Restore Smooth Shifting to Your Saturn Aura with a Pre-Programmed TCM
If your 2007, 2008, or 2009 Saturn Aura is suffering from jarring shifts, getting stuck in gear, or has an illuminated check engine light, a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM) is the most likely culprit. As a seasoned technician, I’ve seen firsthand how a faulty TCM can make a reliable car feel unpredictable and unsafe. This isn’t just an annoyance; it’s a critical failure in the system that manages your vehicle’s powertrain. This OEM-quality T42 Transmission Control Module, part number 24243921, is the definitive solution to restore your vehicle’s performance and your peace of mind.
The TCM is the electronic brain of your automatic transmission. It processes data from various sensors to control shift solenoids, manage torque converter lockup, and ensure every gear change is smooth and efficient. When it fails, communication breaks down, leading to the frustrating and often costly symptoms you’re experiencing. Our module solves this by arriving at your door pre-programmed to your car’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), making it a true plug-and-play fix that doesn’t require an expensive trip to the dealership for coding.
Case Study: The ‘Limp Mode’ Saturn Aura
A customer brought in a 2008 Saturn Aura that was stuck in what we call ‘limp mode’—it wouldn’t shift out of 3rd gear. They were worried about a complete transmission failure, which would be a multi-thousand-dollar repair. A quick scan with my diagnostic tool pulled a P0700 code, which is a general transmission fault. Digging deeper, we found codes related to solenoid circuit failures. In my 20+ years of experience, this pattern almost always points directly to the TCM. Instead of starting a costly transmission teardown, we ordered a VIN-programmed TCM. The installation took less than 30 minutes, and after clearing the codes, the car shifted perfectly. The customer saved thousands and drove away in a car that felt brand new again.
Is Your Saturn Aura Showing These Telltale Signs?
A failing 2007-2009 Aura TCM will often display clear symptoms. If you’re noticing any of the following, it’s time to consider a replacement:
- âś” Harsh, slamming, or erratic gear shifts.
- âś” The vehicle is stuck in a single gear (limp mode), often 2nd or 3rd.
- âś” Delayed engagement when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse.
- âś” Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light is on.
- âś” Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are present, such as P0700, P0750, or other solenoid-specific codes.
- âś” Poor fuel economy and a feeling of sluggish performance.
- âś” Complete loss of communication with the transmission.
A Straightforward Guide to Your Aura’s TCM Installation
One of the best features of this module is its simple, DIY-friendly installation. You don’t need a vehicle lift or specialized tools. For your Saturn Aura, the process is particularly accessible.
- Safety First: Before you begin, disconnect the negative terminal from your car’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts and to help reset the vehicle’s computer systems.
- Locate the TCM: On the 2007-2009 Saturn Aura, the TCM is conveniently located on the front portion of the left-hand (driver’s side) frame rail in the engine bay.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old module. Press the release tabs firmly to avoid breaking them. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed TCM into place. Reconnect the electrical connectors, ensuring they click securely into position.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. While the module is plug-and-play, it’s best practice to use a basic OBD2 scan tool to clear any stored fault codes from the previous failure. Start the car and take it for a test drive to confirm the shifting issues are resolved.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This T42 TCM is a direct fit for a wide range of General Motors vehicles. While this page focuses on the 2007-2009 Aura TCM, it is also compatible with the following models. Please verify your vehicle and the location notes.
- AURA 07-09 Transmission; (LH frame rail front)
- ALLURE 06-09 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
- AVALANCHE 1500 07-08 Transmission; (next to battery)
- CANYON 08-12 Transmission; (RH rear engine compartment)
- COBALT 06-10 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- COLORADO 08-12 Transmission; (RH rear engine compartment)
- DTS 06-11 Transmission; (RH front engine compartment)
- ENVOY 06-07 Transmission; (LH engine compartment), (8 cylinder)
- ENVOY 08-09 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
- ENVOY XL 06 Transmission; (LH engine compartment), (8 cylinder)
- EXPRESS 1500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
- EXPRESS 2500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
- EXPRESS 3500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
- G5 07-10 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- G6 06-10 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- GRAND PRIX 06-08 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
- HHR 06-11 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
- HUMMER H3 08-10 Transmission; (RH rear engine compartment)
- IMPALA 06-11 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
- ION 06-07 Transmission; (behind LH strut tower)
- LACROSSE 06-09 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
- LUCERNE 06-07 Transmission; (4.6L), (LH engine compartment)
- LUCERNE 08-11 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
- MALIBU 06-10 Transmission; (LH frame rail)
- MONTE CARLO 06-07 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
- MONTANA 06-09 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- PURSUIT 06 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- RAINIER 06-07 Transmission
- RENDEZVOUS 06-07 Transmission; (air cleaner box)
- SAAB 9-7X 06-09 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
- SAVANA 1500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
- SAVANA 2500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
- SAVANA 3500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
- SIERRA 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
- SIERRA 2500 PICKUP 07 Transmission; new style (smooth door skin), 6.0L, (next to battery)
- SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 07 Transmission; (new style, smooth door skin), (next to battery)
- SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 08-13 Transmission; (next to battery), w/o hybrid option
- SILVERADO 2500 PICKUP 07 Transmission; new style (smooth door skin), 6.0L, (next to battery)
- SSR 05-06 Transmission; (front LH frame)
- SUBURBAN 1500 07-08 Transmission; (next to battery)
- TAHOE 07-09 Transmission; (next to battery)
- TERRAZA 06-07 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- TRAILBLAZER 06-07 Transmission; (LH engine compartment), (8 cylinder)
- TRAILBLAZER 08-09 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
- TRAILBLAZER EXT 06 Transmission; (LH engine compartment), (8 cylinder)
- UPLANDER 06-09 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- VUE 07-08 Transmission; 2.4L, (LH front engine compartment)
- VUE 09 Transmission; 2.4L, (LH front engine compartment)
- VUE 10 Transmission
- YUKON 07-09 Transmission; (next to battery)
- YUKON XL 1500 07-08 Transmission; (next to battery)
Why is VIN programming so important for this part?
Why is VIN programming so important for this part?
VIN programming loads your car’s specific software and transmission calibrations onto the module before it ships. This ensures the TCM works perfectly with your engine, tire size, and gear ratios right out of the box, eliminating the need for expensive dealer-only programming tools.
Do I need to take my car to a mechanic after installing this?
No. Because this module is pre-programmed for your vehicle, there is no additional programming or setup required. Installation is a direct replacement, designed to be done by a professional mechanic or a capable DIY enthusiast.
Will this part fix a P0700 transmission code?
Yes, in many cases. The P0700 code is a general alert that the TCM has detected a problem. Often, the problem is the TCM itself. Replacing a faulty TCM is a very common and effective way to resolve a P0700 code and related shifting issues.
Is there a core charge for my old part?
No, there is no core charge required for this transmission control module. You can keep your old part without any hassle or need to return it, simplifying the repair process for you.