Home FAQ

What Chevy trucks have transmission problems?

Certain Chevrolet truck models have experienced recurring transmission issues, leading to frustration for many owners. While Chevy is generally known for producing reliable and durable vehicles, some of their truck lineups have faced persistent transmission-related problems over the years.

Common Transmission Issues in Chevy Trucks

The most commonly reported transmission problems in Chevy trucks include:

Premature Transmission Failure: Some Chevy truck owners have experienced their transmission failing prematurely, often within the first 50,000 to 100,000 miles of use. This can result in costly repairs or even the need for a full transmission replacement.

Shifting Difficulties: Owners have reported issues with their Chevy truck's transmission, such as delayed or erratic shifting, difficulty engaging gears, and the transmission slipping or not shifting smoothly.

Leaks and Fluid Consumption: Transmission fluid leaks and an abnormally high rate of fluid consumption have been reported in certain Chevy truck models, indicating potential issues with the transmission seals or other components.

These transmission problems can be frustrating and expensive for Chevy truck owners, potentially leading to decreased vehicle performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and the need for frequent and costly repairs.

Affected Chevy Truck Models

The Chevy truck models that have been most commonly associated with transmission issues include:

Chevrolet Silverado: The Silverado, Chevy's flagship full-size pickup, has faced transmission problems in various model years, particularly the 2007-2013 and 2014-2018 generations.

Chevrolet Colorado: The midsize Colorado pickup has also experienced transmission-related issues, with problems reported in models from the 2004-2012 and 2015-2020 generations.

Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban: These full-size SUVs, which share many components with the Silverado, have also been affected by transmission problems in certain model years.

It's important to note that not all Chevy trucks within these model ranges have experienced transmission issues, and the severity and frequency of the problems can vary depending on factors such as driving conditions, maintenance history, and individual vehicle characteristics.

Addressing Transmission Problems in Chevy Trucks

If you own a Chevy truck and are experiencing transmission-related issues, there are a few steps you can take:

Seek Professional Diagnosis: Have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic or Chevy dealership to determine the root cause of the transmission problem and the best course of action.

Consider Warranty Coverage: Depending on the age and mileage of your Chevy truck, the transmission issue may be covered under the manufacturer's warranty or an extended warranty program.

Explore Repair Options: If the transmission issue is not covered by warranty, you may need to weigh the cost of repairs against the overall value and condition of your vehicle. In some cases, a transmission rebuild or replacement may be the best solution.

Stay Proactive with Maintenance: Regular maintenance, such as timely transmission fluid changes, can help prevent or mitigate transmission problems in Chevy trucks.

By understanding the common transmission issues affecting Chevy trucks and taking proactive steps to address them, you can help ensure your vehicle continues to perform reliably and minimize the impact of costly repairs.

What trucks have no transmission problems?

In the search for the best truck without transmission problems, understanding both engineering and maintenance aspects is crucial. Trucks like the Ford F-150, Toyota Tundra, and Chevrolet Silverado stand out due to their robust transmission systems, engineered for durability and efficiency.

What year 5.3 to stay away from Chevy?

You should avoid GM 5.3L engines from the 2007-2010 model years, particularly 2007 and 2008, due to common issues like excessive oil consumption from the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system, and other problems like transmission and 4-wheel-drive issues. The 2014-2016 models are also problematic, with frequent issues related to the A/C, transmission, and steering.
Years to avoid

2007-2010: Early versions of the second-generation GMT900 platform are known for problems with the Active Fuel Management system, leading to excessive oil consumption.
2007: Besides AFM oil consumption, this year also saw engine problems and transmission issues.
2008: This model is frequently cited as one of the worst due to oil consumption and faulty Takata airbags, which posed a serious safety risk.
2014-2016: This range had frequent issues with A/C, transmissions, steering, and other electrical systems.

Years to consider

1999-2006: Generally considered reliable, with later models (2004-2006) being particularly solid.
2011-2013: These years within the GMT900 generation saw reliability improvements.
2018: This model year is often cited as being more reliable compared to other years in the K2XX generation.

