Chevy Silverado 2500 HD Transmission Problems & Cost | 4L60E | 4L80E | 6L90 | Allison 1000

If you buy a Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD, then you’ve obviously got stuff to haul. But this truck does a lot more than just haul and tow stuff. It can be your daily driver, family vehicle, and it may even be able to get reasonable fuel economy, if it’s equipped properly (i.e. Silverado 2500HD Duramax). However, Chevrolet Silverado 2500 transmission problems do still happen. So let’s find 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?

Chevy Silverado 2500 HD Transmission Models

Chevy Silverado 2500 HD: 4L60E Transmission
Chevy Silverado 2500 HD: 4L80E Transmission
Chevy Silverado 2500 HD: 6L90 Transmission (Late Models)
Chevy Silverado 2500 HD: Allison 1000 Transmission (6.6L and 8.1L Diesel Only)

Chevy Silverado 2500 HD Transmission Replacement Cost Estimate

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

Replacement 4L80E Transmission:
The 4L80E is a heavy duty 4-speed automatic transmission, and it’s an evolution of the 3-speed Turbo-Hydramatic 400 / TH400 transmission that was first introduced in 1963. The heavy duty internal components are rated to withstand engines with up to 440 lb-ft of torque, and a GVWR of up to 18,000 lbs. This modernized Chevrolet Silverado 2500 transmission was introduced back in 1991, and featured an overdrive gear, along with a lockup torque convertor, and electronic controls that optimized shifting behavior, engine performance and efficiency.

Replacement Allison 1000 Transmission:
The Allison 1000 is a heavy duty automatic transmission that’s based on an earlier Allison medium-duty commercial truck transmission. It was initially offered as a 5-speed, but a 6-speed version followed around 2005. Later incarnations of the Silverado 2500 Allison 1000 featured more advancements, including a Low Traction Mode, Cruise Control Grade Braking, and Park Warmup Mode.

Replacement 6L90 Transmission:
The 6L90 transmission was first paired with the Chevy Silverado 2500HD 6.0L in 2007, and featured a number of advanced features that were designed to improve performance and driver control. Some of modern elements include a four element torque convertor with an integrated pump, unique planetary gearsets for a wider range of gear ratios, clutch-to-clutch shifting, and an advanced TCM (Transmission Control Module) that allows for a Performance Algorithm Shifting (PAS) program for instant shift pattern adjustment changes based on load, a Driver Shift Control program for manual shift capability, and automatic grade braking / engine braking. The maximum engine torque capacity for the Silverado 2500HD 6L90 transmission is 531 lb-ft and a GVWR of 21,000 lbs.

What are the DTC codes related to Chevy Silverado 2500 HD transmission problems?

Chevy Silverado 2500 HD Transmission Recalls

None Found

Chevy Silverado 2500 HD Technical Service Bulletins (TSB)

TSB 01-07-30-002C – Transmission stuck in third gear with inoperable instrument cluster and multiple DTC’s – 4L60E Transmission & 4L65 Transmission 
1999 – 2003 Cadillac Escalade – 2002 – 2003 Cadillac Escalade EXT – 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV – 1997 – 2003 Chevrolet Silverado – 1997 – 2003 Chevrolet Suburban – 1997 – 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe – 1997 – 2003 Chevrolet Blazer – 1997 – 2003 Chevrolet Express – 1997 – 2003 Chevrolet S10 – 2002 – 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche – 2002 – 2003 Chevrolet Trailblazer – 2002 – 2003 Chevrolet Trailblazer EXT – 1997 – 2003 GMC Sierra – 1997 – 1999 GMC Suburban – 1999 – 2003 GMC Yukon XL – 1997 – 2003 GMC Yukon – 1997 – 2001 GMC Jimmy – 1997 – 2003 GMC Savanna – 1997 – 2003 GMC Sonoma – 2002 – 2003 GMC Envoy – 2002 – 2003 GMC Envoy XL – 1997 – 2003 Oldsmobile Bravada
Problem – Vehicles equipped with the 4L60E and 4L65E transmission may become stuck in third gear, the instrument cluster may not function, and the following DTC’s may be set: P0740, P0753, P0758, P0785 and P1860.
Solution – The most likely cause of this transmission problem is a blown fuse or an open on circuit 1020 between the fuse panel and the transmission. If no battery voltage is found at the fuse, the ignition switch will need to be replaced

