Restore Flawless Shifting to Your Saturn ION
If you’re dealing with the headache of a transmission that won’t shift correctly, slams into gear, or has your 2006-2007 Saturn ION stuck in limp mode, you’ve come to the right place. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen countless drivers frustrated by these exact issues. Often, the root cause isn’t a catastrophic mechanical failure but a faulty Transmission Control Module (TCM). This VIN-programmed T42 TCM, corresponding to part number 24239224, is the definitive solution to get your vehicle’s transmission operating like new again, without the exorbitant cost and hassle of a dealership visit.
This module acts as the brain for your automatic transmission, controlling everything from shift points to torque converter clutch engagement. When it fails, communication breaks down, leading to the unpredictable and often dangerous symptoms you’re experiencing. We take the guesswork out of the repair by programming this module to your vehicle’s specific VIN before it ships. This ensures it communicates perfectly with your car’s other systems right out of the box—a true plug-and-play fix.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
I once had a 2007 Saturn ION in my bay with a complaint of intermittent, violent 1-2 shifts and occasionally getting stuck in 3rd gear. The owner had already replaced two shift solenoids with no improvement. After scanning, I found a generic P0700 code but no specific solenoid faults. Experience told me to look at the TCM. We swapped in one of our pre-programmed T42 modules, and the problem vanished instantly. The original module had developed an internal fault that only showed up under specific thermal conditions, making it a nightmare to diagnose. This case highlights how a reliable, correctly programmed 2006-2007 ION TCM can solve problems that even component replacement can’t fix.
Is Your Saturn ION Showing These Telltale Signs?
- ✔️ Harsh, banging, or erratic gear shifts.
- ✔️ Vehicle is stuck in one gear (often called “limp mode”).
- ✔️ Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light is illuminated.
- ✔️ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) like P0700, P0750, or other transmission solenoid codes are present.
- ✔️ Delayed engagement when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse.
- ✔️ Poor fuel economy and a feeling of sluggish performance.
- ✔️ Complete failure to shift up or down.
DIY Installation: Get Your Saturn Shifting Smoothly in Minutes
One of the best features of this module is how simple it is to install. You don’t need to be a master mechanic to get this job done in your own driveway. For the Saturn ION, the TCM is conveniently located and accessible.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts and to help reset the onboard systems.
- Locate the Module: On your 2006-2007 Saturn ION, the TCM is typically found behind the driver’s side strut tower in the engine bay. It’s a silver box with electrical connectors.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical harnesses from the old module. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed TCM into place and securely reconnect the electrical harnesses. You’ll hear a click as they lock in.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. Start the vehicle and allow it to idle for a few minutes. While not always necessary, using a basic OBD2 scanner to clear any stored fault codes is a good final practice.
Verified Fitment for Your General Motors Vehicle
While this is the perfect 2006-2007 ION TCM, this versatile T42 module is also a direct-fit replacement for a wide range of other GM cars, trucks, and SUVs. It is interchangeable with part numbers 24252114, 24234503, 24239224, and others. Please verify your vehicle from the list below:
- Saturn ION: 2006-2007 (behind LH strut tower)
- Chevrolet Cobalt: 2006-2010 (LH strut tower)
- Chevrolet HHR: 2006-2011 (LH engine compartment)
- Chevrolet Impala: 2006-2011 (lower air cleaner housing)
- Chevrolet Malibu: 2006-2010 (LH frame rail)
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500/2500: 2007-2013 (next to battery)
- GMC Sierra 1500/2500: 2007-2013 (next to battery)
- Pontiac G6: 2006-2010 (LH strut tower)
- …and many more models including the Tahoe, Yukon, Savana, Express, LaCrosse, Lucerne, and Hummer H3. Please check the full fitment list for your specific vehicle and location.
Do I need to take my car to the dealer for programming?
Do I need to take my car to the dealer for programming?
No. We handle all the programming for you. Simply provide your vehicle’s VIN during checkout, and the module will arrive ready for immediate installation. This saves you time and the high cost of dealership programming.
Will this fix my transmission being stuck in ‘limp mode’?
In the vast majority of cases, yes. Limp mode is a protective measure triggered by the computer when it detects a serious fault. Since a failing TCM is a very common cause of this fault, replacing it with this functional unit will restore normal shifting and take the vehicle out of limp mode.
What tools are required for installation on a Saturn ION?
The installation is very straightforward. You will typically only need a basic socket set to remove the mounting bolts and a wrench (usually 10mm) to disconnect the battery terminal. No specialized tools are needed.
Is there a core charge for my old part?
No, there is no core charge. You can keep your old module or dispose of it without the hassle of needing to ship it back to us.