If you’re dealing with the headaches of a faulty transmission—like harsh shifting, getting stuck in gear, or a persistent check engine light—you’ve come to the right place. As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen firsthand how a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM) can bring an otherwise solid GM vehicle to a standstill. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a critical failure that compromises your vehicle’s performance and safety. This T42 TCM, part number 24238856, is the definitive, reliable solution for your 2007-2010 Saturn Vue and a wide range of other GM cars, trucks, and SUVs.
The biggest hurdle with replacing a TCM has always been the expensive and time-consuming trip to the dealership for programming. We eliminate that step completely. We pre-program this module to your vehicle’s specific VIN before it even ships. This means it arrives at your door ready for a true plug-and-play installation, instantly communicating with your vehicle’s systems just like the original part. It’s the most efficient way to get your transmission shifting smoothly again.
Case Study: The Silverado That Wouldn’t Shift
A customer brought in his 2008 Silverado with a classic complaint: intermittent, bone-jarring shifts from 1st to 2nd gear and occasionally getting stuck in ‘limp mode’ (3rd gear). He’d already replaced a shift solenoid with no luck. A quick scan showed a P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction) and a U0101 (Lost Communication with TCM). After checking the wiring harness for damage—a crucial first step—we confirmed the T42 TCM was the culprit. Heat and vibration had caused internal circuit failure. We installed one of our VIN-programmed modules, and in less than an hour, the truck was shifting like it just rolled off the factory floor. This part saved him hundreds in dealer diagnostic fees and programming costs.
Is Your GM Vehicle Showing These Telltale Signs?
A failing TCM doesn’t always mean a complete transmission breakdown. Often, the signs are subtle at first. Here are the most common symptoms I diagnose in my shop that point directly to a faulty 2007-2010 Vue TCM or its equivalent in other GM models:
- âś” Erratic or delayed gear shifts that feel harsh and unpredictable.
- âś” The vehicle enters ‘limp mode,’ refusing to shift out of a single gear.
- âś” Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light is illuminated with Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) like P0700, P0750, P0753, P0758, or other solenoid-related faults.
- âś” Complete failure to upshift or downshift, leading to poor acceleration and high RPMs.
- âś” A noticeable drop in fuel economy as the transmission operates inefficiently.
- âś” Unexplained stalling or intermittent loss of communication with the module.
DIY Installation: A 30-Minute Fix
One of the best features of this module is its straightforward installation. You don’t need a vehicle lift or specialized transmission tools. For most DIYers with basic hand tools, this is a job you can complete in your driveway in under 30 minutes.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent electrical shorts and to help reset the onboard systems.
- Locate the Module: Find the old TCM. On a Saturn Vue, it’s typically in the LH front of the engine compartment. On other GM models, common locations include next to the battery, on the LH strut tower, or under the air cleaner box. It’s a silver box with multiple large electrical connectors.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. They have locking tabs that may need to be pressed or slid to release. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, VIN-programmed TCM into place. Securely plug in the electrical connectors, making sure they click and lock into position.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. While the module is plug-and-play, it’s always a good practice to use a basic OBD-II scan tool to clear any stored fault codes from the previous failure. Start the vehicle and enjoy restored, smooth shifting.
Verified Fitment Across the GM Lineup
While this is a perfect fit for the 2007-2010 Vue TCM requirement, this T42 module is also the correct service part for an extensive list of popular GM vehicles equipped with 4-speed automatic transmissions like the 4L60E, 4L65E, and 4L70E. Please verify your model and year below.
- Saturn: Vue (2007-2010), Aura (2007-2009), Ion (2006-2007)
- Chevrolet: Silverado, Tahoe, Suburban, Avalanche (2007-2013), Express Van (2006-2014), Impala (2006-2011), Cobalt (2006-2010), HHR (2006-2011), Monte Carlo (2006-2007), Colorado (2008-2012)
- GMC: Sierra, Yukon, Savana Van (2006-2014), Canyon (2008-2012), Envoy (2006-2009)
- Buick: LaCrosse/Allure (2006-2009), Lucerne (2006-2011), Rainier (2006-2007)
- Pontiac: G6 (2006-2010), Grand Prix (2006-2008)
- Cadillac: DTS (2006-2011)
- Hummer: H3 (2008-2010)
- And many more. This part interchanges with 24252114, 24234503, 24238856, and others.
Do I need to take my car to the dealer after installation?
Do I need to take my car to the dealer after installation?
No. The primary benefit of our service is that we pre-program the module to your car’s VIN before shipping. This makes it a true plug-and-play part, saving you the time, cost, and hassle of a dealership visit.
How do I provide my vehicle’s VIN?
You can enter your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) during the checkout process. This ensures we program the module with the correct software for your specific vehicle configuration.
Is this a guaranteed fix for a P0700 code?
A P0700 is a general code indicating a fault within the transmission control system. While a failing TCM is a very common cause, the issue could also be related to wiring, solenoids, or other sensors. However, if you are also experiencing symptoms like erratic shifting or limp mode, the TCM is the most likely culprit.
What if I have a different part number on my old module?
This T42 module replaces many different GM service numbers, including 24242391, 24234503, 24252114, and 24238856. As long as your vehicle is on our compatibility list, this module is the correct, updated part for your application.
Is there a core charge for my old part?
No, there is absolutely no core charge. You can keep your old part or dispose of it at your convenience, making the transaction simple and hassle-free.