Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Transmission Problems & Cost

The Chevy Silverado 1500 4-speed 4L60E and 4L65E was able to handle the power of the various 4.8L, 5.3L, 5.7L and 6.0L engines, while still providing impressive fuel economy. The next generation Chevrolet Silverado 6L80 transmission came in 2005. It featured more advanced electronic controls, and the ability to handle the increased torque produced by modern engines. But they aren’t without their problems though, so let’s look at some of the most common Chevy Silverado 1500 transmission problems, look at the cost estimates and figure out what you can do about them.

Need a replacement transmission? Get an estimate for replacement transmissions and local installation. Look up your transmission model by vehicle make and model.

What Transmission Do I Have?

From the 1970’s to 1998, the name ‘Silverado’ was used to designate the top trim model of the Chevrolet C/K truck line. For 1999, the all new truck was called simply the Chevrolet Silverado, and the trim lines were changed to LS, LT, Silverado Z71 etc. Building on the popularity of the first generation GMT800 Silverado, the second gen GMT900 Silverado offered improved build quality, bigger towing capacity, and more efficient engines. The latest K2XX Silverado brings the Chevy workhorse into the 21st century with a fully boxed hydroformed high-strength steel frame, available built-in Wi-Fi, and an all new 8-speed automatic transmission. Does something seem wrong with your Silverado? Let’s look at some of the most common Chevy Silverado transmission problems, and see what you can do to get your truck back on the road.

View Replacement Silverado Transmission prices for these vehicles:

Model
Chevy Silverado 1500
Chevy Silverado 2500 HD
Chevy Silverado 3500 HD

Chevy Silverado 1500 Transmission Models

Chevy Silverado 1500 4.8L, 5.3L, 5.7L: 4L60E Transmission (Most Early Models 2011-Down)
Chevy Silverado 1500 6.0L: 4L65E Transmission (6.0L Only)
Chevy Silverado 1500 HD: 4L80E Transmission (HD Only)
Chevy Silverado 1500 HD: 6L80 Transmission (Most Late Models 2007-
Chevy Silverado 1500: 8L90 Transmission (Silverado K2XX)

To be 100% sure, have your VIN# handy and use our Get An Estimate feature to look up your transmission by VIN#.

Chevy Silverado 1500 Transmission Replacement Cost Estimate

These are the most current prices for a remanufactured replacement Chevy Silverado 1500 transmissions, by transmission model:

Replacement 4l60E / 4L65E Transmission:

TransmissionStreet Smart Transmission
4L60E / 4L65E2100

Replacement 4L80E Transmission:

TransmissionStreet Smart Transmission
4T65E1935

Replacement 6L80 Transmission:

TransmissionStreet Smart Transmission
6L80 / 6L902559

What are the DTC codes related to Silverado 1500 transmission problems?

Trouble CodeDescription
P0706Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
P0711Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
P0712Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Input
P0713Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit High Input
P0714Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent P0715
P0715Input/Turbine Speed Sensor Circuit
P0716Input/Turbine Speed Sensor Circuit Range/Performance 
P0717Input/Turbine Speed Sensor Circuit No Signal
P0718Input/Turbine Speed Sensor Circuit Intermittent
P0719Torque Converter/Brake Switch B Circuit Low
P0720Output Speed Sensor Circuit
P0721Output Speed Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
P0722Output Speed Sensor Circuit No Signal
P0723Output Speed Sensor Circuit Intermittent
P0724 Torque Converter/Brake Switch B Circuit High
P0729Gear 6 Incorrect Ratio
P0730Incorrect Gear Ratio
P0731Gear 1 Incorrect Ratio
P0732Gear 2 Incorrect Ratio
P0734Gear 4 Incorrect Ratio
P0735Gear 5 Incorrect Ratio
P0740Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Malfunction
P0741Torque Converter Clutch Circuit
P0742Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Stuck On
P0744Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Intermittent
P0746Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' Performance or Stuck Off
P0747Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' Stuck On
P0748Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' Electrical
P0750Shift Solenoid 'A'
P0751Shift Solenoid 'A' Performance or Stuck Off
P0752Shift Solenoid 'A' Stuck On
P0753Shift Solenoid 'A' Electrical
P0755Shift Solenoid 'B'
P0756Shift Solenoid 'B' Performance or Stuck Off
P0757Shift Solenoid 'B' Stuck On
P0758Shift Solenoid 'B' Electrical
P0767Shift Solenoid 'D' Stuck On
P0776Pressure Control Solenoid 'B' Performance or Stuck Off
P0777Pressure Control Solenoid 'B' Stuck On
P0785Shift/Timing Solenoid
P0796Pressure Control Solenoid 'C' Performance or Stuck off
P0797Pressure Control Solenoid 'C' Stuck On
P0826Up and Down Shift Switch Circuit
P0850Park/Neutral Switch Input Circuit
P0851Park/Neutral Switch Input Circuit Low
P0894Transmission Component Slipping
P0897Transmission Fluid Deteriorated
P0960Pressure Control Solenoid “A” Control Circuit/Open
P0962Pressure Control Solenoid “A” Control Circuit Low
P0963Pressure Control Solenoid “A” Control Circuit High
P0964Pressure Control Solenoid “B” Control Circuit/Open
P0965Pressure Control Solenoid “B” Control Circuit Range/Performance
P0966Pressure Control Solenoid “B” Control Circuit Low
P0967Pressure Control Solenoid “B” Control Circuit High
P0970Pressure Control Solenoid “C” Control Circuit Low
P0971Pressure Control Solenoid “C” Control Circuit High
P0973Shift Solenoid “A” Control Circuit Low
P0976Shift Solenoid “B” Control Circuit Low
P0977Shift Solenoid “B” Control Circuit High
P0979Shift Solenoid “C” Control Circuit Low
P0980Shift Solenoid “C” Control Circuit High
P0982Shift Solenoid “D” Control Circuit Low
P0983Shift Solenoid “D” Control Circuit High
P0984Shift Solenoid “E” Control Circuit Range/Performance
P1860TCC PWM Solenoid Circuit Electrical
P1870Transmission Component Slipping: GM Transmission
P2715Pressure Control Solenoid ‘D’ Stuck On
P2723Pressure Control Solenoid ‘E’ Stuck Off

