Is Your 2008-2012 Colorado Shifting Erratically?
If you’re experiencing harsh shifting, delayed gear engagement, or your truck is stuck in limp mode, a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM) is the most likely culprit. The TCM is the electronic brain of your automatic transmission, responsible for orchestrating every shift. When it fails, it can cause a cascade of frustrating and potentially damaging issues, from poor fuel economy to a complete inability to drive. This genuine GM T42 TCM, service number 24234503, is the definitive solution to restore your truck’s performance and reliability.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We had a 2010 Colorado come into the shop that the owner was ready to give up on. It would shift hard from 1st to 2nd, and sometimes it would refuse to shift out of 3rd gear on the highway, triggering the check engine light with a P0700 code. After confirming the fluid was clean and the solenoids were testing fine, we identified the TCM as the weak link. Instead of a costly trip to the dealer for a new module and programming, we installed one of our pre-programmed T42 units. The installation took less than 30 minutes. After a quick battery disconnect to clear the adaptive memory, the truck shifted like it just rolled off the assembly line. The owner was thrilled to have his reliable truck back without the dealership hassle.
Common Symptoms of a Failing Colorado TCM
- ✔ Harsh, slamming, or erratic gear changes.
- ✔ The vehicle gets stuck in a single gear (limp mode).
- ✔ Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light is illuminated.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) such as P0700, P0750, or other solenoid-related faults are present.
- ✔ Delayed engagement when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse.
- ✔ Poor acceleration and a noticeable decrease in fuel efficiency.
- ✔ Complete loss of communication with the transmission module.
The Plug-and-Play Solution: A Programmed 2008-2012 Colorado TCM
Don’t settle for a generic module that requires expensive dealership programming. We take the guesswork and extra cost out of the repair. Each module is expertly programmed to your vehicle’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) before it ships. This ensures that the module has the latest GM software updates and is perfectly calibrated for your Colorado’s engine, transmission, and tire size. The result is a simple, plug-and-play installation that restores factory performance right out of the box.
This T42 TCM is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles equipped with 4-speed automatic transmissions like the 4L60E, 4L65E, and 4L70E. It is interchangeable with numerous part numbers, including 24252114, 24230461, 24242391, and more, making it a versatile solution for many models beyond the Colorado.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is VIN programming necessary for this TCM?
VIN programming loads your vehicle’s specific software and calibrations onto the module. This ensures the TCM communicates correctly with the engine computer and other vehicle systems, controlling shift points, torque converter lockup, and line pressure precisely as the manufacturer intended. Without it, the vehicle may not start or shift correctly.
Where is this module located on my 2008-2012 Colorado?
On the 2008-2012 Chevrolet Colorado and its sibling, the GMC Canyon, the Transmission Control Module is typically located in the engine bay, on the right-hand (passenger) side, near the rear of the compartment.
Is this a difficult part to install myself?
For someone with basic mechanical skills, the installation is straightforward. It involves disconnecting the battery, unplugging the electrical connectors from the old module, unbolting it, and then installing the new one in its place. The entire process usually takes less than 30 minutes.
Will this part fix a P0700 trouble code?
A P0700 code is a general fault code indicating the TCM has detected a problem and has requested the check engine light be turned on. While a faulty TCM itself can cause this, it often appears alongside other transmission-specific codes. Replacing a faulty 2008-2012 Colorado TCM is a very common fix for a P0700 code when other transmission hardware is in good condition.
Do I need to send my old TCM back (core charge)?
No, there is no core charge for this part. You can keep your old module, which saves you the time and hassle of return shipping.