If your 2006-2014 GMC Savana 2500 work van is experiencing harsh shifting, getting stuck in gear, or throwing transmission codes, the culprit is often a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM). As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen countless work vans sidelined by what seems like a catastrophic transmission failure, when in reality, it’s this critical electronic component. Your livelihood depends on your vehicle, and downtime is not an option. This T42 TCM, part number YNXS, is the reliable, no-hassle solution to get your van back on the road and running smoothly.
This isn’t just a part; it’s a complete fix. We pre-program the module to your van’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) before it ships. This means it arrives ready for a true plug-and-play installation, eliminating the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming. It’s designed to restore the precise shifting logic, torque converter clutch control, and diagnostic functions that your Savana’s 4L80E or 4L60E-family transmission relies on.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Misleading Solenoid Code
A few months back, a local contractor brought in his 2011 Savana 2500. The van was stuck in 3rd gear (limp mode), and he was convinced the transmission was shot. His scanner pulled a P0753 code, pointing to a ‘Shift Solenoid A Electrical’ fault. He had already paid another shop to drop the pan and replace the solenoid, but the problem came right back. When I hooked up my professional scan tool, I could see the command from the TCM was present, but the feedback circuit was dead. The solenoid wasn’t the problem; the driver circuit inside the original TCM had burned out. We installed one of our VIN-programmed T42 modules, cleared the codes, and the van was shifting perfectly in 20 minutes. This is a classic example of how a faulty 2006-2014 Savana 2500 TCM can mimic internal transmission problems, and why a quality replacement is key to an accurate repair.
Is Your Savana’s Transmission Acting Up? Check for These Signs
A failing TCM can cause a wide range of symptoms that can be easily misdiagnosed. If your van is showing any of these signs, this module is the likely solution.
- ✔ Harsh, slamming shifts or delayed gear engagement.
- ✔ Vehicle is stuck in ‘limp mode,’ often in 2nd or 3rd gear.
- ✔ The Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light is on.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are present, such as P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction), P0750-P0758 (Solenoid codes), or other communication errors.
- ✔ Inconsistent or no shifting, leading to poor acceleration and terrible fuel mileage.
- ✔ Complete loss of communication with the transmission module.
Get Your Savana Back to Work: A 30-Minute TCM Swap
You don’t need to be a master mechanic to replace the 2006-2014 Savana 2500 TCM. The process is straightforward and requires only basic hand tools.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts and help reset the system.
- Locate the Module: On the Savana and Express vans, the TCM is typically mounted in the engine compartment on the right-hand (passenger) side.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unclip the wiring harness connectors. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket and remove it from the vehicle.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed TCM into place. Reconnect the wiring harnesses, ensuring they click securely into position.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. Start the vehicle and use a basic OBD2 scan tool to clear any stored fault codes from the ECU. Your van is now ready for a test drive.
Confirmed Fitment For Your GM Vehicle
While this is the correct module for the 2006-2014 Savana 2500, part number YNXS is also a direct replacement for a wide array of GM vehicles equipped with 4-speed automatic transmissions like the 4L60E, 4L65E, 4L70E, and 4L80E. This includes other models such as the Chevrolet Silverado, Express Van, Tahoe, GMC Sierra, Yukon, and many more. This part is interchangeable with service numbers including 24252114, 24234503, 24230461, and 24240449.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2006-2014 Savana 2500 TCM
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a ‘VIN-programmed’ TCM mean?
It means we load your vehicle’s unique 17-digit VIN into the module before shipping. This ensures it has the correct software and calibration for your specific engine, transmission, and options, allowing it to work perfectly right out of the box without any additional programming.
Do I need to take my van to a dealer after installation?
No. Because the module is pre-programmed to your VIN, you can skip the dealership entirely. This saves you time and the high cost of dealer programming fees.
Where is the TCM located on a 2006-2014 Savana 2500?
On the GMC Savana and Chevrolet Express vans from this era, the Transmission Control Module is typically found in the engine bay, mounted on the right-hand (passenger) side.
Will this part fix a P0700 trouble code?
A P0700 code is a general fault code indicating the TCM has detected a problem and has requested the check engine light be turned on. While this module often resolves the root cause (like a failed solenoid driver that triggers the P0700), you should always diagnose the specific codes stored within the TCM itself for a complete picture.
Is there a core charge for my old part?
No, there is no core charge. You are not required to send your old, faulty module back to us, saving you the hassle and cost of return shipping.