Is Your Savana 1500 Van Shifting Erratically or Stuck in Gear?
As a workhorse, your GMC Savana 1500 can’t afford downtime. When the transmission starts acting upโslamming into gear, refusing to shift, or throwing a check engine lightโit’s not just an annoyance; it’s a threat to your schedule and your business. The culprit is often a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM), the electronic brain that manages every aspect of your automatic transmission’s performance. Instead of a costly and time-consuming trip to the dealership, get back on the road fast with this direct-fit, VIN-programmed T42 TCM.
A Mechanic’s Real-World Diagnosis
“A customer’s 2011 Savana 1500 came into the shop last week. It was a plumber’s van, and he was losing jobs because it was stuck in limp modeโonly 2nd gear. His scanner showed a P0700 general fault and a P0753 for a shift solenoid circuit. After confirming the wiring was good, we knew it was the TCM. These modules are notorious for internal electronic failures, especially in hardworking vans that see a lot of heat cycles. We installed one of our pre-programmed units, and he was back on the road in under an hour, shifts as smooth as new.”
Symptoms of a Failing Savana 1500 TCM
If you’re experiencing any of the following, a faulty TCM is the most likely cause. Over my 20 years in the bay, I’ve seen these modules cause a wide range of issues that can easily be mistaken for major mechanical transmission failure.
- โ Hard, banging shifts or delayed gear engagement.
- โ Vehicle is stuck in “limp mode” and won’t shift out of a single gear.
- โ Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light is illuminated.
- โ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) like P0700, P0750-P0758, or other solenoid-related faults.
- โ Complete loss of communication with the transmission module.
- โ Poor acceleration and a sudden drop in fuel economy.
Why Our Pre-Programmed 2006-2014 Savana Transmission Module is the Right Choice
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete solution. We handle the most difficult part of the job for youโthe programming. Each module is loaded with the latest GM software updates specific to your van’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This ensures perfect communication between the engine and transmission, restoring factory-level shift quality and performance without any additional setup.
- โ Plug & Play Solution: Arrives programmed to your VIN. No expensive dealer programming is required.
- โ Restores Performance: Corrects harsh shifting, torque converter lock-up issues, and communication errors.
- โ Built for Durability: Constructed to meet or exceed OEM specifications for a long service life, backed by a one-year warranty.
- โ Broad Compatibility: This T42 TCM, part number 24234503, is a direct replacement for numerous other part numbers, including 24252114, 24230461, 24234274, and more.
Plug-and-Play Installation: No Dealer Visit Required
Replacing the 2006-2014 Savana Transmission Module is a straightforward job you can do with basic tools. For the Savana and Express vans, the location is consistent and accessible.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent electrical shorts and help reset the system.
- Locate the Module: On your Savana 1500, the TCM is located in the engine compartment on the right-hand (passenger) side.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. Press the release tabs firmly. Then, unbolt the old module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed TCM into place. Reconnect the electrical connectors, ensuring they click securely into place.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. Start the vehicle and allow it to idle for a few minutes. While not always necessary, using a basic scan tool to clear any stored DTCs is recommended.