Chevrolet Silverado Recalls

Recall ID – NHTSA: 14V152000 – 2014 Silverado 1500

Summary
In March 2014, General Motors recalled certain 2014 model year Chevrolet Silverado Light Duty Regular Cab, Double Cab, and Crew Cab 1500 series trucks equipped with the 6-Speed Automatic Transmission (feature code MYC). The recalled trucks may have a transmission oil cooler line that is not securely seated in the fitting.

Consequence
If the line is not securely seated and transmission oil leaks from the fitting, the oil could contact a hot surface and cause a vehicle fire.

Remedy
Dealers were instructed to inspect the transmission oil cooler line connection and repair the vehicles, as needed, free of charge. Owners may contact Chevrolet at 1-866-694-6546 (refer to the Chevrolet Silverado recall 14121) or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration at 1-888-327-4236 (refer to recall 14V152000).

Recall ID – NHTSA: 13V001000 – 2013 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 / 2013 1500 Hybrid / 2013 2500 HD / 2013 3500 HD

Summary
In 2012, GM recalled the 2013 Silverado HD, Silverado LD, Suburban, and Tahoe; manufactured between November 7, 2012, through December 18, 2012, for failing to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 102, “Transmission Shift Lever Sequence, Starter Interlock, and Transmission Braking Effect”, and FMVSS No. 114, “Theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention.” These trucks may have been built with a fractured park lock cable or a malformed steering column lock actuator gear in the lock module assembly.

Consequence
As a result of this manufacturing defect, the Silverado may shift from ‘Park’ with the ignition key removed or the ignition key in the OFF position. These trucks may also shift out of Park without application of the brake pedal while the key is off. Either of these scenarios may cause the truck to roll away after the driver has exited the vehicle, resulting in a possible crash and/or injury.

Remedy
Chevy dealers were instructed to replace the steering column as necessary, free of charge. Owners can call Chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438 (refer to the Silverado recall 12331) or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration at 1-888-327-4236 (refer to recall 13V001000).

Chevrolet Silverado Technical Service Bulletins (TSB)

TSB 01-07-30-023B – Harsh 1-2 upshift with P1870 DTC – 4L60E Transmission RPO M30
1996 Buick Roadmaster – 1996 Cadillac Fleetwood – 1999-2000 Cadillac Escalade – 1996-2000 Chevrolet Camaro – 1996-2000 Corvette – 1996-2000 Pontiac Firebird – 1996-2000 Chevrolet and GMC Light Duty Truck Models – 1996-2000 Oldsmobile Bravada
Problem – Drivers may experience an unusually harsh 1-2 shift because the ECU has commanded maximum line pressure in order to compensate for excessive wear in the bore that contains the TCC isolator and regulator valves inside of the valve body.
Solution – Replace the 4L60E valve body with revised TCC regulator and isolator valves.

TSB 08-07-30-027 – No movements when transmission is shifted into Drive or third – 4L60E Transmission – 4L65E Transmission – 4L70E Transmission
1982-2005 GM Passenger Cars and Light Duty Trucks: 2006-2007 Buick Rainier – 2006 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV & Escalade EXT – 2006 Chevrolet SSR – 2006-2008 Chevrolet Avalanche – 2006-2008 Chevrolet Colorado – 2006-2008 Chevrolet Express – 2006-2008 Chevrolet Silverado Classic – 2006-2008 Chevrolet Silverado – 2006-2008 Chevrolet Suburban – 2006-2008 Chevrolet Tahoe – 2006-2008 Chevrolet TrailBlazer – 2006 GMC Yukon Denali – 2006 GMC Yukon Denali XL – 2006-2008 GMC Canyon – 2006-2008 GMC Envoy – 2006-2008 GMC Savana – 2006-2008 GMC Sierra Classic – 2006-2008 GMC Sierra – 2006-2008 GMC Yukon – 2006-2008 GMC Yukon XL – 2006 Pontiac GTO – 2006-2007 HUMMER H2 – 2006-2008 HUMMER H3 – 2006-2008 Saab 9-7X – with the 4L60, 4L60E, 4L65E or 4L70E Automatic Transmission (RPOs MD8, M30, M32, M33 or M70)
Problem – It is possible to experience no movement when the transmission is shifted into Drive or the 3rd gear position. It is possible to experience normal operation when the transmission shifted into second, first or reverse.
Solution – Replace the forward sprag assembly

