Restore Your Workhorse: The Definitive Fix for Your Savana’s Transmission
As a technician with over two decades of experience, I know that when a work van like the GMC Savana 2500 goes down, it’s more than an inconvenience—it’s a hit to your bottom line. The transmission is the heart of your vehicle’s powertrain, and the Transmission Control Module (TCM) is its brain. When it fails, you get erratic shifting, poor performance, and a van that’s unreliable. This T42 series TCM, part number 24235753, is the direct-fit, OEM-quality solution designed to get your 2006-2014 Savana 2500 Van back on the road, shifting smoothly and reliably.
The biggest hurdle with electronic module replacement is often the programming. Dealerships charge a premium for this service, adding time and cost to your repair. We eliminate that step entirely. By providing your vehicle’s VIN at checkout, we program the module for you. It arrives at your door ready for a true plug-and-play installation, loaded with the latest GM software updates. This ensures it communicates perfectly with your van’s engine and other systems, resolving those frustrating diagnostic codes and performance issues from the moment you install it.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Case of the Limp-Mode Fleet Van
I remember a local plumbing company bringing in their 2011 Savana 2500. The driver complained of harsh 1-2 shifts and said the van would randomly get stuck in 3rd gear, flashing a Check Engine light. A quick scan showed a P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction) and a P0752 (Shift Solenoid ‘A’ Stuck On). While the solenoid code pointed to a specific part, my experience with these T42 modules suggested the root cause was electrical, not mechanical. The TCM itself was failing, sending faulty signals. We swapped in a VIN-programmed module, cleared the codes, and the van was back in service the same afternoon. The owner was thrilled to avoid a costly, and in this case, unnecessary, internal transmission repair.
Is Your Savana Showing These Transmission Red Flags?
A failing TCM can manifest in several ways. If you’re experiencing any of these issues with your 2006-2014 Savana 2500 Transmission Module, it’s a strong indicator that a replacement is needed.
- âś” Harsh, delayed, or unpredictable gear shifts.
- âś” The vehicle enters “limp mode,” refusing to shift out of a single gear (often 2nd or 3rd).
- âś” Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light is illuminated on the dash.
- âś” Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are present, such as the general P0700 or specific solenoid codes (P0750-P0758).
- âś” A noticeable drop in fuel economy or a transmission that seems to be running hotter than usual.
- âś” Complete loss of communication with the module, preventing shifting altogether.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
You don’t need to be a master mechanic to install this part. The process is simple and can be completed in your own garage or workshop in under 30 minutes with basic hand tools.
- Safety First: Begin by disconnecting the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery. This prevents any electrical shorts and helps reset the vehicle’s onboard systems.
- Locate the Module: On the GMC Savana and Chevrolet Express vans, the TCM is typically found in the engine compartment on the right-hand (passenger) side.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old module. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket and remove it from the vehicle.
- Install the New Module: Mount the new, pre-programmed TCM in the same location and secure it with the original bolts. Reconnect the electrical harnesses, ensuring they click securely into place.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. While our programming resolves most issues, it’s good practice to use a basic OBD2 scan tool to clear any stored fault codes. Start the vehicle and take it for a test drive to confirm smooth shifting.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for part number 24235753 and interchanges with several other GM service numbers. While it is the specified part for the 2006-2014 Savana 2500 Transmission Module, it also fits a wide range of other GM cars, trucks, and SUVs. Please verify your vehicle from the list below:
- GMC Savana / Chevrolet Express (1500, 2500, 3500): 2006-2014 (RH engine compartment)
- GMC Sierra / Chevrolet Silverado (1500, 2500): 2007-2013 (Location varies, often next to battery)
- GMC Yukon / Chevrolet Tahoe / Suburban: 2007-2009 (Next to battery)
- Chevrolet Impala / Monte Carlo: 2006-2011 (Lower air cleaner housing)
- Chevrolet Cobalt / HHR / Pontiac G5 / G6: 2006-2011 (LH strut tower area)
- Cadillac DTS: 2006-2011 (RH front engine compartment)
- Buick LaCrosse / Lucerne: 2006-2011 (Location varies by model)
- And many more models from Saturn, Pontiac, Hummer, and Saab.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to take my van to the dealership after installing this?
No. This module comes fully programmed to your specific VIN. This means no additional programming or relearn procedures are required, saving you time and a costly trip to the dealer.
Is this a new or used part?
This is an OEM-quality replacement part, built to meet or exceed original factory specifications and backed by our one-year warranty. It is not a used part pulled from a salvage vehicle.
What is the location of the TCM on my 2012 Savana 2500?
For the 2006-2014 Savana and Express vans, the Transmission Control Module is located in the engine bay, on the passenger side of the vehicle.
Will this fix a P0700 code?
A P0700 is a general code indicating a fault within the transmission control system. In many cases, a failing TCM is the root cause. Replacing a faulty module with our pre-programmed unit is a very common and effective fix for this code.
Is there a core charge for this part?
No, there is no core charge. You are not required to send your old, non-working module back to us, which simplifies the repair process for you.