Regain Control of Your 4WD System Instantly
Is the dreaded “Service 4WD” light glaring at you from the dash of your 2008-2013 Chevrolet Avalanche 1500? Are you unable to switch between 2WD and 4WD, or hearing unsettling noises when you try? You’ve come to the right place. As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood of GM trucks, I know how frustrating and disabling a faulty Transfer Case Control Module (TCCM) can be. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a loss of the all-weather, all-terrain capability you rely on.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, ready-to-install solution. We take a genuine OEM TCCM, part number 24261367, and pre-program it with the very latest GM-certified software, specifically matched to your truck’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This critical step means you can skip the expensive trip to the dealership for programming. You get a module that communicates flawlessly with your truck’s other systems right out of the box, restoring full functionality and peace of mind.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Misleading Encoder Motor
I remember a 2011 Sierra 1500 that rolled into my shop. The owner was convinced he needed a new transfer case encoder motor—a costly and labor-intensive job. His symptoms were classic: the “Service 4WD” light was on, and the selector switch did nothing. He’d already been quoted nearly a thousand dollars elsewhere. Before ordering parts, I hooked up my professional scan tool. It pulled a DTC C0327, which points to the encoder motor circuit. However, experience has taught me that this code can be misleading. The TCCM is the brain that controls that motor. If the module’s internal drivers fail, it can’t properly command the motor, which often sets a code for the component it’s trying (and failing) to control. We tested the circuits and found the motor itself was fine. The culprit was a failed TCCM. We swapped in a VIN-programmed module just like this one, and in under 30 minutes, the 4WD system was working perfectly. That customer saved hundreds of dollars and a lot of unnecessary work, all by correctly diagnosing the root cause—the TCCM.
Is Your Truck Exhibiting These TCCM Failure Signs?
- ✔ The “Service 4WD” or “Service Four Wheel Drive” message is illuminated on your instrument cluster.
- ✔ You are unable to shift into or out of 4-High, 4-Low, or Auto 4WD.
- ✔ The 4WD selector switch lights are off, blinking, or don’t correspond to the selected mode.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are present, such as C0306, C0321, C0327, C0569, or U-series communication codes like U0102.
- ✔ You hear grinding or clunking noises from the transfer case area during attempted shifts.
- ✔ Your vehicle feels like it’s stuck in 4WD, causing binding or hopping during tight turns on dry pavement.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the TCCM on your GM truck is a job most DIYers can handle with basic tools. The module is typically located on the driver’s side, up under the dashboard near the parking brake pedal assembly. This 2008-2013 Avalanche TCCM is designed for a direct fit.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes to ensure all systems are powered down.
- Locate the Module: Find the TCCM mounted to a bracket under the driver’s side dashboard. It’s a small black box with several electrical connectors.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical harnesses from the old module. They have locking tabs that need to be depressed. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt your new, pre-programmed TCCM into place. Firmly reconnect all electrical harnesses, ensuring they click securely into position.
- Reconnect and Test: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Start your vehicle and test the 4WD selector switch. Cycle through all modes (2HI, 4HI, 4LO) to confirm proper operation. The “Service 4WD” light should be off.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for part number 24261367 and other compatible numbers listed below. It is guaranteed to fit the following vehicles equipped with an electronic shift transfer case:
- Chevrolet Avalanche 1500: 2008-2013
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500/2500/3500: 2007 (New Body Style), 2008-2014
- Chevrolet Suburban 1500/2500: 2008-2014
- Chevrolet Tahoe: 2008-2014
- GMC Sierra 1500/2500/3500: 2007 (New Body Style), 2008-2014
- GMC Sierra Denali 1500/2500/3500: 2007-2014
- GMC Yukon & Yukon XL 1500/2500: 2007-2014
Note: This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 12588096, 24239190, 24240487, 24241143, 24241970, 24242480, 24243084, 24243085, 24249095, and 24252878.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you need my VIN to program the module?
Your vehicle’s VIN is essential for us to load the correct GM-certified software for your specific truck. It ensures the TCCM communicates properly with the Engine Control Module (ECM), transmission, and 4WD selector switch, accounting for your exact options like transfer case type and tire size. This guarantees a true plug-and-play installation.
Is this part difficult to install myself?
No, this is a very DIY-friendly repair. The TCCM is typically located under the driver’s side dashboard and held in by a few bolts. With basic hand tools, most people can swap the module in under an hour. Our step-by-step guide above walks you through the process.
What if I install this and my 4WD still doesn’t work?
While this module fixes the vast majority of “Service 4WD” issues, other components like the transfer case encoder motor or the dash switch can also fail. If the problem persists, we recommend checking those components next. However, starting with a correctly programmed TCCM is the most logical and common first step in the diagnostic process.
Will this fix my truck being stuck in 4-Low?
Yes, in many cases. The TCCM is responsible for commanding the shift motor to move the transfer case between ranges. If the module has failed, it can leave the vehicle stuck in any mode, including 4-Low. Replacing it with this programmed unit should restore normal shifting capability.
Is this a new or used part?
This is a high-quality, inspected, and tested used OEM part that has been professionally programmed with the latest software updates for your vehicle, ensuring reliability and perfect function.