If your 2006-2010 Chevrolet Malibu is suffering from unpredictable shifting, getting stuck in gear, or has a persistent check engine light, a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM) is the most likely culprit. As a mechanic with over two decades of diagnostic experience, I’ve seen countless GM vehicles, especially sedans like the Malibu, come into the shop with these exact symptoms. The T42 TCM is the electronic brain of your automatic transmission, and when it fails, it can cause frustrating and potentially unsafe driving conditions. This isn’t just a part; it’s the solution to restoring your car’s reliability and smooth performance.
This replacement TCM, part number 24239224, is the definitive fix for these widespread issues. We take the guesswork and high dealership costs out of the equation. Before we ship it, we program the module to your vehicle’s specific VIN, loading the latest GM software updates. This ensures it communicates perfectly with your car’s engine computer and other systems right out of the box. You get a plug-and-play solution that resolves common Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and restores the crisp, precise shifting you expect from your Malibu.
Is Your Malibu Showing These Transmission Warning Signs?
- ✔️ Harsh, slamming, or erratic gear changes.
- ✔️ The vehicle is stuck in “limp mode” (often 2nd or 3rd gear).
- ✔️ Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light is on with codes like P0700, P0750, or other solenoid-related faults.
- ✔️ Delayed engagement when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse.
- ✔️ Failure to upshift or downshift properly, leading to poor acceleration and fuel economy.
- ✔️ Intermittent loss of communication with the TCM, causing unpredictable behavior.
Case Study: The Ghost in the Transmission
A customer brought in a 2009 Malibu complaining of intermittent, violent shifts that no one could pinpoint. The issue would vanish for days, then return without warning. After checking the fluid and solenoids, which appeared fine, we suspected the TCM. The original module wasn’t throwing consistent codes, making diagnosis a headache. We installed one of our VIN-programmed T42 modules, and the problem was solved instantly. The underlying cause was a hairline crack in the TCM’s circuit board, a common failure point I’ve seen on hundreds of these units due to heat cycles and vibration. This replacement provides a permanent fix.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the 2006-2010 Malibu TCM is a job most DIYers can handle in their driveway in under 30 minutes. For this specific model, the module is typically located on the driver’s side frame rail, making it accessible from underneath the vehicle or within the engine bay.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your car’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts and to help reset the vehicle’s computer systems.
- Locate the TCM: Find the module on the LH (driver’s side) frame rail. It’s a silver box with electrical connectors.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical harnesses. 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. Ensure they click into place.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. While our programming handles the critical setup, it’s always a good practice to use a basic OBD2 scan tool to clear any stored fault codes from the vehicle’s memory. Start the car and enjoy smooth shifting!
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This T42 TCM is a direct replacement for part number 24239224 and is interchangeable with many other service numbers. While this page focuses on the Malibu, it also fits a wide range of other GM vehicles. Please verify your part number or contact us with your VIN to ensure perfect fitment.
This part will fit these makes and models with these options
MALIBU 06-10 Transmission; (LH frame rail)
ENVOY 08-09 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
SAVANA 3500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
VUE 07-08 Transmission; 2.4L, (LH front engine compartment)
G5 07-10 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 07 Transmission; (new style, smooth door skin), (next to battery)
LUCERNE 06-07 Transmission; (4.6L), (LH engine compartment)
VUE 09 Transmission; 2.4L, w/hybrid, LH side front engine compartment, (shift control)
VUE 10 Transmission
TAHOE 08-09 Transmission; (next to battery), w/o auxiliary oil cooler pump
YUKON XL 1500 07-08 Transmission; (next to battery)
AURA 07-09 Transmission; (LH frame rail front)
RENDEZVOUS 06-07 Transmission; (air cleaner box)
SAAB 9-7X 06-09 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
SAVANA 2500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
ALLURE 06-09 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
LUCERNE 08-11 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
RAINIER 06-07 Transmission
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 07 Transmission; (new style, smooth door skin), (next to battery)
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 09-13 Transmission; (next to battery), w/o hybrid option
YUKON 09 Transmission; (next to battery), w/o auxiliary oil cooler pump
ENVOY 06-07 Transmission; (LH engine compartment), (8 cylinder)
MONTE CARLO 06-07 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
YUKON 08 Transmission; (next to battery), w/o auxiliary oil cooler control
EXPRESS 1500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
SSR 05-06 Transmission; (front LH frame)
SAVANA 1500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 09-13 Transmission; (next to battery), w/o hybrid option
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
ION 06-07 Transmission; (behind LH strut tower)
PURSUIT 06 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
TAHOE 07 Transmission; (next to battery)
ENVOY XL 06 Transmission; (LH engine compartment), (8 cylinder)
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
IMPALA 06-11 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
MONTANA 06-09 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
TRAILBLAZER 08-09 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
YUKON 07 Transmission; (next to battery)
G6 06-10 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
HHR 06-11 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
TRAILBLAZER 06-07 Transmission; (LH engine compartment), (8 cylinder)
AVALANCHE 1500 07-08 Transmission; (next to battery)
COBALT 06-10 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 08 Transmission; (next to battery)
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 08 Transmission; (next to battery)
LACROSSE 06-09 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
SIERRA 2500 PICKUP 07 Transmission; new style (smooth door skin), 6.0L, (next to battery)
SILVERADO 2500 PICKUP 07 Transmission; new style (smooth door skin), 6.0L, (next to battery)
COLORADO 08-12 Transmission; (RH rear engine compartment)
SUBURBAN 1500 07-08 Transmission; (next to battery)
VUE 09 Transmission; 2.4L, w/o hybrid; (LH front engine compartment)
CANYON 08-12 Transmission; (RH rear engine compartment)
DTS 06-11 Transmission; (RH front engine compartment)
GRAND PRIX 06-08 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
HUMMER H3 08-10 Transmission; (RH rear engine compartment)
TERRAZA 06-07 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
TRAILBLAZER EXT 06 Transmission; (LH engine compartment), (8 cylinder)
UPLANDER 06-09 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this 2006-2010 Malibu TCM require additional programming?
No. We program the module to your car’s VIN before shipping. It arrives ready for installation with no need for a trip to the dealership or a specialized scan tool for setup.
What tools do I need for installation?
Basic hand tools are all that’s required: a socket set to remove the mounting bolts and a wrench for the battery terminal. No specialized equipment is needed.
Will this fix a P0700 transmission code?
Yes. A P0700 code indicates a general fault in the transmission control system, and it’s very often triggered by a failing TCM. Replacing the module is the correct repair in most of these cases.
Is there a core charge for my old part?
No, there is no core charge. You can keep your old part or recycle it locally, saving you the time and hassle of a return shipment.