If your 2006-2014 GMC Savana 1500 Van is suffering from erratic shifting, getting stuck in gear, or has an illuminated check engine light, a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM) is the most likely culprit. As a seasoned technician, I’ve seen these T42 modules cause countless headaches for van owners who depend on their vehicles daily. This replacement TCM, part number 24239224, is the definitive, hassle-free solution. It arrives expertly pre-programmed to your van’s specific VIN, eliminating the need for expensive dealership visits and getting you back on the road with confidence.
Case Study: The Intermittent Work Van
A local contractor brought in his 2011 Savana 2500, a sister vehicle to the 1500, with a frustrating problem. He said, “Some days it shifts perfectly, other days it slams into gear or won’t shift past 2nd.” He’d already replaced a solenoid with no luck. After hooking up my scan tool, I saw no hard codes, just a history of a generic P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction). Experience pointed me straight to the TCM. Heat soak and internal circuit board degradation often cause these intermittent electrical faults that don’t always set a specific code. We installed a VIN-programmed module, and the van’s shifting issues were gone for good. It’s a classic failure I’ve diagnosed hundreds of times.
Is Your Savana Van Showing These Telltale Signs?
A failing TCM doesn’t just degrade performance; it can put your transmission at risk of further damage. Watch out for these common indicators:
- ✔ Harsh, delayed, or unpredictable gear shifts.
- ✔ The vehicle is stuck in “limp mode” (usually 2nd or 3rd gear).
- ✔ Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light is on.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are present, especially P0700, P0750, or other solenoid-related faults.
- ✔ A sudden drop in fuel economy.
- ✔ The transmission feels like it’s slipping between gears.
- ✔ Complete loss of communication with the module (no gear indicator on the dash).
Why a Programmed Savana 1500 Transmission Module is a Smart Repair
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete repair solution. The most critical feature is the VIN programming. We flash the module with the latest GM software updates specific to your van before it ships. This ensures that all shift points, torque converter lockup strategies, and electronic parameters are perfectly matched to your vehicle’s factory settings, restoring the smooth, reliable operation you expect.
Your 30-Minute Path to a Smooth-Shifting Van
You don’t need to be a professional mechanic to install this part. The process is straightforward and can be completed in your driveway with basic hand tools.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- Locate the Module: On the Savana 1500 Van, the TCM is typically found in the engine compartment on the right-hand (passenger) side.
- Swap the Part: Carefully disconnect the electrical connectors and unbolt the old module. Secure the new module in its place and firmly reconnect the wiring harnesses.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. While the system may reset on its own, it’s best practice to use a basic OBD2 scan tool to clear any stored transmission codes.
Verified Fitment Across the GM Lineup
While this is the correct part for your Savana Van, this T42 TCM is also compatible with a wide range of other General Motors vehicles. Please confirm your model and year below. This module is interchangeable with part numbers: 24252114, 24234503, 24230461, 24234274, 24235340, 24235754, 24238856, 24239926, and more.
- SAVANA 1500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
- EXPRESS 1500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
- SAVANA 2500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
- EXPRESS 2500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
- SAVANA 3500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
- EXPRESS 3500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
- SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 07 Transmission; (new style, smooth door skin), (next to battery)
- SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 08-13 Transmission; (next to battery), w/o hybrid option
- SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 07 Transmission; (new style, smooth door skin), (next to battery)
- SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 08-13 Transmission; (next to battery), w/o hybrid option
- TAHOE 07-09 Transmission; (next to battery)
- YUKON 07-09 Transmission; (next to battery)
- AVALANCHE 1500 07-08 Transmission; (next to battery)
- SUBURBAN 1500 07-08 Transmission; (next to battery)
- COBALT 06-10 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- HHR 06-11 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
- IMPALA 06-11 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
- AND MANY MORE GM MODELS…
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to take my van to a dealer after installation?
No. This module comes fully programmed to your VIN. The service is included in the price, making this a true plug-and-play installation that saves you time and money.
What tools are required for this job?
You’ll only need basic hand tools, such as a socket set to disconnect the battery and unbolt the module. No specialized equipment is necessary.
Is there a core charge for my old part?
No, there is no core charge. You can keep or dispose of your old module without the hassle of returning it.
What does the T42 TCM actually do?
The Transmission Control Module acts as the brain for your automatic transmission. It receives data from various sensors and uses it to control shift timing, line pressure, and torque converter clutch operation for optimal performance and efficiency.
Will this fix a P0700 trouble code?
In most cases, yes. A P0700 code is a general fault request from the TCM to the main engine computer. A faulty TCM is a very common cause for this code. Replacing it often resolves the issue and allows the code to be cleared.