End Your Chevy Colorado’s Transmission Headaches for Good
Is your 2008-2012 Chevrolet Colorado suffering from jarring shifts, getting stuck in gear, or throwing a check engine light? You’re not alone. The Transmission Control Module (TCM) is the brain of your automatic transmission, and when it fails, it can make your reliable truck feel unpredictable and unsafe. This OEM-quality T42 TCM, part number 24235732, is the definitive solution, arriving pre-programmed to your truck’s specific VIN. This means no expensive trips to the dealership for programming—it’s a true plug-and-play fix that restores the smooth, reliable performance you depend on.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Case of the Intermittent Limp Mode
I recently had a 2011 Colorado in the shop that was a real head-scratcher for the owner. It would drive perfectly for days, then suddenly drop into ‘limp mode’ (stuck in 3rd gear) with a P0700 code. He’d already replaced a shift solenoid with no luck. After hooking up my scan tool and monitoring live data, I noticed the TCM was intermittently dropping communication. Heat soak in the engine bay was causing an internal fault in the module. We installed one of these VIN-programmed units, and the problem was solved instantly. It’s a classic failure mode for these trucks, and this part is the direct, no-guesswork repair.
Is Your Colorado Exhibiting These Telltale Signs?
A failing TCM doesn’t always mean a complete transmission failure. Often, the signs are electronic and can be intermittent at first. If you’re experiencing any of the following, your TCM is the likely culprit:
- âś” Harsh, banging, or erratic gear shifts.
- âś” The truck gets stuck in one gear (often 2nd or 3rd) and won’t shift up or down.
- âś” Check Engine Light is on with transmission-related Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) like P0700, P0750-P0758, or other solenoid circuit codes.
- âś” Delayed engagement when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse.
- âś” A sudden drop in fuel economy or the transmission overheating.
- âś” Complete loss of communication with the module, preventing shifting altogether.
A Straightforward Guide to Your 2008-2012 Colorado TCM Installation
One of the best features of this module is how simple it is to install. You don’t need a professional lift or specialized tools—just basic hand tools and about 30 minutes. For the 2008-2012 Colorado and its sibling, the GMC Canyon, the process is very accessible.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your truck’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts and to help reset the vehicle’s computer systems.
- Locate the TCM: On your Colorado or Canyon, the TCM is located in the engine bay, typically on the right-hand (passenger) side, near the rear of the engine compartment. 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 Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed TCM into place. Securely plug in the electrical connectors, ensuring they click to confirm they are fully seated.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Start the truck and allow it to idle for a few minutes. If you have a basic scan tool, it’s a good practice to clear any stored DTCs. Take your truck for a test drive to confirm the shifting is smooth and responsive.
Verified Compatibility for Your Vehicle
This module is a direct replacement for part number 24235732 and other interchangeable numbers. It is guaranteed to fit the following models, but please verify your specific vehicle and options:
- CHEVROLET COLORADO 2008-2012 (Transmission; RH rear engine compartment)
- GMC CANYON 2008-2012 (Transmission; RH rear engine compartment)
- HUMMER H3 2008-2010 (Transmission; RH rear engine compartment)
- And many other GM vehicles from 2006-2014 including the Silverado, Tahoe, Yukon, Express, Savana, Impala, HHR, and more. Please check the full fitment list to confirm for other models.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does ‘VIN Programmed’ actually mean?
It means we load your truck’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and the latest GM software onto the module before we ship it. This ensures it communicates perfectly with your engine computer and other systems right out of the box, eliminating the need for dealer programming.
Do I need to send my old TCM back? Is there a core charge?
No, there is absolutely no core charge. You can keep your old part or recycle it at your convenience, making the process faster and hassle-free for you.
Will this fix my P0700 trouble code?
A P0700 code is a general code indicating the TCM has detected a fault. While this module often resolves the root cause (like an internal TCM failure), it’s crucial to ensure the issue isn’t in the wiring or the transmission itself. However, in our experience, a faulty TCM is the most common cause for this code on these vehicles.
Is this a difficult part for a DIYer to install?
Not at all. For the 2008-2012 Colorado, this is one of the easier electronic components to replace. It’s located in an accessible part of the engine bay and requires only basic hand tools. Following our installation guide should make it a quick job.
What if I install it and still have shifting problems?
While this module fixes the vast majority of electronic shifting issues, transmission problems can also be mechanical. If issues persist, it’s a good idea to check your transmission fluid level and condition, and inspect the wiring harness to the TCM for any damage. Our expert support is also here to help guide you.