Is Your Saturn Aura Experiencing Transmission Problems?
If your 2007, 2008, or 2009 Saturn Aura is suffering from harsh shifting, getting stuck in gear, or displaying a check engine light, a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM) is the most likely culprit. The TCM is the electronic brain of your automatic transmission, responsible for coordinating every gear change, managing torque converter lockup, and ensuring smooth, efficient operation. When it fails, it can mimic the symptoms of a catastrophic internal transmission failure, leading to confusion and costly misdiagnoses.
Don’t let a faulty module sideline your vehicle. This OEM-quality T42 TCM, part number 24234274, is the definitive solution to restore your transmission’s performance and get you back on the road with confidence. The most significant advantage is that it arrives at your door pre-programmed to your vehicle’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), making installation a straightforward, plug-and-play process without requiring an expensive trip to the dealership for programming.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We recently had a customer with a 2008 Saturn Aura convinced they needed a complete transmission rebuild. The car was shifting violently between first and second gear and would occasionally go into ‘limp mode,’ stuck in third. They had received a quote for over $3,000. Before they committed, we suggested they scan for codes. Sure enough, it threw a P0752 for a stuck shift solenoid. While this can be a solenoid issue, we’ve seen countless cases where the TCM driver for that solenoid fails. We sent them one of our VIN-programmed T42 modules. In under an hour, they had it installed, cleared the codes, and the car was shifting like new. They saved thousands of dollars by correctly identifying the electronic brain, not the mechanical body, as the source of the problem.
Symptoms of a Failing Saturn Aura TCM
A failing transmission computer can manifest in various ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following issues, it’s time to inspect your TCM:
- ✔️ Erratic Shifting: Abrupt, harsh, or delayed gear changes that make driving uncomfortable and unpredictable.
- ✔️ Stuck in Limp Mode: The vehicle refuses to shift out of a single gear (often 2nd or 3rd) as a protective measure.
- ✔️ Warning Lights: The Check Engine Light or a dedicated transmission warning light is illuminated on your dashboard.
- ✔️ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs): Common codes like P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction), P0750-P0758 (Shift Solenoid Errors), or other transmission-related codes are stored.
- ✔️ Poor Fuel Economy: Inefficient shifting and torque converter lockup can lead to a noticeable drop in MPG.
- ✔️ No Communication: A scan tool may be unable to communicate with the TCM, indicating a complete module failure.
Why Choose Our Programmed Saturn Aura Transmission Control Module?
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, ready-to-install solution. We take the guesswork and extra expense out of the repair process. Our commitment to quality ensures your vehicle operates exactly as the manufacturer intended.
This module is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles using the T42 controller, including popular models like the Chevrolet Silverado, Impala, GMC Sierra, Buick LaCrosse, and many more. It is interchangeable with numerous part numbers, such as 24252114, 24234503, 24230461, and others listed in the fitment guide, guaranteeing broad compatibility.
Simple, DIY-Friendly Installation
Installation is straightforward and can typically be completed in under 30 minutes with basic hand tools. On the 2007-2009 Saturn Aura, the TCM is located on the front of the left-hand frame rail. Simply disconnect the negative battery terminal, unplug the electrical connectors from the old module, unbolt it, and install the new one in its place. Reconnect everything, and you’re ready to go. Using a basic scan tool to clear any stored DTCs after installation is recommended for a clean slate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does ‘VIN Programmed’ mean for me?
It means the module arrives ready for immediate installation. We flash it with your car’s specific VIN and the latest GM software updates before shipping. This ensures perfect communication with your vehicle’s other computers (like the ECU) and eliminates the need for expensive dealership programming.
Can I install this Saturn Aura TCM myself?
Absolutely. The installation is a simple ‘unplug and replace’ process. For the Saturn Aura, it’s located on the front LH frame rail. All you need are basic tools to access it and disconnect the battery. No specialized knowledge is required.
Will this fix my transmission error codes like P0700?
Yes. If the TCM itself is the root cause of the codes, this replacement module will resolve them. Codes like P0700 indicate a general transmission fault, which is often triggered by a failing TCM or the solenoid codes it manages. Replacing the faulty module corrects the source of these errors.
Is there a core charge for my old part?
No, there is no core charge. You can keep your old module without the hassle or expense of sending it back, simplifying the repair process for you.
How can I be sure the TCM is the problem and not the transmission?
While a full diagnosis is always best, TCM failure is extremely common in these vehicles. Key indicators are multiple solenoid codes appearing at once, intermittent electrical issues, or a complete loss of communication with the module. These symptoms point strongly to an electronic failure rather than a mechanical one inside the transmission.