End Your Saturn Aura’s Shifting Nightmares
If you’re dealing with a 2007, 2008, or 2009 Saturn Aura that’s shifting erratically, getting stuck in gear, or throwing transmission codes, 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 culprit is often a failed Transmission Control Module (TCM). This replacement T42 TCM, part number 24256960, is the definitive solution to restore your car’s smooth, reliable performance. We pre-program it to your vehicle’s specific VIN, so it arrives ready for a straightforward, plug-and-play installation without a costly trip to the dealership.
Is Your Saturn Aura Showing These Telltale Signs?
A failing TCM doesn’t get better on its own. It can cause cascading problems and even leave you stranded. Here are the common symptoms I see in the shop every day. If your car is experiencing any of these, a faulty module is the likely cause:
- âś” Harsh, banging shifts or delayed gear engagement.
- âś” Vehicle is stuck in ‘limp mode’ and won’t shift out of 2nd or 3rd gear.
- âś” The Check Engine Light is on with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) like P0700, P0750, or other solenoid-related faults.
- âś” Complete failure to upshift or downshift, leading to poor acceleration and terrible fuel mileage.
- âś” Intermittent loss of communication with the transmission or sudden, unpredictable shifting behavior.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A customer brought in their 2008 Saturn Aura, complaining it felt sluggish and the transmission would slam into gear. They’d already replaced a shift solenoid with no improvement. A quick scan showed a general P0700 transmission fault code, but no specific solenoid codes this time. From experience, I know that when communication with the TCM is intermittent, it can trigger these generic faults. We suspected the module itself was failing internally due to heat and vibration. After installing one of our VIN-programmed T42 modules, the car shifted perfectly. The problem wasn’t a mechanical part in the transmission; it was the computer controlling it. This simple swap saved the customer from a potential transmission rebuild.
The Definitive Fix: A Programmed 2007-2009 Aura Transmission Module
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete solution. By programming the module to your VIN, we ensure it has the correct software and shift strategies for your specific vehicle. This eliminates compatibility guesswork and the need for expensive dealer-only programming tools. You get a module that works correctly right out of the box, restoring the precise electronic control your automatic transmission needs for optimal function, fuel efficiency, and longevity.
DIY-Friendly Installation in Under an Hour
You don’t need to be a master mechanic to replace this module. For the Saturn Aura, it’s a very accessible job that most DIYers can handle with basic tools.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your car’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- Locate the TCM: On the 2007-2009 Saturn Aura, the transmission control module is located on the front of the left-hand frame rail.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. Note the tab locations to avoid damage. Then, unbolt the old module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt your new, pre-programmed TCM into place. Securely reconnect the electrical harnesses until they click.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. While the module is plug-and-play, it’s always a good practice to use a basic scan tool to clear any stored fault codes from the vehicle’s memory. Start the car and enjoy smooth shifting!
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This T42 TCM is a direct fit for the 2007-2009 Saturn Aura. It also fits a wide range of other GM vehicles. Please verify your part number (24256960 or an interchangeable number) to ensure a perfect match. Other compatible models include:
- âś” Chevrolet Cobalt, HHR, Impala, Malibu, Monte Carlo
- âś” Pontiac G5, G6, Grand Prix, Pursuit
- âś” Saturn Ion, Vue
- âś” And many other GM cars, trucks, and SUVs from 2006-2014. See the full fitment list for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is VIN programming so important?
VIN programming loads your vehicle’s specific software and calibration files onto the module. This ensures it communicates correctly with the engine computer and controls your transmission’s shift points and torque converter lockup exactly as the factory intended, preventing performance issues.
Is this a difficult part to install myself?
Not at all. For the Saturn Aura, this is one of the easier electronic modules to replace. It’s located on the front frame rail and requires only basic hand tools. The entire process typically takes less than an hour.
Will this module fix a P0700 code?
Yes. A P0700 is a generic code indicating the TCM has detected a fault. If the root cause is a failing module, replacing it with this pre-programmed unit will resolve the code and the underlying shifting problem.
Do I need to send my old part back?
No, there is no core charge for this module. You can keep your old part, which saves you the time and hassle of return shipping.
What if I have questions during installation?
We’re here to help. Our team of experts has hands-on experience with these parts and can provide support to ensure your repair is successful. Contact us for assistance.