Restore Your Van’s Shifting with a Programmed T42 Transmission Control Module
If your 2006-2014 Chevrolet Express 3500 Van is suffering from harsh shifting, getting stuck in gear, or throwing transmission codes, a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM) is the most likely culprit. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how a faulty TCM can bring a reliable workhorse to a standstill. This isn’t just an inconvenience; for a commercial van, it’s lost time and money. This replacement T42 TCM, part number 24234274, is the definitive solution to get your van’s transmission operating smoothly and reliably again.
The TCM is the brain of your automatic transmission, controlling everything from shift points to torque converter lockup. When it fails, you get unpredictable and often dangerous performance. Our modules solve this by arriving at your door pre-programmed to your van’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This means no expensive trips to the dealership for programming—it’s a true plug-and-play fix that you or your mechanic can perform quickly, getting your Express 3500 back on the road and earning its keep.
Is Your Express Van’s Transmission Acting Up?
A failing TCM often mimics other transmission problems, but there are tell-tale signs. In my shop, nine times out of ten, when a customer describes these issues on a GM van, the TCM is the root cause. Look out for:
- ✔ Harsh, banging shifts or delayed gear engagement.
- ✔ The vehicle is stuck in “limp mode,” often only allowing access to 2nd or 3rd gear.
- ✔ An illuminated Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light with Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) like P0700, P0750-P0758 (solenoid circuit faults), or other transmission-related codes.
- ✔ Inconsistent or no upshifting/downshifting, leading to poor acceleration and terrible fuel economy.
- ✔ Seemingly random electrical issues that affect transmission performance.
Case Study: The Intermittent Fleet Van Failure
A local contractor brought in his 2011 Express 3500, complaining of intermittent shifting problems. Some days it drove perfectly, others it would slam into gear or refuse to shift out of 2nd. His regular mechanic had replaced a shift solenoid, but the problem returned a week later. After pulling the codes, I saw a history of P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction) and a random solenoid circuit code. Experience pointed straight to the TCM. Heat soak and vibration can cause internal solder joints to fail, leading to exactly these kinds of intermittent faults. We installed one of our VIN-programmed T42 modules, and the van was back in his fleet the same afternoon, running without a single issue since. It’s a classic example of how replacing the brain fixes the problem, not just the symptom.
A Straightforward Guide to Your TCM Replacement
Replacing the 2006-2014 Express 3500 Van TCM is a job most DIYers or any professional can handle in under 30 minutes. The goal is to get you back on the road with minimal downtime.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- Locate the Module: On the Express and Savana vans, the TCM is typically found in the engine compartment on the right-hand (passenger) side, mounted to the firewall or inner fender.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unclip the electrical connectors. Press the release tabs firmly. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket. There are usually just a few small bolts holding it in place.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed TCM into place. Reconnect the electrical harnesses, ensuring they click securely into position.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. While our programming handles the critical setup, it’s always good practice to use a basic OBD-II scan tool to clear any stored fault codes from the vehicle’s memory. Start the engine and test drive to confirm smooth shifting.
Will This Fit My GM Vehicle?
This T42 TCM is a direct-fit replacement for a wide range of General Motors vehicles equipped with 4-speed automatic transmissions like the 4L60E, 4L65E, and 4L80E. While perfect for your Express 3500, it also fits:
- ✔ Chevrolet: Express/Savana 1500/2500/3500 (2006-2014), Silverado, Tahoe, Suburban, Avalanche, Cobalt, HHR, Impala, Monte Carlo
- ✔ GMC: Sierra, Yukon, Canyon, Envoy
- ✔ Buick: LaCrosse, Lucerne, Allure, Rainier, Rendezvous
- ✔ Cadillac: DTS
- ✔ Pontiac: G5, G6, Grand Prix, Pursuit
- ✔ Saturn: Vue, Aura, Ion
- ✔ Hummer: H3
- ✔ Saab: 9-7X
This module interchanges with numerous part numbers, including 24252114, 24234503, 24230461, 24235340, and more, ensuring broad compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to take my van to a dealer after installation?
No. This module comes fully programmed to your vehicle’s VIN. The dealership visit is completely eliminated, saving you time and hundreds of dollars in programming fees.
What causes the original TCM to fail?
The most common causes of failure are heat and vibration. Over many years and miles, these factors can cause microscopic cracks in the circuit board’s solder joints, leading to intermittent or total failure.
How do I provide my VIN for programming?
Simply enter your 17-digit VIN during the checkout process. We cannot ship the module until we have this information to ensure it is programmed correctly for your specific vehicle.
Is this a new or used part?
This is an OEM-quality replacement part, built to meet or exceed original specifications and tested to ensure reliability. It is backed by our one-year warranty for your peace of mind.
Will this fix a P0700 trouble code?
A P0700 code is a general code indicating the TCM has detected a fault. Often, replacing a faulty TCM will resolve the P0700 and any other specific transmission codes that were present.