Restore Smooth, Reliable Shifting to Your Chevy HHR
If you’re dealing with the frustration of a Chevrolet HHR that bangs into gear, refuses to shift, or is stuck in limp mode, you’re not alone. After 20 years of diagnosing these issues, I’ve seen countless cases where the culprit is a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM). This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a safety concern. This high-quality, VIN-programmed T42 TCM is the definitive solution for your 2006-2011 HHR TCM, designed to restore your vehicle’s performance and your peace of mind without a costly trip to the dealership.
The TCM is the brain of your automatic transmission, constantly managing shift points, torque converter lockup, and line pressure. When it fails, communication breaks down, leading to the erratic behavior you’re experiencing. Our module, part number 24255280, arrives pre-programmed with your vehicle’s specific VIN and the latest GM software updates. This means it’s a true plug-and-play fix that corrects common software glitches and hardware failures right out of the box.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Overlooked HHR Shifting Culprit
I remember a 2009 HHR that came into my shop with classic transmission symptoms: intermittent harsh 1-2 shifts and a recurring P0700 code. The owner had already spent money replacing a shift solenoid with no improvement. The problem was, the issue was electrical, not mechanical. Heat and vibration in the HHR’s engine bay had taken their toll on the original TCM’s delicate internal circuits. We swapped in a VIN-programmed module, cleared the codes, and the car drove off shifting as smoothly as the day it left the factory. It’s a reminder that often, the brain is the problem, not the muscle.
Is Your HHR Showing These Transmission Warning Signs?
A faulty TCM can manifest in several ways. If you notice any of the following, it’s a strong indicator that your 2006-2011 HHR TCM needs replacement:
- ✔ Harsh, slamming, or erratic gear shifts.
- ✔ The vehicle is stuck in one gear (often called “limp mode”).
- ✔ Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light is illuminated.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are present, such as P0700, P0750, or other solenoid-related faults.
- ✔ Delayed engagement when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse.
- ✔ Poor acceleration and decreased fuel economy.
- ✔ Complete loss of communication with the transmission.
Quick & Easy HHR TCM Installation Guide
You don’t need to be a professional mechanic to install this part. The process is straightforward and can be completed in under 30 minutes with basic hand tools. For the 2006-2011 HHR, the TCM is conveniently located in the left-hand (driver’s side) engine compartment.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent electrical shorts and reset the onboard systems.
- Locate the Module: Find the TCM in the LH engine compartment. It’s a silver box with electrical connectors.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the wiring harness connectors. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket and remove it from the vehicle.
- Install the New TCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed TCM onto the bracket and securely tighten the bolts. Reconnect the wiring harnesses, ensuring they click into place.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. While the module is plug-and-play, it’s always best practice to use a basic OBD2 scan tool to clear any stored fault codes from the vehicle’s memory.
Verified Fitment for Your Vehicle
This T42 Transmission Control Module is a direct replacement for part number 24255280 and is interchangeable with many other GM service numbers. While it is the perfect solution for your 2006-2011 HHR TCM, it also fits a wide range of other GM vehicles. Please confirm your model and location below:
- HHR 06-11 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
- ALLURE 06-09 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
- AURA 07-09 Transmission; (LH frame rail front)
- AVALANCHE 1500 07-08 Transmission; (next to battery)
- CANYON 08-12 Transmission; (RH rear engine compartment)
- COBALT 06-10 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- 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)
- 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)
- PURSUIT 06 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; (LH front engine compartment)
- YUKON & YUKON XL 07-09 Transmission; (next to battery)
What does a VIN-programmed TCM mean for me?
What does a VIN-programmed TCM mean for me?
It means the module arrives ready for installation with no extra steps. We load your vehicle’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and the latest GM software onto the module before shipping. This ensures perfect communication with your vehicle’s other computers, eliminating the need for an expensive programming session at a dealership.
Where is the TCM located on a 2006-2011 Chevy HHR?
On the Chevrolet HHR models from 2006 to 2011, the Transmission Control Module is found in the engine bay, specifically mounted on the driver’s side (LH) of the engine compartment.
Will this part fix a P0700 trouble code?
Yes, very often. The P0700 code is a general fault code indicating the TCM has detected a problem. While it can be triggered by other issues, a failing TCM is a primary cause. Replacing the module with this pre-programmed unit frequently resolves the root cause of the P0700 code and any related specific solenoid or sensor codes.
Do I need to return my old TCM? Is there a core charge?
No, there is no core charge for this part. You can keep your old module or dispose of it, making the process simple and hassle-free.