Is Your Chevy SSR’s Transmission Acting Up?
The Chevrolet SSR is a unique truck, and its driving experience should be smooth and responsive. If you’re dealing with frustrating transmission problems like harsh, delayed, or unpredictable shifting, your vehicle isn’t just less enjoyable to driveโit can be unreliable. Often, the root cause isn’t a catastrophic internal transmission failure, but a faulty Transmission Control Module (TCM). This module is the electronic brain of your automatic transmission, and when it fails, it can mimic much more expensive mechanical problems. This VIN-programmed T42 TCM is the definitive, hassle-free solution to restore your SSR’s performance.
A Real-World Scenario from My Shop
A customer brought in his 2006 SSR convinced he needed a full transmission rebuild. It was stuck in ‘limp mode’ (3rd gear only) and had a check engine light on with a P0700 code. Another shop had quoted him thousands. Before tearing anything apart, I ran a full diagnostic. The transmission fluid was clean and the solenoids tested fine. The real culprit? The original TCM was sending erratic signals. We installed one of our VIN-programmed modules, and in under 30 minutes, the truck was shifting perfectly. He saved a fortune and got his SSR back on the road the same day. This is a common story for these GM vehicles.
Is Your SSR Showing These Signs of a Failing TCM?
A bad TCM can manifest in several ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, this part is likely your solution:
- โ Hard, slamming shifts or jerky gear engagement.
- โ The transmission feels like it’s slipping or hesitating between gears.
- โ Your SSR is stuck in one gear (limp mode) and won’t shift up or down.
- โ The Check Engine Light or a transmission-specific warning light is illuminated.
- โ Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) like P0700, P0750, or other solenoid-related faults are present.
- โ Poor fuel economy and a general feeling of sluggish performance.
Plug-and-Play Installation: No Dealer Visit Required
One of the biggest benefits of this module is that it arrives ready to install. We program it to your SSR’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) before shipping, loading it with the latest GM software. This eliminates the need for expensive dealership programming or specialized scan tools.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent electrical shorts and reset the system.
- Locate the Module: On the 2005-2006 SSR, the TCM is located on the front left-hand (driver’s side) frame rail.
- Swap the Part: Carefully disconnect the wiring harnesses and unbolt the old module. Mount the new TCM in its place and securely reconnect the harnesses.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery. While the module is plug-and-play, it’s always best practice to use a basic OBD2 scanner to clear any stored fault codes from the previous failure.
Key Features of This 2005-2006 SSR Transmission Control Module
- โ VIN Programmed: Arrives ready for installation, ensuring perfect communication with your vehicle’s systems right out of the box.
- โ Restores Performance: Corrects shifting issues, eliminates fault codes, and brings back the smooth operation you expect.
- โ OEM-Quality Build: Engineered to meet or exceed original equipment standards for long-lasting reliability and durability.
- โ No Core Charge: Keep your old part. There’s no need to worry about returns or extra fees.
- โ Broad Interchangeability: This T42 module, part number 24235753, also replaces a wide range of other service numbers, including 24252114, 24234503, 24230461, 24234274, 24256960, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I know if my TCM is failing and not the transmission itself?
- TCM failures are often electronic in nature, causing erratic behavior, warning lights, and communication-based codes (like P0700). A major mechanical failure often involves loud noises, slipping that gets progressively worse, or burnt-smelling fluid. If the issues are sudden and electronic, the TCM is a primary suspect.
- What does ‘VIN Programmed’ actually mean for me?
- It means we handle the complex part for you. By programming the module to your truck’s VIN, it’s matched to your specific engine, transmission (4L60E), and options. This allows you to simply install it without needing a trip to the dealership for costly computer flashing.
- Is this installation difficult for a DIYer?
- Not at all. For the SSR, locating the module on the frame rail and swapping it with basic hand tools is a straightforward job. The entire process typically takes less than an hour, making it an excellent DIY-friendly repair.
- Will this part fix a P0700 trouble code?
- Yes, in many cases. The P0700 code is a general fault request from the TCM to the main engine computer (ECM) to turn on the check engine light. A new, functioning TCM often resolves the underlying issue that triggered the P0700 code in the first place.