Restore Crisp, Reliable Shifting to Your Chevrolet Colorado
If you’re dealing with the frustration of a transmission that won’t shift correctly, gets stuck in gear, or triggers warning lights on your dash, you’ve come to the right place. As a technician with over 20 years of hands-on diagnostic experience, I can tell you that a faulty Transmission Control Module (TCM) is one of the most common culprits behind these issues in GM trucks. This T42 TCM, part number 24255280, is the definitive solution for your 2008-2012 Chevrolet Colorado, arriving pre-programmed to your vehicle’s specific VIN for a true plug-and-play repair.
The TCM is the brain of your automatic transmission, responsible for commanding gear changes, managing torque converter lockup for fuel efficiency, and monitoring overall transmission health. When it fails, communication breaks down, leading to the erratic behavior that can make your truck feel unreliable and unsafe. Our module restores that critical communication, ensuring your transmission operates exactly as the manufacturer intended, without the need for an expensive and time-consuming trip to the dealership for programming.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A customer brought in his 2011 Colorado, complaining it was stuck in what felt like 3rd gear (a classic ‘limp mode’ scenario) and the check engine light was on. His local shop quoted him for a potential transmission rebuild. I pulled the codes and saw a P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction) and a P0752 (Shift Solenoid ‘A’ Stuck On). While a solenoid could be the issue, experience told me to check the TCM first. These T42 modules are known to fail internally, causing false solenoid codes. We ordered a VIN-programmed TCM, installed it in under 20 minutes, cleared the codes, and the truck shifted perfectly. It saved the customer thousands of dollars and a week of downtime.
Is Your Colorado Exhibiting These Telltale Signs?
- ✔ Harsh, clunky, or erratic gear shifts that make driving uncomfortable.
- ✔ The vehicle is stuck in “limp mode,” often refusing to shift out of 2nd or 3rd gear.
- ✔ Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light is illuminated on your dashboard.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are present, such as P0700, P0750-P0758, or other solenoid-related faults.
- ✔ Delayed engagement when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse.
- ✔ A noticeable decrease in fuel economy due to inefficient shifting.
- ✔ Complete failure to shift gears, either up or down.
Your Straightforward 30-Minute Installation Guide
Installing your new 2008-2012 Colorado TCM is a simple process that most DIYers can handle with basic tools. No complex programming or dealer visits are required.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts and to help reset the vehicle’s computer systems.
- Locate the Module: On the 2008-2012 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon, the TCM is typically located in the engine compartment on the right-hand (passenger) side, towards the rear.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old TCM. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, VIN-programmed TCM into place and securely reconnect the electrical connectors. Ensure they click into place.
- Reconnect and Verify: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Start the vehicle and allow it to idle for a few minutes. Use a basic OBD2 scan tool to clear any lingering fault codes from the system.
- Test Drive: Take your truck for a test drive to confirm that shifting is smooth and all warning lights have been extinguished.
Verified Fitment for Your GM Vehicle
This T42 TCM is a direct replacement for part number 24255280 and is guaranteed to fit your 2008-2012 Chevrolet Colorado. It is also compatible with a wide range of other GM vehicles. Please verify your part number or consult the list below for other potential applications.
- 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)
- Chevrolet Silverado & GMC Sierra 1500/2500 (2007-2013) – Transmission; (next to battery)
- Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban & GMC Yukon (2007-2009) – Transmission; (next to battery)
- Chevrolet Express & GMC Savana Vans (2006-2014) – Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
- …and many other GM cars, trucks, and SUVs from 2006-2014.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this module really come programmed?
Yes. We program the module to the specific VIN you provide during checkout. This ensures it communicates perfectly with your truck’s other systems right out of the box, with no additional steps needed.
Is there a core charge for my old part?
No, there is no core charge. You can keep your old module or dispose of it without the hassle of sending it back.
How do I know if the TCM is the problem and not the transmission itself?
While a full diagnosis is always best, common signs of TCM failure include electronic fault codes (like P0700), sudden shifting problems, and limp mode. Mechanical transmission failures often present with slipping, grinding noises, or burnt fluid, but without the specific electronic codes. This module often solves issues that seem like major transmission problems.
What is the warranty on this part?
This Transmission Control Module comes with a one-year warranty, giving you peace of mind and confidence in your repair.
Will this fix a P0700 code on my 2010 Colorado?
A P0700 is a generic code indicating a fault has been registered within the transmission control system. A faulty TCM is a very common cause for this code, especially when accompanied by shifting symptoms. Replacing the TCM with our pre-programmed unit is a highly effective fix for this scenario.