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 05-07-30-017B – Water contamination – 2004-2006 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD 4L60E 
Problem – A common transmission problem occurs when the transmission shudders/shakes between 40 and 50 mph, as the torque convertor clutch engages. This is caused by rain water getting into the transmission through the dipstick.
Solution – The air inlet grille panel will have to be modified according to the procedure outlined in the TSB.

TSB PIP4051C – Harsh Shifting – Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD 4L60E
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 04-07-30-028A – Transmission fluid leak from reverse servo cover – 4L65E
Problem – An ATF leak can occur under the vehicle during cold weather (temperature below 20°F/6.7°C), due to a failed reverse servo cover seal.
Solution – To remedy the problem, an upgraded (see: better quality) reverse servo cover seal will have to be installed.

TSB 08-07-30-016 – Slipping, refusal to shift, overheating Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD 4L80E 
Problem – Slipping between the gears, overheating, refusal to shift out of a gear, and/or DTC P0894 or P0218, may be because by friction material debonding from the torque convertor clutch (TCC).
Solution – If the friction material has circulated throughout the transmission, the entire transmission may need to be replaced. It is possible to remove the material from the internal components (like transmission cooler lines and the valve body), but it depends on the extent of the damage.

TSB 08-07-30-001 – 2001-2006 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD 4L80E
Problem – Harsh or delayed shifts, slipping, no forward/reverse gears. Possible DTCs: P0741, P0742, P0751, P0752, P0756, P0757, P0894.
Solution – Rebuild or replace the valve body.

TSB 08-07-30-015 – 2002-2007 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD 4L80E
Problem – Harsh shifts, delayed 2-3 shifts, 2-3 shift flare, no 3rd gear, slips in 3rd gear or reverse. Possible DTC 0757.
Solution – If none of the issues described in Bulletin 08-07-30-001 are present (debris in #11 checkball, leak in oil circuit, damage to the direct clutch), then replace the 2-3 shift solenoid due to a possible sticking pintle.

TSB PI488C – No forward or reverse and/or slipping – 6L80 Transmission | 6L90 Transmission 
2010 – 2014 Cadillac CTS-V – 2010 – 2014 Cadillac Escalade (all models) – 2010 – 2013 Chevrolet Avalanche – 2010 – 2014 Chevrolet Camaro – 2010 – 2014 Chevrolet Corvette – 2010 – 2014 Chevrolet Express – 2010 – 2014 Chevrolet Silverado – 2010 – 2014 Chevrolet Suburban – 2010 – 2014 Chevrolet Tahoe – 2011 – 2014 Chevrolet Caprice PPV – 2014 Chevrolet SS – 2010 – 2014 GMC Savanna – 2010 – 2014 GMC Sierra – 2010 – 2014 GMC Yukon – 2010 – 2014 GMC Yukon XL – 2010 – 2014 GMC Yukon Denali
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 transmission 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 transmission 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 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.

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 Chevy Silverado 2500 HD Transmission Problems

Intermittent harsh shifting – Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD 4L60E
Problem – A common Chevy Silverado transmission problem is an intermittent hard 1-2 shift, often accompanied by engine bogging. This condition can be caused by the torque convertor clutch applying during the shift.
Solution – To remedy the problem, the wiring harness needs to be inspected from the transmission case connector to the rear of the engine on the driver side. It’s possible that the wires for the TCC solenoid and pressure control solenoid have become frayed on a body seam. If this is the case, the wiring will need to be repaired, and the harness repositioned.

