Tired of Your Cobalt’s Erratic Shifting?
If you’re dealing with a 2006-2010 Chevrolet Cobalt that slams into gear, refuses to shift, or throws transmission codes, you’ve come to the right place. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen countless GM vehicles, including the Cobalt, sidelined by a faulty Transmission Control Module (TCM). The T42 TCM is the electronic brain of your automatic transmission, and when it fails, it causes a cascade of frustrating and potentially dangerous driving issues. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a critical component for your car’s performance and safety.
We offer a reliable, direct-fit solution: a high-quality T42 Transmission Control Module, part number 24241806, that comes fully pre-programmed to your vehicle’s specific VIN. This means no expensive trips to the dealership for programming. It’s a true plug-and-play fix designed to get your Cobalt back to shifting smoothly and dependably, just like it did from the factory.
From the Diagnostic Bay
I remember a 2008 Cobalt that came into the shop with a classic complaint: ‘It drives fine for 10 minutes, then it feels like it gets stuck in one gear.’ The check engine light was on, and the owner was worried about a costly transmission rebuild. We pulled a P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction) and a few solenoid codes. Instead of immediately quoting a transmission teardown, we checked the TCM. Sure enough, after swapping in a VIN-programmed module, all the codes cleared and the car shifted perfectly. It’s a 30-minute fix that saved the customer over a thousand dollars and a lot of headaches. These intermittent electronic failures are often the root cause, not a major mechanical breakdown.
Is Your Cobalt Showing These Transmission Problems?
A failing TCM can manifest in several ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s a strong indicator that your 2006-2010 Cobalt TCM is the culprit:
- ✔ Harsh, banging shifts or delayed gear engagement.
- ✔ Vehicle stuck in ‘limp mode’ (usually second or third gear).
- ✔ Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light is illuminated.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) such as P0700, P0750, or other solenoid-related faults are present.
- ✔ The transmission refuses to upshift or downshift correctly.
- ✔ A noticeable drop in fuel economy.
- ✔ Complete loss of communication with the transmission module.
A Straightforward Guide to Your Cobalt TCM Installation
One of the best features of this module is its simple installation. You don’t need to be a professional mechanic to get this job done. For a Chevrolet Cobalt, the process is very 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 2006-2010 Cobalt, the TCM is typically found mounted on the driver’s side strut tower in the engine bay. It’s a silver metal box with electrical connectors.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unclip the wiring harness connectors. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket. Keep the hardware safe.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, VIN-programmed TCM using the original hardware. Securely plug in the wiring harnesses until they click into place.
- Reconnect and Verify: Reconnect the battery terminal. Start the vehicle and allow it to idle for a few minutes. If you have a basic scan tool, it’s good practice to clear any stored DTCs. Take the car for a test drive to confirm the shifting issues are resolved.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
While this is a perfect solution for the 2006-2010 Cobalt, this T42 TCM is also compatible with a wide range of other General Motors vehicles. It is interchangeable with part numbers 24252114, 24234503, 24241806, and more. Please verify your specific model and year below:
- Chevrolet Cobalt (2006-2010): Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- Chevrolet HHR (2006-2011): Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
- Chevrolet Impala (2006-2011): Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
- Chevrolet Malibu (2006-2010): Transmission; (LH frame rail)
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500/2500 (2007-2013): Transmission; (next to battery)
- Pontiac G5 (2007-2010): Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- Pontiac G6 (2006-2010): Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- Saturn Ion (2006-2007): Transmission; (behind LH strut tower)
- Saturn Aura (2007-2009): Transmission; (LH frame rail front)
- And many more GM, GMC, Buick, Cadillac, Hummer, and Saab models.
Do I need to take this part to a dealer for programming?
No. This module is delivered to you pre-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.
Where is the TCM located on my 2007 Chevy Cobalt?
On most 2006-2010 Chevrolet Cobalts, you will find the TCM in the engine compartment, bolted to the driver’s side (LH) strut tower.
Will this fix my transmission codes like P0700?
Yes, in most cases. Codes like P0700 indicate a general fault in the transmission control system. If the TCM itself is the source of the failure, replacing it with this programmed unit will resolve the code and the underlying shifting problems.
Is there a core charge for this part?
No, there is no core charge. You are not required to send your old, faulty module back to us, making the repair process simpler and faster.
What kind of warranty is included?
This part is backed by our one-year warranty, giving you peace of mind that you’re installing a quality, dependable component in your vehicle.