GM 10 Speed Transmission Problems Solutions

GM collaborated with Ford to develop 10-speed transmissions to provide improved acceleration at the low and mid-range of the power band of the modern engine. However, this upgraded version of transmission causes some issues like Ford’s transmissions that need attention.

GM 10 speed transmission problems are harsh shifting, hesitation, shuddering and unreliable gear shifting. Though it requires expert help to fix these transmission problems, you can avoid most of the issues by performing routine maintenance.

Most Common GM 10-Speed Transmission Problems

The 10-speed transmission system is available in various GM models including Chevy Tahoe, GMC Sierra vehicle, and Chevy Silverado. The most reported problems with their transmission control system are:

1. Harsh Shifting

A group of owners of GM vehicles with 10-speed transmission experience problems when they try to shift the cars. They reported that whenever they attempt to accelerate or decelerate, the vehicle feels a hesitation and causes a shudder, shake, clunk, jerk, and hard shift during changing gears.

All these symptoms indicate internal issues with the transmission and torque converter that may further cause gears and hydraulic system malfunction and metal shaving build-up throughout the transmission. Over time it can damage the while torque converter and transmission. To fix the problem, it’s recommended to consult with the makers.

2. Shuddering

Shuddering or torque converter shudder is another common complaint against GM 10-speed transmissions. Many GM owners experience this problem when trying to shift the car into overdrive or driving up an inclined surface.

Convulsively shaking of a vehicle indicates severe damage to a transmission. However, it can happen due to contaminated transmission fluid.

When the transmission fluid becomes dirty, its particle prevents it from making sufficient pressure in the transmission lines and transmission plates. Hence the transmission starts shuddering. Lack of transmission fluid can also cause shuddering in the same way.

Getting a transmission flush or replacing the contaminated fluid with fresh and clean ones can help fix this problem. If low transmission fluid causes the shuddering, refill the tank. You should also look for any leak in the transmission.

3. Hesitation

This warning symptom feels less like a stutter when shifting gears and more feel like an irritating pause before engaging the next gear. If your GM’s 10-speed transmission begins hesitating between gears, there might be something off.

In this case, you should inspect the transmission by a mechanic. An unreliable transmission system is a real safety hazard, particularly in highway driving conditions.

4. Gear Shifting Problems

Most of the GM 10-speed transmission problems occur during shifting gears. It can happen due to both mechanical and electrical issues. Low leaking or burning transmission fluid can be responsible for this problem. If the engine rev during changing the gears, a worn-out clutch is causing this irritating problem.  An expired ECU (Engine Control Unit) may also cause issues.

5. Loss of Power

If your vehicle has little or no power but the engine is running, it can be the result of an internal transmission issue. However faulty brake hose or damaged caliper can trigger this issue. Your car’s computer may also limit the power to avoid engine problems due to detecting any problem. So it requires a deep diagnosis.

Is Gm 10 Speed Transmission Reliable?

GM’s 10-speed transmission is a new and unique update for their vehicle that use 6 clutches. It also has a planetary gear set compared to the ordinary gears of other transmission systems to provide more efficiency.

The main intention of developing this system is to optimize performance, increase fuel economy, reducing noise, vibration, and emissions. GM 10-speed transmission also has higher torque capacity and lower weight than other models.

In terms of longevity, the GM 10-speed transmission system lasts around 200,000 miles. So you can enjoy this transmission for a long time before having any trouble or requiring replacement.

How to Avoid GM 10-Speed Transmission Problems?

You can avoid GM 10-speed transmission problems easily by inspecting the transmission and taking the proper care. Below are some helpful tips to keep your GM’s 10-speed transmission in good condition:

• Check the fluid in the transmission regularly. Make sure the fluid is at a good level and it isn’t either too low or too high. The transmission fluid in the 10-speed transmission should be clean.
• Don’t tow too heavy items as it can put excess pressure on the 10-speed transmission and damage it over time.
• Shift slowly and smoothly and avoid hard shifting to keep your 10-speed transmission in good condition.
• Check the transmission regularly. The expert also recommends checking the transmission by professional every 30,000 miles to solve the problem before it turns worse.
• Stop the car completely before changing the gears. This will help build wear and tear on the car’s engine and other clutch parts.
• Reach out to the nearest service center for routine maintenance after noticing any early warning signs. It’s a cost-efficient strategy that can help avoid resolving major issues.

FAQs

Final Words

Most of the GM 10-speed transmission problems occur due to a lack of maintenance. So you can avoid those transmission problems by simply keeping the fluid at the right level and replacing it whenever contaminated.

If you still experience hard shifting or unreliable gear change, inspect the transmission with an expert mechanic. This way you can only the exciting benefits of 10-speed transmission for what it’s intended.