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Are Ford and GM transmissions the same?

No, Ford and GM transmissions are not the same. While both automakers produce a variety of transmission models, the specific designs, components, and manufacturing processes used by Ford and GM differ significantly. The transmissions in Ford and GM vehicles are engineered and built independently by each company to meet their unique performance and compatibility requirements.


Differences Between Ford and GM Transmissions


Ford and GM transmissions vary in several key areas:



  • Design and Architecture: Ford and GM use different transmission designs, such as the number of gears, gear ratios, and internal components. For example, Ford's 10-speed automatic transmissions have a different architecture compared to GM's 10-speed units.

  • Manufacturing Process: The manufacturing techniques, quality control measures, and production facilities used by Ford and GM to build their transmissions are distinct. This results in differences in reliability, durability, and performance characteristics.

  • Compatibility: Ford and GM transmissions are engineered to work specifically with the engines, drivetrain, and other components in their respective vehicle models. A Ford transmission would not be a direct replacement for a GM transmission, and vice versa.

  • Maintenance and Repair: The service procedures, replacement parts, and specialized tools required for Ford and GM transmissions are unique to each automaker. Mechanics need specific training and equipment to properly maintain and repair these transmissions.


While there may be some superficial similarities between Ford and GM transmissions, such as the number of gears or overall size, the underlying design, engineering, and manufacturing processes are distinct. Attempting to directly substitute a Ford transmission for a GM transmission, or vice versa, would likely result in compatibility issues, performance problems, and potential damage to the vehicle.

Does GM use the 10R80 transmission?


Was a joint venture really the whole 10-speed platform was a joint venture in between Ford. And GM. So it's basically the same thing. It's also worth noting that the 10R60. And 10R140.



Which transmission is better, Ford or Chevy?


Ford's 10-speed shiftable automatic transmission, which provides much smoother shifts and better fuel efficiency than Chevy's 8-speed automatic. More gears mean more precise power delivery, especially when towing or hauling, giving drivers a more responsive and capable truck.



What brand transmission does Ford use?


Ford designs and builds most of its own transmissions, but also uses some jointly developed with General Motors (GM). For example, they co-developed the 10-speed automatic and 9-speed transaxle, and Ford also uses transmissions from suppliers like ZF for some manual transmissions. 
Ford's own transmissions

  • 8F transmission: An automatic transmission with eight forward gears for vehicles with a transverse engine, designed and built by Ford. 
  • 4R100: A heavy-duty automatic transmission built by Ford, used in trucks and SUVs. 
  • E4OD: A heavy-duty automatic transmission developed by Ford, primarily used in trucks and SUVs. 
  • 5R110W: Another heavy-duty automatic transmission developed by Ford. 

Jointly developed transmissions 
  • 10-speed: A 10-speed automatic transmission co-developed with GM. Ford manufactured its own version in its own factories. 
  • 9-speed: A transverse 9-speed transaxle also co-developed with GM. 
  • 6T40: A 6-speed automatic transmission built jointly with GM. 

Transmissions from other suppliers
  • ZF: Ford has used manual transmissions built by ZF Friedrichshafen AG, such as the ZF6 and ZF S5-47. 



Do Ford and GM have the same transmission?


Each company manufactures its own unique version of the transmissions in its own factories. The 10-speed transmission was designed by Ford, while the 9-speed transmission was designed by GM.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.