End Frustrating Shifting Problems in Your Pontiac Montana
If your 2006-2009 Pontiac Montana is suffering from harsh shifts, getting stuck in gear, or throwing transmission codes, you’re not just dealing with an annoyance—you’re facing a critical component failure. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen countless GM vehicles sidelined by a faulty Transmission Control Module (TCM). The TCM is the brain of your automatic transmission, and when it starts to fail, it can mimic a variety of other, more expensive mechanical problems. This VIN-programmed T42 TCM is the definitive, reliable solution to restore your minivan’s smooth operation and get your family back on the road safely.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a direct fix that arrives ready for installation. We program the module to your vehicle’s specific VIN before it ships, eliminating the need for a costly trip to the dealership for programming. This plug-and-play design is perfect for the home mechanic looking to save time and money, or the professional technician who needs a dependable part to get a customer’s vehicle out of the bay quickly. By precisely managing shift points, torque converter lockup, and line pressure, this module resolves the root cause of many common transmission issues.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A customer brought in a 2007 Montana with classic symptoms: delayed engagement into drive and a violent 1-2 shift. They had already spent a few hundred dollars replacing the pressure control solenoid, assuming it was a mechanical issue. The problem persisted. After connecting my scan tool, I saw intermittent communication loss with the TCM and a P0700 code. Heat and vibration, especially where this module is mounted on the LH strut tower, can cause internal solder joints to fail over time. We installed one of our pre-programmed TCMs, and in less than 30 minutes, the van was shifting like it just left the factory. This highlights a key takeaway: always check for TCM issues before diving into internal transmission work—it can save you significant time and expense.
Is Your Montana Showing These Telltale Signs?
A failing TCM can manifest in several ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, this module is the likely solution for your 2006-2009 Montana TCM issues:
- âś” Harsh, erratic, or delayed gear shifts.
- âś” Vehicle is stuck in “limp mode” (usually second or third gear).
- âś” Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light is on.
- âś” Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are present, such as P0700, P0750-P0758, or other solenoid-related faults.
- âś” The transmission refuses to upshift or downshift properly.
- âś” A noticeable decrease in fuel economy.
- âś” Complete loss of communication with the transmission module.
Simple Installation Guide: Get Your Minivan Running Smoothly
One of the best features of this part is its straightforward installation. For the Pontiac Montana, the process is quick and requires basic hand tools. No need to drop the transmission pan or deal with messy fluids.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts and to help reset the system.
- Locate the TCM: On your 2006-2009 Montana, the TCM is conveniently located in the engine bay, mounted to the driver’s side (LH) strut tower.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unclip the electrical connectors 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. Ensure they click into place.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. While the module is plug-and-play, it’s always good practice to use a basic scan tool to clear any stored fault codes from the vehicle’s memory. Start the vehicle and test drive to confirm smooth shifting.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This T42 Transmission Control Module, part number 24239224, is the correct fit for the following vehicles. Please verify your model and year range for guaranteed compatibility.
- Pontiac Montana (2006-2009): Mounts on the LH strut tower.
- This module also interchanges with part numbers 24252114, 24234503, 24230461, and others, fitting a wide array of GM vehicles including the Uplander, Terraza, Relay, and various Chevrolet, GMC, and Buick models. Always confirm the part number or contact us with your VIN to ensure a perfect match.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to take my vehicle to a dealer after installation?
No. This module comes pre-programmed to your vehicle’s VIN. The programming is done before we ship it, so it’s ready for immediate installation without any additional dealer intervention or special tools.
Is this a new or used part?
This is a high-quality, OEM-spec component that has been expertly prepared and programmed for your vehicle. It is inspected and tested to meet or exceed original performance standards and comes with a one-year warranty.
What tools are required for installing this 2006-2009 Montana TCM?
You’ll only need basic hand tools, such as a socket set and ratchet, to unbolt the module from its bracket. No specialized diagnostic equipment is required for the installation itself.
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.
Will this fix a P0700 trouble code?
A P0700 code is a general fault code indicating the TCM has detected a problem. In many cases, a failing TCM is the source of this code. Replacing the module with this programmed unit is a very common and effective fix for a P0700 and related transmission codes.