Restore Crisp, Reliable Shifting to Your Saturn ION
If your 2006-2007 Saturn ION is suffering from harsh shifting, getting stuck in gear, or throwing transmission-related check engine lights, you’ve likely pinpointed the culprit: a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM). As the electronic brain of your automatic transmission, the TCM is responsible for every gear change. When it fails, it can cause a host of frustrating and potentially damaging issues. This replacement T42 TCM, part number 24238856, is the definitive solution, arriving pre-programmed to your vehicle’s VIN for a true plug-and-play repair that gets you back on the road without a trip to the dealership.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
I remember a 2007 Saturn ION that came into my shop a few months back. The owner was frustrated because it would intermittently refuse to shift out of 2nd gear, and he’d already replaced a couple of shift solenoids with no luck. The scanner showed a generic P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction) code, which is more of a signpost than a destination. After confirming the wiring harness had good continuity, we focused on the TCM. These T42 modules, especially after years of heat cycles, can develop internal faults that don’t always throw a specific component code. We installed one of our VIN-programmed modules, and the car was shifting perfectly within a 20-minute test drive. It’s a classic example of how a faulty 2006-2007 ION TCM can mimic other transmission problems, making a direct replacement the most effective repair.
Is Your Saturn ION Showing These Signs of TCM Failure?
- ✔ Harsh, jerky, or delayed gear shifts that disrupt your drive.
- ✔ Vehicle is stuck in “limp mode,” often refusing to shift past 2nd or 3rd gear.
- ✔ The Check Engine Light or a dedicated transmission warning light is illuminated.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are present, such as the general P0700 or specific solenoid codes like P0750, P0751, etc.
- ✔ A noticeable drop in fuel economy as the transmission operates inefficiently.
- ✔ Complete failure to engage gears or move when shifting from Park.
DIY Installation: Get Your ION Shifting Smoothly in Minutes
One of the best features of this module is its straightforward installation, which most DIY mechanics can complete in under 30 minutes with basic hand tools. For the 2006-2007 Saturn ION, the TCM is conveniently located behind the driver’s side (LH) strut tower in the engine bay.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your car’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts and to help reset the vehicle’s computer systems.
- Locate the Module: Find the TCM mounted behind the LH strut tower. It will have several large electrical connectors attached to it.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unclip the wiring harness connectors. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket and remove it from the vehicle.
- Install the New TCM: Mount the new, pre-programmed module in the same location, securely fastening the bolts. Reconnect the wiring harnesses, ensuring they click firmly into place.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. While the module is plug-and-play, it’s always best practice to use a basic OBD2 scan tool to clear any stored fault codes from the system’s memory.
Verified Compatibility for Your Vehicle
This T42 Transmission Control Module is a direct replacement for part number 24238856 and is interchangeable with numerous other service numbers. While it is a guaranteed fit for the specified Saturn ION, it also fits a wide range of other General Motors vehicles. Please verify your specific model and location below:
- ION 06-07 Transmission; (behind LH strut tower)
- COBALT 06-10 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- G5 07-10 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- G6 06-10 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- HHR 06-11 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
- MALIBU 06-10 Transmission; (LH frame rail)
- IMPALA 06-11 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
- MONTE CARLO 06-07 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
- UPLANDER 06-09 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- And many more Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, Pontiac, and Cadillac models.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2006-2007 ION TCM
What does “VIN Programmed” mean for me?
It means this module is ready for installation right out of the box. We flash it with your vehicle’s specific VIN and the latest GM software before shipping. This ensures perfect communication with your car’s other computers and eliminates the need for an expensive programming session at a dealership.
Is this a difficult part to replace myself?
Not at all. For the Saturn ION, the TCM is easily accessible in the engine bay. With basic hand tools and our step-by-step guide, most people can swap the module in under half an hour. It’s one of the easier electronic component replacements you can do.
Will this fix a P0700 check engine light code?
In many cases, yes. The P0700 code is a general fault code indicating the TCM has detected a problem. If the TCM itself is the source of the electrical fault, replacing it with this new module will resolve the issue and allow the code to be cleared permanently.
Is there a core charge for my old part?
No, there is no core charge. You are not required to send your old, faulty module back to us, saving you time and return shipping costs.