Get Your Silverado Shifting Smoothly Again
If you’re dealing with a transmission that seems to have a mind of its own—slamming into gear, refusing to shift, or putting your truck into a frustrating limp mode—the culprit is often a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM). As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how a faulty TCM can sideline an otherwise perfectly good truck. This T42 TCM, part number 24255280, is the definitive solution for your 2007-2013 Silverado 1500, arriving pre-programmed to your truck’s specific VIN for a true plug-and-play fix.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent Limp Mode Case
A customer brought in his ’09 Silverado 1500 with a maddening problem: it would randomly get stuck in 3rd gear, but only after it was fully warmed up. He’d already replaced a shift solenoid based on a code, but the issue persisted. After hooking up my scan tool, I noticed communication with the TCM was dropping intermittently. Heat soak was causing an internal failure in the module. Instead of a costly and time-consuming diagnostic chase, we installed one of these VIN-programmed T42 modules. The entire job took less than 30 minutes, and the truck has been shifting perfectly ever since. This is the kind of straightforward, reliable repair that gets you back on the road without the dealership hassle.
Is Your Silverado’s Transmission Showing These Signs?
A failing TCM doesn’t always mean a complete transmission failure. Often, it presents as a series of electrical and performance issues. If you’re experiencing any of the following, a faulty TCM is the likely cause:
- ✔ Harsh, erratic, or delayed gear shifts that make driving uncomfortable.
- ✔ Vehicle is stuck in “limp mode,” typically locked in 2nd or 3rd gear.
- ✔ The Check Engine Light or a transmission warning light is on, with Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) like P0700, P0750, or other solenoid-related faults.
- ✔ Complete failure to upshift or downshift, leading to poor acceleration and high RPMs.
- ✔ A noticeable drop in fuel economy or signs of the transmission overheating.
- ✔ Intermittent loss of communication with the module, causing unpredictable behavior.
Your 30-Minute Path to a Smooth Ride
One of the biggest advantages of this module is its simple, no-fuss installation. You don’t need a lift or specialized transmission tools. For a 2007-2013 Silverado 1500 TCM, the module is conveniently located in the engine bay, right next to the battery. Follow these steps for a quick and successful replacement:
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your truck’s battery to prevent electrical shorts and help reset the vehicle’s electronic systems.
- Locate the Old Module: On your Silverado, find the TCM mounted next to the battery. It will have several large electrical connectors attached.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unclip the wiring harnesses. Be gentle with the plastic tabs, as they can become brittle over time. Once disconnected, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New TCM: Bolt the new, pre-programmed module into place. Securely reconnect the wiring harnesses, ensuring each clip clicks firmly into place.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. While the module is plug-and-play, it’s always good practice to use a basic OBD2 scan tool to clear any stored fault codes from the system. Start the vehicle and enjoy restored shifting performance!
Verified Fitment for Your GM Truck or SUV
This T42 TCM is a direct replacement for part number 24255280 and is interchangeable with a wide range of other GM service numbers. It is designed to work with popular 4-speed automatic transmissions like the 4L60E, 4L65E, and 4L70E. While this is the correct 2007-2013 Silverado 1500 TCM, it also fits many other vehicles. Please verify your model and location below:
Partial Fitment List:
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (07-13): Transmission; (next to battery)
- GMC Sierra 1500 (07-13): Transmission; (next to battery)
- Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban (07-09): Transmission; (next to battery)
- GMC Yukon / Yukon XL (07-09): Transmission; (next to battery)
- Chevrolet Avalanche 1500 (07-08): Transmission; (next to battery)
- Chevrolet Express / GMC Savana Vans (06-14): Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
- Cadillac DTS (06-11): Transmission; (RH front engine compartment)
- Hummer H3 (08-10): Transmission; (RH rear engine compartment)
- …and many more GM models from 2006-2014.
What does a VIN-programmed TCM actually mean?
What does a VIN-programmed TCM actually mean?
It means we flash the module with your vehicle’s unique 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) before shipping. This loads the correct software and calibrations for your specific truck, ensuring it works perfectly right out of the box without any need for expensive dealership programming.
Do I need to take my truck to a dealer after installation?
No. Because the module is pre-programmed to your VIN, you can skip the trip to the dealership. This saves you both time and money, making it an ideal solution for DIY mechanics and independent repair shops.
Where is the TCM located on my 2011 Silverado 1500?
On the 2007-2013 Silverado and Sierra 1500 models, the Transmission Control Module is conveniently located in the engine compartment, mounted right next to the battery on the driver’s side.
Will this replacement TCM fix a P0700 trouble code?
A P0700 code is a general fault request from the TCM to the main engine computer (ECM) to turn on the check engine light. While this module often resolves the underlying issue causing the P0700, it’s important to scan for other transmission-specific codes (like P0750-P0758) to confirm the TCM is the root cause.
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, saving you the hassle and cost of return shipping.