Restore Peak Performance to Your Workhorse Van
If your 2006-2014 GMC Savana 3500 is suffering from transmission problems like harsh shifting, getting stuck in gear, or a persistent check engine light, a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM) is the most likely culprit. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how a faulty TCM can sideline a perfectly good work van, costing businesses time and money. This T42 TCM, part number 24238856, is the definitive solution to restore the crisp, reliable shifting your GM 4-speed automatic transmission (like the 4L80E) was designed for.
The biggest hurdle in this repair is typically the need for expensive dealership programming. We eliminate that completely. By providing your vehicle’s VIN at checkout, we program the module with the latest GM software updates specifically for your van. This means your new 2006-2014 Savana 3500 TCM arrives ready for a true plug-and-play installation, getting your vehicle back on the road and back to work with minimal downtime.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent Shifting Nightmare
I remember a fleet customer bringing in a 2011 Savana 3500 with a complaint that stumped his usual mechanic. The van would intermittently refuse to shift out of 2nd gear, but only after it was fully warmed up and had been driven for over an hour. There were no consistent trouble codes, just a generic P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction) that would pop up now and then. We checked the fluid, wiring, and solenoids—all fine. Based on my experience with these T42 modules, I suspected heat-related failure within the TCM’s internal circuitry. We installed one of our pre-programmed modules, and the problem vanished instantly. The fleet manager was relieved to have a reliable vehicle back without a multi-day diagnostic bill from the dealer.
Is Your Savana Van Showing These Telltale Signs?
- ✔ Harsh, banging 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) like P0700, P0750, or other solenoid-related faults are present.
- ✔ The transmission refuses to upshift or downshift correctly.
- ✔ A noticeable drop in fuel economy or signs of the transmission overheating.
- ✔ Complete loss of communication with the transmission module.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the TCM on your Savana is a job most DIYers or any professional mechanic can complete in under 30 minutes with basic tools. The module is conveniently located and accessible.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent electrical shorts and help reset the system.
- Locate the Module: On the Savana 1500, 2500, and 3500 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.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed 2006-2014 Savana 3500 TCM into place and securely reconnect the electrical harnesses. Ensure they click into place.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. While our programming handles the critical setup, it’s always good practice to use a basic OBD2 scan tool to clear any stored fault codes from the ECU. Start the vehicle and test drive to confirm smooth shifting.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for part number 24238856 and other interchangeable numbers. While this page focuses on the 2006-2014 Savana 3500 TCM, it also fits a wide range of GM vehicles. Please confirm your part number or contact us with your VIN to ensure perfect fitment.
- ALLURE 06-09 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
- AVALANCHE 1500 07-08 Transmission; (next to battery)
- CANYON 08-12 Transmission; (RH rear engine compartment)
- COBALT 06-10 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- COLORADO 08-12 Transmission; (RH rear engine compartment)
- DTS 06-11 Transmission; (RH front engine compartment)
- ENVOY 06-09 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
- EXPRESS 1500/2500/3500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
- G5 07-10 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- G6 06-10 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- GRAND PRIX 06-08 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
- HHR 06-11 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
- HUMMER H3 08-10 Transmission; (RH rear engine compartment)
- IMPALA 06-11 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
- ION 06-07 Transmission; (behind LH strut tower)
- LACROSSE 06-09 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
- LUCERNE 06-11 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
- MALIBU 06-10 Transmission; (LH frame rail)
- MONTE CARLO 06-07 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
- MONTANA 06-09 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- RAINIER 06-07 Transmission
- RENDEZVOUS 06-07 Transmission; (air cleaner box)
- SAAB 9-7X 06-09 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
- SAVANA 1500/2500/3500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
- SIERRA 1500/2500 PICKUP 07-13 Transmission; (next to battery)
- SILVERADO 1500/2500 PICKUP 07-13 Transmission; (next to battery)
- SSR 05-06 Transmission; (front LH frame)
- SUBURBAN 1500 07-08 Transmission; (next to battery)
- TAHOE 07-09 Transmission; (next to battery)
- TERRAZA 06-07 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- TRAILBLAZER 06-09 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
- UPLANDER 06-09 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- VUE 07-10 Transmission
- YUKON & YUKON XL 1500 07-09 Transmission; (next to battery)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to take this part to a dealer for programming?
Absolutely not. We handle all the programming before it ships. Just provide your vehicle’s VIN during checkout, and the module will arrive ready to install right out of the box, saving you hundreds in dealership fees.
What tools are required for this installation?
You’ll only need basic hand tools, such as a socket set and a ratchet, to remove the mounting bolts and disconnect the battery. No specialized equipment is necessary.
Will this TCM fix a P0700 trouble code?
A P0700 code indicates a general fault within the transmission control system. In many cases, a failing TCM is the root cause. Replacing the module with our programmed unit will resolve the code if the TCM is the faulty component.
Is there a core charge for my old part?
No, there is no core charge. You can keep your old part or recycle it without the hassle of shipping it back to us.
How do I ensure this is the exact part for my Savana?
The best way is to match the part number 24238856 (or an interchangeable number from our list) from your original module. You can also provide us with your VIN, and our experts will verify perfect compatibility before shipping.