Restore Smooth Shifting to Your Chevrolet Impala
Is your 2006-2011 Chevy Impala suffering from harsh shifts, getting stuck in gear, or throwing transmission codes? You’re not alone. The Transmission Control Module (TCM) is the electronic brain of your automatic transmission, and when it fails, it can make your daily drive a frustrating and unpredictable experience. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen countless GM vehicles, especially the Impala, come into the shop with these exact symptoms. The cause is often a failing T42 TCM.
This isn’t a component you can ignore. A faulty TCM can lead to poor fuel economy, excessive wear on your transmission’s mechanical parts, and even leave you stranded. Our replacement 2006-2011 Impala TCM, part number 24235753, is the definitive, reliable solution. We pre-program each module to your car’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), making it a true plug-and-play fix. This eliminates the need for expensive dealership programming, saving you time and money.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A customer brought in their 2009 Impala with an intermittent problem: it would occasionally slam into gear when accelerating from a stop, but not always. They had no check engine light on. Other shops couldn’t replicate the issue. After a thorough test drive, I noticed a slight hesitation just before the harsh shift. Hooking up a professional scan tool, I monitored the solenoid command data in real-time. I saw the command for the 1-2 shift solenoid was dropping out sporadically, a classic sign of an internal TCM logic failure. We installed one of our VIN-programmed modules, and the problem was solved instantly. It’s a perfect example of how an electronic fault can mimic a mechanical one, and why a quality TCM is critical.
Is Your Impala Showing These Telltale Signs?
A failing TCM can manifest in several ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s a strong indicator that your module needs replacement:
- ✔ Harsh, erratic, or delayed 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 (Transmission Control System Malfunction), P0750, or other solenoid-specific codes.
- ✔ The transmission refuses to upshift or downshift correctly.
- ✔ A sudden drop in fuel efficiency.
- ✔ The torque converter fails to lock up at highway speeds, causing high RPMs.
DIY-Friendly Installation: Get Your Impala Shifting Smoothly
One of the best features of this part is how straightforward the installation is. For the 2006-2011 Impala, the TCM is conveniently located under the lower air cleaner housing. You can complete this job in your own garage in under 30 minutes with basic hand tools.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent electrical shorts and help reset the system.
- Locate the TCM: On your Impala, remove the air cleaner assembly to access the TCM mounted below it.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old module. 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 connectors. You’ll hear a click as they lock in.
- Final Steps: Reinstall the air cleaner assembly and reconnect the battery terminal. Start the vehicle and allow it to idle for a few minutes. While not always required, using a basic scan tool to clear any stored fault codes is good practice.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This T42 Transmission Control Module is a direct-fit replacement for a wide range of General Motors vehicles equipped with 4-speed automatic transmissions like the 4L60E, 4L65E, and 4L70E. While this page is focused on the 2006-2011 Impala TCM, it is also compatible with many other models. Please verify your part number or use our vehicle selector for a guaranteed fit. Key compatible models include:
- ✔ Chevrolet Impala (2006-2011) – located in lower air cleaner housing
- ✔ Chevrolet Monte Carlo (2006-2007)
- ✔ Buick LaCrosse / Allure (2006-2009)
- ✔ Pontiac Grand Prix (2006-2008)
- ✔ Chevrolet HHR (2006-2011)
- ✔ Chevrolet Cobalt / Pontiac G5 (2006-2010)
- ✔ And many more GM trucks, vans, and SUVs.
Do I need to program this 2006-2011 Impala TCM?
Do I need to program this 2006-2011 Impala TCM?
No. We handle the programming for you before shipment. Simply provide your vehicle’s VIN during checkout, and the module will arrive ready for immediate installation, saving you a trip to the dealership.
What is a TCM and what does it do?
The Transmission Control Module (TCM) is a computer that controls all the functions of your automatic transmission. It reads data from various sensors to determine the perfect time to shift gears, engage the torque converter, and adjust line pressure for smooth operation.
Will this fix a P0700 trouble code?
A P0700 code is a general fault code indicating the TCM has detected a problem. Often, replacing a faulty TCM will resolve the P0700 and any related specific codes (like for shift solenoids). However, you should always ensure the transmission’s wiring and solenoids are in good condition as well.
Where is the TCM located on a 2008 Chevy Impala?
For the 2006-2011 Chevrolet Impala, the TCM is located in the engine bay, situated directly underneath the air cleaner box assembly. This makes it relatively easy to access for replacement.
Is there a core charge for my old part?
No, we do not require a core charge. You can keep your old part, which simplifies the process and saves you the hassle and cost of return shipping.