If your 2008-2012 GMC Canyon is suffering from erratic shifting, getting stuck in gear, or throwing transmission codes, 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 mimic more severe mechanical failures, leading to costly and unnecessary repairs. This T42 TCM, part number 24255280, is the definitive solution, arriving expertly programmed to your truck’s specific VIN for a true plug-and-play fix.
The TCM is the brain of your automatic transmission, controlling everything from shift points and line pressure to torque converter clutch engagement. When it starts to fail, due to heat cycles, vibration, or internal electronic faults, the symptoms can appear suddenly and cause significant drivability issues. You’re not just buying a part; you’re restoring the precise, factory-intended operation of your vehicle’s powertrain and avoiding the high costs and scheduling hassles of a dealership visit.
Is Your GMC Canyon Showing These Symptoms?
A failing TCM will give you clear warning signs. In my shop, these are the most common complaints we trace back to this module. If you’re experiencing any of the following, this pre-programmed 2008-2012 Canyon TCM is very likely the solution you need.
- ✔ Harsh, slamming shifts or delayed gear engagement.
- ✔ The truck is stuck in “limp mode” (usually 2nd or 3rd gear) with limited power.
- ✔ An illuminated Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are present, especially a general code like P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction) or specific solenoid codes (e.g., P0751, P0756).
- ✔ The transmission refuses to upshift or downshift correctly.
- ✔ A noticeable drop in fuel economy or signs of the transmission overheating.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A customer brought in a 2011 GMC Canyon with 95,000 miles, complaining of intermittent, hard 1-2 shifts and occasionally getting stuck in 3rd gear after highway driving. His local shop quoted him for a new shift solenoid pack, a costly internal repair. When we scanned it, we found a P0756 (Shift Solenoid B Performance/Stuck Off) code, but it was intermittent. Instead of tearing into the transmission, we monitored the live data from the TCM. We saw erratic voltage commands being sent to the solenoid, even when conditions were normal. The problem wasn’t the solenoid itself, but the module controlling it. We installed a VIN-programmed TCM, cleared the codes, and the truck shifted perfectly. The customer saved over a thousand dollars by correctly diagnosing the electronic failure first.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
One of the best features of this module is its ease of installation. You don’t need specialized tools or a trip to the dealer. For the 2008-2012 Canyon TCM, the process is simple and can be done in your driveway in under 30 minutes.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your truck’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts and to help reset the vehicle’s adaptive memory.
- Locate the Module: On the 2008-2012 GMC Canyon, the TCM is typically found in the engine bay, on the right-hand (passenger) side, near the rear of the compartment.
- 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 TCM: Bolt the new, pre-programmed module into place. Reconnect the electrical harnesses securely, making sure they click into place.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. Start the vehicle and let it idle for a few minutes. If you have a basic scan tool, it’s a good practice to clear any stored DTCs. Take the truck for a test drive to confirm the shifting issues are resolved.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct-fit replacement for a wide range of General Motors vehicles equipped with 4-speed automatic transmissions like the 4L60E, 4L65E, and 4L70E. Please verify your model and year below. This part is interchangeable with service numbers 24252114, 24234503, 24230461, 24255280, and others.
COLORADO 08-12 Transmission; (RH rear engine compartment)
HUMMER H3 08-10 Transmission; (RH rear engine compartment)
ENVOY 08-09 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
SAVANA 3500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
VUE 07-08 Transmission; 2.4L, (LH front engine compartment)
G5 07-10 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 07 Transmission; (new style, smooth door skin), (next to battery)
LUCERNE 06-07 Transmission; (4.6L), (LH engine compartment)
TAHOE 08-09 Transmission; (next to battery), w/o auxiliary oil cooler pump
YUKON XL 1500 07-08 Transmission; (next to battery)
AURA 07-09 Transmission; (LH frame rail front)
SAAB 9-7X 06-09 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
SAVANA 2500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
ALLURE 06-09 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
LUCERNE 08-11 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 07 Transmission; (new style, smooth door skin), (next to battery)
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 09-13 Transmission; (next to battery), w/o hybrid option
EXPRESS 1500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
IMPALA 06-11 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
TRAILBLAZER 08-09 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
G6 06-10 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
HHR 06-11 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
COBALT 06-10 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
LACROSSE 06-09 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
DTS 06-11 Transmission; (RH front engine compartment)
MALIBU 06-10 Transmission; (LH frame rail)
GRAND PRIX 06-08 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
What does a ‘VIN-programmed’ TCM mean for me?
What does a ‘VIN-programmed’ TCM mean for me?
It means the module arrives at your door loaded with the correct software for your specific GMC Canyon, based on its Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This ensures it communicates perfectly with your engine computer and other systems right out of the box. You get to skip the expensive and time-consuming programming appointment at a dealership.
Is this a difficult part to install myself?
Not at all. For most DIYers with basic hand tools, this is a very straightforward job that takes less than 30 minutes. The module is easily accessible in the engine bay, and no complex procedures are required. Just unplug the old one and plug in the new one.
Will this replacement TCM fix a P0700 trouble code?
In many cases, yes. The P0700 code is a general fault code indicating the TCM has detected a problem and has requested the Check Engine Light to be turned on. Often, replacing the faulty TCM will resolve the underlying issue that triggered the P0700 code in the first place.
Where is the TCM located on my 2010 GMC Canyon?
On the 2008-2012 GMC Canyon and its sibling, the Chevrolet Colorado, the Transmission Control Module is located in the engine compartment. You will find it mounted on the passenger side (RH side) firewall, towards the rear of the engine.
Do I need to send my old module back?
No, there is no core charge or requirement to return your old part. This simplifies the process for you, saving you the time and hassle of packaging and shipping the old module back.