TSB 00-07-30-022D – No reverse, second or fourth gears – 4L60E Transmission & 4L65E Transmission
1993 – 2005 GM passenger cars and light duty trucks
Problem – Drivers may experience the loss of reverse, second and fourth gears. First and third gears will seem to function normally
Solution – The reaction sun gear may fail inside of the sun shell. It will need to be replaced with a stronger heat-treated 4L60E / 4L65 sun gear.

TSB 01-04-17-004B – Clunk, bump or squawk when vehicle comes to a stop, or when it is accelerating from a complete stop – 4WD/AWD vehicles with a one-piece propeller/drive shaft only
1999-2004 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade EXT, Escalade ESV – 1996-1999 Chevrolet 1500 Series Extended Cab Short Box Pickup (Old Style) – 1996-1999 Chevrolet 1500 Series Regular Cab Pickup and Utility Models (Old Style) – 1999-2002 Chevrolet Silverado Extended Cab Short Box (New Style) – 1999-2004 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Series Regular Cab (New Style) – 2000-2004 Chevrolet 1500 Series Avalanche, Suburban and Tahoe – 2001-2004 Chevrolet Silverado 2500/3500 Series Regular Cab with Long Bed or Extended Cab (New Style) – 2001-2004 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 series crew cab, short box (New style) – 1996-1999 GMC 1500 series extended cab short box (Old style) – 1996-1999 GMC 1500 series regular cab pickup and utility models (Old Style) – 1999-2002 GMC Sierra extended cab short box (New style) – 1999-2004 GMC 1500 series Yukon, Yukon XL – 2000-2004 GMC Sierra 2500/3500 series regular cab with long bed or extended cab (New style) – 2001-2004 GMC Sierra 2500 Series Crew Cab, Short Box (New Style) – 2003-2005 HUMMER H2
Problem – In vehicles equipped with 4WD or AWD, drivers may experience a clunk, bump or squawk noise when they come to a stop, or when accelerating from a complete stop. This may occur during the 2-3 upshift or 3-2 downshift.
Solution – Replace the rear driveshaft slip yoke with a more robust nickel plated slip yoke.

TSB 06-07-30-007A – Harsh 1-2 shift with P0894 DTC – 4L60E Transmission | 4L65 Transmission | 4L70E Transmission
2006 Cadillac Escalade Models – 2006 Chevrolet Light Duty Trucks – 2006 Chevrolet Express Vans – 2006 GMC Light Duty Trucks – 2006 GMC Savana Vans – 2006 Pontiac GTO – 2006 HUMMER H2, H3 – 2006 Saab 9-7X – with 4L60-E / 4L65-E / 4L70-E (RPOs M30, M32, M70) Automatic Transmission
Problem – Drivers may experience an unusually harsh 1-2 shift with a P0894 DTC
Solution – Replace the TCC enable solenoid and/or wiring harness

TSB 08-07-30-008B – Diagnostic information for P0894 and P1870 DTC – 4L60E Transmission | 4L65 Transmission | 4L70E Transmission
2003-2007 GM Passenger Cars and Light Duty Trucks – 2003-2007 HUMMER H2 – 2006-2007 HUMMER H3 – 2005-2007 Saab 9-7X – with 4L60-E, 4L65-E or 4L70-E Automatic Transmission (RPOs M30, M32 or M70)
Problem – This relates to drivers who experience unusually harsh 1-2 shifts, along with a P0804 and/or a P1870 DTC.
Solution – It is possible that a leaking TCC solenoid, a torque converter clutch valve or damaged turbine shaft O-ring seal could cause these two diagnostic trouble codes. However, it could also be caused by a failed torque converter.

TSB PIP4051C – Harsh Shifting – 4L60E Transmission
Problem – Unusually harsh gear changes, combined with a P0717 DTC for an input shaft speed sensor error, are often caused by damage to the ISS sensor wiring.
Solution – If wire damage is found (usually to the white wire), the wiring and sensor will have to be replaced. The pump cover should also be examined for sharp points/edges that could damage the wiring. If any are found, they should be smoothed with a file.

