If you’re dealing with the headaches of a faulty transmission in your 2006-2011 Cadillac DTS, you’ve come to the right place. As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen firsthand how a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM) can turn a smooth, luxurious ride into a frustrating and unpredictable experience. This T42 TCM, part number 24239224, is the definitive solution to restore your vehicle’s shifting logic and get you back on the road with confidence.
The TCM is the brain of your automatic transmission, responsible for commanding gear changes, managing torque converter lockup, and monitoring system health. When it starts to fail, the symptoms can be alarming—from sudden, harsh shifts to being stuck in ‘limp mode.’ This module is meticulously prepared to OEM standards and, most importantly, comes pre-programmed to your specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This critical step ensures it communicates flawlessly with your car’s other computers right out of the box, eliminating the need for expensive and time-consuming dealership programming.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A customer brought in a 2008 Cadillac DTS with a complaint of intermittent, bone-jarring shifts and the transmission light flickering on and off. They had already replaced two shift solenoids at another shop, but the problem persisted. After pulling the codes, I saw a generic P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction) and an intermittent solenoid circuit code. Instead of just throwing more parts at it, I monitored the TCM data stream. I noticed the command signals from the module were dropping out randomly, especially once the engine bay got hot. This pointed directly to a classic thermal failure inside the TCM. We installed one of our VIN-programmed modules, and the problem was solved instantly. It’s a perfect example of how the issue isn’t always the mechanical parts, but the electronics that control them.
Is Your Cadillac DTS Showing These Transmission Warning Signs?
- ✔️ Abrupt, harsh, or erratic gear shifts that disrupt your drive.
- ✔️ The vehicle suddenly enters “limp mode,” often getting stuck in 2nd or 3rd gear.
- ✔️ An illuminated Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light on your dashboard.
- ✔️ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) stored in the system, such as P0700, P0750, or other solenoid-specific faults.
- ✔️ A noticeable delay when shifting from Park into Drive or Reverse.
- ✔️ Failure to upshift or downshift correctly, leading to poor acceleration and decreased fuel economy.
A Straightforward Guide to Your TCM Installation
For the confident DIYer or professional mechanic, replacing the 2006-2011 DTS TCM is a manageable job that typically takes less than 30 minutes. On the Cadillac DTS, it’s conveniently located in the engine compartment.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electronic component replacement.
- Locate the Module: On the DTS, you’ll find the TCM in the right-hand (passenger side) front of the engine compartment.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. Use a small flathead screwdriver to gently release the locking tabs if needed. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New TCM: Mount the new module securely onto the bracket and reconnect the electrical harnesses. Ensure they click firmly into place.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. While our VIN programming handles the critical setup, it’s always a good practice to use a basic scan tool to clear any old fault codes from the vehicle’s memory.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility List
This T42 TCM is a direct replacement for a wide range of General Motors vehicles. While this page is focused on the Cadillac DTS, please confirm your model and year below. This part is interchangeable with service numbers 24234503, 24252114, 24239224, and others.
- Cadillac DTS: 2006-2011 (Transmission; RH front engine compartment)
- Buick Allure / LaCrosse: 2006-2009 (Transmission; lower air cleaner housing)
- Buick Lucerne: 2006-2011 (Transmission; LH engine compartment)
- Chevrolet Cobalt / HHR / Impala / Malibu / Monte Carlo: Various Years (Check specific locations like LH strut tower or lower air cleaner housing)
- Chevrolet & GMC Trucks/SUVs/Vans (Silverado, Sierra, Tahoe, Yukon, Express, Savana): Various Years (Often located next to the battery or on the RH side of the engine compartment)
- Pontiac G5 / G6 / Grand Prix: Various Years (Typically at the LH strut tower or lower air cleaner housing)
- …and many other GM models including Saturn, Hummer, and Saab. Please use the fitment tool to verify your exact vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to take my car to the dealer after installing this?
No. This module is delivered pre-programmed to your vehicle’s VIN. This means it is ready for installation right out of the box, with no additional programming or dealer visits required.
What does “VIN Programmed” actually mean?
It means we load your car’s unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and the latest GM software onto the module before we ship it. This ensures it communicates perfectly with your engine computer and other systems, just like the original part.
Is there a core charge for my old part?
No, there is no core charge. You can keep your old module or dispose of it without the hassle of returning it, simplifying your repair process.
Will this fix a P0700 trouble code?
A P0700 code is a general fault code indicating the TCM has detected a problem. In many cases where the TCM itself is the root cause of the failure, replacing it with this module will resolve the P0700 and any related codes. However, you should always ensure other transmission components are in good working order.