If your 2007-2010 Saturn Vue is suffering from unpredictable shifting, getting stuck in gear, or has the check engine light glaring at you, you’ve come to the right place. As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen countless drivers frustrated by these exact issues. The problem often isn’t a catastrophic transmission failure, but a faulty Transmission Control Module (TCM). This pre-programmed T42 TCM, part number 24243921, is the definitive solution to restore your vehicle’s drivability and peace of mind.
The TCM is the brain of your automatic transmission, dictating every gear change and managing torque converter operation. When it fails, communication breaks down, leading to the jarring shifts and poor performance you’re likely experiencing. We take the guesswork and high dealership costs out of the repair. By programming this module to your vehicle’s specific VIN before it ships, we deliver a true plug-and-play part. You can get your Saturn Vue back to shifting smoothly without needing a trip to the dealer for expensive programming.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A customer brought in a 2008 Saturn Vue with a 2.4L engine. The complaint was intermittent harsh shifting between 2nd and 3rd gear and occasionally getting stuck in limp mode after a long drive. They had already replaced a shift solenoid with no luck. After hooking up my scan tool, I saw a generic P0700 code but also intermittent communication loss with the TCM. Instead of just throwing more parts at it, we tested the module’s power and ground circuits—they were solid. The culprit was internal failure within the TCM itself, causing it to overheat and malfunction. A new, VIN-programmed TCM like this one solved the problem instantly, saving the customer from a potential transmission rebuild.
Is Your Saturn Vue Showing These Telltale Signs?
A failing TCM doesn’t always mean a complete breakdown. Often, the symptoms start small and get worse. Here’s what to look for:
- ✔ Harsh, erratic, or delayed gear shifts that make driving uncomfortable.
- ✔ The vehicle is stuck in a single gear (often called “limp mode”) and won’t shift up or down.
- ✔ Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light is illuminated on the dash.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are present, such as P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction) or specific solenoid codes (e.g., P0750, P0753).
- ✔ A noticeable drop in fuel economy as the transmission operates inefficiently.
- ✔ The transmission seems to slip out of gear or struggles to engage when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse.
A Straightforward Guide to Your TCM Installation
You don’t need to be a master mechanic to install this part. For most compatible vehicles, including the Saturn Vue, the TCM is located in the engine bay for easy access. The entire process typically takes less than 30 minutes.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts and help reset the system.
- Locate the Old Module: On your Saturn Vue, the TCM is typically found in the left-hand (driver’s side) front of the engine compartment, sometimes near the strut tower or under the air cleaner box.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. They have locking tabs, so be gentle. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed TCM into place and securely plug in the electrical connectors. You’ll hear a click when they’re seated correctly.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. While the module is plug-and-play, it’s best practice to use a basic OBD2 scan tool to clear any stored fault codes from the vehicle’s memory. Start the engine and take it for a test drive to confirm smooth shifting.
Verified Compatibility for Your Vehicle
This module is a direct replacement for part number 24243921 and other service numbers. It is guaranteed to fit the following models and configurations:
- SATURN VUE: 2007-2008 (2.4L, LH front engine compartment)
- SATURN VUE: 2009 (2.4L, with or without hybrid, LH front engine compartment)
- SATURN VUE: 2010 (All trims)
- …and many other GM vehicles from 2006-2014, including Chevrolet Cobalt, HHR, Impala; Pontiac G5, G6; GMC Sierra, Yukon; and more. Please verify your part number or contact us for fitment confirmation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to do any programming after I install this?
No. This is the biggest benefit of our service. We program the module to your vehicle’s VIN before shipping, so it arrives ready for a plug-and-play installation. This saves you a trip to the dealership and their programming fees.
Is this a new or used part?
This is a high-quality, OEM-standard replacement part, inspected and programmed to ensure it meets or exceeds original performance specifications. It is backed by our one-year warranty.
Where is the TCM located on a 2009 Saturn Vue?
On the 2009 Saturn Vue, the Transmission Control Module is located in the front left-hand side of the engine compartment. It’s a relatively accessible location for a straightforward replacement.
Will this fix a P0700 trouble code?
A P0700 code is a general fault code indicating the TCM has detected a problem. In many cases, a faulty TCM is the root cause, and replacing it will resolve the code. However, you should always ensure other components, like wiring and solenoids, are in good condition.
Is there a core charge for my old part?
No, there is no core charge. You can keep your old part, so there’s no need to worry about return shipping or waiting for a refund.