TSB PIP4112E – 2007-2008 Silverado 6L80 / 6L90
Problem: On gas-powered trucks, owners may experience a hesitation when aggressively applying the throttle after coasting with a closed throttle. Trucks equipped with the 6L80 or 6L90 transmission may experience the same hesitation after making a hard stop with a closed throttle, then aggressively applying the throttle.
Solution: According to Chevrolet, the first condition is the result of the Torque Management software, which slowly opens the throttle for 0.7 seconds to minimize driveline lash and ‘clunking’. The second condition may occur because the 6L transmission downshifts may not be complete when the throttle is reapplied. In this case, the computer delays engine torque application for 0.5 seconds to allow the transmission to engage first gear.

TSB P10488C – 2010-2013 Silverado 6L80 / 6L90
Problem: Trucks equipped with the 6-speed 6L80 or 6L90 transmission may experience no forward or reverse engagement, or slipping between the gears.
Solution: This problem could be caused by a cracked or split transmission filter. If this is the case, the fluid pump should be disassembled and inspected for possible damage. Inspect for any of the following conditions: – scored pump rotor or pump vanes – scored pump cover or pump rotor pocket – cracked pump slide.

The transmission should also be evaluated for any possible distress to the clutches. GM’s testing and analysis found that split or damaged filters may be caused by a damaged pump. This can send a high pressure fluid spike down the filter neck on a cold start, resulting in the filter body cracking or the filter seam splitting. The filter is not defective and this is not a filter quality issue. Important: Do not replace the filter without inspecting the pump. Failure to inspect the pump and clutches could lead to a repeat of this condition.

TSB PIT5206B – 2012-2015 Chevrolet Silverado
Problem: These trucks may experience unwanted grade braking when not going down a grade, reduced/low engine power with no DIC messages or DTCs (Brake Pedal Override Feature), erratic shifting or frequent up and down shifts with no DTCs. These issues may be caused by the Brake Pedal Position (BPP) sensor not being learned correctly in the ECM (Engine Control Module).
Solution: The ECU will have to be reprogrammed.

TSB 09-07-30-004J – Slips in Reverse or Third, Delayed Reverse or Drive Engagement, DTC P0776, P2715, P2723, Harsh 2-3 Shifts – 6L80 Transmission | 6L90 Transmission
2006-2009 Cadillac STS-V – 2006-2009 Cadillac XLR – 2006-2009 Cadillac XLR-V – 2007-2008 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade EXT – 2006-2009 Chevrolet Corvette – 2007-2008 Chevrolet Silverado – 2008 Chevrolet Suburban – 2007-2008 GMC Sierra – 2007-2008 GMC Sierra Denali – 2007-2008 GMC Yukon Denali – 2007-2008 GMC Yukon XL Denali – 2008 GMC Yukon XL – 2008-2009 HUMMER H2 – 2008-2009 Pontiac G8
Problem – Vehicles equipped with the 6L80 or 6L90 transmission may slip when Reverse is selected or have no/delayed reverse engagement, harsh shifts from 2-3 / 4-5 or slips while in fifth, and slipping acceleration when passing. Possible DTCs include P0776, P2715 or P2723.
Solution – This transmission problem may be caused by a cracked 1-2-3-4 / 3-5-R clutch housing.

PIP5437B – Harsh shifts – 8L45 Transmission | 8L90 Transmission
2016 – 2017 Cadillac ATS – 2016 – 2017 Cadillac CT5 – 2016 – 2017 Cadillac CT6 – 2015 – 2017 Cadillac Escalade – 2016 – 2017 Chevrolet Camaro – 2017 Chevrolet Colorado – 2015 – 2017 Chevrolet Corvette – 2017 Chevrolet Express – 2015 – 2017 Chevrolet Silverado – 2017 GMC Canyon – 2017 GMC Savana – 2015 – 2017 GMC Sierra – 2015 – 2017 GMC Yukon Denali
Problem – One of the more common 8L90 transmission problems is excessively hard or abrupt gear changes.
Solution – The TCM may need to be recalibrated with the latest control software. It could also be caused by one or more of the clutch fill times not being learned by the TCM. In which case, the Service Fast Learn (SFL) procedure will have to be performed. Should the problems persist, the valve body will need to be replaced.

TSB 14043 – Thrust bearing failure – Allison 1000 Transmission
2012 Chevy Silverado HD – 2012 GMC Sierra HD
Problem:
Certain 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD / 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD and 2012 GMC Sierra 2500HD / 2012 GMC Sierra 3500HD trucks equipped with the Allison 1000 6-speed automatic transmission (MW7), may have been built with an incorrect transmission thrust bearing. Over time, this bearing could fail, resulting in noise and poor transmission operation.
Solution:
The bearing should be replaced with GM part # 29531106

TSB PIP3598C – Intermittent ratio codes or range inhibit – Allison 1000 Transmission
2007 – 2012 Chevrolet Silverado – 2001 – 2007 Chevrolet Silverado Classic – 2007 – 2012 GMC Sierra – 2001 – 2007 GMC Sierra Classic – 4WD Only
Problem – Drivers may experience intermittent no forward or reverse condition, the possibility of a flashing PRNDL display or a “range shift inhibited” message in the driver information center with no saved DTCs. Another possible symptom includes the following DTCs: P0729, P0731, P0732, P0733, P0734, P0735 & P0736
Solution – These Allison 1000 transmission problems may be caused by either an input speed sensor and or output speed sensor issue. The problem could also be caused by a mechanical issue inside of the four-wheel-drive transfer case like a worn bushing.

