End Transmission Headaches in Your 2005-2006 Chevrolet SSR
There’s nothing more frustrating than when your unique Chevy SSR starts acting up, especially when it’s the transmission. One moment you’re enjoying the ride, the next you’re dealing with jarring shifts, a check engine light, or the dreaded ‘limp mode.’ As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood of GM vehicles, I’ve seen this scenario countless times. The culprit is often a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM), the electronic brain of your automatic transmission. This VIN-programmed T42 TCM, part number 24234274, is the direct, reliable solution to get your SSR’s performance back to where it should be.
A Technician’s Notebook: The SSR That Wouldn’t Shift
A few months back, a 2005 SSR was towed into my shop. The owner was distraught; his pride and joy was stuck in what felt like third gear and wouldn’t shift up or down. The check engine light was glaring at him from the dash. A quick scan showed a P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction) and a few solenoid circuit codes. Instead of jumping to a costly transmission rebuild, we checked the basics. Power and ground to the TCM were good, but the module itself was unresponsive. This is a classic failure pattern for the T42 module. We ordered a VIN-programmed unit, and less than an hour after it arrived, the SSR was shifting perfectly. The pre-programming saved the customer hundreds in dealership fees and got him back on the road the same day. This isn’t just a part; it’s a direct solution.
Is Your SSR Exhibiting These Telltale Signs?
A failing TCM doesn’t always mean a complete transmission failure. Often, it gives you warning signs. If you’re experiencing any of the following, your TCM is the likely cause:
- ✔ Harsh, erratic, or delayed gear shifts that make driving uncomfortable.
- ✔ The vehicle is stuck in a single gear (limp mode) to protect the transmission.
- ✔ Your Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light is on, with Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) like P0700, P0750, or other solenoid-related faults.
- ✔ A sudden drop in fuel economy or the transmission seems to be overheating.
- ✔ Complete loss of communication with the module, preventing shifting.
The Advantage of a Pre-Programmed 2005-2006 SSR TCM
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a comprehensive fix. The most significant benefit is the VIN-specific programming. We load your vehicle’s exact information and the latest GM software onto the module before it ships. This means no expensive trips to the dealership for programming. It’s built to meet or exceed original equipment standards, ensuring it can handle the demands of your vehicle and restore the precise electronic control your transmission needs for smooth, efficient operation.
Your Straightforward 30-Minute Installation Guide
For the Chevy SSR, this is a job most DIY enthusiasts can handle with basic tools. The module is conveniently located, making the swap quick and easy.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal on your vehicle’s battery before starting any electronic work.
- Locate the Module: On the 2005-2006 SSR, you’ll find the TCM mounted on the front left-hand (driver’s side) frame rail.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical harness connectors. Then, unbolt the old module from its mounting bracket on the frame.
- Install the New TCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed module in the same location, ensuring it’s secure. Reconnect the electrical harnesses, making sure they click firmly into place.
- Final Steps: Reconnect your battery terminal. Start the vehicle and allow it to idle for a few minutes. While the module is plug-and-play, it’s always good practice to use a basic OBD2 scan tool to clear any stored fault codes from the computer’s memory.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
While this listing is focused on the 2005-2006 Chevrolet SSR, this T42 TCM is compatible with a wide range of General Motors vehicles equipped with 4-speed automatic transmissions like the 4L60E, 4L65E, and 4L70E. It is a direct replacement for multiple part numbers, including 24252114, 24234503, 24230461, and more. Some other popular compatible models include:
- Chevrolet Silverado, Tahoe, Suburban, Impala, Cobalt
- GMC Sierra, Yukon, Savana, Envoy
- Cadillac DTS
- Hummer H3
- Pontiac G6, Grand Prix
- And many more from 2006-2014.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly does ‘VIN-programmed’ mean for me?
It means the module arrives at your door ready for immediate installation. We flash it with your vehicle’s specific VIN and the latest GM software, so it communicates perfectly with your car’s systems right out of the box. This completely eliminates the need for a costly and time-consuming trip to the dealership for programming.
Is this a difficult part to install myself?
For most vehicle owners with basic mechanical skills, this is a very straightforward installation. The module is typically easy to access in the engine bay, and the process involves unplugging the old unit and plugging in the new one. Our installation guide provides clear steps for the SSR model.
Will this part fix my check engine light?
If your check engine light is illuminated due to TCM-related trouble codes (like P0700, P0750, or solenoid faults), then yes, replacing the faulty module with this new one should resolve the issue and allow the light to be cleared.
My original part has a different number on it. Will this still work?
Yes. This T42 TCM is a direct replacement for a long list of GM part numbers, including 24252114, 24234503, and 24234274 among others. As long as your vehicle is on the compatibility list, this module will function correctly.
Do I need to send my old TCM back?
No, there is no core charge for this part. You can keep your old module or dispose of it, making the process hassle-free.