Restore Smooth Shifting to Your Saturn Aura
Is your 2007, 2008, or 2009 Saturn Aura suffering from jarring shifts, getting stuck in gear, or throwing transmission-related codes? You’re not alone. The Transmission Control Module (TCM) is the electronic brain of your automatic transmission, and when it fails, it can make your car feel unreliable and unsafe to drive. Over my 20+ years in the shop, I’ve seen countless GM vehicles with these exact issues. The culprit is often a failing T42 TCM. This replacement 2007-2009 Aura TCM, part number 24255280, is the definitive solution to get your vehicle operating correctly again.
We take the guesswork and extra cost out of the repair by pre-programming this module to your vehicle’s specific VIN. This means you can skip the expensive trip to the dealership for programming. It arrives at your door ready for a true plug-and-play installation, restoring the precise shifting logic and communication your transmission needs to perform at its best.
A Technician’s Notebook
A customer brought in their ’08 Saturn Aura with a classic complaint: “It feels like it gets slammed into gear, and the check engine light is on.” A quick scan pulled a P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction) and a P0752 (Shift Solenoid ‘A’ Stuck On). While the solenoid code might point to an internal issue, experience with these GM platforms tells me to check the controller first. The TCM is notorious for causing false solenoid codes due to internal circuit failure. Instead of starting a costly transmission teardown, we swapped in a VIN-programmed TCM. After a 15-minute install and clearing the codes, the car shifted perfectly on the test drive. The problem wasn’t the solenoid; it was the module commanding it. This is a prime example of how starting with the brain saves time and money.
Is Your Saturn Aura Exhibiting These Transmission Problems?
A failing TCM can manifest in several ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, this module is likely the solution you need.
- ✔ Harsh, erratic, or delayed gear shifts.
- ✔ Vehicle is stuck in “limp mode” (usually 2nd or 3rd gear).
- ✔ Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light is illuminated.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) like P0700, P0750, P0751, or other solenoid-related faults are present.
- ✔ Complete failure to upshift or downshift.
- ✔ A noticeable decrease in fuel economy.
- ✔ Intermittent loss of communication with the module (a U-code).
A Straightforward 30-Minute Installation Guide
You don’t need to be a master mechanic to install this part. For the Saturn Aura, the process is simple and can be done with basic hand tools.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts and to help reset the system.
- Locate the TCM: On the 2007-2009 Saturn Aura, the TCM is typically mounted on the front 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. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed TCM into place. Securely plug in the electrical connectors until they click, ensuring a solid connection.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Start the vehicle and use a basic OBD2 scan tool to clear any stored fault codes from the computer’s memory. Take the car for a test drive to confirm the shifting issues are resolved.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility List
While this page focuses on the 2007-2009 Aura TCM, this T42 module is compatible with a wide range of General Motors vehicles. Please verify your part number (24255280) or check the list below. This part is a direct replacement for service numbers such as 24242391, 24234503, 24252114, and others.
- Saturn Aura: 2007-2009 (LH frame rail front)
- Chevrolet Cobalt / Pontiac G5 / G6: 2006-2010 (LH strut tower)
- Chevrolet HHR: 2006-2011 (LH engine compartment)
- Chevrolet Impala / Monte Carlo: 2006-2011 (lower air cleaner housing)
- Chevrolet Malibu: 2006-2010 (LH frame rail)
- Chevrolet Silverado / GMC Sierra: 2007-2013 (next to battery)
- Chevrolet Tahoe / GMC Yukon: 2007-2009 (next to battery)
- And many more GM models from 2006-2014.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is VIN programming so important?
VIN programming loads your vehicle’s specific software, including shift points and communication protocols, onto the module. Without it, the TCM won’t work correctly with your car’s engine and transmission, leading to the same problems you’re trying to fix. Our service saves you a separate, costly trip to a mechanic or dealer.
Will this part fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is on due to TCM-related trouble codes (like P0700 or solenoid codes caused by the module), then yes, replacing it with this part will resolve the root cause. You will need to clear the codes with a scan tool after installation.
Is this a difficult part to install myself?
No, this is a great DIY-friendly repair. For most vehicles, including the Saturn Aura, it’s located in an accessible part of the engine bay and requires only basic hand tools. The entire process typically takes less than 30 minutes.
Do I need to send my old part back?
No, there is no core charge or need to return your old module. You can dispose of it or keep it, making the transaction simple and hassle-free.
What kind of warranty is included?
This module comes with a one-year warranty, giving you confidence and peace of mind in your repair. We stand behind the quality and reliability of our programmed electronics.