TSB 14308 – Leak at transmission cooler
2008 Chevy Silverado HD – 2008 GMC Sierra HD
Problem – Diesel powered 2008 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD / 2008 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD and 2008 GMC Sierra 2500HD / 2008 GMC Sierra 3500HD trucks equipped with the Allison 1000 6-speed automatic transmission (RPO MW7), may have a condition in which increased transmission oil cooling circuit pressure may cause transmission fluid to weep or leak. This loss of fluid occurs near the transmission cooler at the crimp joints on the metal ends of the cooler line where it joins the rubber hose. The increased oil cooling circuit pressure typically occurs while driving in extremely low temperatures.
Solution – Inspect and replace cooler lines if necessary.

TSB 04-07-30-018A – Ice buildup on shift cable – Allison 1000 Transmission
2001-2006 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD – 2001-2006 GMC Sierra 2500HD
Problem – In cold climates, it may not be possible to shift the transmission after operating it in snow, slush, or icy conditions. This is likely due to ice buildup around the shift cable-to-manual shaft connection.
Solution – Install an aftermarket transmission shield.

TSB 06-07-30-013 – Shudder in 6th gear – Allison 1000 Transmission
2006 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD – 2006 GMC Sierra 2500HD
Problem – Owners may experience a shudder occurs in 6th gear in 4Hi between 46 mph (74 km/h) and 49 mph (79 km/h).
Solution – Reprogram the TCM with TIS version 6.0 or higher.

TSB 08-07-30-049A – Transmission fluid leak from the ATF cooler – Allison 1000
2006-2007 Chevrolet Silverado Classic 2500 – 2007-2009 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD – 2007-2009 GMC Sierra 2500HD
Problem – ATF leak coming from one of the transmission cooler lines.
Solution – Replace lines with updated design: GM Part #’s 20759971 (upper), 20759972 (lower), 20759971 (hose).

TSB 10-07-30-008A – Transmission won’t shift into overdrive – Allison 1000
2006-2010 Chevy Silverado HD – 2006-2010 GMC Sierra HD
Problem – Owners may experience a failure to shift into overdrive, or a 4-5 shift flare. Possible DTC P0777 or P0735.
Solution – Inspect and possibly replace the 3rd, 5th, and reverse clutch piston.

PIP4290A – Engine Stalling – Allison 1000
2007-2013 Chevrolet Silverado HD – 2007-2013 GMC Sierra HD
Problem – Owners may experience stalling or surging when stopped with the transmission in gear. Possible DTC P0742.
Solution – Inspect and replace the TCC solenoid and valve inside the valve body.

Common Problems with the 1500 4L60E / 4L65E Transmission (Most Early Models 2011-Down)

1) Faulty 1-2 Accumulator

If you experience a delay, shudder, or extreme harshness during the 1-2 shift, it may be due to a faulty 4L60E 1-2 accumulator. This little device acts as sort of a shock absorber for the fluid pressure that builds inside the valve body, once the solenoid triggers a shift. The OE 1-2 accumulator piston is made from plastic, and it has a tendency to break. That can cause this most common 4L60E transmission problem, along with premature clutch failure. To keep that from happening, the Street Smart remanufactured 4L60E transmission is fitted with aluminum 1-2 accumulator pistons, along with a recalibrated valve body for better fluid pressure control.

2) 3-4 Clutch Failure

Another common Silverado 1500 transmission problem is the total loss of 3rd and 4th gears. This happens because the discs inside of the 3-4 clutch pack are known to wear out prematurely. To avoid this, Street Smart Transmission installs a High-Energy 3-4 clutch pack In every remanufactured 4L60E transmission. It features an extra clutch disc (7 total) to improve not only the durability, but the amount of torque that the transmission can handle.

Common Problems with the Silverado 1500 4L80E Transmission (1500 HD Only)

1) Failed Shift Solenoids

In order for the computer to control the hydraulic shifting systems, it sends an electrical charge through a coil of wire that’s wrapped around a plunger device called a solenoid. A total of 8 shift solenoids are positioned throughout the valve body, and it’s their job to direct the pressurized ATF/hydraulic fluid to the correct channel to actuate a gear change. If one of these solenoids go bad, you may experience slipping between gears, failure to shift, and a failure to shift into overdrive.

