Restore Smooth, Decisive Shifting to Your GM Truck
If you’re experiencing erratic shifting, a check engine light, or a “Service Transmission” message on your 2015-2016 Sierra Denali 2500, a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM) is a highly likely culprit. As the electronic brain of your transmission, the TCM dictates every shift point and clutch pressure. When it fails, it can cause everything from annoying, harsh shifts to leaving you stranded in limp mode. In my 20+ years of diagnostics, I’ve seen these symptoms countless times, and replacing the TCM is often the definitive fix.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, ready-to-install solution. We take the guesswork and dealer-level expense out of the equation by pre-programming this module to your truck’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This ensures it has the latest GM software updates and communicates flawlessly with your vehicle’s other systems right out of the box. You get a reliable repair without the added cost or hassle of a trip to the dealership for programming.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Misdiagnosed Transmission
A few months back, a 2016 Silverado 2500 (which uses this exact same TCM) was towed into the shop. The owner was frustrated, having been told by another shop he needed a complete transmission rebuild costing thousands. His symptoms were severe: banging into gear and getting stuck in 3rd. I hooked up my scan tool and saw the classic U0100 ‘Lost Communication with TCM’ code. Instead of jumping to conclusions, I checked the wiring and connectors first—all good. The evidence pointed squarely at the module itself. We installed a VIN-programmed 2015-2016 Sierra Denali 2500 TCM, performed a quick relearn, and the truck shifted like it just rolled off the factory floor. It was a $5,000 save for the customer, all because of a proper diagnosis targeting the true source of the problem.
Is Your Truck Showing These Symptoms?
A faulty TCM can manifest in several ways. If you’re noticing any of the following, it’s time to inspect your module:
- ✔ Harsh or delayed gear engagement from Park to Drive or Reverse.
- ✔ Abrupt, jerky, or slipping shifts while driving.
- ✔ The transmission getting stuck in one gear (limp mode).
- ✔ Illuminated Check Engine Light with transmission-related codes.
- ✔ Common Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) stored, such as P0700, P0751, or U0100.
- ✔ A “Service Transmission” or similar warning message on your driver information center.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
For the mechanically inclined owner or professional tech, replacing the TCM on these trucks is very manageable. The module is typically located on the driver’s side fan shroud, making it accessible from the top of the engine bay.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative battery terminal and wait a few minutes before beginning any work on vehicle electronics.
- Locate the TCM: On your Sierra Denali 2500, find the TCM mounted to the plastic fan shroud on the driver’s side, near the radiator.
- Disconnect Electrical Connectors: Carefully unclip the wiring harness connectors from the module. Be gentle with the locking tabs, as they can become brittle over time.
- Unbolt the Old Module: Remove the bolts or screws securing the TCM to its mounting bracket on the fan shroud.
- Install the New Module: Seat your new, pre-programmed TCM onto the bracket and secure it with the original hardware.
- Reconnect and Finalize: Plug the wiring harnesses back in until they click securely. Reconnect the negative battery terminal. While the module is pre-programmed, some vehicles may benefit from a transmission adaptive pressure relearn procedure with a capable scan tool to ensure optimal performance from the start.
Guaranteed Fitment for Your GM Vehicle
This module, part number 24276411, is a direct replacement for the original and is also compatible with part number 24272004. It is verified to fit the following models. Please confirm your specific options (e.g., 6-speed MW7 or 8-speed M5U) match the list below.
- Chevrolet Silverado & GMC Sierra HD Trucks (6-Speed, opt MW7):
- 2015-2016 Sierra / Silverado 2500 & 3500
- 2015-2016 Sierra Denali 2500 & 3500
- Chevrolet, GMC & Cadillac 1500 Trucks/SUVs (8-Speed, opt M5U):
- 2015-2016 Sierra 1500 / Silverado 1500
- 2015-2016 Sierra Denali 1500
- 2015-2017 Escalade & Escalade ESV
- 2015-2016 Yukon & Yukon XL 1500
- Chevrolet & Cadillac Cars:
- 2016 Camaro (underhood, LH frame rail)
- 2016 CTS (LH front rail, ID 24276411)
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you need my VIN to sell me this part?
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is essential because we use it to load the correct, vehicle-specific software from GM onto the module. This ensures perfect compatibility with your truck’s engine, options, and existing electronics, making the installation process as simple as possible.
Is this part truly ‘plug and play’?
Yes. Because we pre-program the module with your VIN, it eliminates the need for a trip to the dealer for expensive flashing. You can install it and, in most cases, be back on the road immediately. A transmission relearn procedure is sometimes recommended for the absolute best shift quality but is not always required.
Where is the TCM located on my 2016 Sierra 2500 HD?
For the 2015-2016 Sierra and Silverado 2500/3500 HD models, the Transmission Control Module is conveniently located on the driver’s side (LH) of the fan shroud in the engine bay.
Will this fix a P0700 trouble code?
A P0700 code is a general fault request from the TCM to the main engine computer to turn on the check engine light. A failing TCM is a very common cause for this code, but it’s crucial to have the vehicle scanned with a tool that can read transmission-specific codes to confirm the exact fault before ordering.
How is this different from buying a TCM from a dealership?
Our solution provides significant value. You receive a module that is already programmed and ready for installation, saving you the separate, high cost of dealer programming services and the time and potential expense of getting your vehicle to them.