Restore Flawless Shifting to Your Saturn ION
If your 2006-2007 Saturn ION is suffering from harsh shifting, getting stuck in gear, or has an illuminated check engine light, a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM) is the most likely culprit. As a mechanic with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen countless GM vehicles, including the ION, come into the shop with these exact issues. The T42 TCM is the electronic brain of your automatic transmission, and when it fails, it can make your car unpredictable and unsafe to drive. This replacement T42 TCM, part number 24243901, is the definitive solution, arriving pre-programmed to your vehicle’s specific VIN for a true plug-and-play fix.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent ION
A customer brought in a 2007 Saturn ION complaining of random, violent shifts and occasional failure to shift out of 2nd gear. No codes were stored initially, making it a diagnostic headache. After a test drive with a scanner connected, I saw the TCM momentarily lose communication right before a harsh shift. The internal circuitry was failing under load. We installed one of these VIN-programmed modules, and the problem was solved instantly. This isn’t just a part; it’s the right diagnosis and the final repair, saving you from chasing down phantom solenoid issues or paying for unnecessary transmission work.
Is Your Saturn ION Showing These Telltale Signs?
A failing TCM will give you clear warnings. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s time for a replacement. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more significant and costly transmission damage.
- ✔ Hard, jerky, or delayed gear shifts.
- ✔ Vehicle is stuck in “limp mode” (usually 2nd or 3rd gear).
- ✔ Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light is on.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are present, such as P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction) or various solenoid-specific codes (e.g., P0750-P0758).
- ✔ Inconsistent or poor fuel economy.
- ✔ Complete loss of shifting capability.
The Definitive Solution for Your 2006-2007 ION TCM
This module is engineered to meet or exceed original equipment standards. The most significant benefit is our pre-programming service. We use your vehicle’s VIN to load the latest GM software directly onto the module before it ships. This eliminates the need for expensive dealership programming or specialized scan tools, turning a complex job into a simple one you can perform at home.
DIY-Friendly Installation in Under 30 Minutes
You don’t need to be a professional mechanic to install this part. For the 2006-2007 Saturn ION, the TCM is conveniently located and easy to access.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your car’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts and to help reset the system.
- Locate the Module: On the Saturn ION, you’ll find the TCM located behind the driver’s side (LH) strut tower in the engine compartment.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. Then, unbolt the old module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed TCM into place and securely reconnect the electrical harnesses.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. While the module is plug-and-play, it’s best practice to use a basic OBD2 scanner to clear any old fault codes from the vehicle’s memory.
Verified Fitment for Your General Motors Vehicle
While this is the perfect part for the 2006-2007 Saturn ION, this T42 TCM is also compatible with a wide range of other GM vehicles. Please verify your vehicle is on this list before ordering.
- ALLURE 06-09 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
- AURA 07-09 Transmission; (LH frame rail front)
- AVALANCHE 1500 07-08 Transmission; (next to battery)
- CANYON 08-12 Transmission; (RH rear engine compartment)
- COBALT 06-10 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- COLORADO 08-12 Transmission; (RH rear engine compartment)
- DTS 06-11 Transmission; (RH front engine compartment)
- ENVOY 06-09 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
- EXPRESS VANS 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
- G5 07-10 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- G6 06-10 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- GRAND PRIX 06-08 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
- HHR 06-11 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
- HUMMER H3 08-10 Transmission; (RH rear engine compartment)
- IMPALA 06-11 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
- ION 06-07 Transmission; (behind LH strut tower)
- LACROSSE 06-09 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
- LUCERNE 06-11 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
- MALIBU 06-10 Transmission; (LH frame rail)
- MONTE CARLO 06-07 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
- MONTANA 06-09 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- PURSUIT 06 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- RAINIER 06-07 Transmission
- RENDEZVOUS 06-07 Transmission; (air cleaner box)
- SAAB 9-7X 06-09 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
- SAVANA VANS 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
- SIERRA PICKUPS 07-13 Transmission; (next to battery)
- SILVERADO PICKUPS 07-13 Transmission; (next to battery)
- SSR 05-06 Transmission; (front LH frame)
- SUBURBAN 1500 07-08 Transmission; (next to battery)
- TAHOE 07-09 Transmission; (next to battery)
- TERRAZA 06-07 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- TRAILBLAZER 06-09 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
- UPLANDER 06-09 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- VUE 07-10 Transmission; (engine compartment)
- YUKON 07-09 Transmission; (next to battery)
Do I need to have this module programmed by a dealer?
Do I need to have this module programmed by a dealer?
No. We handle all the programming for you before shipment. Simply provide your vehicle’s VIN during checkout, and the module will arrive ready for installation, saving you time and money.
Is this part difficult to install on a Saturn ION?
Not at all. The installation is straightforward for a DIYer with basic hand tools. The TCM is located behind the driver’s side strut tower and can typically be swapped out in under 30 minutes.
Will this fix a P0700 trouble code?
Yes. A P0700 code indicates a general fault within the transmission control system. In the vast majority of cases on these GM vehicles, a failing TCM is the root cause. Replacing it with our programmed module is the correct fix.
Is there a core charge for my old part?
No, there is no core charge. You can keep or dispose of your old module without the hassle of returning it, making the process simpler for you.