Get Your Workhorse Van Back on the Road, Fast.
As a professional, you know that a work van isn’t just a vehicleโit’s your livelihood. When your 2006-2014 GMC Savana 3500 starts shifting erratically, gets stuck in gear, or throws a transmission-related check engine light, every moment of downtime costs you money and credibility. The Transmission Control Module (TCM) is the brain of your automatic transmission, and when it fails, it can bring your operations to a grinding halt. This VIN-programmed T42 TCM is the direct-fit, reliable solution to get your van running smoothly again without a costly trip to the dealership.
Is Your Savana 3500 Showing These Symptoms?
A failing TCM can manifest in several ways. Over my 20+ years in the shop, these are the most common complaints I hear from Savana and Express van owners:
- โ Harsh, Banging Shifts: The transmission slams into gear, especially between 1st and 2nd.
- โ Stuck in Limp Mode: The van won’t shift out of 2nd or 3rd gear, a safety measure to prevent further damage.
- โ Delayed Engagement: A long pause after shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse.
- โ Warning Lights: The Check Engine Light or a specific transmission warning is illuminated on your dash.
- โ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs): You’ve scanned it and found codes like P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction), P0750-series solenoid codes, or communication errors.
- โ Poor Fuel Economy: Inefficient shifting forces the engine to work harder, burning more fuel.
A Real-World Scenario from My Shop
A contractor brought in his ’11 Savana 3500 last month. It was stuck in 3rd gear (limp mode) and had a P0700 code. He was worried he needed a full transmission rebuild, which would have put his van out of commission for days. We checked the basics firstโfluid level and condition were fine. We then inspected the TCM connector and found no issues. The diagnosis pointed squarely at an internal TCM failure. We installed one of our pre-programmed modules, cleared the codes, and had him back on the road in under an hour. Itโs a common, straightforward fix that saves immense time and money.
Plug-and-Play Installation: No Dealer Visit Required
One of the biggest advantages of this module is that it arrives ready to install. We program it to your van’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) before it ships, ensuring it communicates perfectly with your vehicle’s other systems. This eliminates the need for expensive programming tools or a visit to the dealer.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery.
- Locate the TCM: On most Savana and Express vans, the TCM is located in the engine compartment on the right-hand (passenger) side.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. Be gentle with the locking tabs. Then, unbolt the old module from its bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new TCM into place and securely reconnect the electrical harnesses. You should hear a ‘click’ as they lock.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. Start the vehicle and use a basic OBD2 scan tool to clear any stored transmission codes.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Savana 3500 Transmission Control Module
- Q: Do I need to have this module programmed by a dealer?
- A: No. We handle all the programming based on the VIN you provide at checkout. It arrives ready for a plug-and-play installation, saving you time and hundreds of dollars in dealership fees.
- Q: How do I know if the TCM is the problem and not the transmission itself?
- A: While symptoms can overlap, TCM failure is often electronic in natureโsudden limp mode, specific communication codes (like P0700), or erratic behavior that comes and goes. A major mechanical failure inside the transmission usually involves noises like grinding, whining, or slipping accompanied by burnt-smelling fluid.
- Q: What transmissions is this T42 module compatible with?
- A: This module is designed for popular 4-speed GM automatic transmissions, including the 4L60E, 4L65E, 4L70E, and the heavy-duty 4L80E commonly found in the Savana 3500.
- Q: Is there a core charge for my old part?
- A: No, there is no core charge. You can keep your old module without the hassle of shipping it back.
Guaranteed Compatibility & Reliability
This module is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM part numbers, ensuring a perfect fit for your vehicle. It is built to meet or exceed OEM specifications and is backed by our one-year warranty.
Interchangeable Part Numbers: 24252114, 24234503, 24230461, 24234274, 24235340, 24235754, 24238856, 24239224, 24239926, 24240400, 24241806, 24243901, 24243921, 24255280, 24256960, 24235732, 24235753, 24240449, YNXS.