Get Your 2006-2011 Impala Shifting Smoothly Again
If you’re dealing with the frustration of a Chevrolet Impala that jerks, hesitates, or refuses to shift properly, you’re not alone. Over my 20+ years in the garage, I’ve seen countless GM vehicles, especially the 2006-2011 Impala, come in with these exact issues. The culprit is almost always a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM). This critical component is the brain of your automatic transmission, and when it starts to go, it can make your daily drive a nightmare and even risk long-term damage to your transmission.
This T42 Transmission Control Module is the definitive solution for your vehicle. It’s not just a replacement part; it’s a complete, ready-to-install fix. We take care of the most critical step for you: VIN programming. By flashing the module with your car’s specific Vehicle Identification Number and the latest GM software updates, we eliminate the need for an expensive trip to the dealership. This means you get a part that communicates perfectly with your Impala’s engine and transmission right out of the box, restoring the crisp, reliable shifting you expect.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Case of the Hesitant Impala
A customer brought in his 2009 Impala, complaining of harsh 1-2 shifts and occasionally getting stuck in 3rd gear (limp mode), with a P0700 code on the scanner. He’d already replaced a shift solenoid with no luck. We immediately suspected the TCM. These T42 modules, especially on vehicles like the Impala where they are mounted near the air cleaner housing, are susceptible to heat and vibration over time, which degrades internal circuits. After a quick 20-minute swap with one of our pre-programmed modules, the car shifted like it just rolled off the factory floor. No more codes, no more hesitation. It’s a common story, and this part is the reliable ending.
Is Your Impala Showing These Telltale Signs?
A failing 2006-2011 Impala TCM will give you clear warnings. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s time for a replacement:
- ✔ Abrupt, harsh, or slamming gear changes.
- ✔ Delayed shifting or a long pause when moving from Park to Drive or Reverse.
- ✔ The vehicle gets stuck in a single gear (often called ‘limp mode’).
- ✔ Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light is illuminated.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are present, such as P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction), P0751, P0756, or other solenoid-related codes.
- ✔ Poor acceleration and a noticeable drop in fuel economy.
- ✔ Inconsistent communication with the scan tool or complete loss of communication.
DIY Installation: A 30-Minute Fix for Your Impala
One of the best features of this module is how simple the installation is. You don’t need to be a master mechanic to get this done in your own driveway. For the 2006-2011 Impala, the TCM is conveniently located under the lower air cleaner housing.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- Locate the TCM: On your Impala, you’ll need to remove the air cleaner assembly to access the module. It’s mounted right below it.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. Press the release tabs firmly. Then, unbolt the old module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed TCM into place. Reconnect the electrical harnesses, making sure they click securely into place.
- Reassemble and Reconnect: Reinstall the air cleaner housing and any other components you removed. Finally, reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Final Steps: Start the vehicle. While our programming resolves most codes, it’s good practice to use a basic OBD2 scanner to clear any stored DTCs to ensure a clean slate.
Verified Compatibility for Your GM Vehicle
This T42 TCM, part number 24243901, is a direct replacement for a wide range of General Motors vehicles. While this page focuses on the 2006-2011 Impala TCM, it is also compatible with the following models. Please verify your specific model and location notes.
AVALANCHE 1500 07-08 Transmission; (next to battery)
AURA 07-09 Transmission; (LH frame rail front)
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 06-07 Transmission; (LH engine compartment), (8 cylinder)
ENVOY 08-09 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
ENVOY XL 06 Transmission; (LH engine compartment), (8 cylinder)
EXPRESS 1500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 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 06-07 Transmission; (4.6L), (LH engine compartment)
LUCERNE 08-11 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 1500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
SAVANA 2500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
SAVANA 3500 VAN 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 07 Transmission; (new style, smooth door skin), (next to battery)
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 08 Transmission; (next to battery)
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 09-13 Transmission; (next to battery), w/o hybrid option
SIERRA 2500 PICKUP 07 Transmission; new style (smooth door skin), 6.0L, (next to battery)
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 07 Transmission; (new style, smooth door skin), (next to battery)
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 08 Transmission; (next to battery)
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 09-13 Transmission; (next to battery), w/o hybrid option
SILVERADO 2500 PICKUP 07 Transmission; new style (smooth door skin), 6.0L, (next to battery)
SSR 05-06 Transmission; (front LH frame)
SUBURBAN 1500 07-08 Transmission; (next to battery)
TAHOE 07 Transmission; (next to battery)
TAHOE 08-09 Transmission; (next to battery), w/o auxiliary oil cooler pump
TERRAZA 06-07 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
TRAILBLAZER 06-07 Transmission; (LH engine compartment), (8 cylinder)
TRAILBLAZER 08-09 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
TRAILBLAZER EXT 06 Transmission; (LH engine compartment), (8 cylinder)
UPLANDER 06-09 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
VUE 07-08 Transmission; 2.4L, (LH front engine compartment)
VUE 09 Transmission; 2.4L, w/hybrid, LH side front engine compartment, (shift control)
VUE 09 Transmission; 2.4L, w/o hybrid; (LH front engine compartment)
VUE 10 Transmission
YUKON 07 Transmission; (next to battery)
YUKON 08 Transmission; (next to battery), w/o auxiliary oil cooler control
YUKON 09 Transmission; (next to battery), w/o auxiliary oil cooler pump
YUKON XL 1500 07-08 Transmission; (next to battery)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to take this part to a dealer for programming?
Absolutely not. We handle all the programming before we ship. Just provide your vehicle’s VIN during checkout, and the module will arrive ready for plug-and-play installation, saving you time and money.
Is this a guaranteed fix for a P0700 code?
A P0700 is a generic code indicating the TCM has detected a fault. While a faulty TCM is a very common cause, this code can also be triggered by other issues like bad solenoids or wiring. However, if you’re also experiencing symptoms like erratic shifting or limp mode, a failing TCM is the most likely culprit.
Do I need any special tools for this installation?
No special tools are required. Basic hand tools like a socket set and screwdrivers to remove the air cleaner assembly are all you should need for the job on a Chevy Impala.
Is there a core charge for my old TCM?
No, there is no core charge. You can keep your old part or recycle it locally without the hassle of needing to ship it back to us.
What if I still have a check engine light after installation?
After disconnecting the battery, most codes should clear. However, some vehicles may retain ‘historic’ or ‘permanent’ codes. These can be easily cleared with a standard OBD2 scan tool. If a code returns immediately, it may indicate a separate issue that was being masked by the faulty TCM.