Restore Smooth, Reliable Shifting to Your Pontiac Montana
If your 2006-2009 Pontiac Montana 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 culprit. As the electronic brain of your automatic transmission, the TCM is responsible for every gear change. When it fails, it can make your family’s daily driver feel unpredictable and unsafe. This replacement T42 TCM, part number 24239926, is the definitive solution, arriving pre-programmed to your vehicle’s specific VIN for a true plug-and-play repair.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Minivan Stuck in Limp Mode
I remember a 2008 Pontiac Montana that came into my shop, stuck in what the owner called “get home mode.” It wouldn’t shift past 2nd gear, and the check engine light was on. A quick scan pulled a P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction) and a handful of solenoid circuit codes. The owner was worried about a costly transmission rebuild. After confirming power and ground to the TCM, I knew the module itself was the issue. In these GM vans, heat and vibration at the LH strut tower location often lead to internal solder joint failure. We installed a VIN-programmed 2006-2009 Montana Transmission Module, cleared the codes, and the van was shifting perfectly on the test drive. It’s a common failure, but thankfully, a straightforward fix that doesn’t require a new transmission.
Is Your Montana Exhibiting These Transmission Issues?
A faulty TCM can manifest in several ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s time to consider a replacement:
- ✔ Harsh, banging shifts or delayed gear engagement.
- ✔ The vehicle is stuck in a single gear (limp mode), often 2nd or 3rd.
- ✔ Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light is illuminated.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are present, such as P0700, P0750, or other solenoid-related faults.
- ✔ Inconsistent shifting, poor acceleration, and decreased fuel economy.
- ✔ Complete loss of communication with the transmission module.
The Plug-and-Play Advantage: No Dealer Visit Required
The biggest hurdle with electronic module replacement is typically the need for expensive dealership programming. We eliminate that step entirely. By providing your vehicle’s VIN during checkout, we flash the module with the latest GM-certified software specific to your Montana. This ensures that all shift points, torque converter lockup strategies, and diagnostic parameters are perfectly matched to your vehicle’s factory settings. This isn’t just a convenience; it’s critical for the long-term health and performance of your transmission. Installing this pre-programmed 2006-2009 Montana Transmission Module is the most effective way to solve the problem correctly the first time.
DIY-Friendly Installation Guide for Your Montana
Replacing the TCM on your Pontiac Montana is a job most DIYers can handle in under 30 minutes with basic hand tools. The module is easily accessible.
- 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 the 2006-2009 Pontiac Montana, the Transmission Control Module is located in the engine bay, mounted to the driver’s side (LH) strut tower.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old module. Press the release tabs firmly. 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 should hear a click as they lock in.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Start the vehicle and use a standard OBD2 scan tool to clear any stored fault codes. Take the vehicle for a test drive to confirm smooth shifting.
Verified Fitment For These Vehicles
While this module is a direct fit for the 2006-2009 Pontiac Montana, it is also compatible with a wide range of other General Motors vehicles that use the T42 TCM. This part is interchangeable with service numbers 24242391, 24234503, 24252114, and more. Please verify your part number or contact us for fitment confirmation.
- Pontiac Montana (2006-2009) – Located at LH strut tower
- Chevrolet Uplander (2006-2009) – Located at LH strut tower
- Buick Terraza (2006-2007) – Located at LH strut tower
- Saturn Relay (2006-2007) – Located at LH strut tower
- Chevrolet Impala / Monte Carlo (2006-2011) – Located under lower air cleaner housing
- Pontiac G6 (2006-2010) – Located at LH strut tower
- And many other GM cars, trucks, and SUVs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to have this module programmed by a dealer?
No. This module comes fully programmed to your vehicle’s VIN. It is ready for installation right out of the box, saving you time and the high cost of dealership programming.
What is the location of the TCM on my 2007 Pontiac Montana?
On the 2006-2009 Pontiac Montana, the TCM is conveniently located in the engine compartment, bolted to the top of the driver’s side (left-hand) strut tower.
Will this fix a P0700 trouble code?
A P0700 code is a general transmission fault request from the TCM to the ECM to turn on the check engine light. While this module often resolves the underlying cause (like a solenoid fault or internal processing error), you should always diagnose any other codes that are present alongside the P0700. In most cases where the TCM is faulty, replacing it will clear the P0700 and related codes.
Is there a core charge for my old part?
No, there is no core charge required for this part. You can keep your old module without any extra fees or hassle.
What if I install it and still have problems?
Our modules are rigorously tested and come with a one-year warranty. If you continue to experience issues, it may indicate a separate mechanical problem within the transmission (like a worn clutch pack or faulty solenoid) or a wiring issue. Our expert support team is here to help you diagnose the situation.