Fix Your Cobalt’s Shifting Problems for Good
If you’re dealing with a Chevrolet Cobalt that shifts harshly, gets stuck in gear, or throws transmission codes, you’ve come to the right place. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen countless GM vehicles sidelined by a faulty Transmission Control Module (TCM). This T42 TCM, service part 24252114, is the definitive, reliable solution for your 2006-2010 Cobalt. It’s not just a part; it’s a permanent fix that arrives pre-programmed to your vehicle’s specific VIN, eliminating the need for an expensive trip to the dealership.
Is Your Cobalt Exhibiting These Transmission Issues?
A failing TCM isn’t always obvious, but it typically leaves a trail of frustrating symptoms. A bad module can mimic mechanical transmission failure, leading to costly and unnecessary repairs. Before you consider a full transmission replacement, check if your car is showing these common signs of a failing 2006-2010 Cobalt TCM:
- âś” Unpredictable, harsh, or delayed gear shifts that make driving unpleasant and unsafe.
- âś” The vehicle suddenly enters “limp mode,” often stuck in 2nd or 3rd gear.
- âś” Your check engine light is on, with Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) like P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction) or various solenoid-specific codes (P0750-P0774).
- âś” A complete failure to shift up or down, leading to poor acceleration and terrible fuel economy.
- âś” Intermittent loss of communication with the module, causing erratic behavior that comes and goes.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A customer brought in a 2009 Cobalt with a complaint of intermittent, violent shifting. No check engine light was on, but the car felt unsafe to drive. After a test drive, I could feel the transmission banging into gear. A standard scan tool showed no active codes. However, by monitoring live data, I noticed the TCM would momentarily drop communication right before a harsh shift. This is a classic sign of internal circuit board failure within the module, often caused by years of heat cycles and vibration. We replaced the old unit with a VIN-programmed T42 TCM, and the problem was solved instantly. The customer saved hundreds, avoiding a misdiagnosis that could have led to replacing perfectly good solenoids or even the entire transmission.
Plug-and-Play Installation: Get Back on the Road Fast
One of the biggest advantages of this module is the simple, straightforward installation. Because we program it to your VIN before shipping, it’s ready to go right out of the box. For the 2006-2010 Cobalt TCM, the process is quick and requires only basic hand tools.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your car’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts and to help reset the vehicle’s electronic systems.
- Locate the Module: On the Chevy Cobalt, the TCM is conveniently located on the driver’s side of the engine bay, mounted to the LH strut tower. 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.
- Install the New TCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed TCM onto the bracket and securely plug in the electrical connectors. You should hear a click as they lock into place.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. While the system often resets on its own, it’s best practice to use a basic OBD2 scan tool to clear any stored fault codes from the vehicle’s memory. Start the car and enjoy smooth shifting!
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This T42 TCM is a direct replacement for part number 24252114 and other interchangeable numbers. While this page is focused on the Cobalt, this module fits a wide range of GM vehicles. Please verify your specific model and options below.
- COBALT 06-10 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- 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)
- COLORADO 08-12 Transmission; (RH rear engine compartment)
- DTS 06-11 Transmission; (RH front engine compartment)
- ENVOY 06-09 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
- EXPRESS 1500/2500/3500 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 06-11 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)
- SAAB 9-7X 06-09 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
- SIERRA 1500/2500 PICKUP 07-13 Transmission; (next to battery)
- SILVERADO 1500/2500 PICKUP 07-13 Transmission; (next to battery)
- SUBURBAN 1500 07-08 Transmission; (next to battery)
- TAHOE 07-09 Transmission; (next to battery)
- TRAILBLAZER 06-09 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
- UPLANDER 06-09 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- VUE 07-10 Transmission; (LH front engine compartment)
- YUKON / YUKON XL 1500 07-09 Transmission; (next to battery)
Frequently Asked Questions
What does ‘VIN Programmed’ actually mean?
It means we load your vehicle’s unique 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and the latest GM software onto the module before we ship it. This ensures it communicates perfectly with your car’s engine computer and other systems, just like one from the factory.
Do I need any special tools for this installation?
No special tools are required. Basic hand tools like a socket set and ratchet are all you need to unbolt the old module and install the new one. The entire job can typically be done in under 30 minutes.
Will this part fix a P0700 trouble code?
A P0700 code is a general fault code indicating the TCM has detected a problem. In many cases, a failing TCM is the root cause, and replacing it will resolve the P0700 code and any related transmission codes. However, you should always ensure there are no underlying mechanical issues.
Is there a core charge for this part?
No, there is absolutely no core charge. You are not required to send your old, faulty module back to us, saving you time and return shipping costs.