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 transmission version causes issues, like Ford’s transmissions, which 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 issues by performing routine maintenance.
Article Summary
Common GM 10 Speed Transmission Problems
GM 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:
Harsh Gear Shifting
A group of owners of GM vehicles with 10-speed transmissions 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 while 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 torque converter and transmission. To fix the problem, you are recommended to consult with the makers.
Transmission Shuddering
Shuddering or torque converter shudder is another common complaint against GM 10-speed transmissions.
Many GM owners experience this problem when shifting 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 putting sufficient pressure on the transmission lines and 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.
Transmissions Malfunction
This warning symptom feels less like a stutter when shifting gears and more like an irritating pause before engaging the next gear. If your GM 10-speed transmission malfunctions between gears, something might be off.
In this case, you should have a mechanic inspect the transmission. An unreliable transmission system is a safety hazard, particularly in highway driving.
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 revs during changing the gears, a worn-out clutch is causing this irritating problem. An expired ECU (Engine Control Unit) may also cause issues.
Loss of Power
If your vehicle has little or no power but the engine is running, it can result from an internal transmission issue. However, faulty brake hoses or damaged calipers can trigger this issue.
Your car’s computer may also limit the power to avoid engine problems due to the detection of any problem. So, it requires a deep diagnosis.
How To Fix GM 10 Speed Transmission Problems?
Fixing the GM 10-speed transmission problem systematically diagnoses the root cause and resolves the problem. Here’s an overview:
1. Check Fluid Levels
First, look at the level and condition of the transmission fluid in your car. If it’s too low or dirty, it can cause shifting problems. If the fluid is low, top it off with the proper fluid; if it is dirty or burned, it should be changed.
2. Look for Trouble Codes
If you have an OBD-II scanner, you can check to see if any are set. Codes will help indicate which issue is being triggered.
3. Check for Transmission Fluid Leaks
Look for any traces of fluid under the car, such as pooling or stains, especially at the transmission pan and seals. Repair leaks to prevent further loss of fluid. Transmission fluid leaks can damage or smash your entire transmission system if the fluid level goes down.
4. Update Software
Sometimes, transmission shift problems could result from software (OS) that is too old. Ask a GM dealer about software updates that may enhance transmission performance.
5. Professional Check
If the checks you can do yourself do not fix the issue, you can take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic or GM dealer and have it investigated further.
They can fully port diagnostic trouble codes, and you can ask them for a thorough inspection, including checking the torque converter, the clutches, and internal components.
6. Regular Maintenance
Keep the system maintained with normal oil and fluid changes and service to prevent issues in the future.
Keeping the transmission in good working order will function extremely well and last for many miles to arrive safely at the drop-off point.
Is Gm 10 Speed Transmission Reliable?
GM’s 10-speed transmission is a new and unique update for their vehicle that uses 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 long before having any trouble or requiring replacement.
How To Avoid GM 10-Speed Transmission Problems?
You can easily avoid GM 10-speed transmission problems by inspecting the transmission and taking 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 on GM 10 Speed Transmission Problems
Has GM Fixed the Transmission Problems?
GM finds a fix for transmission shifting problems. Chevrolet announced a solution for its 2022 Chevy Silverado 1500 transmission and various 10L90 10-speed automatic transmission issues.
Is the GM 10 Speed Transmission Better Than the 8 Speed?
The 10-speed transmission is designed to replace the previous models like 6-speed and 8-speed transmissions. GM built this transmission to reduce spin losses. Hence, the 10-speed transmission gears perform more efficiently than the other models.
Who Builds GM 10 Speed Transmissions?
Ford builds the first 10R80 10-speed transmission in Livonia, Michigan. With the aid of Ford, General Motors made their 10-speed transmission in Romulus, Michigan.
Is There a Recall for the GM 10 Speed Transmission?
Of Course, Recalls and Service Bulletins have been issued for the GM 10-speed! Happy owners of a GM 10-speed have nothing to worry about at all. However, you should always review the latest model year bulletins to ensure your vehicle performs optimally. Recalls vary by model and year but require a mechanic bay trip for examination, service, or replacement. Performance issues include shifting, software updates, or hardware failures that prompt these bulletins and recalls.
How Can I Tell If My GM 10-Speed Transmission Is Failing?
Symptoms of a failing GM 10-speed transmission might include strange sounds (such as grinding or whining), an inability to shift, or a refusal of certain gears, locking up of the torque, kicking out of gear while driving, fluid leaking beneath the vehicle, and dashboard warning lights, among others.
Final Words
Most of the GM 10-speed transmission problems occur due to a lack of maintenance. You can avoid those transmission problems by simply keeping the fluid at the right level and replacing it whenever it is contaminated.
Inspect the transmission with an expert mechanic if you are still experiencing hard shifting or unreliable gear changes.
This way, you can only see the exciting benefits of a 10-speed transmission for what it’s intended.
Gear shifting is most common problem of general motor’s transmission system. Other gm 10-speed transmission problems are considerable.