Get Your Workhorse Back on the Job with a Reliable Transmission Solution
For a business owner, a GMC Savana 2500 isn’t just a vehicle; it’s a critical tool. When your van starts showing signs of transmission trouble—like harsh, unpredictable shifting or getting stuck in limp mode—it means downtime, lost jobs, and frustration. The culprit is often a failing T42 Transmission Control Module (TCM). This module is the brain of your automatic transmission, and when it malfunctions, it can bring your operations to a halt. This VIN-programmed T42 TCM is the definitive fix, designed to get your 2006-2014 Savana 2500 TCM system running smoothly again without a costly and time-consuming trip to the dealership.
Over my two decades in automotive diagnostics, I’ve seen how heat and vibration in the engine bay of hardworking vans like the Savana can degrade the sensitive electronics inside the original TCM. This leads to the classic symptoms that many owners mistake for a complete transmission failure. But in many cases, a simple module replacement is all that’s needed. We take the guesswork out of the repair by pre-programming this module to your van’s specific VIN, ensuring it communicates perfectly with your vehicle’s systems from the moment you install it.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A local contractor brought in his 2011 Savana 2500, complaining of intermittent ‘no-shift’ conditions. Some days it drove fine, others it would get stuck in 3rd gear after warming up. His scanner showed a generic P0700 code but no specific solenoid faults. After checking the wiring and fluid, we suspected the TCM. The intermittent nature of the problem was classic electronic failure under thermal stress. We installed one of our VIN-programmed T42 modules, and the problem vanished instantly. He was back on the road in under an hour, saving him from what he thought would be a multi-thousand-dollar transmission rebuild.
Is Your Van’s Transmission Acting Up? Common T42 TCM Failure Signs
A faulty TCM can manifest in several ways, often mimicking more serious mechanical problems. If your Savana is experiencing these issues, a failing module is the likely cause. Look out for:
- ✔ Harsh, banging shifts or delayed gear engagement from a stop.
- ✔ The vehicle is stuck in a single gear (often called “limp mode”) to protect the transmission.
- ✔ An illuminated Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light on your dash.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) stored in the system, such as P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction), P0750-P0758 (Shift Solenoid Faults), or other communication errors.
- ✔ A sudden drop in fuel economy as the transmission isn’t shifting at the optimal points.
- ✔ Complete loss of communication with the transmission, preventing it from shifting at all.
Get Your Savana Back to Work: Fast Installation Guide
Replacing the TCM on your Savana van is a straightforward job that most DIYers or any professional mechanic can complete quickly. No specialized tools are required. For the 2006-2014 Savana 2500, the TCM is typically easy to access.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electronic work. This prevents electrical shorts and helps reset the vehicle’s adaptive memory.
- Locate the Module: On most Savana and Express vans, the TCM is located in the engine compartment on the right-hand (passenger) side, mounted near the firewall or inner fender.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unclip the electrical connectors. Press the release tabs firmly and pull straight out to avoid damaging the pins. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed TCM into place. Reconnect the electrical connectors, ensuring they click securely into position.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. Start the vehicle and let it idle for a few minutes. While our programming handles the critical setup, it’s good practice to use a basic OBD2 scan tool to clear any lingering fault codes from the previous failure.
Verified Fitment for Your GM Vehicle
This T42 TCM is a direct replacement for part number 24230461 and other interchangeable numbers. While this page focuses on the 2006-2014 Savana 2500 TCM, it is also compatible with a wide range of GM cars, trucks, and SUVs equipped with 4-speed automatic transmissions like the 4L60E, 4L65E, and 4L80E. Please verify your specific model in the list below.
This part will fit these makes and models with these options
SAVANA 2500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
ENVOY 08-09 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
SAVANA 3500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
VUE 07-08 Transmission; 2.4L, (LH front engine compartment)
G5 07-10 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 07 Transmission; (new style, smooth door skin), (next to battery)
LUCERNE 06-07 Transmission; (4.6L), (LH engine compartment)
TAHOE 08-09 Transmission; (next to battery), w/o auxiliary oil cooler pump
YUKON XL 1500 07-08 Transmission; (next to battery)
AURA 07-09 Transmission; (LH frame rail front)
SAAB 9-7X 06-09 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
EXPRESS 1500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
… and many more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to take my van to the dealer for programming?
No. This module arrives at your door pre-programmed to your vehicle’s VIN. It is a true plug-and-play solution, saving you the time, cost, and hassle of a dealership visit.
What is a ‘core charge?’ Do I have to send my old part back?
There is no core charge for this part. You are not required to return your old, faulty module, which simplifies the process for you.
Will this fix a P0700 trouble code?
Yes, in most cases. The P0700 code is a general fault code indicating the TCM has detected a problem. If the TCM itself is the source of the issue, replacing it with this programmed module will resolve the root cause and allow the code to be cleared.
Is this an OEM part?
This is a high-quality replacement part built to meet or exceed original equipment manufacturer (OEM) standards for performance, fit, and durability. It comes with a one-year warranty for your peace of mind.
How do I provide my VIN for programming?
You will be prompted to enter your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN during the checkout process. This is crucial for us to program the module correctly for your specific vehicle configuration.