Is your 2006-2011 Buick Lucerne suffering from frustrating transmission problems like harsh shifting, delayed gear engagement, or getting stuck in limp mode? These are classic signs of a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM). As the electronic brain of your automatic transmission, a faulty TCM can disrupt your car’s performance and reliability. This T42 TCM, part number 24243901, is the definitive solution, arriving expertly programmed to your vehicle’s specific VIN for a true plug-and-play installation.
Over my 20 years in diagnostics, I’ve seen countless GM vehicles sidelined by TCM failures. The issue often starts subtly—a slight hesitation or a jerky shift—but can escalate to a complete loss of shifting ability, leaving you stranded. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a safety concern. Our pre-programmed 2006-2011 Lucerne TCM eliminates the guesswork and the expensive trip to the dealership for programming. We handle the complex part, so you can get back to enjoying the smooth, responsive ride you expect from your Buick.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent Shifting Nightmare
A customer brought in an ’08 Lucerne with a complaint that stumped two other shops. The car would drive perfectly for days, then suddenly start slamming into gear and throw a P0700 code. They’d clear it, and it would be fine again. We checked wiring, fluid, and solenoids—all good. Experience pointed to the TCM. Heat and vibration can cause microscopic cracks in the circuit board, leading to these ‘ghost’ issues. We installed one of our VIN-programmed T42 modules, and the problem vanished for good. The pre-programming saved the customer hundreds and got the car fixed in one visit.
Is Your Buick Lucerne Showing These Telltale Signs?
- ✔ Harsh, erratic, or delayed gear shifts that disrupt your drive.
- ✔ The vehicle is stuck in a single gear (limp mode), often 2nd or 3rd.
- ✔ Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light is illuminated on the dash.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are present, such as P0700, P0750, or other solenoid-related faults.
- ✔ A noticeable decrease in fuel economy due to inefficient shifting.
- ✔ Complete failure to upshift or downshift, making the car undrivable.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the TCM on your Lucerne is a job most DIYers can handle in their own garage in under 30 minutes. The module is typically found in the engine compartment on the driver’s side.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts and help reset the system.
- Locate the Module: On the Lucerne, the TCM is usually mounted in the left-hand (driver’s side) of the engine compartment. It’s a silver box with electrical connectors.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unclip the wiring harness connectors. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New TCM: Mount the new, pre-programmed module in place and securely fasten the bolts. Reconnect the wiring harnesses, ensuring 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 stored fault codes from the vehicle’s memory.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This T42 TCM is a direct replacement for part number 24243901 and is interchangeable with a wide range of GM service numbers. While it is guaranteed to fit the 2006-2011 Lucerne TCM application, it also fits many other vehicles. Please see the list below to confirm compatibility with other models.
This part will fit these makes and models with these options:
LUCERNE 06-07 Transmission; (4.6L), (LH engine compartment)
LUCERNE 08-11 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
ALLURE 06-09 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
AVALANCHE 1500 07-08 Transmission; (next to battery)
CANYON 08-12 Transmission; (RH rear engine compartment)
COBALT 06-10 Transmission; (LH strut tower)
COLORADO 08-12 Transmission; (RH rear engine compartment)
DTS 06-11 Transmission; (RH front engine compartment)
ENVOY 06-09 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
EXPRESS/SAVANA VANS 06-14 Transmission; (RH engine compartment)
G5/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)
MALIBU 06-10 Transmission; (LH frame rail)
MONTE CARLO 06-07 Transmission; (lower air cleaner housing)
SIERRA/SILVERADO 1500/2500 07-13 Transmission; (next to battery)
TAHOE/YUKON 07-09 Transmission; (next to battery)
TRAILBLAZER 06-09 Transmission; (LH engine compartment)
VUE 07-10 Transmission; (front engine compartment)
…and many more. Check the full list for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to take my car to the dealer for programming?
No. This module comes pre-programmed to your car’s VIN. It’s ready for installation right out of the box, saving you time and the high cost of dealership programming.
What does a Transmission Control Module (TCM) do?
The TCM is a computer that controls your automatic transmission. It reads data from various sensors to determine the perfect time to shift gears, engage the torque converter, and manage fluid pressure for smooth and efficient operation.
Is a core charge required for this part?
No, there is no core charge. You can keep your old part without needing to send it back, making the process hassle-free.
Will this fix a P0700 trouble code?
A P0700 code is a general fault code indicating the TCM has detected a problem. While a faulty TCM is a very common cause, this code can also be triggered by other transmission issues. Replacing a known-bad TCM is often the correct fix for a P0700 code.