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, a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM) is the likely culprit. As the electronic brain of your automatic transmission, the TCM dictates every gear change and torque converter operation. When it fails, it can bring your work van to a grinding halt, costing you time and money. This OEM-quality T42 TCM, part number 24234274, is the definitive solution to get you back on the road with confidence.
Over my 20 years in the garage, I’ve seen countless work vans like the Savana 3500 come in with what owners feared was a catastrophic transmission failure. More often than not, the issue was a faulty module. This replacement is engineered to meet or exceed original GM specifications, ensuring dependable performance whether you’re hauling heavy loads or navigating city traffic. The best part? It arrives at your door pre-programmed to your van’s specific VIN, making the repair a true plug-and-play process without any need for expensive dealership tools or programming fees.
Case Study: The Fleet Van’s Shifting Nightmare
A local plumbing company brought in their 2011 Savana 3500. The driver reported it was slamming into gear and occasionally wouldn’t shift past 2nd. The check engine light was on, and my scan tool pulled a P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction) and a P0752 (Shift Solenoid ‘A’ Stuck On). While the solenoid code pointed to a specific part, experience told me to check the controller first. We swapped in a VIN-programmed T42 module, cleared the codes, and the van shifted like it was new. The original module had an internal short, sending faulty signals. This simple swap saved them from an unnecessary and costly transmission teardown.
Is Your Savana Van Exhibiting These Telltale Signs?
- ✔ Harsh, banging shifts or delayed gear engagement.
- ✔ Vehicle is stuck in “limp mode,” often limited to 2nd or 3rd gear.
- ✔ The Check Engine Light or a transmission warning light is illuminated.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are present, such as P0700, P0750, P0751, or other solenoid-related faults.
- ✔ The transmission refuses to upshift or downshift correctly.
- ✔ A noticeable decrease in fuel economy or signs of the transmission overheating.
DIY Installation: Get Your Van Running in Under an Hour
Replacing the 2006-2014 Savana 3500 Transmission Control Module is a straightforward job that most DIY mechanics can handle with basic tools. In the Savana and Express vans, the module is conveniently located in the engine compartment on the right-hand (passenger) side, making access easy.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts and to help reset the system’s memory.
- Locate the TCM: Open the hood and find the module on the passenger side of the engine bay. It’s a silver box with several large electrical connectors.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the wiring harness connectors. They have locking tabs that need to be released. Once disconnected, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed TCM into place. Securely plug in the wiring harness connectors, ensuring they click and lock.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. Start the vehicle and let it idle for a few minutes. If you have a basic scan tool, it’s good practice to clear any stored codes. No further programming is required.
Verified Fitment For Your General Motors Vehicle
This T42 TCM is a direct replacement for part number 24234274 and is interchangeable with other service numbers like 24252114, 24234503, and 24239224. While this listing focuses on the Savana 3500, this module fits a wide range of GM vehicles from 2006-2014 equipped with 4-speed automatic transmissions like the 4L60E, 4L65E, and 4L80E. Always verify fitment using your vehicle’s year, make, and model.
- GMC: Savana 1500/2500/3500 Van, Sierra 1500/2500, Yukon, Envoy
- Chevrolet: Express 1500/2500/3500 Van, Silverado 1500/2500, Tahoe, Suburban, Impala, Cobalt, HHR, Colorado
- Buick: LaCrosse, Lucerne, Rainier, Allure
- Cadillac: DTS
- Pontiac: G6, Grand Prix
- Hummer: H3
- Saturn: Vue, Aura, Ion
- Saab: 9-7X
Does this module require programming at a dealership?
Does this module require programming at a dealership?
No. This Transmission Control Module is delivered fully pre-programmed to your vehicle’s VIN. This makes it a plug-and-play installation, saving you the time and expense of a trip to the dealer.
What is the warranty on this part?
This part is backed by our comprehensive one-year warranty, giving you peace of mind and protection for your investment.
Is there a core charge for my old module?
No, there is no core charge. You can keep your old part without any hassle or need to ship it back to us.
Will this fix a P0700 trouble code?
A P0700 code is a general fault code indicating the TCM has detected a problem. While a faulty TCM is a very common cause, this code can also be triggered by other transmission issues. However, if you are also experiencing symptoms like harsh shifting or limp mode, replacing the TCM is the most probable fix.
Where is the TCM located on my 2006-2014 Savana 3500 Van?
On the GMC Savana and Chevrolet Express vans from this era, the TCM is typically mounted in the engine compartment on the right-hand (passenger) side, making it easily accessible for replacement.