Restore the Smooth, Confident Ride of Your Buick Lucerne
Is your 2006-2011 Buick Lucerne suffering from jarring shifts, getting stuck in gear, or throwing transmission warning lights? As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen countless drivers frustrated by these exact issues. Often, the culprit isn’t the transmission itself, but a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM). This T42 TCM, part number 24235340, is the definitive solution, designed to restore the precise, reliable performance you expect from your Buick.
The TCM is the brain of your automatic transmission, managing everything from shift points and line pressure to torque converter lockup. When it fails, communication breaks down, leading to the erratic behavior you’re experiencing. Our modules are meticulously prepared and programmed to your vehicle’s specific VIN, ensuring they work perfectly right out of the box. This eliminates the need for an expensive and time-consuming trip to the dealership for programming, getting you back on the road faster.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A customer brought in a 2008 Buick Lucerne with a complaint of intermittent, harsh 1-2 shifts and occasionally getting stuck in 3rd gear (limp mode). They had already replaced a shift solenoid at another shop, but the problem persisted. My scan tool pulled a general P0700 code. Instead of just throwing more parts at it, I monitored the TCM data stream. I noticed the command signals from the TCM were dropping out randomly, even though the solenoids themselves tested fine. This pointed directly to an internal fault in the module. We installed one of our VIN-programmed T42 modules, and the car has been shifting flawlessly ever since. It’s a classic case where the root cause was electronic, not mechanical.
Is Your Buick Showing These Symptoms?
A failing TCM can manifest in several ways. If you’re noticing any of the following, it’s a strong indicator that your module needs replacement:
- ✔ Harsh, delayed, or unpredictable gear shifts.
- ✔ The vehicle is stuck in a single gear (often called “limp mode”).
- ✔ Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light is illuminated.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) such as P0700, P0750, or other solenoid-related faults are present.
- ✔ Poor fuel economy due to inefficient shifting.
- ✔ Complete loss of communication with the transmission.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
For the 2006-2011 Lucerne TCM, the replacement process is simple enough for a confident DIYer. The module is typically located in the left-hand (driver’s side) engine compartment. You can have this done in under 30 minutes.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- Locate the Module: Find the TCM in the LH engine compartment. It’s a silver box with electrical connectors.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unclip the wiring harnesses. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket and remove it.
- Install the New Module: Mount the new, VIN-programmed TCM in the same location. Secure the bolts and firmly reconnect the wiring harnesses until they click into place.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. While our programming handles the critical setup, it’s always a good practice to use a basic scan tool to clear any stored fault codes from the vehicle’s memory.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for part number 24235340 and other service numbers. It is guaranteed to fit the following models, among others:
- Buick Lucerne: 2006-2011 (LH engine compartment)
- Buick Allure / LaCrosse: 2006-2009 (lower air cleaner housing)
- Chevrolet Impala: 2006-2011 (lower air cleaner housing)
- Chevrolet Silverado / GMC Sierra: 2007-2013 (next to battery, check options)
- Chevrolet Tahoe / GMC Yukon: 2007-2009 (next to battery, check options)
- Cadillac DTS: 2006-2011 (RH front engine compartment)
- Pontiac G6 / Grand Prix: 2006-2010 (LH strut tower / lower air cleaner housing)
- And many more GM vehicles. Please verify fitment using our tool or by matching your original part number.
What does “VIN Programmed” mean for me?
What does “VIN Programmed” mean for me?
It means we flash the module with your vehicle’s unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and the latest GM software before we ship it. This makes the installation plug-and-play, saving you from a mandatory, costly programming session at a dealership.
Do I need to send my old TCM back?
No, there is no core charge for this part. You can keep your old module or dispose of it responsibly without any hassle or extra fees.
Will this fix a P0700 trouble code?
A P0700 code is a general fault code indicating the TCM has detected a problem. In many cases, a faulty TCM is the source of the P0700 code itself. Replacing a failing module with our pre-programmed unit is a very common and effective fix for this issue.
Is this an OEM part?
This is a high-quality replacement part built to meet or exceed original equipment manufacturer (OEM) standards for performance and durability. It is backed by our one-year warranty for your peace of mind.
How do I find the TCM on my 2007 Lucerne?
On the 2006-2011 Buick Lucerne, the Transmission Control Module is located in the engine bay, on the driver’s side (LH side). It is typically mounted near the strut tower or inner fender.