If your 2006-2014 GMC Savana 1500 work van is starting to feel unreliable, with harsh shifts, delayed gear engagement, or a dreaded check engine light, the culprit is often a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM). As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how a faulty TCM can sideline a vehicle that’s crucial for business or family transport. The transmission is the heart of your van’s drivetrain, and the TCM is its brain. When it starts to fail, you can’t afford to ignore the symptoms.
This T42 Transmission Control Module, corresponding to part number 24243921, is the definitive solution for restoring your transmission’s performance. The biggest headache with replacing electronic modules is the required trip to the dealership for expensive programming. We eliminate that step entirely. By providing your vehicle’s VIN at checkout, we program the module specifically for your Savana. It arrives at your door ready for a true plug-and-play installation, saving you significant time and money.
Is Your Savana Van Showing These Telltale Signs?
A failing TCM doesn’t always mean a complete transmission failure right away. It often starts with subtle issues that get progressively worse. Here’s what to look for:
- âś” Erratic or jarring shifts that make driving uncomfortable and unpredictable.
- âś” The vehicle feels stuck in a single gear, often 2nd or 3rd, which is known as “limp mode.”
- âś” Your check engine light or transmission warning light is on, with Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) like P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction), P0750, or other solenoid-specific codes.
- âś” A noticeable delay when shifting from Park into Drive or Reverse.
- âś” A sudden drop in fuel economy as the transmission isn’t operating at peak efficiency.
- âś” Complete loss of communication with the module, preventing the vehicle from starting or shifting at all.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A local plumbing contractor brought in his ’09 Savana 2500, a sister vehicle to the 1500. The complaint was intermittent—some days it shifted perfectly, others it would slam into gear or refuse to upshift on the highway. He’d already replaced a shift solenoid with no luck. After scanning it, I found a generic P0700 code but no specific solenoid faults. Experience pointed me toward the TCM. These modules, especially on work vans that see constant heat cycles, can develop internal connection failures. We installed a VIN-programmed 2006-2014 SAVANA 1500 TCM, and he was back on the road in under an hour, problem solved. That simple swap saved him from a potential transmission rebuild and days of lost work.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
For the 2006-2014 GMC Savana 1500, this is a job most DIYers or any professional mechanic can handle in about 30 minutes. The module is located in the engine compartment on the right-hand (passenger) side.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts and to help reset the vehicle’s electronic systems.
- Locate the TCM: On your Savana Van, open the hood and find the module mounted on the RH side of the engine compartment.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unclip the electrical connectors. Be gentle, as old plastic can be brittle. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed TCM into place. Securely reconnect the electrical harnesses, ensuring they click into place.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. Start the vehicle and use a basic OBD2 scan tool to clear any stored fault codes. Take the van for a test drive to confirm smooth shifting.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct-fit replacement for a wide range of General Motors vehicles equipped with 4-speed automatic transmissions like the 4L60E, 4L65E, and 4L70E. While this page focuses on the 2006-2014 SAVANA 1500 TCM, it also fits the following models. Please verify your specific model and location.
- âś” GMC: Savana 1500/2500/3500 Van, Sierra 1500/2500, Yukon, Envoy
- âś” Chevrolet: Express 1500/2500/3500 Van, Silverado 1500/2500, Tahoe, Suburban, Impala, Cobalt, HHR
- âś” Buick: LaCrosse, Lucerne, Allure, Rainier
- âś” Cadillac: DTS
- âś” Pontiac: G5, G6, Grand Prix
- âś” And many other GM, Saturn, Hummer, and Saab models from the era.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the VIN programming work?
You provide your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN during checkout. Our technicians use this information to load the latest GM-certified software for your specific vehicle onto the module. This ensures it works perfectly out of the box, with no need for dealer tools.
Is there a core charge for my old part?
No, there is no core charge. You can keep your old module or dispose of it without the hassle of shipping it back to us.
Do I need any special tools for installation?
No special tools are required. Basic hand tools, such as a socket set and a wrench for the battery terminal, are all you need. An OBD2 scanner is recommended to clear codes after installation, but not strictly necessary.
What if I still have problems after installing the new TCM?
While this module solves the most common electronic transmission faults, shifting problems can also stem from mechanical issues. If problems persist, it’s a good idea to check your transmission fluid level and condition, and inspect for any underlying mechanical wear. Our parts are backed by a one-year warranty for peace of mind.
Is this part compatible with other numbers like 24252114?
Yes. This T42 TCM is a direct replacement for numerous GM service numbers, including 24252114, 24234503, 24243901, and others listed in our compatibility details. It is functionally identical and programmed for your vehicle.