2) Overheating

There’s a bunch of moving parts inside your Silverado 2500 4L80E transmission, and its up to the transmission fluid to keep everything cool. Towing heavy loads, and the constant shifting that occurs in stop-and-go traffic and mountainous terrain can intensify the heat, which can cause the transmission to literally overheat. This can result in blown transmission seals, along with damage to the clutches, bands, and valve body. To keep this from happening, we recommend installing an auxiliary transmission cooler.

Common Problems with the Silverado 1500 6L80 Transmission (Most Late Models 2007+)

Pressure Regulator System: An automatic transmission relies on hydraulic pressure to move parts around and propel you down the road. This pressure is maintained by the 6L80 pressure regulator / PR system, which uses a series of springs, valves, and check balls. Some of the plastic and lower-grade metal pieces tend to wear out prematurely, causing all sorts of issues. You may see harsh shifts, soft shifts, failure to engage Drive, slipping in-and-out of gear, and overheating.

Can I drive with a transmission problem?

Even though it’s “like a rock”, Chevrolet Silverado 1500 transmission problems can cause your budget to sink like a, well, rock. You see, if certain transmission parts aren’t working correctly, then the others will have to compensate, which can cause unnecessary wear, and potentially premature failure. But having a skilled mechanic diagnose the problem early on, could prevent a small problem from getting a lot more expensive.

How often does a Chevrolet Silverado 1500 transmission need to be replaced?

If you’d like to keep Chevy Silverado 1500 transmission problems at bay, then you need to keep your gearbox maintained properly. Of course, factory design flaws to play a part. On average, we’ve seen the following average Chevrolet Silverado 1500 transmission life cycles:
4L60E – 120,000-180,000 miles
4L80E – 120,000-180,000 miles
6L90 – 130,000-200,000 miles

How are Chevrolet Silverado 1500 transmission issues diagnosed?

In order to figure out what’s causing your Chevy Silverado 1500 transmission problems, your mechanic will need to connect a code reader to the OBDII port under the dash. After that, it’s a matter of verifying the problem with a visual inspection.

How is a Chevrolet Silverado 1500 transmission replaced?

Because a Chevy Silverado 1500 transmission is installed in a RWD/4WD application, all you have to do is unbolt it from the engine, frame and driveshaft. Installation is a reverse of that procedure.

Recommendations for Chevy Silverado 1500 transmission issues?

To save time and get back on the road faster, have your 17-digit truck VIN# handy and you can get an online quote for a replacement Chevy Silverado transmission here, then find a local shop using our Find a Shop guide to install it for you.

How to Solve Chevy Silverado 1500 Transmission Problems

Solution A: Buy a Used Chevy Silverado 1500 Transmission

The quickest way to fix your transmission problems is to simply buy a used 4L60E transmission or used 6L80 transmission. These can be found at most junk yards, and they often come with a 30-90 day warranty. However, there’s no way to determine the actual condition of the internal components, so you could be spending a bunch of money to have the exact same problems. Plus, that warranty only covers the transmission if it’s defective, not the labor costs that you’ll have to pay.

Solution B: Buy a Rebuilt Chevy Silverado 1500 Transmission

Another option would be a rebuilt 4L60E transmission or rebuilt 6L80 transmission. A local repair shop will remove your Chevrolet Silverado 1500 transmission, then install a bunch of new parts during the rebuild. The problem here is, the skills and experience of each transmission rebuilder will vary widely from shop to shop, so you could have problems from something that wasn’t adjusted properly. And the 1-2 year warranty might only cover you at certain transmission repair shops, in a specific geographical area.

Solution C: Buy a Remanufactured Chevy Silverado 1500 Transmission

Many owners depend on their Chevy Silverado to make a living and get things done. Their gasoline engines are designed to go 100’s of thousands of miles, so it makes sense to invest in a remanufactured 4L60E transmission or remanufactured 6L80 transmission. These typically last a lot longer than the original gearbox, and the warranties tend to be better too.

Need a replacement transmission? Get an estimate for replacement transmissions and local installation. Look up your transmission model by vehicle make and model.

What Transmission Do I Have?

Related Forum Discussions

Other Chevrolet Vehicles

View Replacement Chevy Transmission prices for these vehicles:

Model
Chevy Avalanche
Chevy Blazer
Chevy C1500
Chevy C2500 HD
Chevy C3500 HD
Chevy Camaro
Chevy Cavalier
Chevy Cobalt
Chevy Colorado
Chevy Equinox
Chevy Express 1500
Chevy Express 2500
Chevy Express 3500
Chevy Express 4500
Chevy HHR
Chevy Impala
Chevy K1500
Chevy K2500 Suburban
Chevy Malibu
Chevy Monte Carlo
Chevy S10
Chevy Silverado 1500
Chevy Silverado 2500 HD
Chevy Silverado 3500 HD
Chevy SSR
Chevy Suburban
Chevy Tahoe
Chevy Trailblazer
Chevy Traverse
Chevy Uplander
Chevy Venture
Chevy W3500
Chevy W4500
Your Name
Email Not Required
50 Tell us about your transmission problems
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
William Waggoner
2 years ago

