Get Your Workhorse Back on the Job with a Reliable Transmission Fix
If your 2006-2014 GMC Savana 3500 Van is suffering from erratic shifting, getting stuck in gear, or throwing transmission codes, you know that downtime is costing you money. The transmission control module (TCM) is the electronic brain of your automatic transmission, and when it fails, it can bring your work to a grinding halt. This T42 Transmission Control Module, part number 24240449, is the definitive solution. It arrives expertly pre-programmed to your van’s specific VIN, eliminating the need for expensive dealership programming and getting you back on the road fast.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
I remember a fleet manager bringing in a 2011 Savana 3500. The driver complained of intermittent, violent shifts and occasionally getting stuck in 3rd gear (limp mode), but the check engine light wasn’t always on. We initially checked the fluid and solenoids, which seemed fine. After connecting a high-end scan tool, we saw communication dropouts from the TCM. In my 20+ years, I’ve seen hundreds of these T42 module failures caused by heat cycles and vibration, especially in hard-working vans. We installed a VIN-programmed module, and the van was shifting perfectly within an hour. The fleet manager was thrilled to avoid a multi-day stay at the dealership and get his vehicle back in service immediately.
Is Your Savana Van Showing These Telltale Signs?
A failing TCM doesn’t heal itself; it only gets worse. If you’re experiencing any of these issues, it’s a strong indicator that your 2006-2014 Savana 3500 TCM is the culprit.
- ✔ Harsh, banging shifts or delayed gear engagement.
- ✔ The vehicle is stuck in “limp mode” and won’t shift out of a single gear.
- ✔ An illuminated Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) stored, such as P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction), P0750-P0758 (Shift Solenoid errors), or other communication codes.
- ✔ A sudden drop in fuel economy or the transmission seeming to overheat.
- ✔ Complete loss of communication with the transmission module.
A Straightforward Guide to Your TCM Installation
One of the best features of this module is its simple, plug-and-play installation. No special tools are needed, and most DIY mechanics can complete the job in under 30 minutes.
- 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 3500 Van, 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 VIN-programmed TCM into place and securely reconnect the electrical connectors. Ensure they click into place.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. Start the vehicle and let it run for a few minutes. While not always necessary, using a basic OBDII scan tool to clear any old stored codes is a good final step.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This T42 TCM is a direct replacement for part number 24240449 and other service numbers. It is guaranteed to fit the following models, among many others:
This part will fit these makes and models with these options:
SAVANA 3500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
SAVANA 2500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
SAVANA 1500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
EXPRESS 1500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 07 Transmission; (new style, smooth door skin), (next to battery)
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 07 Transmission; (new style, smooth door skin), (next to battery)
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 08-13 Transmission; (next to battery), w/o hybrid option
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 08-13 Transmission; (next to battery), w/o hybrid option
TAHOE 07-09 Transmission; (next to battery)
YUKON 07-09 Transmission; (next to battery)
COLORADO 08-12 Transmission; (RH rear engine compartment)
CANYON 08-12 Transmission; (RH rear engine compartment)
HUMMER H3 08-10 Transmission; (RH rear engine compartment)
IMPALA 06-11 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
MONTE CARLO 06-07 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
COBALT 06-10 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
HHR 06-11 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
LACROSSE 06-09 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
LUCERNE 06-11 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
DTS 06-11 Transmission; (RH front engine compartment)
…and many more GM vehicles. Please verify fitment using your vehicle information or part number.
Frequently Asked Questions
2006-2014 Savana 3500 TCM
Will this fix a P0700 trouble code?
A P0700 code is a general fault request from the TCM to the main computer (PCM) to turn on the Check Engine Light. While it doesn’t pinpoint the exact issue, it very often accompanies a failing TCM. Replacing a faulty is a common and effective way to resolve a P0700 code and the more specific codes that are typically stored along with it.