Get Your Work Van Back on the Road, Fast
If you rely on your 2006-2014 GMC Savana 1500 for your livelihood, you know that downtime isn’t an option. When the transmission starts acting up—slamming into gear, refusing to shift, or putting the van into limp mode—it’s more than an inconvenience; it’s a threat to your business. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen countless work vans sidelined by a faulty Transmission Control Module (TCM). The T42 module, specifically, is the electronic brain of your 4L60E or 4L80E transmission, and when it fails, chaos ensues.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, ready-to-install solution. We take this OEM-quality T42 TCM (interchangeable with part number 24235340) and pre-program it to your van’s exact Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This critical step eliminates the need for expensive dealership visits and complex programming procedures. You get a module that is truly plug-and-play, loaded with the latest GM software updates to ensure perfect communication with your vehicle’s systems. By installing our pre-programmed 2006-2014 Savana 1500 TCM, you’re not just fixing a symptom; you’re restoring the reliable, predictable performance your work van needs to have.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Case of the Limping Work Van
I remember a plumber who brought in his ’09 Savana 2500. He was losing jobs because his van would randomly get stuck in 3rd gear (limp mode) with the check engine light on. He’d already replaced a shift solenoid on a hunch, wasting time and money. A quick scan showed a P0700 code—a generic transmission fault. Digging deeper, I found intermittent communication errors with the TCM. Instead of a costly diagnostic rabbit hole, we opted for a known-good, pre-programmed T42 module. He installed it himself in the shop parking lot in under 20 minutes. The van fired up, shifted perfectly, and he was back on his way to a job. That’s the power of a reliable, programmed part—it provides diagnostic certainty and a fast, effective repair.
Is Your Savana Van Showing These Telltale Signs?
A failing TCM can manifest in several ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, a faulty module is a likely culprit. Over my years in the shop, these are the most common complaints I’ve linked directly to a bad 2006-2014 Savana 1500 TCM:
- ✔ Harsh, banging shifts or delayed gear engagement.
- ✔ Vehicle is stuck in one gear (often 2nd or 3rd) and will not shift up or down.
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with transmission-related Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) like P0700, P0750, P0755, or other solenoid circuit faults.
- ✔ Poor acceleration and a noticeable drop in fuel economy.
- ✔ The ‘PRNDL’ gear indicator on the dash may be blank or incorrect.
- ✔ Complete loss of communication with the transmission, preventing shifting altogether.
Get Your Van Back to Work: A 30-Minute Install Guide
Replacing the TCM on your Savana is a straightforward job you can do with basic hand tools. Our VIN programming makes it a simple swap. Here’s a quick guide:
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent electrical shorts and help reset the vehicle’s computer systems.
- Locate the Module: On the 2006-2014 Savana Van, the TCM is typically located in the engine compartment on the right-hand (passenger) side. It’s a silver box with electrical connectors.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unclip the wiring harnesses from the old TCM. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, VIN-programmed TCM into place. Securely reconnect the wiring harnesses—you should hear a click as they lock in.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. While the module is plug-and-play, it’s best practice to use a basic OBD2 scan tool to clear any stored fault codes from the vehicle’s memory. Start the van and test drive to confirm smooth shifting.
Verified to Fit These GM Models
While this page focuses on the 2006-2014 Savana 1500 TCM, this versatile T42 module is compatible with a wide array of General Motors vehicles equipped with 4-speed automatic transmissions. Please verify your specific model and part number. This part is a direct replacement for part numbers 24235340, 24252114, 24234503, and others listed in the interchange data.
Fitment includes: Chevrolet Express/Savana Vans (1500, 2500, 3500), Silverado/Sierra Pickups, Tahoe/Yukon, Suburban, Impala, Cobalt, HHR; Buick LaCrosse/Lucerne; Pontiac G6/Grand Prix; Cadillac DTS, and many more from 2006-2014.
Do I need to take my van to the dealer after installation?
Do I need to take my van to the dealer after installation?
No. This Transmission Control Module comes fully programmed to your vehicle’s VIN. This means it is ready for installation right out of the box, with no additional dealership programming or flashing required.
What’s the benefit of VIN programming?
VIN programming ensures the module has the correct software and calibrations for your specific vehicle’s configuration (engine, axle ratio, tire size). This guarantees proper shift points, torque converter operation, and overall transmission performance without any guesswork.
Is this a difficult part for a DIY mechanic to install?
Not at all. For most models like the Savana, it’s a simple bolt-off, bolt-on process that takes less than 30 minutes with basic tools. Since it’s pre-programmed, you avoid the most complex part of the job.
Do I need to return my old TCM?
No, there is no core charge for this part. You can keep your old module, which saves you the time and expense of shipping a core back.
What kind of warranty is included?
This module is backed by our one-year warranty, giving you peace of mind that you’re installing a quality, dependable part in your vehicle.