Restore Smooth, Reliable Shifting to Your GM Vehicle
As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen firsthand the frustration that transmission problems can cause. That hesitation, the harsh bang into gear, or the dreaded ‘Service Transmission’ light on your 2015-2017 Cadillac Escalade can ruin your driving experience and leave you worried about costly repairs. The Transmission Control Module, or TCM, is the brain of your automatic transmission, and when it fails, the symptoms can be unpredictable and concerning. You’re not just buying a part; you’re buying a solution to get your truck or SUV driving like it’s supposed to.
This isn’t just any replacement part. This is a direct-fit TCM, part number 24272004, that arrives at your doorstep fully programmed to your vehicle’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We handle the complex part—flashing the module with the latest, most stable software from GM—so you don’t have to. This means no expensive trips to the dealership for programming, no special scan tools required. It’s a straightforward fix that restores the precise, smooth shifting you expect from your vehicle.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Case of the Confused Sierra
I remember a 2016 Sierra 1500 that came into the shop a while back. The owner had already replaced two transmission solenoids at another shop, but the truck still shifted erratically, especially on the 2-3 upshift. It would hesitate, then slam into gear. We scanned it and found a generic P0700 code but no specific solenoid faults. Instead of just throwing more parts at it, we monitored the live data from the TCM. We saw commanded gear and actual gear weren’t matching, and the line pressure commands were all over the place. The problem wasn’t a mechanical part inside the transmission; the TCM itself was giving faulty instructions. We installed a VIN-programmed module, performed the relearn procedure, and the truck shifted perfectly. It’s a classic example of how a faulty 2015-2017 Escalade TCM (or the equivalent in a Sierra) can mimic internal transmission failure, saving the customer thousands in unnecessary repairs.
Is Your GM Truck or SUV Showing These Symptoms?
A failing TCM can manifest in several ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, this module is the likely solution, especially if you have corresponding diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
- âś” Harsh, delayed, or erratic shifting
- âś” Transmission getting stuck in one gear (limp mode)
- âś” Check Engine Light or Service Transmission warning on the dash
- âś” Inaccurate gear display on the instrument cluster
- âś” Communication error codes like U0101 (Lost Communication with TCM)
- âś” General transmission malfunction codes like P0700
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Because we program the module to your VIN before shipping, the physical installation is simple for a DIY enthusiast or any professional mechanic. This guide is for the 2015-2017 Escalade with the 8-speed transmission (M5U), where the TCM is located on the driver’s side of the radiator support.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes for the systems to discharge.
- Locate the TCM: On the Escalade, it’s typically mounted to a bracket on the driver’s side (LH) of the radiator. You may need to remove a plastic cover for access.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unclip the wiring harness connectors from the old TCM. Inspect the pins for any corrosion or damage.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old TCM from its mounting bracket. It’s usually held on by a few small bolts (typically 10mm).
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed TCM onto the bracket and secure it with the original bolts.
- Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the wiring harness connectors into the new module. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Relearn (Recommended): While the vehicle will often run and drive, a transmission fast-learn or relearn procedure with a capable scan tool is highly recommended to ensure the absolute best shift quality from the start.
Why a VIN-Programmed Module is the Smart Choice
Modern vehicles are complex networks of computers. Simply installing a blank module won’t work. It needs to be coded specifically to your vehicle’s options and operating parameters. By providing your VIN, you ensure this 2015-2017 Escalade TCM is a true plug-and-play solution. It integrates seamlessly with your vehicle’s Engine Control Module (ECM) and Body Control Module (BCM), restoring full communication and functionality without the need for dealer intervention.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility List
This module, part number 24272004 (interchangeable with 24276411), is a confirmed fit for a wide range of GM trucks and cars. Please verify your vehicle and options below.
- Cadillac Escalade / ESV: 2015-2017 (with 8-speed trans, M5U)
- Cadillac CTS: 2016 (ID 24276411)
- Chevrolet Camaro: 2016
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500: 2015-2016 (with 8-speed trans, M5U)
- Chevrolet Silverado 2500/3500: 2015-2016 (with 6-speed trans, MW7)
- GMC Sierra 1500 / Denali 1500: 2015-2016 (with 8-speed trans, M5U)
- GMC Sierra 2500/3500 & Denali 2500/3500: 2015-2016 (with 6-speed trans, MW7)
- GMC Yukon / Yukon XL 1500: 2015-2016 (with 8-speed trans, M5U)