If you’re dealing with a 2006-2009 Chevrolet Uplander that’s shifting erratically, getting stuck in gear, or throwing transmission codes, you’ve come to the right place. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen countless vehicle owners worry that they’re facing a catastrophic transmission failure. More often than not, the culprit is a faulty Transmission Control Module (TCM). This T42 series TCM, part number 24234503, is the definitive solution to restore the smooth, reliable performance your family depends on.
The TCM is the electronic brain of your automatic transmission. It controls everything from when the gears shift to how the torque converter behaves. When it fails, the symptoms can be alarming and make the vehicle feel unsafe to drive. This module is a direct-fit replacement, but with one crucial advantage: it arrives at your door pre-programmed to your Uplander’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This means no expensive trips to the dealership for programming—it’s a true plug-and-play fix that saves you time and money.
Is Your Uplander’s Transmission Acting Up?
A failing TCM can manifest in several ways. In my shop, these are the most common complaints I hear from owners of GM vehicles like the Uplander, which often point directly to a bad module:
- âś” Harsh, slamming shifts or sudden, jerky gear changes.
- âś” The vehicle feels stuck in one gear (often called “limp mode”).
- âś” Your Check Engine Light is on with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) like P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction) or P0750-P0758 (Solenoid Faults).
- âś” Delayed engagement when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse.
- âś” A noticeable drop in fuel economy or the transmission overheating.
- âś” Complete loss of communication with the module, preventing shifting altogether.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A family brought their 2008 Uplander to my bay, frustrated after another shop told them they needed a full transmission rebuild for over $3,000. Their van was shifting hard between 1st and 2nd gear and occasionally wouldn’t shift up to 3rd. I scanned it and found a P0752 code for a stuck shift solenoid. While it could have been the solenoid, my experience with these T42 modules pointed elsewhere. The internal drivers that control the solenoids are a common failure point. We installed one of our VIN-programmed TCMs, cleared the codes, and took it for a test drive. The shifting was perfect. The family saved thousands and got their reliable minivan back on the road with a simple, 20-minute part swap.
Your 30-Minute Path to a Smooth Ride
Replacing the 2006-2009 Uplander TCM is a straightforward job that most DIYers can handle with basic hand tools. Because we program it for you, the hardest part of the job is already done.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- Locate the Module: On the 2006-2009 Uplander, the TCM is conveniently located on the driver’s side of the engine bay, mounted to the LH strut tower.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. Press the release tabs firmly to avoid breaking them. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New TCM: Bolt the new, pre-programmed module into place and securely reconnect the electrical harnesses. You should hear a click as they lock in.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. Start the vehicle and let it idle for a moment. It’s a good practice to use a basic scan tool to clear any old codes stored in other modules, but the vehicle will often perform a relearn process on its own.
Verified Fitment for Your GM Vehicle
This T42 TCM is a direct replacement for part number 24234503 and is interchangeable with many other service numbers. It is guaranteed to fit the following models, among others:
- Chevrolet Uplander: 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 (Transmission; LH strut tower)
- Chevrolet Cobalt / HHR / Impala / Monte Carlo
- Pontiac G5 / G6 / Grand Prix
- Buick Allure / LaCrosse / Lucerne / Rendezvous
- Saturn Aura / Ion / Vue
- And many more GM trucks, vans, and SUVs from 2006-2014. Please use our vehicle selector tool to confirm an exact match.