Is your Silverado 1500’s transmission acting up? As a mechanic with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen firsthand how a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM) can turn a reliable workhorse into a source of constant frustration. Erratic shifting, getting stuck in gear, or that dreaded check engine light can sideline your truck when you need it most. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a critical failure that impacts performance, fuel economy, and safety.
This T42 Transmission Control Module, part number 24243921, is the definitive solution for your 2007-2013 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and a wide range of other GM vehicles. The single biggest advantage? It arrives at your door fully programmed to your vehicle’s specific VIN. This means you can skip the expensive and time-consuming trip to the dealership for programming. It’s a true plug-and-play fix that restores the crisp, predictable shifting your truck had from the factory.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Ghost in the Transmission
A customer brought in his ’09 Silverado 1500 with a problem that was driving him crazy. He described it as a ‘ghost’—sometimes it would shift perfectly, other times it would slam into gear or refuse to shift out of 2nd. He’d already replaced a shift solenoid at another shop with no luck. After hooking up my scan tool, I saw a generic P0700 code but the intermittent nature pointed away from a purely mechanical issue. Based on experience with hundreds of these 4L60E and 4L65E transmissions, I suspected the TCM. We installed one of our pre-programmed modules, and in less than an hour of work (including the test drive), the truck was shifting like new. The problem wasn’t the transmission itself, but the brain controlling it. This is a classic scenario where our 2007-2013 Silverado 1500 TCM saves time and prevents unnecessary parts swapping.
Is Your Silverado’s Transmission Acting Up? Check for These Signs
A faulty TCM can manifest in several ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s a strong indicator that your module needs attention. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more severe transmission damage down the line.
- âś” Harsh, erratic, or delayed gear shifts that disrupt your drive.
- âś” Vehicle stuck in “limp mode,” often locked in 2nd or 3rd gear.
- âś” Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light is illuminated on the dash.
- âś” Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are present, especially P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction), P0750-P0758 (Shift Solenoid codes), or other communication errors.
- âś” A sudden drop in fuel efficiency or the transmission overheating.
- âś” The truck fails to upshift or downshift correctly when accelerating or decelerating.
Get Your Silverado Shifting Smoothly: A 30-Minute Install Guide
One of the best features of this module is its straightforward installation. For a DIYer with basic tools, this is a job you can complete in your own driveway in under 30 minutes. Here’s a general guide for installing the 2007-2013 Silverado 1500 TCM:
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your truck’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts and to help reset the vehicle’s electronic systems.
- Locate the Module: On most GMT900 trucks like the Silverado and Sierra, the TCM is conveniently located in the engine bay, right next to the battery. It’s a silver box with electrical connectors.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical harness connectors. They have locking tabs that need to be released. Once disconnected, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New TCM: Bolt the new, pre-programmed module into place. Securely plug in the harness connectors, making sure they click to confirm a solid connection.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Start the vehicle and allow it to idle for a few minutes. If you have a basic scan tool, it’s good practice to clear any lingering fault codes from the system. Take your truck for a test drive to confirm smooth shifting has been restored.
Verified Fitment for Your GM Truck, Van, or SUV
This T42 TCM is a direct replacement for part number 24243921 and is compatible with numerous other service numbers. It fits a wide array of General Motors vehicles equipped with 4-speed automatic transmissions like the 4L60E, 4L65E, 4L70E, and 4L80E. While this is the correct part for the 2007-2013 Silverado 1500 TCM requirement, please verify your specific model in the list below.
Fitment includes, but is not limited to:
- Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500/2500 (2007-2013)
- Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban & GMC Yukon/Yukon XL (2007-2009)
- Chevrolet Express/GMC Savana Vans (2006-2014)
- Chevrolet Avalanche (2007-2008)
- Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon (2008-2012)
- Hummer H3 (2008-2010)
- Cadillac DTS (2006-2011)
- Buick LaCrosse/Lucerne (2006-2011)
- Pontiac G6/Grand Prix (2006-2010)
- …and many other GM models from 2006-2014.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to take this part to a dealer for programming?
No. This is the biggest benefit of our service. We program the module to your vehicle’s VIN before shipping it to you. This makes the installation plug-and-play, saving you hundreds of dollars in dealership programming fees.
Is this a new or used part?
This is a high-quality, OEM-spec replacement part that has been expertly tested and programmed. It is backed by our one-year warranty for your peace of mind, ensuring reliability and performance that meets or exceeds factory standards.
Where is the TCM located on my 2011 Silverado 1500?
On the 2007-2013 Silverado and Sierra 1500, the Transmission Control Module (TCM) is typically found in the engine compartment, mounted right next to the battery. Its location makes it very easy to access for a quick replacement.
Will this fix a P0700 code?
A P0700 code is a general fault code indicating the TCM has detected a problem. While this module often resolves the root cause (like internal failure), it’s important to ensure the transmission wiring and solenoids are in good condition. In many cases, replacing a faulty TCM will clear the P0700 and related codes.
Do I need to return my old part (core)?
No, there is no core charge for this part. You can keep your old module or dispose of it, making the transaction simple and hassle-free.