Get Your Workhorse Back on the Road: A Reliable Fix for Your Savana Van
As a mechanic 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 lost time and money. If your van is suffering from harsh shifting, getting stuck in gear, or throwing transmission codes, the culprit is often a faulty Transmission Control Module (TCM). This isn’t just a part; it’s the brain of your automatic transmission, and when it fails, it can bring your operations to a halt. This replacement T42 TCM, part number 24234503, is the definitive solution for your 2006-2014 Savana 2500 Van TCM issues.
We take the guesswork and dealership hassle out of the equation. Each module is expertly programmed to your van’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) before it ships. This means no expensive trips to the dealer for programming. It arrives at your door ready for a true plug-and-play installation, restoring the crisp, predictable shifting performance your 4L80E or other GM automatic transmission was designed to deliver. You’re not just buying a part; you’re buying a solution that gets you back to work fast.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
I remember a fleet manager bringing in a 2011 Savana 2500. The driver reported it would randomly refuse to shift out of 2nd gear, especially after getting hot on a long delivery route. They’d already replaced a shift solenoid based on a code, but the problem persisted. We scanned it and found a generic P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction) and intermittent communication loss codes. Instead of jumping to a costly transmission teardown, we focused on the electronics. In my experience, heat-related failures and communication dropouts on these T42 modules are classic symptoms of internal circuit board failure. We swapped in a VIN-programmed TCM, and the van was back in service the same afternoon, problem-free. It’s a perfect example of how the right diagnosis and part can save thousands.
Is Your Savana’s Transmission Acting Up? Check for These Signs
A failing TCM can mimic a major mechanical failure. Before you condemn the transmission itself, check if your van is exhibiting these common electronic symptoms. A new 2006-2014 Savana 2500 Van TCM can often be the fix.
- ✔ Harsh, banging shifts or delayed gear engagement.
- ✔ Vehicle is stuck in “limp mode” (usually 2nd or 3rd gear) to protect the transmission.
- ✔ The Check Engine Light or a specific transmission warning light is illuminated.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) like P0700, P0750, or other solenoid-related faults are present.
- ✔ Inconsistent or no response from the transmission when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse.
- ✔ A noticeable decrease in fuel economy due to inefficient shifting and torque converter operation.
Get Your Work Van Running: A 30-Minute TCM Swap
This is a repair that a confident DIYer or any professional technician can complete quickly. For the Savana and Express vans, the location is consistent and accessible.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent electrical shorts and help reset the system.
- Locate the TCM: On the 2006-2014 Savana/Express vans, you’ll find the Transmission Control Module mounted in the engine compartment on the right-hand (passenger) side.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. Press the release tabs firmly. 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 in.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. While our programming handles the critical setup, it’s good practice to use a basic OBD-II scan tool to clear any stored fault codes from the ECU. Start the vehicle and test drive to confirm smooth shifting.
Verified Fitment for Your GM Vehicle
This T42 TCM is a direct replacement for a wide range of General Motors vehicles equipped with 4-speed automatic transmissions like the 4L60E, 4L65E, 4L70E, and 4L80E. While this page focuses on the 2006-2014 Savana 2500 Van TCM, it is also compatible with the following models. Always verify your part number (interchangeable with 24242391, 24252114, etc.) for a perfect match.
- GMC Savana / Chevrolet Express (1500, 2500, 3500): 2006-2014
- GMC Sierra / Chevrolet Silverado: 2007-2013 (check specific options)
- GMC Yukon / Chevrolet Tahoe / Suburban: 2007-2009
- Chevrolet Impala / Monte Carlo: 2006-2011
- Buick LaCrosse / Lucerne: 2006-2011
- Cadillac DTS: 2006-2011
- Pontiac G6 / Grand Prix: 2006-2010
- …and many other GM cars, trucks, and SUVs from this era.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to have this module programmed by a dealership?
No. The main benefit of our service is that we program the module to your vehicle’s VIN before shipping. This makes it a true plug-and-play part, saving you the time and expense of a dealer visit.
Is this a difficult part to install myself?
For most individuals with basic mechanical skills, this is a straightforward installation. It typically involves disconnecting the battery, unplugging a few connectors, and removing a few bolts. On a Savana van, it’s located in an accessible spot in the engine bay and usually takes less than 30 minutes.
What is the difference between a TCM and an ECM/PCM?
The TCM (Transmission Control Module) specifically controls the automatic transmission’s functions. The ECM (Engine Control Module) or PCM (Powertrain Control Module) manages the engine. In many modern vehicles, these functions are integrated, but for this generation of GM vehicles, the TCM is a separate, dedicated computer.
Will this fix my ‘limp mode’ problem?
In many cases, yes. Limp mode is a protective state triggered by the vehicle’s computer when it detects a serious fault. Since a failing TCM is a common cause of transmission faults, replacing it often resolves the issue and restores normal operation.
Is there a core charge for my old part?
No, there is no core charge required for this part. You can keep your old module or dispose of it without the hassle of returning it.