Fix Your Saturn’s Shifting Problems for Good
If your 2007-2009 Saturn Aura is suffering from erratic shifting, getting stuck in gear, or has an illuminated check engine light, a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM) is the most likely culprit. I’ve seen it hundreds of times in my shop: a great car is sidelined by a frustrating and seemingly complex transmission issue. The reality is, the fix is often straightforward. This T42 Transmission Control Module, part number 24252114, is the definitive solution to restore your vehicle’s drivability and peace of mind.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete solution. We pre-program each module to your car’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) before it ships. This crucial step means you can skip the expensive and time-consuming trip to the dealership for programming. For the DIY mechanic, this is a game-changer. For the professional technician, it means a faster bay turnover and a happier customer. This module directly addresses the root cause of many common transmission faults, ensuring your Aura drives like it just left the factory.
A Technician’s Notebook
I remember a 2008 Saturn Aura that came into the shop stuck in ‘limp mode’—it wouldn’t shift out of 3rd gear. The owner was worried about a complete transmission rebuild, which would have cost thousands. After a quick scan, we found a classic P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction) code. Instead of jumping to the worst-case scenario, we checked the TCM. Sure enough, it had failed. We installed one of these pre-programmed T42 modules, and in less than an hour, the car was shifting perfectly. The customer saved a fortune and was back on the road the same day. It’s a testament to how a targeted, quality part can solve a major problem efficiently.
Is Your Saturn Aura Showing These Telltale Signs?
A faulty TCM can manifest in several ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s a strong indicator that your module needs attention. Diagnosing these symptoms correctly can save you from unnecessary repairs.
- ✔ Harsh, slamming shifts or unpredictable gear changes.
- ✔ The vehicle is stuck in a single gear (limp mode), often 2nd or 3rd.
- ✔ Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light is on, with Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) like P0700, P0750, or other solenoid-related faults.
- ✔ Failure to upshift or downshift, leading to poor acceleration and performance.
- ✔ A noticeable decrease in fuel economy.
- ✔ The transmission seems to slip out of gear or has a delayed engagement when shifting from Park to Drive.
Simple Steps to a Smooth-Shifting Saturn Aura
One of the best features of this module is its straightforward installation. You don’t need a vehicle lift or specialized transmission tools. For the 2007-2009 Saturn Aura, the TCM is located on the front of the left frame rail. The entire process typically takes less than 30 minutes.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work. This prevents short circuits and helps reset the vehicle’s electronic systems.
- Locate the Module: On your Aura, you’ll find the TCM mounted on the front portion of the driver’s side frame rail. You may need to move other components for clear access.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old TCM. Press the release tabs firmly to avoid damaging 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 our programming handles the critical setup, it’s good practice to use a basic OBD2 scan tool to clear any stored fault codes from the vehicle’s memory. Start the car and take it for a test drive to confirm smooth shifting.
Verified Fitment for Your General Motors Vehicle
While this is a perfect solution for the 2007-2009 Aura TCM, this versatile T42 module is also compatible with a wide range of other General Motors cars, trucks, and SUVs. Please verify your vehicle is on the list below. It is interchangeable with part numbers 24252114, 24234503, 24242391, and others.
This part will fit these makes and models with these options
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 Transmission; (next to battery)
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 09-13 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 Transmission; (next to battery)
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 09-13 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 Transmission; (next to battery)
TAHOE 08-09 Transmission; (next to battery), w/o auxiliary oil cooler pump
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, w/hybrid, LH side front engine compartment, (shift control)
VUE 09 Transmission; 2.4L, w/o hybrid; (LH front engine compartment)
VUE 10 Transmission
YUKON 07 Transmission; (next to battery)
YUKON 08 Transmission; (next to battery), w/o auxiliary oil cooler control
YUKON 09 Transmission; (next to battery), w/o auxiliary oil cooler pump
YUKON XL 1500 07-08 Transmission; (next to battery)
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to have this module programmed by a dealer after I install it?
No. This is the biggest benefit of our service. We program the module to your car’s VIN before shipping, so it’s ready for immediate installation right out of the box. This saves you hundreds of dollars and a trip to the dealership.
How do I provide my VIN for programming?
You will be prompted to enter your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN during the checkout process. Please double-check it for accuracy to ensure perfect compatibility.
What causes the original TCM to fail?
TCM failures are common in many vehicles and are typically caused by a combination of factors over time, including engine heat, constant vibration, and the eventual breakdown of internal electronic components and solder joints.
Will this fix a P0700 trouble code?
Yes. While a P0700 code is a general fault code indicating a problem within the transmission control system, it is very often triggered by a failing TCM. Replacing the module with our programmed unit is a common and effective fix for this code and related solenoid codes.
Is there a core charge for my old part?
No, there is no core charge. You can keep your old part or dispose of it at your convenience without the hassle of returning it.