Solenoid DTC’s – Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD 6L90E 
Problem – A number of diagnostic trouble codes, including P0776, P0796, P2714 and P2723, can be caused by a pressure leak at the end of the clutch regulating valve.
Solution – The bore plug will have to be replaced with updated versions, or modified to accept an O-ring kit.

Lack of Response
Leaking Fluid
Low Fluid
Burning Smell
Grinding or Shaking
Whining, Clunking or Humming
Refuses to Go Into Gear
Torque Converter Issues
Valve Body Issues
Transmission Noisy in Neutral
Gears Slipping
No 3rd or 4th Gear
No 1st or 2nd Gear
No Reverse
Dragging Clutch
Trouble Codes / Check Engine Light

Can I drive with a transmission problem?

The Chevrolet Silverado 2500 is engineered to handle almost anything, but transmission problems can stop it dead in its tracks. Even though many Silverado 2500 transmission problems start out as minor inconveniences, they can quickly escalate if you don’t have them addressed immediately. So do yourself a favor and go see a mechanic right away.

How often does a Chevy Silverado 2500 HD transmission need to be replaced?

Driving style and maintenance on the two biggest factors in how long your transmission will last. Factory design flaws also contribute to the longevity, as premature failures can often lead to the most common Silverado 2500HD transmission problems. On average, we noticed the following typical lifespans:
4L80E – 120,000-180,000 miles
6L90 – 130,000-200,000 miles
Allison 1000 – 160,000-220,000 miles

How are Chevy Silverado 2500 HD transmission issues diagnosed?

When trying to diagnose Chevrolet Silverado 2500 transmission problems, it’s important to check the level and condition of the transmission fluid. Next, an OBDII scan tool can allow you to download all of the diagnostic trouble codes, which can often tell you what’s going on with the transmission. After that, a visual inspection will need to be performed.

How is a Chevy Silverado 2500 HD transmission replaced?

In order to replace your Silverado 2500 transmission, the old one will have to be disconnected from the driveshaft, engine and frame. After installing the new one in the reverse order, the ECU/TCM may have to be reprogrammed in order to recognize the new transmission.

Recommendations for Chevy Silverado 2500 HD 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 reman Chevy Silverado 2500 HD transmission here, then find a local shop using our Find a Shop guide to install it for you.

How to Solve Chevy Silverado 2500 HD Transmission Problems

Solution A: Buy a Used Chevy Silverado 2500 HD Transmission

One of the cheapest ways to solve most severe Chevy Silverado 2500HD transmission problems, is to simply go to the junkyard and buy a used 4L80E / used 6L90 / used Allison 1000 transmission. They are fairly easy to come by, and most junkyards will give you a 30 – 90 day warranty. However, you don’t know the actual condition of the internal components inside that transmission, which means you could be in for even more problems than you have now. Plus, that warranty probably won’t cover labor charges if you have to replace the transmission a second time.

Solution B: Buy a Rebuilt Chevy Silverado 2500 HD Transmission

A rebuilt 4L80E / rebuilt 6L90 / rebuilt Allison 1000 transmission is definitely a better option. However, most mechanics will use an OE master rebuild kit, which takes the transmission back to its stock form, and usually does not address any of the factory design flaws. This means you’ll probably have the same problems in the future. And that warranty might not cover you if you are traveling and need work done at the local transmission repair shop.

Solution C: Buy a Remanufactured Chevy Silverado 2500 HD Transmission

To keep your truck on the road for as long as possible, a remanufactured 4L80E / remanufactured 6L90 / remanufactured Allison 1000 transmission is the best way to go. Most of them are built using much higher quality transmission parts, and modifications are often performed to correct for factory design flaws. This will allow you to get a much longer service life, and the warrantees are usually much 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?

What Problem Does Your Chevy Silverado 2500 HD Have?

Let us know the year, mileage and problem you’re having as well as any trouble (OBD) codes you’ve found. If you’ve been given a quote or paid for a repair, we’d like to hear about that too!