Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Truck
If you’re dealing with the frustration of a transmission that’s not behaving, you’ve come to the right place. As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen firsthand how a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM) can bring a powerful truck like a 2020-2022 Sierra 3500 to its knees. Symptoms like harsh, delayed shifting, getting stuck in gear, or an illuminated Check Engine Light can make your daily drive or workday a nightmare. This isn’t just an annoyance; it’s a critical component failure that compromises your truck’s reliability and performance.
This is a direct-replacement Sierra 3500 Transmission Control Module, a solution designed to get you back on the road without the exorbitant costs and long wait times associated with a dealership visit. The biggest hurdle with modern electronic modules is the programming—but we’ve solved that for you. Simply provide your vehicle’s VIN at checkout, and we will flash the module with the latest, most stable GM software specific to your truck. It arrives at your door ready for installation, turning a complex, multi-day repair into a straightforward swap.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Ghost in the Transmission
I remember a 2021 Silverado 2500 that came into my shop with a complaint that stumped two other mechanics. The owner described intermittent, bone-jarring shifts from 2nd to 3rd gear, but only after the truck was fully warmed up. There were no consistent trouble codes, just a generic U0100 (Lost Communication) that would pop up and disappear. We checked wiring, fluid levels, and solenoids—everything looked perfect. On a hunch, I monitored the TCM’s live data on a long test drive. Right as the hard shift occurred, I saw the module’s voltage drop erratically. It was a classic case of internal thermal failure within the TCM. We installed a VIN-programmed module just like this one, and the truck shifted like it just rolled off the factory floor. These intermittent issues are often the hardest to diagnose and almost always point back to the module itself.
Is Your Truck Exhibiting These Telltale Signs?
A failing TCM doesn’t always mean a complete vehicle shutdown. It often starts with subtle but concerning symptoms. If you’re noticing any of the following, it’s a strong indicator that your Sierra 3500 Transmission Control Module may be at fault:
- ✔ Unpredictable or harsh shifting between gears.
- ✔ Delayed engagement when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse.
- ✔ The vehicle feels like it’s stuck in one gear (often called “limp mode”).
- ✔ Your transmission seems to slip, with engine RPMs flaring up unexpectedly.
- ✔ An active Check Engine Light with transmission-related Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) such as P0700, P0606, U0100, or solenoid-specific codes.
- ✔ Reduced fuel economy due to inefficient transmission operation.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
One of the key benefits of this module is its plug-and-play design. Because we program it to your VIN, you can perform the installation yourself or have your trusted local mechanic do it without needing specialized dealer equipment. For the 2020-2022 Sierra/Silverado HD trucks, the process is quite accessible.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your truck’s battery and wait a few minutes to ensure the system is fully de-energized.
- Locate the TCM: On most of these models, the TCM is mounted to the left-hand (driver’s side) core support, near the radiator. You may need to remove a plastic shroud for access.
- Disconnect Harnesses: Carefully unclip the electrical connectors from the old module. There are typically release tabs that need to be depressed. Inspect the connectors for any signs of corrosion or damage.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old TCM from its mounting bracket. It’s usually held in place by a few small bolts.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed TCM onto the bracket and securely fasten the bolts.
- Reconnect and Finalize: Plug the electrical harnesses back into the new module until they click firmly into place. Reconnect your battery terminal. It’s a good practice to clear any old codes with a standard OBD2 scanner after installation.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for service numbers 24042698, 24043411, 24043413, 24289415, and 24296206. It is guaranteed to fit and function correctly on the following vehicles:
- CAMARO: 2022-2023 (underhood, LH frame rail)
- SIERRA 1500 PICKUP: 2019 (new style), 2020
- SIERRA 2500 PICKUP: 2020-2022
- SIERRA 3500 PICKUP: 2020-2022
- SIERRA DENALI 1500: 2019-2020
- SIERRA DENALI 2500: 2020-2022
- SIERRA DENALI 3500: 2020-2022
- SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP: 2019 (new style), 2020
- SILVERADO 2500 PICKUP: 2020-2021
- SILVERADO 3500 PICKUP: 2020-2021
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the VIN programming process work?
It’s simple. After you complete your purchase, you will need to provide us with your vehicle’s 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Our technicians use this VIN to load the exact, factory-correct software and the latest GM updates onto the module before we ship it. This ensures it communicates perfectly with your truck’s other systems.
Do I need to send my old TCM back (core charge)?
No, there is no core charge or requirement to return your old, faulty module. This saves you the time and expense of return shipping.
Can I install this myself if I have basic mechanical skills?
Absolutely. For most of the trucks listed, the TCM is in an accessible location. With basic hand tools and our step-by-step guide, a confident DIYer can complete this installation in about an hour, saving significantly on labor costs.
Is this part the same as one from a salvage yard?
No, and this is a critical difference. A module from a salvage yard is programmed to the donor vehicle and will not function in your truck. It would still require a trip to a dealer or specialized shop for programming, defeating the purpose. Our module arrives ready to install.
What if my part number is slightly different?
This module, service part number 24289415, is the correct and updated replacement for several older numbers, including 24296206, 24042698, and others listed. As long as your vehicle is on our compatibility list, this is the correct part for the job.