileage, an issue that often controls the eligibility of a vehicle to provide taxicab or limousine service.

The PCM should be replaced only when it is diagnosed to be defective because it also contains a unique serial number and controls the odometer.

The TLD’s inspection process will now include a diagnostic review of the PCM’s status.

IMPROPERLY REPLACING A PCM may disqualify your vehicle from entry into service as a taxicab or limousine. You should report the replacement of a PCM in any vehicle currently authorized to provide taxicab or limousine service to: Robert Hager, Deputy Manager of Inspections, 215-683-9447 or [email protected]. You must disclose the presence of a replacement PCM in any vehicle upon presentation of a vehicle for inspection.