Restore Smooth, Reliable Shifting to Your Pontiac Montana
Is your 2006-2009 Pontiac Montana suffering from harsh shifting, getting stuck in gear, or throwing transmission codes? Don’t jump to conclusions about a costly transmission rebuild. The problem is often a faulty Transmission Control Module (TCM). This direct-fit T42 TCM, part number 24240449, is the solution you need. We pre-program it to your vehicle’s specific VIN, ensuring it works perfectly right out of the box with no expensive trips to the dealership for programming. It’s designed to restore the precise, factory-new shifting performance your vehicle once had.
A Technician’s Notebook
I remember a customer bringing in their 2008 Montana. The van would slam into gear and was stuck in limp mode, making it unsafe to drive. They were convinced they needed a new transmission and were bracing for a $3,000+ bill. After a quick scan, I saw a classic P0700 code pointing to a general transmission fault, along with several solenoid circuit errors. From my experience with hundreds of these GM vehicles, I suspected the T42 module. We swapped in a VIN-programmed 2006-2009 Montana TCM, and in less than an hour, the van was shifting like new. That simple fix saved the customer thousands and got them back on the road safely.
Is Your Montana Showing These Signs of a Bad TCM?
A failing TCM can cause a wide range of frustrating and dangerous symptoms. If you’re experiencing any of the following, this module is likely the culprit:
- ✔ Harsh, erratic, or delayed gear shifts that make driving uncomfortable.
- ✔ Vehicle is stuck in a single gear (often called “limp mode”).
- ✔ The Check Engine Light or a dedicated transmission warning light is illuminated.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are present, such as P0700, P0750, or other transmission solenoid-related codes.
- ✔ A noticeable drop in fuel economy due to inefficient shifting.
- ✔ Complete loss of communication with the transmission, preventing it from shifting at all.
DIY Installation: Get Your Montana Shifting Smoothly in Under 30 Minutes
One of the best features of this module is its straightforward installation. Since we handle the programming, you can perform the replacement at home with basic tools. For the 2006-2009 Pontiac Montana, the TCM is conveniently located.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts and to help reset the system.
- Locate the Module: On your Montana, you’ll find the TCM mounted on the driver’s side strut tower in the engine compartment. It’s a silver box with electrical connectors.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. Note the tab locations to avoid breaking them. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed TCM into place. Securely reconnect the electrical harnesses until they click.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. Start the vehicle and let it idle for a few minutes. While not always necessary, using a basic OBD2 scan tool to clear any stored fault codes is a good final step.
Verified Fitment Across Multiple GM Models
While this is the perfect 2006-2009 Montana TCM, this versatile T42 module also serves as a direct replacement for a wide array of General Motors vehicles. It is interchangeable with part numbers 24252114, 24234503, 24240400, and more. It fits models including:
- Pontiac: Montana (06-09), G6 (06-10), Grand Prix (06-08), G5 (07-10), Pursuit (06), Solstice
- Chevrolet: Silverado, Tahoe, Impala (06-11), Cobalt (06-10), HHR (06-11), Malibu (06-10), Express Van, Colorado
- GMC: Sierra, Yukon, Savana Van, Envoy (06-09), Canyon
- Buick: LaCrosse (06-09), Lucerne (06-11), Allure (06-09), Rainier (06-07)
- Saturn: Vue (07-10), Aura (07-09), Ion (06-07)
- Cadillac: DTS (06-11)
- Hummer: H3 (08-10)
- Saab: 9-7X (06-09)
This module provides a reliable, long-term solution backed by a one-year warranty, giving you peace of mind with every mile.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Transmission Control Module (TCM) do?
The TCM is the ‘brain’ of your automatic transmission. It receives data from various sensors on the engine and vehicle, and uses that information to control when the transmission shifts gears, how firmly it shifts, and when to lock up the torque converter for better fuel efficiency.
Why is VIN programming so important?
VIN programming loads your vehicle’s specific software and calibration files onto the module. Without it, the TCM won’t communicate correctly with your vehicle’s other computers, leading to the same shifting problems or a no-start condition. Our pre-programming service makes this a true plug-and-play part, saving you a costly trip to the dealer.
Can I really install this myself?
Absolutely. For most DIYers with basic hand tools, this is a very manageable job that takes less than an hour. The location on the Montana is accessible, and since the programming is done, it’s a simple swap of the physical part.
Will this fix my P0700 check engine light code?
A P0700 code is a general fault request from the TCM to the main engine computer (ECM) to turn on the check engine light. In a vast majority of cases where a P0700 is present alongside other transmission-specific codes, a failing TCM is the root cause. Replacing it should resolve the issue.
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 send it back to us, simplifying the repair process for you.