Is your 2006-2011 Chevrolet Impala suffering from erratic shifting, getting stuck in gear, or throwing transmission-related codes? You’re not alone. As a technician with over two decades of diagnostic experience, I’ve seen countless GM vehicles come into the shop with these exact symptoms. The culprit is often a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM), the electronic brain that governs your automatic transmission’s performance.
This T42 Transmission Control Module, part number 24252114, is the definitive solution for restoring your Impala’s factory-smooth shifting and reliability. We take the guesswork and high dealership costs out of the equation by pre-programming each module to your vehicle’s specific VIN. This means it arrives at your door ready for a true plug-and-play installation, with no expensive scan tools or dealer visits required. It’s designed to directly address the root cause of many frustrating transmission problems, getting you back on the road with confidence.
From the Diagnostic Bay: A Common Impala Scenario
I remember a 2009 Impala that came in with a classic complaint: harsh 1-2 shifts and occasionally getting stuck in 3rd gear (limp mode). The owner had already spent money replacing a shift solenoid based on a generic P0750-series code, but the problem persisted. After a quick data stream check, I saw erratic commands coming from the TCM. The internal circuitry had failed—a common issue from heat cycles and age. We installed a VIN-programmed module just like this one, and the car shifted perfectly on the first test drive. This part prevents you from chasing symptoms and lets you fix the core problem the first time.
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 attention:
- ✔ Harsh, jerky, or delayed gear shifts.
- ✔ The vehicle is stuck in a single gear (often called ‘limp mode’).
- ✔ An illuminated Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) stored in the system, such as P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction) or other solenoid-related codes.
- ✔ A sudden drop in fuel economy.
- ✔ The transmission seems to slip out of gear.
A DIY-Friendly Installation for Your 2006-2011 Impala TCM
One of the best features of this module is its straightforward installation. For the 2006-2011 Impala, the process is simple enough for a confident DIYer to complete in their own driveway.
- Safety First: Before you begin, disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery. This prevents any electrical shorts and helps reset the vehicle’s electronic systems.
- Locate the Module: On your Impala, the TCM is conveniently located under the lower air cleaner housing in the engine bay. You will need to remove the air cleaner assembly to access it.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old TCM. 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. Ensure they click into place.
- 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 necessary, using a basic scan tool to clear any old codes is a good final step.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This T42 TCM is a direct replacement for a wide range of General Motors vehicles equipped with 4-speed automatic transmissions like the 4L60E and 4L65E. While it is guaranteed to fit the 2006-2011 Chevrolet Impala, it also fits many other models. This module is interchangeable with part numbers 24234503, 24230461, 24252114, and more.
A few compatible models include:
- ✔ Chevrolet Impala (2006-2011)
- ✔ Chevrolet Monte Carlo (2006-2007)
- ✔ Chevrolet HHR & Cobalt (2006-2011)
- ✔ Buick LaCrosse & Allure (2006-2009)
- ✔ Pontiac G6 & Grand Prix (2006-2010)
- ✔ Many Silverado, Tahoe, Sierra, and Yukon models.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Transmission Control Module (TCM) do?
The TCM is a computer that acts as the brain for your automatic transmission. It receives data from various sensors on the engine and vehicle, and uses that information to control when the transmission shifts gears, when the torque converter locks up, and overall transmission performance for optimal efficiency and smoothness.
Why is VIN programming so important?
VIN programming loads your vehicle’s specific software and calibrations onto the module before it ships. This ensures the TCM works perfectly with your Impala’s engine, tire size, and gear ratios right out of the box. It eliminates the need for a costly trip to the dealership for programming, making it a true plug-and-play repair.
Is this part difficult to install on my Impala?
No, for the 2006-2011 Impala, this is considered a straightforward job for someone with basic mechanical skills. The module is located under the air cleaner box, and with common hand tools, it can typically be swapped in under 30 minutes.
What happens if I ignore a failing TCM?
Continuing to drive with a faulty TCM can lead to more severe problems. Poor shifting can cause premature wear on internal transmission components like clutches and bands, potentially leading to a complete transmission failure that is far more expensive to repair. It can also be a safety hazard if the car fails to accelerate or gets stuck in gear in traffic.
Do I need to return my old TCM?
No, there is no core charge or requirement to send your old part back to us. You can dispose of it responsibly at your convenience.