If you’re dealing with the headache of a transmission that won’t shift correctly in your 2008-2012 Chevrolet Colorado, you’ve come to the right place. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I can tell you that a faulty Transmission Control Module (TCM) is one of the most common culprits behind erratic shifting, warning lights, and limp mode. This isn’t just an annoyance; it’s a critical failure that compromises your truck’s performance and safety. This T42 TCM, service part number 24252114, is the definitive, reliable solution to get your truck operating smoothly again.
The beauty of this module is that it arrives at your door pre-programmed to your truck’s specific VIN. This is a game-changer. It means you can skip the costly trip to the dealership and the hassle of them needing to flash the module. It’s a true plug-and-play fix designed for both the seasoned mechanic and the weekend DIYer. Once installed, it correctly manages shift points, torque converter lockup, and line pressure, restoring the crisp, predictable performance you expect from your Colorado.
Is Your Colorado Exhibiting These Transmission Faults?
A failing TCM can manifest in several ways. In my shop, these are the symptoms I see most often. If your truck is showing any of these signs, a faulty module is the likely cause:
- ✔ Harsh, slamming shifts or delayed gear engagement.
- ✔ The truck feels stuck in one gear (often 2nd or 3rd), a condition known as “limp mode.”
- ✔ The Check Engine Light or a transmission-specific warning light is on.
- ✔ You’ve pulled Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) like P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction), P0750-P0758 (Shift Solenoid errors), or other communication codes.
- ✔ A sudden, unexplained drop in fuel economy.
- ✔ The transmission seems to slip out of gear or fails to upshift or downshift.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Intermittent Shifting Ghost
A customer brought in a 2011 Colorado complaining of random, harsh 1-2 shifts, but it wouldn’t do it consistently. We checked fluid levels, scanned for codes (none were stored), and test-drove it for miles without replicating the issue. The customer was frustrated, and frankly, so were we. Based on experience with these 4L60E transmissions, I suspected the T42 module was failing electronically under certain temperature conditions. We installed one of our pre-programmed TCMs, and the problem vanished instantly. It’s a classic case where the module’s internal logic breaks down intermittently before failing completely, making it a tricky diagnosis without seeing the pattern hundreds of times.
A Straightforward Guide to Your TCM Installation
Replacing the 2008-2012 Colorado TCM is a job you can confidently tackle in your own driveway. For this specific truck, the module is typically located in the right-hand rear of the engine compartment. The entire process should take less than 30 minutes.
- Safety First: Before you begin, disconnect the negative terminal from your truck’s battery. This prevents any electrical shorts and helps reset the vehicle’s computer systems.
- Locate the TCM: Open the hood and find the module on the right-hand (passenger side) rear of the engine bay. It’s a silver box with electrical connectors.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the wiring harness connectors. They have locking tabs that need to be released. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed TCM into place. Securely plug the wiring harnesses back in, ensuring they click to confirm they are fully seated.
- Reconnect and Verify: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Start the truck and let it idle for a moment. Take it for a test drive to confirm that shifting is smooth and the warning lights are off. While not always necessary, using a basic scan tool to clear any old stored codes is good practice.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This T42 TCM is a direct replacement for part number 24252114 and other interchangeable numbers. While it is the correct part for the 2008-2012 Colorado TCM, it also fits a wide range of other GM vehicles. Please verify your specific model and location below:
- COLORADO 08-12 Transmission; (RH rear engine compartment)
- CANYON 08-12 Transmission; (RH rear engine compartment)
- HUMMER H3 08-10 Transmission; (RH rear engine compartment)
- And many more GM models including: Tahoe, Silverado, Sierra, Yukon, Express, Savana, Impala, LaCrosse, DTS, G6, HHR, and others. Please check the full fitment list or contact us with your VIN to confirm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to take this part to a dealer for programming?
No. This module comes fully pre-programmed to your vehicle’s VIN number. You just need to install it. This saves you hundreds of dollars and significant time compared to buying a blank module.
Is there a core charge for my old part?
No, there is no core charge. You can keep or dispose of your old, faulty module without the hassle of sending it back.
What tools do I need for installation on my Colorado?
You’ll only need basic hand tools. Typically, a socket wrench set to remove the mounting bolts and a flathead screwdriver to help release the connector tabs is all that’s required.
Will this fix a P0700 trouble code?
Yes. The P0700 code is a general code indicating the TCM has detected a fault. Replacing a failing TCM with this pre-programmed unit is the direct fix for the root cause of that code and the specific solenoid or sensor codes that often accompany it.