Restore Smooth, Reliable Shifting to Your Minivan
If your 2006-2009 Chevrolet Uplander is suffering from harsh shifting, getting stuck in gear, or throwing transmission codes, the problem is very likely a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM). As an expert who has spent years diagnosing these exact issues, I know how frustrating it can be when your family vehicle becomes unreliable. This T42 TCM, part number 24243921, is the definitive solution, arriving pre-programmed to your vehicle’s specific VIN for a true plug-and-play repair that gets you back on the road without a costly trip to the dealership.
The TCM is the brain of your automatic transmission, controlling everything from shift points to torque converter lockup. When it fails, often due to heat and vibration from its location on the strut tower, the symptoms can range from annoying to dangerous. This replacement module is built to meet or exceed original equipment standards, ensuring long-term durability and restoring the crisp, predictable performance your Uplander had when it was new.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
I remember a customer bringing in their ’08 Uplander with a complaint of intermittent, violent downshifts, but only after driving for 30+ minutes on a hot day. No codes were stored. Other shops had suggested a full transmission rebuild. Knowing the location of the 2006-2009 Uplander TCM on the hot strut tower, I suspected a heat-soak failure. We swapped in one of our VIN-programmed modules, and the problem vanished instantly. It’s a classic failure pattern for these units, and replacing the module saved the customer thousands over an unnecessary transmission replacement.
Is Your Uplander Showing These Transmission Issues?
- ✔ Unpredictable, harsh, or delayed gear shifts.
- ✔ The vehicle is stuck in “limp mode” (usually 2nd or 3rd gear) and won’t shift.
- ✔ Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light is on with codes like P0700 or P0750-series solenoid faults.
- ✔ Complete failure to upshift or downshift, leading to poor acceleration.
- ✔ A noticeable drop in fuel economy or signs of the transmission overheating.
- ✔ Loss of communication with the TCM when checked with a scan tool.
A Straightforward Guide to Your Uplander TCM Installation
You don’t need to be a professional mechanic to install this part. The process is simple and can be completed in your driveway in under 30 minutes. For the 2006-2009 Uplander, the TCM is conveniently located on the driver’s side (LH) strut tower in the engine bay.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent electrical shorts and help reset the system.
- Locate the Module: Open the hood and find the TCM mounted to the driver’s side strut tower. It’s a silver box with electrical connectors.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully press the release tabs on the electrical connectors and pull them straight off. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed TCM into place. Reconnect the electrical harnesses, ensuring they click securely into position.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. While our programming handles the critical setup, it’s good practice to use a basic OBD-II scan tool to clear any old fault codes from the vehicle’s memory.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
While this is the correct part for the 2006-2009 Uplander, this T42 TCM is also compatible with a wide range of other General Motors vehicles. Please verify your model and location below.
- UPLANDER 06-09 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- ALLURE 06-09 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
- COBALT 06-10 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- G6 06-10 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- HHR 06-11 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
- IMPALA 06-11 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
- MALIBU 06-10 Transmission; (LH frame rail)
- MONTANA 06-09 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- And many more GM models from 2006-2014. This part is interchangeable with service numbers 24242391, 24234503, 24252114, and others.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this part really not require a trip to the dealer?
Correct. We program the module to your vehicle’s VIN before shipping. This ensures it communicates perfectly with your van’s other computers right out of the box, saving you hundreds in dealership programming fees.
What information do you need to program it?
We only need your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). You can typically find this on your driver’s side dashboard (visible through the windshield) or on your vehicle’s registration/insurance documents.
Is this a guaranteed fix for a P0700 code?
A P0700 is a generic code indicating the TCM has detected a fault. While a faulty TCM is a very common cause, this code can also be triggered by other issues like bad solenoids or wiring. However, if you’re also experiencing symptoms like erratic shifting or limp mode, a failing TCM is the most probable cause.
Do I need to send my old TCM back?
No, there is no core charge for this part. You can keep or dispose of your old module, making the transaction simple and hassle-free.