Restore Smooth, Reliable Shifting to Your Buick Lucerne
Is your 2006-2011 Buick Lucerne suffering from frustrating transmission problems like harsh shifting, delayed gear engagement, or getting stuck in limp mode? Before you condemn the entire transmission—a costly and labor-intensive job—consider the component I’ve seen fail most often in my 20+ years of diagnostics: the Transmission Control Module (TCM). This replacement T42 TCM, part number 24255280, is the definitive solution to restore your vehicle’s performance. It arrives expertly programmed to your car’s specific VIN, eliminating the need for expensive dealership visits and making this a true plug-and-play repair.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
I recently had a 2009 Buick Lucerne in the shop with a complaint that stumped another mechanic. The car would shift perfectly when cold, but after 20 minutes of driving, it would bang into gear and occasionally throw a generic P0700 transmission fault code. The previous shop wanted to rebuild the transmission. I suspected the TCM. On these GM vehicles, heat soak is a major enemy of the TCM’s internal electronics. As the module, located in the hot engine bay, warmed up, internal connections would fail, causing erratic signals to the solenoids. We swapped in a VIN-programmed TCM, and the problem was solved instantly. It’s a classic failure pattern that highlights why replacing the module is often the correct first step.
Is Your Buick Lucerne Exhibiting These Transmission Issues?
A failing TCM can manifest in numerous ways that are often misdiagnosed as mechanical transmission failure. If you’re experiencing any of the following, this module is your likely solution:
- ✔ Sudden, harsh, or jerky gear shifts.
- ✔ The vehicle is stuck in a single gear (limp mode), often 2nd or 3rd.
- ✔ Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light is illuminated with codes like P0700, P0750, or other solenoid-related faults.
- ✔ Failure to upshift or downshift properly, leading to poor acceleration.
- ✔ A noticeable drop in fuel economy due to inefficient shifting.
- ✔ Complete loss of communication with the transmission.
Why Choose Our Pre-Programmed TCM?
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete repair solution designed for both professional technicians and DIY enthusiasts. Our 2006-2011 Lucerne TCM is the smart choice for a lasting fix.
- ✔ VIN-Programmed for You: We load your vehicle’s VIN and the latest GM software updates before shipping. This ensures perfect communication between the engine and transmission for optimal shift points and performance, with no extra programming required.
- ✔ OEM-Standard Reliability: Built to meet or exceed original equipment specifications, this module is engineered for durability and longevity, giving you confidence in your repair.
- ✔ Cost-Effective Repair: Save hundreds of dollars by avoiding dealership programming fees and diagnostic guesswork. This is a direct-fit solution that gets the job done right the first time.
- ✔ No Core Charge: Keep your old part. There are no core fees or hassles with sending the old module back, simplifying your repair process.
DIY-Friendly Installation in Under 30 Minutes
Replacing the TCM on your Lucerne is a straightforward job that you can do with basic hand tools. For the 2006-2011 Buick Lucerne, the module is typically found in the left-hand (driver’s side) engine compartment.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent electrical shorts and help reset the system.
- Locate the TCM: Find the module in the LH engine compartment. It will have several large electrical connectors attached.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical harnesses. 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 harnesses. Ensure they click into place.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. While our programming handles the critical setup, it’s always good practice to use a basic OBD2 scan tool to clear any stored fault codes from the vehicle’s memory.
Verified Fitment for Your General Motors Vehicle
This T42 Transmission Control Module is a direct replacement for part number 24255280 and is compatible with a wide range of GM vehicles. Please verify your specific model and options 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)
AVALANCHE 1500 07-08 Transmission; (next to battery)
AURA 07-09 Transmission; (LH frame rail front)
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 06-09 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
EXPRESS VANS 1500/2500/3500 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)
AND MANY MORE GM TRUCKS, SUVS, AND CARS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Transmission Control Module (TCM) do?
The TCM is the electronic brain of your automatic transmission. It receives data from various sensors on the engine and vehicle, and uses this information to control shift solenoids, manage torque converter lockup, and regulate line pressure for smooth, efficient gear changes.