Overdrive goes in then backs of gear drives up to 30 mph

Barry Hobbs
2 years ago

I just rebuilt 4l60e have rebuilt several all good except this one got it back in sand jacked up going to run through the gears reverse either for bout 30 seconds put it in neutral all good shifts the 1-2-3-4 and lockup but it’s like[the breaks are on in reverse now and there was shuttering in maybe 2nd like reverse and another we’re on at the same time put a master kit all new solinods in Canada you help hadn’t put a scan tool on it yet

shawn hauk
2 years ago

Sleeping out of drive

Frank K Humphries
2 years ago

Just one day it just started 1st to 2nd shift fine. Fron second to third is in and out is going into neutral in between the two I change the fluid put a new filter in it still doing the same thing my son hook it up on the computer you said there was nothing wrong with it I hooked up a little scanner and it split the code po430 I’m out I don’t know which way to go

Frank K Humphries
2 years ago

Like I said it goes from first to second fine but when I go 2nd to 3rd it won’t go into drive it like it goes into neutral something then it’ll drop back down to second I changed 23 solenoid but no help at all new fluid new transmission filter I don’t know which way to go any help is appreciated I really appreciate it I don’t have

Dean
3 years ago

2001 silverado 2500 hd 6.0.always did as it should untill the cold bad weather it was spinning and slipping tryig to get on the road forward amd reverse and i wasnt flooring or shifting back and forth real hard or. Fast but it stopped moving backward felt like was spinning so i got a friend to hook up and pull my truck mine in reverse or netrual when he tryied puling my. Back tires were not rolling amd it took all he had to move my truck i found later if i shut off . Engine it would not let tires roll backward like netrual . All forward gears still shifted. Up amd down and had the break effect when slowing in first but no netrual and mo reverse reverse just slips and netrual and park both want to go forward . Reverse lights work and it wont start in gear but will not let me shift from park to gear without break. Peddle being pushed fluid is clean but was about a qt low and adding a qt didnt help . I can drive forward fine sometimess it will start shifting hard but does fine after a. Restart anyone have any ideas .was hoping the linkage for manual valve on pan but it seams when engine oss first.started i could feel ot. Try to go onto reverse but only felt it once or twice and after being in.gear when tou put it in gear you.cant feel it engage in drive but when you push gas pedal ot takes off and if you put shifter in 2nd it will start in 2nd but it has always done thay

Kenny
3 years ago

Is it good to add Lucas additive to your transmission when you change the fluid

Maxcine
3 years ago

Repaired transmission and truck drove fine for about 4 miles then lost all gears and reved like in neutral and wouldn’t go but shut truck off and let cool about Five minutes then cranked and go half a mile then do it all over again. Any solutions?

Nicole
2 years ago
Reply to  Maxcine

Same situation. What was wrong? I have the transmission sitting in my shop and I started taking it apart only to discover…. There is so much to keep track of.
We were just test driving truck after wheel hub assembly was replaced when it started this “free wheeling” issue. Mine i is an 2005 Chevy Silverado Z71. 5.3L V8.

steve
3 years ago

my 2003 chevy 1500 wont shift into 3 gear

When it’s wet outside like a heavy
4 years ago

When it’s wet outside like a heavy rain my transmission seems to slip in the neutral and rev up and then it bounces back in the gear only when it’s raining or wet out

Allen Wiggins
2 years ago

You are most likely spinning the tires.

John Simpson
4 years ago

2007 Chevy Silverado 1500 5.3 , I am having a slip issue only when it downshifts into 2 gear . It goes into gear fine but then slips a bit after short acceleration but then stops slipping and pulls fine. Starting from a stop it shifts perfectly and pulls hard through all 4 gears without slipping any at all. The slip only occurs when the trans downshifts into second at any speed , absolutely no slip when up shifting from first to second or second to third .no check engine light or codes of any kind Any idea would be helpful and greatly appreciated

Ruth
4 years ago

I have a 2012 2500 automatic with 208000 miles it starts out good about 45 mins or if I stop a lot it pulls out slow or rpm go up trans is like in N will not pull out in any gear. I stop wait about 5 mins restart and pull out it works in drive only for about 30 mins again or until I stop then back to restarting and over and over the longer it’s drove the more I have to stop.

Tim Carpenter
5 years ago

I bought a 2007 chevy silverado classic used from a dealership. The next month the transfer case cracked and i lost the transmission. I towed to the nearest dealership because it was under warranty and after paying 2500 dollars and a month later I was on the road. 33 days later i was traveling and had the same exact problem. The truck is now in another state waiting to be fixed because the transmission is under warranty. Why does the transfer case keep breaking?

