Restore Your Truck’s Shifting Performance
If your 2008-2012 Chevrolet Colorado is suffering from erratic shifting, getting stuck in gear, or throwing transmission codes, the culprit is often a failing Transmission Control Module (TCM). As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how a faulty TCM can sideline an otherwise perfectly good truck. This isn’t just an annoyance; it’s a reliability issue that can leave you stranded. This T42 TCM, part number 24243901, is the definitive solution, arriving pre-programmed to your truck’s specific VIN for a true plug-and-play repair.
Case Study: The Ghost in the Transmission
A customer brought in his ’09 Colorado with a frustrating problem. It would shift hard from 1st to 2nd when cold, but then drive fine. Other days, it would refuse to shift past 3rd gear, triggering the check engine light with a generic P0700 code. He’d already replaced a shift solenoid with no change. After connecting my scan tool, I saw intermittent communication drops from the TCM. Instead of a costly diagnostic rabbit hole, we installed a VIN-programmed module. The communication stabilized instantly, and the shifting issues were gone. It’s a classic failure mode for these modules, and this part is the direct fix.
Is Your Colorado Exhibiting These Shifting Problems?
A failing TCM will give you clear warning signs. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s highly likely your module needs replacement. A new, properly programmed 2008-2012 Colorado TCM is the key to resolving these issues for good.
- âś” Harsh, banging, or delayed gear shifts.
- âś” Vehicle stuck in “limp mode” (usually 2nd or 3rd gear).
- âś” Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light is on.
- âś” Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) stored, such as P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction) or various solenoid codes (P0750, P0753, P0758, etc.).
- âś” Complete loss of gear engagement or failure to upshift/downshift.
- âś” Poor fuel economy and a feeling of sluggish performance.
Your 30-Minute Path to a Smooth-Shifting Truck
One of the best features of this module is its straightforward installation. You don’t need a lift or specialized transmission tools. For the 2008-2012 Colorado, Canyon, and Hummer H3, the TCM is easily accessible.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your truck’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts and to help reset the system.
- Locate the TCM: Open the hood and find the module on the right-hand (passenger side) rear of the engine compartment.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unclip the electrical connectors. Be gentle with the locking tabs. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed TCM into place and securely reconnect the electrical harnesses. You should hear a ‘click’ as they lock.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the battery terminal. Start the truck and let it idle for a moment. While not always necessary, using a basic OBD2 scan tool to clear any old stored codes is a good final step. Take a test drive to confirm smooth shifting.
Verified Fitment For Your Vehicle
This T42 Transmission Control Module is a direct-fit replacement for a wide range of General Motors vehicles. While this page focuses on the 2008-2012 Colorado TCM, it is also compatible with the following models. Please verify your vehicle and part number to ensure proper fitment.
- Chevrolet Colorado (2008-2012) – Transmission; (RH rear engine compartment)
- GMC Canyon (2008-2012) – Transmission; (RH rear engine compartment)
- Hummer H3 (2008-2010) – Transmission; (RH rear engine compartment)
- Chevrolet Silverado & GMC Sierra (various years, check list)
- Chevrolet Tahoe, Suburban, Avalanche (various years, check list)
- GMC Yukon / Yukon XL (various years, check list)
- Chevrolet Express & GMC Savana Vans (2006-2014)
- And many other GM cars, trucks, and SUVs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does ‘VIN Programmed’ mean for me?
It means we load your vehicle’s unique VIN into the module before shipping. This ensures it communicates perfectly with your truck’s engine computer and other systems right out of the box, eliminating the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming.
Do I need to send my old part back?
No. There is no core charge or need to return your old, faulty module. You can dispose of it or keep it, 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 this module often resolves the root cause (like a failed internal driver that triggers other solenoid codes), you should always diagnose any other specific codes that appear alongside it. In many cases, a faulty TCM is the primary failure.
Is this a genuine GM part?
This is a high-quality replacement part built to meet or exceed original equipment (OEM) specifications for performance and reliability. It is guaranteed to be a direct-fit replacement for part number 24243901 and other interchangeable numbers.
What if I have questions during installation?
We’re here to help. Our team of experts has hands-on experience with these parts and can provide support to ensure your repair is successful. Don’t hesitate to contact us.