Is your 2006-2014 Chevrolet Express 1500 Van suffering from harsh shifting, getting stuck in gear, or throwing a check engine light? As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen these symptoms countless times, and they almost always point to a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM). A faulty TCM can cripple your workhorse van, leading to downtime and costly diagnostic fees. This T42 TCM, part number 24234503, is the definitive solution to restore your transmission’s performance and get you back on the road with confidence.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, ready-to-install fix. We pre-program each module to your van’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) before it ships. This critical step eliminates the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming, saving you both time and money. It’s designed to be a true plug-and-play solution for any DIYer or professional mechanic looking for a reliable, first-time fix for their 2006-2014 Express 1500 TCM issues.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A local contractor brought in his 2011 Express 2500, a sister vehicle to the 1500, complaining of intermittent ‘no-shift’ conditions, especially after long drives on hot days. His scanner showed a generic P0700 code, but no specific solenoid faults. After checking the wiring and fluid, everything seemed fine. From experience, I know that heat soak is a major killer of these T42 modules, especially in work vans where the engine bay temperatures soar. We swapped in one of our pre-programmed TCMs, and the problem vanished instantly. The original module’s internal circuits were failing under thermal stress—a classic failure I’ve diagnosed on hundreds of these GM vehicles.
Is Your Express Van Showing These Red Flags?
A failing TCM can manifest in several ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s a strong indicator that your module needs replacement:
- ✔ Harsh, slamming shifts or delayed gear engagement.
- ✔ Vehicle is stuck in “limp mode” (usually second or third gear).
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with transmission-related Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) like P0700, P0750, or other solenoid circuit faults.
- ✔ The transmission refuses to upshift or downshift correctly.
- ✔ A noticeable drop in fuel economy.
- ✔ Unpredictable communication errors between the TCM and other vehicle modules.
Your 30-Minute Path to Smooth Shifting
Replacing the 2006-2014 Express 1500 TCM is a straightforward job that most people can complete in their driveway with basic hand tools. No complex procedures are required.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work. This prevents short circuits and helps reset the vehicle’s electronic systems.
- Locate the Module: On the Express Van, the TCM is conveniently located in the engine compartment on the right-hand (passenger) side. It’s an external module, not inside the transmission.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. Press the release tabs firmly to avoid breaking them. Then, unbolt the old module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New TCM: Bolt the new, pre-programmed module into place and securely reconnect the electrical harnesses. You should hear a click as they lock in.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. While our programming handles the heavy lifting, it’s good practice to use a basic OBD2 scan tool to clear any stored fault codes from the vehicle’s memory. Start the engine and take a test drive to confirm the smooth shifting performance.
Verified Fitment for Your GM Vehicle
This T42 TCM is a direct-fit replacement for a wide range of General Motors vehicles. While this page focuses on the 2006-2014 Express 1500 TCM, it is also compatible with the following models. Please verify the location noted for your specific vehicle.
- AVALANCHE 1500 07-08 Transmission; (next to battery)
- ALLURE 06-09 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
- 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 06-07 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)
- LUCERNE 06-07 Transmission; (4.6L), (LH engine compartment)
- LUCERNE 08-11 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
- 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 program this module?
No. We handle all the programming for you before shipping. Simply provide your vehicle’s VIN during checkout, and the module will arrive ready for plug-and-play installation.
Will this fix a P0700 trouble code?
A P0700 code is a general fault request from the TCM to the Engine Control Module (ECM) to turn on the check engine light. While this module often resolves the underlying issue causing the P0700, it’s always best to scan for more specific transmission codes (e.g., P07xx) to confirm the diagnosis.
What tools are needed for installation?
You’ll only need basic hand tools, typically a socket set to remove the mounting bolts and possibly a small flathead screwdriver to help release the electrical connector tabs. No specialized equipment is required.
Is there a core charge for my old part?
No, there is no core charge on this module. You can keep your old part or dispose of it without the hassle of returning it.
What is the warranty on this part?
This Transmission Control Module comes with a one-year warranty, covering any defects in material or workmanship, giving you peace of mind with your purchase.