Restore the Signature Smoothness to Your Cadillac DTS
Driving a Cadillac DTS is about experiencing a level of comfort and refinement that’s second to none. When your transmission starts acting up—with harsh shifts, delayed engagement, or an illuminated check engine light—it compromises that entire experience. The culprit is often a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM), the electronic brain of your automatic transmission. This VIN-programmed T42 TCM, part number 24243901, is the definitive solution to restore your vehicle’s precise, factory-new shifting performance without a costly trip to the dealership for programming.
As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen countless GM vehicles, including the luxurious DTS, plagued by these exact issues. A faulty TCM can cause a cascade of problems, from poor fuel economy to getting stuck in ‘limp mode.’ This module is a direct-fit replacement, pre-programmed to your specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This means it arrives ready for a straightforward installation, immediately communicating correctly with your vehicle’s Powertrain Control Module (PCM) and other systems to resolve frustrating diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and restore operational harmony.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A customer brought in their 2009 Cadillac DTS complaining of intermittent, violent downshifts and the car occasionally refusing to shift past 2nd gear. They’d been to two other shops that couldn’t pinpoint the problem because the codes would clear and the issue would disappear for days at a time. After pulling the history codes, I saw a P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction). Knowing the T42 TCM’s history, we tested the solenoid circuits and found no faults. The issue was internal to the module itself, likely a hairline crack in a solder joint failing under heat. We installed one of our VIN-programmed TCMs, and the problem was solved permanently. The customer was thrilled to have their smooth, reliable Cadillac back.
Is Your Cadillac DTS Showing These Transmission Faults?
- ✔ Abrupt, harsh, or erratic gear changes that disrupt your smooth ride.
- ✔ The vehicle is stuck in a single gear (often 2nd or 3rd), a condition known as “limp mode.”
- ✔ Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light is on, with DTCs such as P0700, P0750, or other solenoid-related codes.
- ✔ Failure to upshift or downshift properly, leading to poor acceleration and performance.
- ✔ A noticeable decrease in fuel efficiency or signs of the transmission overheating.
- ✔ Complete loss of communication with the TCM, preventing diagnostics.
A Straightforward Guide to Your 2006-2011 DTS TCM Installation
This repair is well within the reach of a DIY enthusiast and can typically be completed in under 30 minutes with basic hand tools. For the 2006-2011 Cadillac DTS, the TCM is located in the right-hand (passenger side) front of the engine compartment.
- 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: Open the hood and find the TCM on the right-hand side of the engine bay. It’s a silver box with electrical connectors.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical harnesses from the old TCM. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket and remove it from the vehicle.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed TCM onto the bracket and securely fasten the bolts. Reconnect the electrical harnesses, ensuring they click into place.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. While the module is plug-and-play, it’s always best practice to use a standard OBD2 scan tool to clear any stored fault codes from the vehicle’s memory. Start the car and enjoy your restored transmission performance.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a guaranteed fit for the 2006-2011 Cadillac DTS. It also serves as a direct replacement for a wide range of other GM vehicles utilizing the T42 TCM, and is interchangeable with part numbers including 24252114, 24234503, 24243901, and more. If you are unsure about fitment, please contact us with your VIN.
What does ‘VIN Programmed’ mean for me?
What does ‘VIN Programmed’ mean for me?
It means this module arrives ready to install right out of the box. We use your vehicle’s VIN to load the latest, specific GM software for your DTS. This eliminates the need for expensive dealership programming, saving you time and money.
Do I need to send my old part back?
No, there is no core charge for this part. You can keep your old module or dispose of it without any hassle or extra fees.
Will this fix a P0700 code?
A P0700 code is a general transmission fault request from the TCM to the ECM. While this module often resolves the root cause (like a faulty solenoid driver circuit inside the TCM), you should ensure the transmission wiring and solenoids are in good condition. In a vast majority of cases I’ve seen, a new TCM is the correct fix.
What is the warranty on this module?
This Transmission Control Module comes with a one-year warranty, giving you peace of mind and confidence in your repair.
Is this a difficult part to install myself?
Not at all. For the Cadillac DTS, the TCM is easily accessible in the engine bay. With basic tools, most DIY mechanics can swap the part in under 30 minutes, making it one of the easier electronic component replacements.