Get Your Chevy Colorado Shifting Smoothly Again
If you’re dealing with the frustration of a transmission that won’t shift correctly, slams into gear, or has put your truck into limp mode, you’re not alone. The Transmission Control Module (TCM) is the brain behind your automatic transmission, and when it fails, it can cause a host of serious drivability issues. This is a common point of failure I’ve diagnosed hundreds of times in my 20+ years as a technician. This direct-replacement T42 TCM is the definitive solution for your 2008-2012 Colorado TCM problems, arriving pre-programmed to your truck’s specific VIN for a true plug-and-play repair.
Case Study: The Phantom Shifting Problem
A customer brought in his 2011 Colorado complaining of intermittent, violent 1-2 shifts and occasionally getting stuck in 3rd gear with a check engine light. His local shop couldn’t find the issue, as it would disappear after a restart. I immediately suspected the TCM. On these trucks, the TCM is mounted on the right-hand rear of the engine compartment, where it’s exposed to significant heat and vibration. Over time, these conditions cause internal solder joints to crack, leading to the exact intermittent electrical faults he described. We swapped in a VIN-programmed module, and the truck has been shifting perfectly ever since. This isn’t just a part; it’s a permanent fix for a known weak point.
Is Your Colorado Exhibiting These Transmission Problems?
A failing TCM will give you clear warning signs. If you’re experiencing any of the following, a replacement is likely needed to prevent further damage to your transmission.
- ✔ Harsh, erratic, or delayed gear shifts that make driving uncomfortable and unpredictable.
- ✔ The vehicle is stuck in a single gear (often called “limp mode”) and will not upshift or downshift.
- ✔ Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light is illuminated on your dash.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are stored, such as P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction), P0750, or other solenoid-related codes.
- ✔ A noticeable drop in fuel economy as the transmission operates inefficiently.
- ✔ Complete loss of communication with the module, resulting in a no-start or no-shift condition.
Your 30-Minute Path to a Smooth Ride
One of the best features of this module is how simple the installation is. You don’t need a lift or specialized transmission tools. For a 2008-2012 Colorado TCM, the module is easily accessible in the engine bay. Follow these steps for a hassle-free replacement.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts and to help reset the system.
- Locate the TCM: On your Colorado, Canyon, or H3, find the module on the right-hand (passenger side) rear of the engine compartment.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. Note the locking tabs to avoid damage. 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 harnesses. You should hear a click as they lock.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. While our programming handles the critical setup, it’s always good practice to use a basic OBD2 scan tool to clear any lingering fault codes from the ECU.
Verified Fitment for Your Truck
This T42 Transmission Control Module is a direct fit for a wide range of General Motors vehicles. While it is the correct part for the models listed below, this page is dedicated to providing a solution for the 2008-2012 Colorado TCM. Please verify your part number (24256960) or contact us with your VIN to ensure 100% compatibility.
- 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 cars, trucks, and SUVs from 2006-2014 including Silverado, Tahoe, Impala, and more.
Do I need to take this part to the dealer for programming?
Do I need to take this part to the dealer for programming?
No. This is the biggest benefit we offer. We program the module to your vehicle’s exact VIN before shipping it. This means it’s ready for installation right out of the box, saving you the time and expense of a dealership visit.
Is this a difficult part for a DIYer to install?
Not at all. For the Chevy Colorado, the TCM is located in the engine bay and is very easy to access with basic hand tools. The entire job typically takes less than 30 minutes, making it a perfect weekend project for any skill level.
What does ‘no core charge’ mean?
It means you don’t have to pay an extra deposit and go through the hassle of sending your old, broken part back to us. You can keep it, recycle it, or dispose of it as you see fit.
What if I order the wrong part?
We strongly encourage you to provide your VIN at checkout so we can guarantee a perfect match. Our team of experts will double-check the fitment before programming and shipping. If you have any doubts, contact us first!
Will this fix a P0700 trouble code?
A P0700 code is a general fault code indicating the TCM has detected a problem. In many cases, a faulty TCM is the root cause. Replacing the module with our pre-programmed unit is a very common and effective solution for clearing this code and the underlying issue.