As a mechanic with two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen my fair share of Chevrolet Express vans come into the shop with frustrating transmission issues. The owner, often a contractor or delivery driver, is losing money every hour the van is down. The most common complaint? Erratic shifting, sudden clunks into gear, or the dreaded check engine light accompanied by the van being stuck in limp mode. More often than not, the culprit is a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM). This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a critical failure that can sideline your workhorse vehicle. That’s why we offer this direct-fit, VIN-programmed T42 TCM, designed specifically to resolve these issues and get your 2006-2014 Express 1500 Van TCM functioning like new again.
This module is the brain of your automatic transmission, controlling everything from shift points and line pressure to torque converter lockup. When it fails, communication between the engine and transmission breaks down, leading to the symptoms that are likely causing you headaches right now. Our solution eliminates the guesswork and the expensive trip to the dealership. We pre-program this module to your van’s specific VIN, ensuring it’s a true plug-and-play fix right out of the box. No need for a costly GM Tech-II tool or additional programming fees.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A local plumber brought in his ’08 Express 1500, complaining of intermittent, harsh 1-2 shifts and occasionally getting stuck in 3rd gear after highway driving. He’d already replaced two shift solenoids based on a generic P0750-range code, but the problem persisted. After a quick data stream analysis, I saw erratic command signals from the TCM. The internal circuitry was failing under heat soak. We installed one of our VIN-programmed T42 modules. In less than an hour, the van was shifting perfectly. This case highlights how a faulty 2006-2014 Express 1500 Van TCM can mimic other component failures, making a reliable replacement the most effective and time-saving repair.
Is Your Van Exhibiting These Transmission Gremlins?
- ✔ Harsh, banging shifts or delayed gear engagement, especially when cold.
- ✔ Getting stuck in “limp home” mode, typically locked in 2nd or 3rd gear.
- ✔ An illuminated Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light with codes like P0700, P0741, P0751, or other solenoid-related DTCs.
- ✔ Inability to upshift or downshift, leading to poor acceleration and terrible fuel economy.
- ✔ Seemingly random electrical issues that affect transmission performance.
- ✔ Complete loss of communication with the transmission.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
- ✔ Safety First: Before you begin, disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent electrical shorts and help reset the system.
- ✔ Locate the Module: On most Express and Savana vans, the TCM is located in the engine compartment on the right-hand (passenger) side. It’s a silver box with electrical connectors.
- ✔ Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical harnesses. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket. Keep the hardware in a safe place.
- ✔ Install the New TCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed module onto the bracket and securely tighten the bolts. Reconnect the electrical harnesses, ensuring they click firmly into place.
- ✔ Final Steps: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. While the module is plug-and-play, it’s best practice to use a basic OBD-II scan tool to clear any stored diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) from the vehicle’s memory. Start the vehicle and test drive to confirm smooth shifting.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This T42 Transmission Control Module is a guaranteed fit for the 2006-2014 Express 1500 Van TCM and a wide range of other GM vehicles equipped with 4-speed automatic transmissions like the 4L60E, 4L65E, and 4L70E. It is a direct replacement for part numbers including 24238856, 24252114, 24234503, 24242391, and others listed in the interchange data. Please verify your vehicle in the fitment list below to ensure proper application.
Do I need to take my van to the dealer after installing this?
Do I need to take my van to the dealer after installing this?
No. This module comes fully programmed to your vehicle’s VIN. It is designed to be a plug-and-play solution, requiring no additional dealership programming, which saves you time and hundreds of dollars.
What is a core charge? Do I need to send my old part back?
There is no core charge for this part. You can keep your old module or dispose of it without any need to return it to us, making the process hassle-free.
Will this fix a P0700 trouble code?
A P0700 code is a general fault request from the TCM to the main engine computer (ECM) to turn on the check engine light. While this module often resolves the underlying issue causing the P0700 (like a solenoid circuit fault), it’s crucial to scan for more specific P-codes (e.g., P0751, P0756) to confirm the TCM is the root cause.
How difficult is the installation for a DIYer?
This is a great DIY project. On the Express Van, the TCM is easily accessible in the engine bay. With basic hand tools, the swap typically takes less than 30 minutes. Just follow our installation guide.
What information do you need to program the module?
We require your vehicle’s 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) at checkout. This allows us to load the correct GM software and calibrations for your specific vehicle, ensuring perfect compatibility.
What kind of warranty is included?
We stand behind our products with a one-year warranty, giving you peace of mind that you’re installing a reliable, quality-tested component in your vehicle.