If your 2006-2010 Chevrolet Cobalt is suffering from erratic shifting, getting stuck in gear, or has the dreaded check engine light on with transmission codes, you’ve come to the right place. As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen countless GM vehicles, especially compacts like the Cobalt, sidelined by a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM). The original T42 modules can become susceptible to heat and vibration over time, leading to frustrating and unpredictable driving behavior. This isn’t just an annoyance; it’s a safety concern when you can’t rely on your car to accelerate or shift properly.
This replacement TCM, part number 24235753, is the definitive solution. We take the guesswork and high dealership costs out of the equation. Each module is professionally programmed to your Cobalt’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) before it ships. This means it arrives ready for a true plug-and-play installation, with the latest GM software updates already loaded. You get a part that communicates flawlessly with your vehicle’s engine computer and other systems, restoring the crisp, predictable shifting you expect.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Intermittent Cobalt
A customer brought in a 2008 Cobalt complaining of a problem that drove them crazy: most days, the car drove fine, but once or twice a week, it would shift hard from 1st to 2nd and then get stuck in 3rd gear (limp mode). Restarting the car would sometimes fix it. They’d already replaced a shift solenoid with no luck. After scanning, I found a generic P0700 code but nothing specific. Experience pointed me to the TCM. Heat soak was causing an internal connection to fail intermittently. We installed one of our VIN-programmed TCMs, and the problem vanished instantly. The pre-programming ensured the new module had the correct shift logic for that specific Cobalt, saving the customer a trip to the dealer and another diagnostic fee.
Is Your Cobalt Exhibiting These Common TCM Failure Symptoms?
- ✔️ Harsh, slamming shifts or delayed gear engagement.
- ✔️ The vehicle is stuck in a single gear (often called “limp mode”).
- ✔️ An illuminated Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light.
- ✔️ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) stored, such as P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction) or various solenoid codes (e.g., P0750, P0751, etc.).
- ✔️ A noticeable drop in fuel economy due to inefficient shifting.
- ✔️ Complete failure to shift up or down.
A Straightforward Guide to Your Cobalt TCM Installation
Replacing the TCM on a Cobalt is a job most DIYers can handle in their driveway in under 30 minutes. No specialized tools are needed.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent electrical shorts and help reset the vehicle’s computer systems.
- Locate the Module: On the 2006-2010 Cobalt, the TCM is typically found mounted on the driver’s side strut tower in the engine bay. It’s a silver box with electrical connectors.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unclip the wiring harnesses. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New TCM: Bolt the new, pre-programmed module into place and securely reconnect the wiring harnesses. Ensure they click into place.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. While our programming resolves most issues, it’s good practice to use a basic OBD2 scan tool to clear any old fault codes from the computer’s memory.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
While this listing is focused on the Chevrolet Cobalt, this T42 TCM is compatible with a wide array of General Motors vehicles. It is a direct replacement for multiple part numbers, including 24242391, 24234503, 24252114, and 24235753. Please verify your part number or use our vehicle fitment tool to ensure compatibility.
- Chevrolet Cobalt (2006-2010) – Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- Chevrolet HHR (2006-2011) – Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
- Pontiac G5 (2007-2010) – Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- Pontiac G6 (2006-2010) – Transmission; (LH strut tower)
- Saturn Ion (2006-2007) – Transmission; (behind LH strut tower)
- …and many other GM cars, trucks, and SUVs from 2006-2014.