Mr mike
5 years ago

I have vibration think it’s coming from tranny but might be a driveline issue

William Oxendine
5 years ago

Ive got a mud truck im rebuilding and need to know what transmission this is the broadcast code is 4kcd serial number is 12751858 id # 61 has 28 stamped on case as well as 679137 i need to know whether i should use this or find stronger tranny

Benjamin Almendarez
5 years ago

The transmission temp went up to 260 on my 2013 5.3 silverado but I let it cool down and the highest it went was 220 and it takes awhile to put in the gears stays on 4th for awhile how can I fix

Joel
5 years ago

I have a 2005 Silverado Z71. Recently while driving down the highway my truck seemed to go into neutral. Pulled over and put her into auto 4WD. Everything went back to normal. Shifting normal all my gears were working fine so I put it back into 2WD. About a mile down the road it went into what felt like neutral again. Transmission works fine in auto 4WD. What is going on?

Jeff
5 years ago
Reply to  Joel

So what was wrong with transmission. Mine is doing the same thing

Theron
5 years ago

I have a 2014 Silverado trans went out could only use first three gears. Bought the 3 year unlimited miles GM transmission. It hasn’t run good yet. It shifts so hard from 3-4&4-5 that you have to brace yourself and sometimes you can be going down interstate and it will gear down for no reason. It about will throw you in floorboard.

Jerry
6 years ago

I have a 2012 silverado LT, 86,000 miles, transmission jumps/slips when accelerating, does not do it when I am pulling a trailer or boat. Have had fluids, filter, changed and throttle body cleaned out, there was very little metal shavings in the pan. It stopped doing it for a while but than started up again. My is Jerry

Christie
5 years ago
Reply to  Jerry

This is a common issue with your era Silverado and you would likely benefit greatly from looking up and into the bulletins that Chevy has posted about concerns and issues surrounding throttle body sensors and general sensor and electrical problems. In my experience (only God knows why I am STILL a Chevy Woman even while I know they have these enormously infamous issues) your best bet regardless of engine light codes and definitely before you throw any $ at these greedy mechanics is to do some basic research. If you have limited reading comp skills I’d be happy to help if you would pass to me your collected information. Start by making a list of your trucks past and present issues along with past and present observable symptoms and issues. Trucks these days are almost completely powered by a computer that lives under your hood. You cannot imagine how much $ and time has been wasted on labor and parts when the solution to some huge problems was to replace a loose wire or to remove a couple bolts and clean or even just hooking your truck to a computer reader and clearing some codes. So my advice to you is #1: make a list of all of your trucks past and present symptoms & issues as well as any work you have done under the hood regardless of significancy. #2 if you haven’t done so take the truck to an auto parts store (Not a mechanic shop) and have them hook it to a reader and record the codes they give you. This is most often a free service at the parts store. Look up these codes online be sure to include the make model and year in your searches and record the definitions for the codes. For your particular issue it would be your best bet to look up and read some posts about other people who had similar issues and start with the easiest and cheapest solutions and move upwards from there. This will more then likely startwith checking a few wires and/or resetting the comp. If you need further help I’d be happy to offer more advice but I’m willing to bet this is a relatively easy fix that you possibly can do ur self with a little help from youtube or at the very least give you something to take with you to a shop so as not to be charged ridiculously for unnecessarywork.

Gabby Hayes
7 years ago

2002 Chev 2500 HD Silverado – truck was not running right check engine light came on. Diagnostic showed solenoid failure. Had both replaced, new filter and fluid, drove it out of garage and same thing loss of drive power periodically and check engine lite on. This time was told the harness between the solenoids was shorting out and needs replacing. I am to pick truck up tomorrow and wonder if I will be charged all the labor costs , fluids again or if this should have been checked out on the 1 st repair…??
Pls advise Tks a mil.

Ian
7 years ago

2012 Silverado truck 32000 Mel’s, had the fluid and filter changed, routine maintenance now the 1-2 shift is harsh a and when cold throws 0700 code, I can clear it and it’s fine most of the time but on occasions it will throw the code at a 1-2 shift, NO problems until the service, any thoughts, service performed at an AAMCO.

Christie
5 years ago
Reply to  Ian

You have to reset the computer. Take it to autozone or oreillys and ask them to clear thecomp or reset the system…they aren’t supposed to but I’ve n3ver had anyone not do it after a little push I’m like 90% sure this is ur prob

Bruce Tyler
7 years ago

I have a 1999 chevy silverado, when the trans is on short trips (cool fluid), it shifts good or normal but on longer trips I think the fluid heats up causing first gear to shift violently while the others shift normal. I stop again and it shifts the same way it goes into gear like there is a shift kit installed, there isn’t. There is approximately 120,000 miles showing and had the truck since 40,000 without any difficulties, serviced on a regular basis. Why is first gear to second shifting so Hard? Heat? I will try a fluid change then see what happens. In the th350 or 400s I would guess a modulator valve. It is a 4×4 half ton and taken care of, any suggestions would be helpful.

Silverado
5 years ago
Reply to  Bruce Tyler

Having the same issues after a rebuild of my 2006 Silverado 4L60E. $2,800 later, the mechanic is stating it could be the valve body.
After long trips it shifts hard from first to second and into third.

50
0
Would love your thoughts, please comment.x
()
x