Restore the Smooth, Confident Drive to Your Buick Lucerne
If you’re dealing with the frustration of a Buick Lucerne that slams into gear, refuses to shift, or is stuck in limp mode, you’re not alone. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen countless GM vehicles, including the 2006-2011 Lucerne, sidelined by a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM). The original T42 modules are notorious for developing internal faults over time, leading to a host of perplexing and concerning transmission behaviors. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a safety and reliability issue that can leave you stranded.
This is the definitive solution. We offer a high-quality, OEM-spec T42 Transmission Control Module, part number 24234274, that arrives at your door fully programmed to your vehicle’s specific VIN. This crucial step eliminates the need for expensive dealership visits for programming, making this a straightforward repair for both professional mechanics and determined DIYers. By replacing the faulty brain of your transmission, you’re not just fixing a symptom—you’re restoring the precise, factory-intended operation of your automatic transmission.
A Technician’s Notebook
I remember a 2008 Lucerne that came into the shop with a classic case of intermittent ‘no-upshift’ and a P0700 code. The owner had already replaced a shift solenoid with no luck. The problem would vanish for days, then return without warning. After checking the wiring harness for continuity, we focused on the TCM. On the bench, we found a hairline crack in a solder joint on the main processor—a common failure point caused by years of heat cycles and vibration. A new, pre-programmed TCM like this one had the car shifting perfectly in under an hour of shop time. It’s often the module itself, not the internal transmission parts, that’s the root cause.
Is Your Buick Exhibiting These Transmission Issues?
A failing TCM can manifest in several ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, a faulty module is the most likely culprit:
- ✔ Harsh, banging shifts or delayed gear engagement.
- ✔ The vehicle is stuck in a single gear (often 2nd or 3rd), known as “limp mode.”
- ✔ An illuminated Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) stored, such as P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction), P0750-P0758 (Shift Solenoid codes), or communication errors.
- ✔ Complete loss of shifting capability or erratic gear hunting.
- ✔ Poor fuel economy and a feeling of sluggish performance.
Replacing your failing module with our pre-programmed 2006-2011 Lucerne TCM is the most reliable way to resolve these problems permanently.
A Straightforward Guide to Your Lucerne TCM Installation
One of the best features of this part is its simple, plug-and-play installation. No complex wiring or programming is required. For the 2006-2011 Buick Lucerne, you’ll find the TCM in a very accessible location.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts and to help reset the system.
- Locate the Module: On your Lucerne, the TCM is typically found in the left-hand (driver’s side) of the engine compartment, often near the strut tower or under the air cleaner housing.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old TCM. Press the release tabs firmly. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed TCM into place. Reconnect the electrical connectors, ensuring they click securely into position.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. While the system often resets on its own, it’s good practice to use a basic OBD-II scan tool to clear any lingering fault codes from the vehicle’s memory. Start the car and enjoy your smooth-shifting transmission!
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This T42 TCM is a direct replacement for part number 24234274 and is interchangeable with several other service numbers. While this page focuses on the Buick Lucerne, it also fits a wide range of other GM vehicles. Please verify your part number or consult the list below.
- Buick Lucerne: 2006-2011 (LH engine compartment)
- Buick Allure / LaCrosse: 2006-2009 (lower air cleaner housing)
- Chevrolet Impala / Monte Carlo: 2006-2011 (lower air cleaner housing)
- Chevrolet Cobalt / HHR / Pontiac G5 / G6: 2006-2011 (LH strut tower)
- Chevrolet Silverado / GMC Sierra 1500/2500: 2007-2013 (next to battery)
- Chevrolet Tahoe / Suburban / GMC Yukon: 2007-2009 (next to battery)
- Cadillac DTS: 2006-2011 (RH front engine compartment)
- …and many other GM models as listed in the full fitment data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this module truly plug-and-play?
Yes. We program the module to the VIN you provide during checkout. This ensures it communicates perfectly with your vehicle’s other systems, like the Engine Control Module (ECM), right out of the box. No further programming is needed.
Do I need to send my old TCM back (core charge)?
No, there is absolutely no core charge. You can keep your old part or dispose of it, making the process faster and more convenient for you.
What tools do I need for installation on my Lucerne?
Installation is simple and requires only basic hand tools. A socket set to remove the mounting bolts and a flathead screwdriver to help with the connector tabs are typically all that’s needed. The entire process usually takes less than 30 minutes.
Will this part have the latest GM software?
Absolutely. During the programming process, we flash the module with the latest and most stable software updates available from General Motors for your specific vehicle. This helps correct many of the inherent issues found in the original factory programming.
What is the warranty on this part?
This Transmission Control Module is backed by our one-year, hassle-free warranty, giving you confidence and peace of mind in your repair.