If you’re dealing with the frustration of a 2007-2009 Saturn Aura that shifts harshly, hesitates, or gets stuck in gear, you’re not alone. As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen countless GM vehicles sidelined by a faulty Transmission Control Module (TCM). The TCM is the brain of your automatic transmission, and when it fails, it can cause a cascade of problems that make your car feel unreliable and unsafe. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a critical failure that needs a dependable solution.
This T42 Transmission Control Module, part number 24235340, is the definitive fix for these issues. The biggest hurdle in this repair has always been the need for expensive dealership programming. We’ve eliminated that step. We expertly program each module to your vehicle’s specific VIN before it ships. This means it arrives at your door ready for a true plug-and-play installation, restoring the crisp, predictable shifting your Saturn Aura had from the factory. Stop guessing with generic parts and get the precise, pre-configured solution your vehicle needs.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A customer brought in a 2008 Saturn Aura with a complaint that stumped a couple of other shops. The car would drive perfectly for days, then suddenly start slamming into gear and throw a P0752 (Shift Solenoid ‘A’ Stuck On) code. They had already replaced the solenoid, but the problem persisted. After checking the wiring harness for continuity, my gut told me to look at the TCM. On these GM platforms, heat cycles and vibrations can cause microscopic cracks in the TCM’s circuit board, leading to intermittent failures that are maddening to diagnose. We swapped in a VIN-programmed 2007-2009 Aura TCM, and the problem was solved instantly. The customer was thrilled to have their reliable daily driver back without the cost of a new transmission.
Is Your Saturn Aura Showing These Transmission Problems?
- ✔ Harsh, banging shifts or delayed gear engagement.
- ✔ Vehicle stuck in “limp mode,” often in 2nd or 3rd gear.
- ✔ Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light is on.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) stored, such as P0700, P0750, P0752, or other solenoid-related faults.
- ✔ Inconsistent upshifting or downshifting, leading to poor acceleration.
- ✔ A noticeable drop in fuel economy due to inefficient shifting.
- ✔ Complete loss of communication with the transmission module.
Your Straightforward 30-Minute Installation Guide
Replacing the TCM on your Saturn Aura is a job most DIYers can handle with basic tools. The key is our VIN programming, which removes the most complex step. For the 2007-2009 Aura, you’ll find the module mounted on the front 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 vehicle’s adaptive memory.
- Locate the Module: Find the TCM on the LH front frame rail. It’s a silver box with electrical connectors.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical harnesses. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed TCM into place and securely reconnect the wiring harnesses. You’ll hear a click when they are properly seated.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. While the module is plug-and-play, it’s good practice to use a basic OBD2 scan tool to clear any lingering fault codes from the ECU. Start the vehicle and enjoy smooth shifting!
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
While this is the correct 2007-2009 Aura TCM, this versatile T42 module is also a direct-fit, pre-programmed solution for a wide range of other General Motors vehicles. Please verify your part number and check the list below. Part number 24235340 is interchangeable with 24242391, 24234503, 24252114, and others.
- AURA 07-09 Transmission; (LH frame rail front)
- COBALT 06-10 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- G6 06-10 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- HHR 06-11 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
- IMPALA 06-11 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
- MALIBU 06-10 Transmission; (LH frame rail)
- MONTE CARLO 06-07 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
- SILVERADO & SIERRA 1500/2500 (See full list for specific years/options)
- TAHOE, YUKON, SUBURBAN, AVALANCHE (See full list for specific years/options)
- …and many more GM, Pontiac, Buick, Cadillac, Hummer, and Saab models.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to take my car to the dealer for programming after installation?
Absolutely not. The main benefit of our service is that we pre-program the module to your car’s VIN before shipping. This makes the installation a simple, plug-and-play process, saving you time and the high cost of dealership programming.
Will this fix my transmission problems for good?
If a faulty TCM is the root cause of your issues (like erratic shifting or specific DTCs), then yes, this module is the definitive solution. It’s built to meet or exceed OEM specifications for long-term reliability. However, always ensure proper diagnosis, as other issues like bad wiring or internal transmission faults can cause similar symptoms.
What tools are required for this job?
You’ll only need basic hand tools, typically a socket set to remove the mounting bolts and possibly a small flathead screwdriver to help release the connector clips. A code reader is recommended to clear any stored codes post-installation.
Is there a core charge for my old part?
No, there is no core charge. You are not required to send your old, faulty module back to us, which simplifies the process for you.