Restore Smooth Shifting to Your Chevrolet HHR
If your 2006-2011 Chevy HHR is suffering from jerky shifting, getting stuck in gear, or has an illuminated check engine light, a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM) is the likely culprit. As a mechanic with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen how a faulty TCM can make a perfectly good car feel unreliable and frustrating to drive. This isn’t just an annoyance; it affects your vehicle’s performance, fuel economy, and safety. This OEM-quality T42 TCM, part number 24235732, is the definitive solution to get your HHR driving like new again.
The biggest headache with replacing electronic modules is the need for expensive dealership programming. We eliminate that problem entirely. By providing your vehicle’s VIN at checkout, we program the module specifically for your car. This means when it arrives, it’s a true plug-and-play part. You can bypass the dealer, save hundreds of dollars in programming fees, and get your vehicle back on the road faster. This is the same reliable fix I’d perform in my own service bay for a customer’s vehicle.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The HHR That Wouldn’t Shift
A customer brought in a 2009 HHR with a classic complaint: it would randomly refuse to shift past 2nd gear, and the transmission warning light was on. They’d already replaced a shift solenoid with no luck. A quick scan showed a P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction) and an intermittent solenoid circuit code. Instead of just throwing more parts at it, we checked the TCM wiring and found it was fine. Experience told me the logic board inside the original TCM was failing, causing it to send erratic signals. We installed a VIN-programmed 2006-2011 HHR TCM, cleared the codes, and the car shifted perfectly on the test drive. The customer was thrilled to have a simple, permanent fix.
Is Your HHR Showing These Transmission Faults?
A failing TCM sends clear warning signs. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s time to consider a replacement:
- âś” Harsh, slamming, or delayed gear shifts.
- âś” Vehicle is stuck in “limp mode” (usually 2nd or 3rd gear).
- âś” Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light is on.
- âś” Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are present, such as P0700, P0750, P0753, P0758, or other solenoid-related faults.
- âś” The transmission refuses to upshift or downshift properly.
- âś” A noticeable drop in fuel efficiency.
- âś” Intermittent loss of communication with the scan tool.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
For the Chevy HHR, this is a job most DIYers can handle in under 30 minutes with basic hand tools. The 2006-2011 HHR TCM is conveniently located, making for a quick swap.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent electrical shorts and help reset the system.
- Locate the Module: On the 2006-2011 HHR, the TCM is found in the engine compartment, typically on the driver’s side (LH) near the strut tower.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the wiring harness connectors. Then, unbolt the old module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New TCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed module in place and securely fasten the bolts. Reconnect the wiring harnesses, ensuring they click into place.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. While the module is plug-and-play, it’s best practice to use a basic OBD2 scanner to clear any stored fault codes from the vehicle’s memory.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This T42 TCM is a direct replacement for part number 24235732 and is interchangeable with many other GM service numbers. While it is the correct part for the 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR, it also fits a wide range of other GM vehicles. Please verify your part number or use our vehicle fitment tool to ensure compatibility.
- Chevrolet HHR (2006-2011) – Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
- Chevrolet Cobalt (2006-2010) – Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- Pontiac G5 / G6 (2006-2010) – Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- Saturn Ion (2006-2007) – Transmission; (behind LH strut tower)
- And many more GM models from 2006-2014.
What does ‘VIN Programmed’ actually mean for me?
What does ‘VIN Programmed’ actually mean for me?
It means the module arrives ready for immediate installation. We flash it with your vehicle’s specific VIN and the latest GM software before shipping. This makes it a true plug-and-play part, saving you a trip to the dealership and avoiding hundreds of dollars in programming fees.
Where is the TCM located on a 2006-2011 Chevy HHR?
On the Chevrolet HHR for these model years, the Transmission Control Module is located in the engine bay, on the left-hand (driver’s) side, typically mounted near the strut tower. It’s relatively easy to access.
Will this part fix a P0700 trouble code?
A P0700 code is a general fault code indicating the TCM has detected a problem. While this module often resolves the issue (especially when paired with other transmission codes), you should ensure other potential causes like wiring or solenoids have been ruled out. In our experience, a faulty TCM is the most common cause.
Is this a difficult part for a DIYer to replace?
Not at all. Thanks to the accessible location on the HHR and our pre-programming service, this is one of the easier electronic module replacements. If you can use a basic socket wrench and disconnect a battery, you can do this job yourself in under an hour.
Do I need to send my old TCM back?
No, there is no core charge or need to return your old part. You can dispose of it or keep it, making the process hassle-free for you.