Get Your Impala Shifting Smoothly Again
If you’re dealing with the frustration of a Chevrolet Impala that shifts harshly, gets stuck in gear, or throws transmission-related check engine lights, you’ve come to the right place. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM) can bring an otherwise reliable car to a standstill. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a critical failure that compromises performance and safety. This T42 TCM, part number 24234274, is the definitive, hassle-free solution for your 2006-2011 Impala.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Common Impala TCM Failure
A 2009 Impala came into my bay last month with classic symptoms: it would slam into Drive and refuse to shift past 2nd gear on the highway. The dash was lit up with a Check Engine light, and my scan tool pulled a P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction). After checking the basics—fluid level and condition—I went straight for the TCM. These modules, often located under the air cleaner box, are subjected to constant heat cycles and vibration. Over 100,000 miles, this can cause microscopic cracks in the solder joints on the circuit board, leading to intermittent or total failure. This isn’t a mechanical problem; it’s an electronic one. Replacing it with this pre-programmed unit solved the customer’s problem in under an hour, saving them a costly trip to the dealership.
Is Your Impala Exhibiting These Transmission Woes?
A faulty TCM can manifest in several ways. If you’re noticing any of the following, it’s highly likely your module is the culprit. This is the first step in diagnosing a need for a replacement 2006-2011 Impala TCM.
- ✔ Harsh, banging shifts or delayed gear engagement.
- ✔ Vehicle is stuck in “limp mode” (usually 2nd or 3rd gear).
- ✔ Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light is on.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are present, such as P0700, P0750-P0758 (solenoid codes), or communication errors.
- ✔ Inconsistent shifting, poor acceleration, and decreased fuel economy.
- ✔ Complete loss of communication with the TCM, preventing the vehicle from starting or shifting out of Park.
DIY-Friendly Installation: A 30-Minute Fix
One of the best features of this module is that it arrives programmed to your Impala’s specific VIN. This eliminates the need for expensive dealership programming, making it a perfect job for a DIY enthusiast or independent shop. For the 2006-2011 Impala, the TCM is located under the lower air cleaner housing.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts and to help reset the system.
- Access the Module: Remove the air cleaner assembly to gain clear access to the TCM. It will be mounted with a few small bolts.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unclip the electrical connectors from the old module. Use a small flathead screwdriver if the clips are stubborn, but be gentle. Once disconnected, unbolt and remove the old TCM.
- Install the New TCM: Mount the new module in place and tighten the bolts. Reconnect the electrical connectors, ensuring they click securely into place.
- Reassemble and Finalize: Reinstall the air cleaner assembly. Reconnect the battery terminal. Start the vehicle and use a basic OBD2 scanner to clear any lingering fault codes. Your Impala is ready for a test drive!
Verified Fitment for Your Vehicle
This module is a direct-fit replacement for the 2006-2011 Impala TCM. It is also compatible with a wide range of other General Motors vehicles that use the T42 controller, ensuring broad applicability and OEM-level function. Please verify your vehicle in the list below.
- Chevrolet Impala: 2006-2011 (Transmission; lower air cleaner housing)
- Chevrolet Models: Avalanche 1500 (07-08), Cobalt (06-10), Colorado (08-12), Express Vans (06-14), HHR (06-11), Malibu (06-10), Monte Carlo (06-07), Silverado (07-13), SSR (05-06), Suburban 1500 (07-08), Tahoe (07-09)
- GMC Models: Canyon (08-12), Envoy (06-09), Savana Vans (06-14), Sierra (07-13), Yukon / Yukon XL (07-09)
- Buick / Cadillac Models: Allure (06-09), LaCrosse (06-09), Lucerne (06-11), Rainier (06-07), Rendezvous (06-07), DTS (06-11)
- Pontiac / Saturn / Other Models: G5 (07-10), G6 (06-10), Grand Prix (06-08), Pursuit (06), Aura (07-09), Ion (06-07), Vue (07-10), Hummer H3 (08-10), Saab 9-7X (06-09), Montana (06-09), Terraza (06-07), Uplander (06-09)
Do I need to take this part to a dealer for programming?
Do I need to take this part to a dealer for programming?
No. We program the module to your vehicle’s VIN before it ships. This makes the installation plug-and-play, saving you the time and expense of a dealership visit.
Is this a new or used part?
This is a high-quality, OEM-standard replacement part, built to meet or exceed original specifications and backed by our one-year warranty for your peace of mind.
What tools do I need for the installation?
For a Chevy Impala, you will typically only need basic hand tools, such as a socket set to remove the air cleaner housing and the module’s mounting bolts, and possibly a small flathead screwdriver for the electrical connector clips.
Do I need to send my old TCM back (core charge)?
No, there is no core charge for this part. You can keep or dispose of your old module without the hassle of returning it.