Are Chevy trucks having transmission problems?

Yes, many Chevy trucks, particularly recent models of the Silverado, have been reported to have transmission problems, including rough or jerky shifting, shuddering, and complete failures. These issues have been linked to specific model years like 2014, and are also reported in newer models like 2021, 2024, and even 2025, often related to the 10-speed automatic transmission's valve body.

Common transmission problems

Rough and jerky shifting: Many drivers report harsh or jerky shifts, particularly during acceleration and deceleration.
Shuddering: Some models experience shuddering, especially in specific speed ranges, like the 35-40 mph range.
Valve body failures: Problems with the valve body, a critical component, have been reported in models as new as 2025, sometimes leading to a complete failure.
Stuck in gear: Some transmissions have refused to shift, with potential causes including low fluid or internal wear.
Limp mode: Other severe issues include the transmission going into "limp mode" with hard shifting.

This video discusses the prevalence of transmission issues in recent Chevy models: 52sThe Car Guy OnlineYouTube · Nov 14, 2024
Affected model years

While problems have been reported over several years, specific model years have a higher frequency of complaints.
2014: One of the worst model years, plagued with transmission failures and other issues.
2019–2021: These years saw complaints of shuddering and rough shifting.
2021: Received poor reliability ratings from sources like Consumer Reports due to transmission issues.
2024: An increase in transmission complaints has been noted for this year.

Potential causes

Low or old transmission fluid: Lack of sufficient or correct type of fluid can cause shifting problems.
Manufacturing defects: Some issues are attributed to manufacturing, such as improper welding or thin metals, which can lead to premature wear.
Internal wear and tear: Like any mechanical part, seals, solenoids, and clutch packs can wear out over time.

This video explains how manufacturing defects contribute to transmission problems: 55sThe Car Guy OnlineYouTube · Feb 21, 2025

What years did Chevy have transmission problems?

Chevy has had transmission problems in several model years, most notably with 2015-2019 8-speed automatics and certain 2019-2021 9-speed transmissions. Other problematic years include 2014-2021 models, with the 2014 and 2021 Silverados frequently cited for various transmission issues like stalling and harsh shifting. There are also reports of problems in newer models, such as the 2025 Silverado, indicating ongoing issues with some 10-speed transmissions.

You can watch this video to learn about Chevy Silverado transmission problems and years to avoid: 42sCar ExpertlyYouTube · Jun 4, 2025
Common transmission issues by model year range

2015-2019 (8-speed transmissions): These 8-speed automatic transmissions (GM 8L90 and 8L45) have been linked to complaints of rough shifts, jolting, and hesitation.
2019-2021 (9-speed transmissions): Some 9-speed transmissions (9T65) in models like the Chevy Blazer have experienced issues such as slipping between first and second gear, noise, and fluid leaks.
2014-2021 (Silverado): Both major and minor transmission issues have been reported across this range, with customers specifically calling out the 2014 and 2021 models for frequent complaints.
2020-2022 (10-speed transmissions): A recall was issued for certain 10-speed transmissions in diesel engines due to a risk of rear wheel lock-up, which can be preceded by harsh shifting.
2025 (Silverado 10-speed): Newer models are also experiencing issues, such as problems with the valve body in the 10-speed transmission, leading to new technical service bulletins.

This video discusses a GM transmission recall that affects the Chevy Silverado: 59sThe Car Guy OnlineYouTube · Nov 14, 2024
Specific problematic models

Chevrolet Silverado: 2014-2021 (8-speed and other issues), 2015-2019 (8-speed), 2020-2022 (10-speed diesel), and 2025 (10-speed).
Chevrolet Corvette: 2015-2019 (8-speed).
Chevrolet Camaro: 2016-2019 (8-speed).
Chevrolet Colorado: 2017-2019 (8-speed).
Chevrolet Blazer: 2019-2021 (9-speed).

You can watch this video to learn more about 2025 GM and Chevy transmission issues: 1mThe Car Guy OnlineYouTube · May 30, 2025

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.