Restore Your Buick’s Smooth Ride: The Definitive Fix for Shifting Problems
If you’re dealing with a 2006-2011 Buick Lucerne that’s shifting harshly, getting stuck in gear, or throwing transmission codes, you’ve come to the right place. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen countless GM vehicles, including the Lucerne, come into the shop with these exact symptoms. The culprit is almost always a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM). This isn’t just an annoyance; it’s a problem that affects your car’s reliability, fuel economy, and safety. This VIN-programmed T42 TCM, part number 24252114, is the direct, no-hassle solution to get your car driving like new again.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A customer brought in their 2008 Lucerne with an intermittent but severe issue: it would suddenly refuse to shift past 2nd gear, but only after driving for 20-30 minutes. No check engine light at first. We checked the fluid, scanned for codes (none stored), and everything seemed fine on a short test drive. The problem was heat-soak. After a longer drive, the internal circuits of the original TCM would fail, causing the limp mode. We replaced it with one of our VIN-programmed modules, and the problem was solved instantly. This pre-programmed unit saved the customer a tow to the dealer and hundreds in diagnostic and programming fees.
Is Your Buick Showing These Telltale Signs?
A failing TCM doesn’t always mean a complete transmission breakdown. Often, the signs are subtle at first. If your Lucerne is exhibiting any of these behaviors, the TCM is the most likely cause.
- ✔ Unpredictable, harsh, or delayed gear shifts.
- ✔ The vehicle is stuck in a single gear (often called “limp mode”).
- ✔ Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light is illuminated.
- ✔ Your scan tool shows Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) like P0700, P0750, or other solenoid-related faults.
- ✔ A noticeable drop in fuel efficiency.
- ✔ The transmission seems to slip out of gear or fails to engage properly from Park or Neutral.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
One of the best features of this module is that it’s designed for a straightforward DIY installation. Since we pre-program it to your car’s specific VIN, you don’t need any special tools or a trip to the dealership. For the 2006-2011 Lucerne TCM, the process is simple.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your car’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- Locate the Module: On the Buick Lucerne, the TCM is typically found in the left-hand (driver’s side) of the engine compartment.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. They have locking tabs, so be gentle. Then, unbolt the old module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New TCM: Bolt the new module in place and securely reconnect the electrical harnesses. You’ll hear a click when they’re properly seated.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. Start the vehicle and allow it to idle for a few minutes. If you have a basic scan tool, it’s good practice to clear any lingering codes from the system.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
While this part is a perfect match for the 2006-2011 Buick Lucerne, this versatile T42 TCM is also a direct-fit replacement for a wide range of other General Motors vehicles. Please confirm your model and location notes below.
This part will fit these makes and models with these options:
LUCERNE 06-07 Transmission; (4.6L), (LH engine compartment)
LUCERNE 08-11 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
ALLURE 06-09 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
AURA 07-09 Transmission; (LH frame rail front)
AVALANCHE 1500 07-08 Transmission; (next to battery)
CANYON 08-12 Transmission; (RH rear engine compartment)
COBALT 06-10 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
COLORADO 08-12 Transmission; (RH rear engine compartment)
DTS 06-11 Transmission; (RH front engine compartment)
ENVOY 06-07 Transmission; (LH engine compartment), (8 cylinder)
ENVOY 08-09 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
ENVOY XL 06 Transmission; (LH engine compartment), (8 cylinder)
EXPRESS 1500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
G5 07-10 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
G6 06-10 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
GRAND PRIX 06-08 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
HHR 06-11 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
HUMMER H3 08-10 Transmission; (RH rear engine compartment)
IMPALA 06-11 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
ION 06-07 Transmission; (behind LH strut tower)
LACROSSE 06-09 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
MALIBU 06-10 Transmission; (LH frame rail)
MONTE CARLO 06-07 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
MONTANA 06-09 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
PURSUIT 06 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
RAINIER 06-07 Transmission
RENDEZVOUS 06-07 Transmission; (air cleaner box)
SAAB 9-7X 06-09 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
SAVANA 1500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
SAVANA 2500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
SAVANA 3500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 07 Transmission; (new style, smooth door skin), (next to battery)
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 08 Transmission; (next to battery)
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 09-13 Transmission; (next to battery), w/o hybrid option
SIERRA 2500 PICKUP 07 Transmission; new style (smooth door skin), 6.0L, (next to battery)
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 07 Transmission; (new style, smooth door skin), (next to battery)
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 08 Transmission; (next to battery)
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 09-13 Transmission; (next to battery), w/o hybrid option
SILVERADO 2500 PICKUP 07 Transmission; new style (smooth door skin), 6.0L, (next to battery)
SSR 05-06 Transmission; (front LH frame)
SUBURBAN 1500 07-08 Transmission; (next to battery)
TAHOE 07 Transmission; (next to battery)
TAHOE 08-09 Transmission; (next to battery), w/o auxiliary oil cooler pump
TERRAZA 06-07 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
TRAILBLAZER 06-07 Transmission; (LH engine compartment), (8 cylinder)
TRAILBLAZER 08-09 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
TRAILBLAZER EXT 06 Transmission; (LH engine compartment), (8 cylinder)
UPLANDER 06-09 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
VUE 07-08 Transmission; 2.4L, (LH front engine compartment)
VUE 09 Transmission; 2.4L, w/hybrid, LH side front engine compartment, (shift control)
VUE 09 Transmission; 2.4L, w/o hybrid; (LH front engine compartment)
VUE 10 Transmission
YUKON 07 Transmission; (next to battery)
YUKON 08 Transmission; (next to battery), w/o auxiliary oil cooler control
YUKON 09 Transmission; (next to battery), w/o auxiliary oil cooler pump
YUKON XL 1500 07-08 Transmission; (next to battery)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to get this module programmed by a dealer?
Absolutely not. We handle all the programming here before we ship the module. Just provide your vehicle’s VIN during checkout, and it will arrive ready for plug-and-play installation.
Will this fix a P0700 trouble code?
Yes, in most cases. The P0700 code is a general fault code indicating the TCM has detected a problem. Replacing a faulty TCM with this pre-programmed unit will typically resolve the underlying issue causing the P0700 code.
Is this a difficult part for a DIYer to install?
Not at all. For the Buick Lucerne, it’s located in an accessible spot in the engine bay. With basic hand tools and about 30 minutes, most people can complete this job in their own driveway.
What is your warranty policy?
We stand behind our parts. This transmission control module comes with a one-year warranty, giving you confidence and peace of mind in your repair.
Do I need to send my old part back?
No, there is no core charge for this part. You can keep your old module or dispose of it, saving you the hassle and cost of return shipping.
Does this part number 24252114 interchange with others?
Yes, this T42 module is a direct replacement for several other GM service numbers, including 24234503, 24242391, 24256960, and others listed in the product details.