Chevy Silverado Transmission Problems (Fixed)

The Chevy Silverado has a history of being a consistently reliable, tough truck with solid performance specs. However, like any vehicle, there are no exceptions to the rule.

The Silverado is not immune to mechanical problems, and transmission issues, in particular, are one of the more common issues owners report.

In this post, we look at some of the common Chevy Silverado transmission problems an owner can encounter, their origins, and tips on resolving the issues if they arise.

Which Years of Chevy Silverados Have the Most Transmission Problems?

Transmission issues have been reported in Chevy Silverado models from 2012 through 2019 that skipped those equipped with 8L90 and 8L45 eight-speed automatic transmissions.

However, owners have had problems with shudders, shakes, hesitation, and hard shifts. The most complaints are with the 2015 models, which involve transmission failures.

In response to these issues, GM is currently being sued in a class action lawsuit for knowingly selling defectively transmitting vehicles at the time.

Chevrolet has published technical service bulletins fixing the problems and recommending transmission fluid changes, but some owners still complain that the problem persists.

Signs Your Chevy Silverado Has Transmission Problems

Now, here are a few of the key symptoms that could mean your Chevy Silverado is dealing with some kind of transmission issue:

Hard or Rough Shifting

The truck will be jerky or feel rough going into gear, especially from lower gears.

Slipping Gears

The engine shifts, but the truck does not pick up speed as expected. This is generally apparent on inclined slopes or when loaded.

Delayed Engagement

There is a delay before the truck starts moving from park to drive.

Shuddering or Vibrations

If the torque converter has problems, it may shudder or vibrate at certain speeds.

Burning Smell

When a transmission gets too hot, often due to old or low fluid, it can release a burnt smell.

Unusual Noises

If you hear grinding noises, clunking sounds, or whining (especially a high-pitched whine), there may be excessive wear of the internal components of your transmission and/or problems with the fluid conditions.

How To Solve Chevy Silverado Transmission Problems?

Some major transmission problems of Chevy Silverado and their solutions are listed below:

1. Hard Shifting And Rough Shifts

Hard or rough shifting is another common Silverado owner complaint, especially for high mileage trucks. The truck will jerk or skip gears, causing you to lose power and a smooth ride.

Hard shifts are often due to:

1. Low or Dirty Transmission Fluid: Transmission fluid can contaminate over time, affecting lubrication and hard shifts.
2. Faulty Solenoids: Solenoids control the flow of transmission fluid, and malfunctioning ones can cause rough shifts.
3. Transmission Control Module (TCM) issues: The transmission control module directly influences how the gears shift.

Solution

When this happens, check for low and/or dirty fluid. If it is low or dirty, a change or top-up of this fluid will sometimes solve the problem. More seriously, you may have to replace solenoids or examine the TCM.

2. Transmission Slipping

When the engine revs but the truck does not move as expected, that is a slipped transmission. You might mostly notice this problem when carrying heavier loads or going uphill.

Causes of slipping include:

1. Worn Clutch Plates: An automatic transmission has clutch packs that wear out over time.
2. Low Transmission Fluid: If there is not enough fluid, it can affect the pressure needed to shift into gear.
3. Internal Transmission Damage: Broken gears or bands can add to slipping and internal transmission damage.

Solution

Some slipping can be cured simply by changing your transmission fluid or adding a conditioner. Continued slippage could indicate deeper internal problems that a professional should check out.

3. Delayed Shifting

Delayed shifting is another typical issue. It refers to the transmission taking excessive time to engage a new gear, particularly when moving from park to drive. This can be annoying and reflect bigger problems in the long run.

Possible causes include:

1. Low or Old Transmission Fluid: A delay is mostly caused by poor lubrication.
2. Valve Body Issues: The valve body directs hydraulic fluid to different parts of the transmission, and issues here can interrupt the shifting path.
3. Software Issues in the TCM: The TCM has software-based updates to fix the transmission timing.

Solution

Change the transmission fluid. If that does not solve the problem, you should ideally see a tech who can also carry out a TCM software update or check the valve body.

4. Torque Converter Issues

This allows the vehicle to stop without stalling as the torque converter transfers energy from the engine to the transmission.

When a torque converter goes bad, it can cause shuddering, overheating, or slipping. Typical signs are vibrations and shaking when driving at specific speeds, which are frequently misdiagnosed as alignment or balance issues.

Solution

A professional should usually diagnose and repair the torque converter. Catching it early might help prevent the transmission from sustaining additional damage.

5. Burning Smell And Overheating

Transmission overheating is an acute concern that can cause costly repair bills if not taken care of quickly.

Usually, when the transmission starts to smell burnt, it is the first sign of an overheating condition. The component may overheat for several reasons, including:

1. Old or Insufficient Transmission Fluid: When the fluid is low, dirty, or old, it can fail to properly lubricate and cool the transmission, causing overheating.
2. Heavy Towing or Hauling: The extra weight makes transmission harder and may lead to overheating.
3. Clogged Transmission Cooler: This cooler controls temperature, so it’ll be less efficient if it’s obstructed or damaged.

Solution

For well worn vehicles, once the transmission fluid has been heated up and agitated to cause slippage, this can lead to failure. Regular changes of the correct type and proper levels should prevent overheating.

If you smell something burning, immediately stop and allow the transmission to cool down before checking fluid levels or taking it to a mechanic.

Are Silverado Transmissions Good?

Silverado transmissions are reliable and last a long time, and the newer ones are even better. Over the years, Chevrolet has spent a lot of time refining transmission technology, making it more capable and longer lasting.

Accustomed to its strength for towing and hauling, the Silverado’s eight speed automatic transmission knows it has a job to do.

But, like any other vehicle, periodic maintenance is required to keep the transmission intact. Problems can still develop, probably in high mileage cars or heavy duty work.

Though people experience problems such as rough shifting or slipping, you can avoid major issues by checking fluid regularly, servicing promptly and keeping software updated.

Finally, Silverado transmissions are strong and reliable, making it a favourite for someone who requires a long-in-the-tooth pickup truck.

How To Prevent Transmission Problems?

Routine care can reduce or keep these troubles at bay:

Check Transmission Fluid Regularly: Your transmission fluid should be clean and red. If it is brown or smells burnt, you need to replace it.

Get Regular Inspections: Have a trusted mechanic inspect the transmission with regular service so any problems may be caught early.

Drive Mindfully: Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking at all costs, as both can strain the transmission considerably.

Schedule Software Updates: Some issues with the transmission can be addressed using software updates from Chevy.

FAQs on Chevy Silverado Transmission Problems

Conclusion

Transmission troubles can be a headache for any Chevy Silverado driver, but like most issues in life, they can be avoided with proper measures and attention.

Remember that a professional must take up strange sounds, delays, or performance issues. Maintaining your transmission is good for your truck and lasts longer.