Get Your Workhorse Van Back on the Road
If your 2006-2014 GMC Savana 3500 Van is experiencing shifting problems, you know that downtime isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s costing you money. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen countless work vans sidelined by a faulty Transmission Control Module (TCM). Symptoms like harsh gear changes, getting stuck in limp mode, or an illuminated check engine light are classic signs that the brain of your transmission has failed. This T42 TCM, part number YNXS, is the reliable, straightforward solution to get your van operating smoothly again.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete fix. We pre-program the module to your van’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) before it ships. This critical step ensures it communicates flawlessly with your vehicle’s systems right out of the box, eliminating the need for an expensive and time-consuming trip to the dealership for programming. It’s designed to restore the precise shifting logic for transmissions like the 4L80E, ensuring your workhorse performs reliably for years to come.
From the Service Bay: The Case of the Unreliable Work Van
From the Service Bay: The Case of the Unreliable Work Van
I remember a fleet manager bringing in a 2011 Savana 3500. The driver complained of intermittent, bone-jarring shifts and the van occasionally refusing to shift past 2nd gear. They had already replaced two solenoids with no luck. A quick scan pulled a P0700 and a generic solenoid circuit code. Instead of continuing to throw parts at it, we identified the root cause: the T42 TCM was failing internally. We installed a VIN-programmed module, and in under an hour, the van was shifting like new. The manager was thrilled to avoid a multi-day dealership stay and get his vehicle back in service immediately.
Is Your Van Exhibiting These Telltale Signs?
A failing TCM will give you clear warnings. If you’re noticing any of the following, it’s time to consider a replacement:
- ✔ Harsh, slamming, or erratic gear shifts.
- ✔ The vehicle is stuck in a single gear (limp mode), often 2nd or 3rd.
- ✔ Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light is on.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) like P0700, P0750, or other transmission-related codes are present.
- ✔ Delayed engagement when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse.
- ✔ Poor fuel economy and a feeling of sluggish performance.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
One of the best features of this module is its simple installation, which you can perform with basic hand tools in about 30 minutes. For the 2006-2014 Savana 3500 Van TCM, you’ll find it in the engine compartment.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- Locate the Module: On the Savana Van, the TCM is typically mounted in the right-hand (passenger side) of the engine compartment.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. Be gentle with the locking tabs. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed TCM into place and securely reconnect the electrical harnesses. You’ll hear a click as they lock.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. While the module is plug-and-play, it’s good practice to use a basic OBD2 scanner to clear any stored fault codes from the system.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This T42 TCM is a direct-fit replacement for a wide range of General Motors vehicles. Please verify your model and the module’s location below. This part is interchangeable with service numbers including 24252114, 24234503, and YNXS.
- 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)
- ENVOY 06-09 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
- TRAILBLAZER 06-09 Transmission; (LH engine compartment), (8 cylinder options)
- IMPALA 06-11 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
- …and many more GM cars, trucks, and SUVs.
Do I need to have this module programmed by a dealer?
From the Service Bay: The Case of the Unreliable Work Van
I remember a fleet manager bringing in a 2011 Savana 3500. The driver complained of intermittent, bone-jarring shifts and the van occasionally refusing to shift past 2nd gear. They had already replaced two solenoids with no luck. A quick scan pulled a P0700 and a generic solenoid circuit code. Instead of continuing to throw parts at it, we identified the root cause: the T42 TCM was failing internally. We installed a VIN-programmed module, and in under an hour, the van was shifting like new. The manager was thrilled to avoid a multi-day dealership stay and get his vehicle back in service immediately.