Get Your Workhorse Back on the Road: The Definitive Fix for Your Van’s Transmission
As a mechanic with over two decades of experience, I know that when a work van like the GMC Savana or Chevy Express goes down, it’s not just an inconvenience—it’s a hit to your bottom line. One of the most common culprits I’ve seen for erratic transmission behavior in these vehicles is a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM). This isn’t just a part; it’s the brain of your automatic transmission, responsible for every shift point, torque converter lockup, and diagnostic check. When it fails, your reliable van can quickly become a jerky, unpredictable, and unsafe vehicle. That’s why we offer this professionally programmed 2006-2014 Savana 1500 TCM, a direct-fit solution designed to restore performance and peace of mind.
Case Study: The Tricky Diagnosis
I once had a 2011 Express van in the shop with a complaint of intermittent, bone-jarring shifts and occasionally getting stuck in 3rd gear (limp mode). The owner had already replaced two shift solenoids based on DTCs, but the problem persisted. After checking the wiring harness for damage—a common issue on work vans—I hooked up my scope to the TCM connectors. The data stream was erratic, dropping out randomly. It was a classic case of internal TCM failure. A replacement, pre-programmed module like this one solved the issue in under 30 minutes, saving the customer from what they feared would be a full transmission rebuild. This is the smart, targeted repair that gets you back to work fast.
Is Your Savana Van Showing These Telltale Signs?
A faulty TCM can manifest in several ways, often mimicking internal transmission failure. Before you condemn the entire gearbox, check if you’re experiencing these classic symptoms. This 2006-2014 Savana 1500 TCM is designed to correct these exact issues.
- ✔ Harsh, banging shifts or delayed gear engagement.
- ✔ The vehicle is stuck in a single gear, often called “limp mode.”
- ✔ Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light is illuminated.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are present, such as P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction), P0750-P0758 (Shift Solenoid errors), or other communication codes.
- ✔ Poor acceleration and a noticeable drop in fuel economy.
- ✔ The transmission seems to slip between gears or fails to downshift when slowing down.
DIY Installation: Get Your Van Back to Work
One of the biggest advantages of this module is that it arrives ready to install. We handle the programming using your vehicle’s VIN, so you can skip the expensive trip to the dealership. For most Savana and Express vans, the process is straightforward.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before beginning work.
- Locate the TCM: On the 2006-2014 Savana 1500 Van, the TCM is typically found in the engine compartment on the right-hand (passenger) side.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. Be gentle with the locking tabs, as they can become brittle over time. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed TCM into place and securely reconnect the electrical harnesses. You should hear a ‘click’ as they lock.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery. It’s a good practice to use a basic OBD2 scan tool to clear any stored fault codes from the vehicle’s memory after the installation is complete. Start the vehicle and test drive to confirm smooth shifting.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This T42 style TCM, equivalent to part number 24255280, fits a wide range of General Motors vehicles equipped with 4-speed automatic transmissions like the 4L60E, 4L65E, and 4L70E. While this page is focused on the 2006-2014 Savana 1500 TCM, it is also a direct replacement for the following models. Please verify your specific application.
- GMC: Savana 1500/2500/3500 Van, Sierra 1500/2500, Yukon, Envoy, Canyon
- Chevrolet: Express 1500/2500/3500 Van, Silverado 1500/2500, Tahoe, Suburban, Impala, Cobalt, HHR, Colorado
- Buick: LaCrosse, Lucerne, Rainier, Allure
- Cadillac: DTS
- Pontiac: G5, G6, Grand Prix
- Saturn: Vue, Aura, Ion
- Hummer: H3
- Saab: 9-7X
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is VIN programming?
VIN programming means we flash the module with the specific software and calibrations for your vehicle’s exact configuration using the Vehicle Identification Number you provide. This ensures it communicates perfectly with your engine computer and other systems, making the installation plug-and-play without needing a dealer’s expensive scan tool.
Do I need to return my old TCM (core charge)?
No, there is no core charge for this part. You can keep your old module or dispose of it, saving you the time and hassle of a return shipment.
Will this fix a P0700 code?
A P0700 is a generic code indicating the TCM has detected a fault. Often, the root cause is the TCM itself. Replacing a faulty module will typically resolve the P0700 code and any related specific codes (like for solenoids) that were being falsely triggered by the failing computer.
Is this a difficult part to install for a DIYer?
For most applications, this is a very DIY-friendly repair. The TCM is usually easy to access in the engine bay, and the replacement requires only basic hand tools. Since we handle the programming, the most complex part of the job is already done for you.
What if I have a different part number on my original module?
GM uses many different service numbers for the same part. This module is a direct interchange for numbers like 24252114, 24234503, 24242391, and many others. As long as your vehicle is on the compatibility list, this module will function correctly.