Restore Smooth Shifting to Your Chevy Cobalt
If your 2006-2010 Chevrolet Cobalt is suffering from erratic shifting, getting stuck in gear, or throwing transmission-related codes, the culprit is very likely a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM). As a seasoned technician, I’ve seen countless GM vehicles, including the Cobalt, sidelined by this exact issue. The TCM is the brain of your automatic transmission, and when it fails, it can cause a cascade of problems that make driving frustrating and unsafe. This T42 series TCM, part number 24238856, is the definitive, reliable solution to get your car back to factory-spec performance without a costly trip to the dealership.
We take the guesswork and extra expense out of the repair by pre-programming this module to your vehicle’s specific VIN. This means it arrives ready for a true plug-and-play installation. Once installed, it will properly manage shift points, torque converter clutch engagement, and line pressure, restoring the smooth, predictable operation you expect from your Cobalt. Don’t let a faulty module lead to more significant transmission damage. A new, properly functioning 2006-2010 Cobalt TCM is a critical investment in your vehicle’s longevity and drivability.
A Technician’s Notebook
I remember a 2009 Cobalt that came into the shop stuck in ‘limp mode’—it wouldn’t shift out of 3rd gear. The owner was worried he needed a full transmission rebuild. After a quick scan, I pulled a P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction) and a few solenoid circuit codes. From experience, I knew these symptoms pointed directly to the T42 TCM, a common failure point. Instead of a multi-thousand-dollar rebuild, we swapped in a VIN-programmed module just like this one. In under an hour, the car was shifting perfectly, all codes were cleared, and the customer was back on the road for a fraction of the cost he feared. This part saves time, money, and unnecessary repairs.
Is Your Cobalt Showing These Telltale Symptoms?
- ✔ Sudden, harsh gear shifts or banging into gear.
- ✔ The vehicle feels stuck in one gear (often called ‘limp mode’).
- ✔ Delayed engagement when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse.
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with codes like P0700, P0750, or other transmission solenoid faults.
- ✔ Inconsistent shifting, flaring between gears, or failure to upshift/downshift.
- ✔ Poor acceleration and a noticeable drop in fuel economy.
A Straightforward Guide to Your Cobalt TCM Swap
- ✔ Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before beginning any electronic component replacement.
- ✔ Locate the Module: On the 2006-2010 Cobalt, the TCM is typically found on the driver’s side, mounted to the strut tower in the engine bay.
- ✔ Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. Use a socket wrench to remove the mounting bolts holding the old module in place.
- ✔ Install the New TCM: Mount the new, pre-programmed module in the same location and secure it with the bolts. Reconnect the electrical harnesses firmly until they click.
- ✔ Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. While our programming handles the critical setup, it’s good practice to use a basic OBD2 scanner to clear any stored fault codes from the ECU. Start the vehicle and test drive to confirm smooth operation.
Confirmed Vehicle Compatibility
This T42 Transmission Control Module is a direct-fit replacement for the 2006-2010 Cobalt TCM and is also compatible with a wide array of other General Motors vehicles. It interchanges with part numbers including 24252114, 24234503, 24238856, and others. Please verify your vehicle is on the list below for guaranteed compatibility.
This part will fit these makes and models with these options
COBALT 06-10 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
ALLURE 06-09 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
AVALANCHE 1500 07-08 Transmission; (next to battery)
CANYON 08-12 Transmission; (RH rear engine compartment)
COLORADO 08-12 Transmission; (RH rear engine compartment)
DTS 06-11 Transmission; (RH front engine compartment)
ENVOY 06-09 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
EXPRESS VANS 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
G5 07-10 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
G6 06-10 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
GRAND PRIX 06-08 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
HHR 06-11 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
HUMMER H3 08-10 Transmission; (RH rear engine compartment)
IMPALA 06-11 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
ION 06-07 Transmission; (behind LH strut tower)
LACROSSE 06-09 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
LUCERNE 06-11 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
MALIBU 06-10 Transmission; (LH frame rail)
MONTE CARLO 06-07 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
MONTANA 06-09 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
RAINIER 06-07 Transmission
RENDEZVOUS 06-07 Transmission; (air cleaner box)
SAAB 9-7X 06-09 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
SAVANA VANS 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
SIERRA PICKUPS 07-13 Transmission; (next to battery)
SILVERADO PICKUPS 07-13 Transmission; (next to battery)
SSR 05-06 Transmission; (front LH frame)
SUBURBAN 1500 07-08 Transmission; (next to battery)
TAHOE 07-09 Transmission; (next to battery)
TERRAZA 06-07 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
TRAILBLAZER 06-09 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
UPLANDER 06-09 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
VUE 07-10 Transmission
YUKON 07-09 Transmission; (next to battery)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to take my car to the dealer after installing this?
No. This module comes fully programmed to your vehicle’s VIN. The programming is handled before we ship it, so you can install it yourself and it will work immediately, saving you time and dealership programming fees.
Is this part difficult to install on a Chevy Cobalt?
Not at all. For a DIYer with basic tools, this is a very straightforward job. The TCM is easily accessible on the driver’s side strut tower in the engine bay and typically takes less than 30 minutes to replace.
What happens if I don’t replace a failing TCM?
Continuing to drive with a faulty TCM can lead to poor fuel mileage, unpredictable shifting that poses a safety risk, and can eventually cause excessive wear and permanent damage to your transmission’s internal mechanical parts.
Does this part come with a warranty?
Yes, it comes with our standard one-year warranty, covering any defects in the module. We stand behind the quality and reliability of our electronic components.
Will this fix a P0700 check engine light code?
A P0700 code is a general transmission fault indicator. While a failing TCM is a very common cause for this code (often accompanied by other specific codes), you should confirm the diagnosis. However, if your vehicle is showing other symptoms like erratic shifting, this part is the most likely solution.
Is there a core charge for this part?
No, we do not require a core charge. You can keep your old part, eliminating the hassle and expense of shipping it back.