Restore Your Buick’s Smooth, Confident Ride
There’s nothing more frustrating than when a comfortable car like your 2006-2011 Buick Lucerne starts acting up. The harsh shifting, delayed gear engagement, or sudden lurching can make every drive stressful. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen countless owners worry they’re facing a massive transmission rebuild bill. The good news? In many cases, the culprit isn’t the complex mechanicals of your transmission, but a faulty electronic brain: the Transmission Control Module (TCM).
This T42 TCM, corresponding to part number 24240449, is the definitive solution for these common electronic failures. It’s the central command unit for your automatic transmission, responsible for managing shift solenoids, monitoring speeds, and ensuring every gear change is seamless. When it fails, the symptoms can be dramatic, but the fix doesn’t have to be. We make it simple by pre-programming this module to your vehicle’s specific VIN, so it’s ready for installation right out of the box—no dealership visit required.
From the Diagnostic Bay
I remember a 2008 Lucerne that came into my shop. The owner was convinced his transmission was shot. It was slamming into gear and occasionally wouldn’t shift past 2nd. Another shop had quoted him over $3,000 for a transmission replacement. I hooked up my scanner and saw a classic P0752 code (Shift Solenoid ‘A’ Stuck On). While this can be a solenoid issue, experience told me to check the TCM first. The T42 modules in these platforms are known to develop internal faults that send incorrect signals. We swapped in a VIN-programmed TCM, and in under an hour, the car was shifting like it just left the factory. It’s a prime example of how this one part can save you thousands in unnecessary repairs.
Is Your Buick Lucerne Showing These Transmission Faults?
- ✔ Harsh, banging, or erratic gear shifts.
- ✔ The vehicle feels stuck in one gear (often called “limp mode”).
- ✔ Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light is on with codes like P0700, P0750, P0752, or other solenoid-related DTCs.
- ✔ Delayed engagement when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse.
- ✔ Poor acceleration and decreased fuel economy.
- ✔ Complete loss of communication with the TCM, preventing shifting.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
For the average DIYer, replacing the 2006-2011 Lucerne TCM is a very manageable job that typically takes less than 30 minutes. The module is conveniently located in the engine bay, usually on the driver’s side near the air cleaner housing.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before beginning work. This prevents electrical shorts and helps reset the vehicle’s computer systems.
- Locate the Module: On the Lucerne, find the TCM mounted in the left-hand (driver’s side) of the engine compartment. It will have several large electrical connectors attached.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical harnesses. They have locking tabs that need to be released. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New TCM: Mount the new, pre-programmed module in place and securely fasten the bolts. Reconnect the electrical harnesses, ensuring they click into place.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. While our programming handles the critical setup, it’s always best practice to use a basic OBD2 scan tool to clear any stored fault codes from the vehicle’s memory. Start the car and take it for a test drive to confirm the smooth shifting performance.
Confirmed Fitment for Your General Motors Vehicle
This T42 TCM is a direct replacement for part number 24240449 and is interchangeable with a wide range of other service numbers. While this page focuses on the 2006-2011 Lucerne TCM, this module also fits many other GM cars, trucks, and SUVs from this era. Please verify your part number or use our vehicle selector to ensure perfect compatibility.