If your 2007-2009 Saturn Aura is giving you transmission headaches—like harsh, unpredictable shifting or being stuck in limp mode—you’ve come to the right place. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen countless drivers frustrated by these exact issues. The problem often isn’t the transmission itself, but its electronic brain: the Transmission Control Module (TCM). This VIN-programmed T42 TCM is the definitive solution, engineered to restore your vehicle’s performance and reliability without a costly trip to the dealership.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent Shifting Mystery
A customer brought in a 2008 Saturn Aura with a complaint that stumped two other shops. The car would drive perfectly for days, then suddenly start slamming into gear or refuse to shift past 2nd. They’d clear the codes, and it would be fine again—for a while. No one could find a consistent fault. After checking the wiring and solenoids, which all tested fine, my experience pointed to a classic T42 TCM failure. Heat cycles and vibrations cause internal solder joints to crack, leading to these maddeningly intermittent electrical faults. We installed one of our pre-programmed modules, and the problem was solved for good. It’s a textbook example of how a failing module can mimic a major mechanical failure, and why a quality, correctly programmed part is the only real fix.
Is Your Saturn Aura Showing These Transmission Warning 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 replacement:
- ✔ Harsh, banging shifts or delayed gear engagement.
- ✔ The vehicle is stuck in a single gear (often called “limp mode”).
- ✔ An illuminated Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are stored, such as P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction), P0750, or other solenoid-related codes.
- ✔ A sudden drop in fuel efficiency or a feeling of sluggish performance.
- ✔ Complete loss of communication with the TCM, preventing shifting altogether.
The Power of a Pre-Programmed Solution for Your 2007-2009 Aura TCM
The biggest hurdle in replacing modern electronics is programming. A generic module from a parts store won’t work until it’s been flashed by a dealer, adding time, cost, and hassle to your repair. Our process eliminates that step entirely. We flash this T42 TCM with your car’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and the latest GM software updates before it ships. This ensures it communicates perfectly with your vehicle’s other systems right out of the box, restoring factory shift logic and performance. It’s a true plug-and-play fix.
A Straightforward Guide to Your Aura’s TCM Replacement
For the motivated DIYer or professional mechanic, this job is refreshingly simple and can be done in under 30 minutes with basic hand tools. On the 2007-2009 Saturn Aura, the TCM is typically located on the front portion of the left-hand frame rail.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts and to help reset the onboard systems.
- Locate the Module: Find the TCM on the front of the driver’s side (LH) frame rail. It’s a silver box with electrical connectors.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unclip the wiring harness connectors. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New TCM: Mount the new, pre-programmed module in the same location, secure the bolts, and firmly reconnect the wiring harnesses.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. While the module is plug-and-play, it’s always best practice to use a scan tool to clear any lingering fault codes from the system’s memory.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This T42 TCM, part number 24234274, is a direct replacement for a wide range of General Motors vehicles. Please verify your model and the module location noted below. Interchangeable part numbers include: 24252114, 24234503, 24230461, and more.
- Saturn Aura (2007-2009): Transmission; (LH frame rail front)
- Chevrolet Cobalt / Pontiac G5 / Pursuit (2006-2010): Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- Chevrolet HHR (2006-2011): Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
- Chevrolet Impala / Monte Carlo (2006-2011): Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
- Chevrolet Malibu (2006-2010): Transmission; (LH frame rail)
- Chevrolet Silverado / GMC Sierra 1500 (2007-2013): Transmission; (next to battery)
- Chevrolet Tahoe / GMC Yukon (2007-2009): Transmission; (next to battery)
- Chevrolet Express / GMC Savana Vans (2006-2014): Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
- Buick Allure / LaCrosse (2006-2009): Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
- Cadillac DTS (2006-2011): Transmission; (RH front engine compartment)
- Pontiac G6 (2006-2010): Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- Saturn Vue (2007-2010): Transmission; (LH front engine compartment)
- …and many other GM models from 2006-2014.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly does a VIN-programmed TCM do?
By programming the module to your specific VIN, we ensure it has the correct software and calibrations for your vehicle’s engine, transmission type, and options. This guarantees seamless communication and optimal shift performance, just like the original part from the factory.
Is this a difficult part to install on my 2008 Saturn Aura?
Not at all. For the Aura, the TCM is accessible on the driver’s side frame rail in the engine bay. With basic tools, it’s a simple unbolt-and-replace job that typically takes less than half an hour, making it an ideal DIY repair.
Will this fix a P0700 trouble code?
Yes, in many cases. The P0700 code is a general fault code indicating the TCM has detected a problem. If the root cause is an internal failure of the module itself, replacing it with this pre-programmed unit will resolve the code and the underlying issue.
Do I need to send my old TCM back (core charge)?
No, there is absolutely no core charge. You can keep your old part or dispose of it at your convenience, simplifying the repair process for you.
How can I be sure this is the right part for my car?
Match part number 24234274 or one of the interchangeable numbers listed. During checkout, provide your VIN, and our experts will verify perfect compatibility before programming and shipping your module.
What happens if I don’t replace a failing TCM?
Ignoring a failing TCM can lead to more severe problems. Continued harsh shifting can cause premature mechanical wear on clutches and bands inside the transmission, potentially turning a simple electronic fix into a major, expensive mechanical overhaul.