Restore Your Saturn’s Smooth Shifting
If your 2006-2007 Saturn ION is suffering from harsh shifting, getting stuck in gear, or has an illuminated check engine light, a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM) is the most likely cause. As a technician with over 20 years of diagnostic experience, I’ve seen this exact issue hundreds of times. Drivers often fear a costly transmission overhaul when the real problem is this simple-to-replace electronic brain. This OEM-quality T42 TCM, part number 24235340, is the definitive solution to restore your vehicle’s performance and drivability.
The single greatest benefit is that we program this module to your vehicle’s VIN before it ships. This means it’s a true plug-and-play repair. You can avoid the time, expense, and hassle of a dealership visit for programming. Simply install it, and your Saturn’s computer system will recognize it immediately, restoring proper communication and shift commands.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A customer brought in a 2007 Saturn Ion that two other shops couldn’t fix. It had intermittent no-shift conditions and a P0700 code. They were told they needed a new transmission for $2,500. I hooked up my pro-level scan tool and saw the TCM was dropping communication intermittently, especially when hot. We swapped in one of our VIN-programmed T42 modules. The total repair time was under an hour, and the car has been shifting perfectly ever since. It’s a textbook example of how this electronic part can mimic a major mechanical failure.
Is Your Saturn ION Showing These Signs?
- ✔ Harsh, jerky, or delayed gear shifts that make driving unpleasant.
- ✔ The vehicle is stuck in “limp mode,” often locked in 2nd or 3rd gear.
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) like P0700, P0750, or other solenoid-related faults.
- ✔ Inconsistent upshifting or downshifting, especially during acceleration or braking.
- ✔ A sudden and unexplained decrease in fuel efficiency.
- ✔ Complete loss of communication between the scanner and the transmission module.
Your Quick-Start Installation Guide
- ✔ Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal on your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- ✔ Locate the Module: On your 2006-2007 Saturn ION, the TCM is located in the engine bay, typically behind the driver’s side (LH) strut tower. It’s an easily accessible black box with electrical connectors.
- ✔ Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unclip the electrical harnesses. Be gentle with the locking tabs, as they can become brittle over time. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- ✔ Install the New TCM: Bolt the new, VIN-programmed module into place and securely reconnect the electrical harnesses. You should hear a distinct ‘click’ as they lock in.
- ✔ Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. Start the vehicle and let it idle for a minute. The pre-programmed module should resolve the fault, but using a basic scan tool to clear any stored historical codes is always good practice.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This T42 module is the specified replacement for the 2006-2007 Saturn ION. It is also a direct fit for a wide range of other General Motors vehicles from this era, including the Chevrolet Cobalt, HHR, Pontiac G5, and more. This part, 24235340, is a reliable replacement for multiple service numbers, including 24234503, 24252114, and 24239224, ensuring broad compatibility and dependable performance. There is no core charge, so you can keep your old part.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “VIN Programmed” actually mean for me?
It means we load your car’s unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and the latest GM software onto the module before we ship it. This critical step ensures it communicates perfectly with your car’s other computers right out of the box, eliminating the need for expensive dealership programming.
Is this a difficult part to install myself?
For most DIYers with basic hand tools, this is a very straightforward job. The module is easily accessible in the Saturn ION’s engine bay, and the entire process of swapping the part typically takes less than 30 minutes.
Will this fix my P0700 transmission code?
A P0700 code is a general fault code indicating the TCM has detected a problem. In a vast majority of cases for these vehicles, the TCM itself is the source of the fault. Replacing it with this pre-programmed module is the direct fix for the code and the underlying issue.
Do I need to send my old part back?
No. There is absolutely no core charge for this module. You can keep, discard, or recycle your old part without any hassle or additional cost.
My old module has a different part number on it. Will this still work?
Yes, most likely. Part number 24235340 is a service replacement that supersedes many different original part numbers. The critical factor is the T42 module type and vehicle application. This part is designed as the correct replacement for your 2006-2007 Ion.