Restore Peak Performance to Your Workhorse Van
If your 2006-2014 GMC Savana 3500 is suffering from erratic shifting, getting stuck in gear, or throwing transmission codes, the culprit is often a failed Transmission Control Module (TCM). As the electronic brain of your automatic transmission, a faulty TCM can make your reliable work van feel unpredictable and unsafe. This replacement T42 TCM, part number 24234503, is the definitive solution to get your vehicle back on the road and running smoothly without a costly trip to the dealership.
Over my 20 years in diagnostics, I’ve seen countless vehicle owners and even professional shops replace entire transmissions, only to find the problem was this small electronic module all along. The symptoms can be deceiving, mimicking internal mechanical failure. However, a failing TCM often leaves specific electronic footprints. This module is your direct fix, pre-programmed to your van’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to ensure perfect communication with the Engine Control Module (ECM) and other vehicle systems right out of the box.
Case Study: The Misdiagnosed Work Van
A local contractor brought his Savana 3500 into my shop, frustrated. His van was stuck in what he called “limp mode”—it wouldn’t shift past 2nd gear. Another shop had quoted him thousands for a transmission rebuild. I hooked up my pro-level scan tool and saw a classic P0753 (Shift Solenoid ‘A’ Electrical) code. While this can point to a solenoid, experience told me to check the source. We tested the wiring and found no issues. The problem was the TCM itself; it was no longer sending the correct voltage to the solenoid. We installed a VIN-programmed module just like this one, and in under an hour, the van was shifting perfectly. He saved a fortune and a lot of downtime.
Is Your Savana Van Showing These Telltale Signs?
A failing TCM doesn’t always mean a complete transmission shutdown. It often starts with subtle but frustrating issues. Check if you’re experiencing any of the following:
- ✔ Harsh, banging shifts or delayed gear engagement.
- ✔ The vehicle is stuck in a single gear (often 2nd or 3rd) to protect the transmission.
- ✔ An illuminated Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) stored in the system, such as P0700, P0750-P0758, or other solenoid-related faults.
- ✔ A sudden drop in fuel economy as the transmission isn’t operating efficiently.
- ✔ Complete loss of communication with the module, preventing shifting.
Your 30-Minute Path to Smooth Shifting
This is a repair you can confidently tackle yourself. No specialized programming tools are needed. Just provide your VIN at checkout, and we handle the rest.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts and to 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. Press the release tabs firmly. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New TCM: Mount the new, pre-programmed module in place and securely fasten the bolts. Reconnect the electrical harnesses, ensuring they click into place.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. Start the vehicle. While our programming resolves most issues, it’s good practice to use a basic scan tool to clear any old, stored fault codes from the vehicle’s memory.
Verified Fitment For Your GM Vehicle
This T42 TCM is a direct replacement for part number 24234503 and is interchangeable with many other service numbers. It is engineered for a wide range of 2006-2014 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 3500 TCM, it also fits models including:
- Chevrolet Express 1500/2500/3500, Silverado, Tahoe, Suburban, Impala, Cobalt
- GMC Sierra, Yukon, Envoy
- Cadillac DTS
- Buick LaCrosse, Lucerne
- Pontiac G6, Grand Prix
- And many more. Please verify your vehicle in our fitment tool.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to take this part to a dealer for programming?
No. The main benefit of this module is that we program it to your vehicle’s VIN before shipping. This makes the installation plug-and-play, saving you time and the high cost of dealership programming.
How do I provide my VIN?
Simply enter your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) during the checkout process. We cannot ship the module without it, as the programming is specific to your vehicle.
Will this fix a P0700 trouble code?
A P0700 code is a general fault request from the TCM to the ECM to turn on the check engine light. It means a more specific transmission code is stored in the TCM. If that specific code (like a solenoid fault) is caused by a bad TCM, then yes, this part will resolve the issue and the P0700 code once cleared.
Is there a core charge for my old part?
No, there is no core charge. You are not required to send your old, faulty module back to us, which simplifies the process for you.
What if I install it and still have problems?
Our modules are rigorously tested and come with a one-year warranty. If you continue to have issues, it may indicate another problem in the system (e.g., wiring, a bad solenoid, or internal transmission damage). Our expert support team is here to help you diagnose the situation.