What kind of transmission does a Chevy Silverado 1500 have?

The Silverado 1500 generally uses an automatic transmission. In today’s lineup, most gasoline engines pair with an 8-speed automatic, while the 3.0-liter Duramax diesel uses a 10-speed automatic. Earlier model years offered smaller gear-count automatics such as 4- and 6-speed units.

Transmission choices have shifted over the Silverado’s generations to balance torque, efficiency, and towing capability. This article explains the current landscape, how it has evolved, and how to identify the exact transmission in your truck based on year and engine.

Transmission history and evolution

As GM refined the Silverado’s powertrains, the transmission lineup moved from smaller, older configurations to more versatile automatics. Early generations relied on 4-speed automatics, then transitioned to 6-speed units for better efficiency and torque handling. In the mid-2010s, GM introduced 8-speed automatics for most gasoline engines, and later expanded to a 10-speed for higher-torque versions and the diesel option.

Past configurations

Typically, older Silverado 1500s used 4-speed automatics for entry-level setups and progressed to 6-speed automatics on many V8-equipped models during the 2007–2013 era. This progression laid the groundwork for the more modern gear-counts used today.

Current transmission offerings by engine

Here is a snapshot of how transmissions are paired with Silverado 1500 engines in the latest models. Note that exact pairings can vary by trim, market, and year.

• 2.7L Turbo inline-4 (gasoline): 8-speed automatic


• 5.3L V8 (gasoline): 8-speed automatic


• 6.2L V8 (gasoline): 10-speed automatic


• 3.0L Duramax diesel (inline-6): 10-speed automatic

Additional notes: Some special editions or updates may feature different transmission calibrations or options. Always verify the exact transmission model in your vehicle by checking the door jamb sticker or the owner's manual for precise specifications.

Maintenance and reliability considerations

Maintaining the Silverado’s automatic transmission is important for performance and longevity. Follow GM’s recommended service intervals and use the specified transmission fluid (generally Dexron VI or its equivalent) as outlined in your owner's manual. In normal driving, many owners don’t need frequent fluid changes, but towing, off-road use, or severe driving conditions can necessitate more frequent servicing. When in doubt, consult a dealer or a trusted repair shop for a transmission health check.

How to identify the transmission in your Silverado

Identification is easiest with the vehicle’s VIN and window sticker. The VIN can be decoded to reveal the drivetrain and transmission code, while the door jamb sticker lists the final assembly details. If you’re unsure, a dealership can confirm the exact transmission model (for example, 6L80 for a 6-speed, 8L90 for an 8-speed, or 10L80/10L90 for a 10-speed) based on your specific truck and engine configuration.

Summary

In brief, the Chevy Silverado 1500 uses an automatic transmission today, with 8-speed units paired to most gasoline engines and 10-speed units used with the 3.0L Duramax diesel and other high-torque setups. Transmission options have evolved across generations—from 4- and 6-speed automatics to modern 8- and 10-speed units—to optimize power, efficiency, and towing. Always check your model year, engine, and VIN to confirm the exact transmission specification for your truck.

What kind of transmission is in a Chevy Silverado 1500?

This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The automaker also offers an available 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V8 engine with 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. It's paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.

Do Chevy Silverados have transmission problems?

Yes, many Chevy Silverado models, especially those with the 8-speed (8L90) and 10-speed automatic transmissions, have reported transmission problems. Common issues include hard or rough shifting, jerking, slipping, and premature failure, with some models like the 2019-2023 8-speeds and newer 10-speeds showing a high number of complaints. These problems are widespread enough to have resulted in lawsuits and technical service bulletins from GM. 
Common transmission issues

• Rough/jerky shifting: Many drivers report harsh shifts, particularly when accelerating or decelerating. 
• Slipping: The transmission may shift unexpectedly or slip out of gear, sometimes due to low fluid or faulty solenoids. 
• Failure to shift properly: Some models have trouble downshifting or hesitate when shifting. 
• Torque converter problems: Shuddering, slipping, or delayed engagement can occur with the torque converter. 
• Overheating: Towing heavy loads can cause the transmission to overheat, which can lead to damage. 
• Leaks: Transmission fluid leaks can occur from seals, gaskets, or lines, leading to poor performance. 

This video discusses common Chevy Silverado transmission issues: 1mSimpleCarGuyYouTube · Apr 19, 2025
Which models are most affected?

• 2019-2023 8-speed transmissions: These models have been widely reported for issues like harsh shifting and delayed acceleration. 
• Recent 10-speed transmissions: Models like the 2024 and 2025 have seen an increase in complaints about rough shifting and failures. A 2025 Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) addresses potential failures in the 10-speed transmission. 

Potential causes

• Manufacturing defects: Some problems are linked to manufacturing defects or design issues. 
• Faulty parts: Issues with components like valve bodies, solenoids, and torque converters are frequently cited. 
• Fluid issues: In some older models, the incorrect transmission fluid type was used, leading to problems. 

What to do

• Test drive carefully: If you are considering buying a used Silverado, test drive it thoroughly to check for any hesitation, jerky shifting, or other unusual behavior. 
• Check for recall/TSB information: Check for any relevant Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from GM that may apply to the specific model you are considering. 
• Perform regular maintenance: Consistent maintenance, including checking transmission fluid levels and using the correct fluid, can help prevent some common problems. 

What trucks have a 4L60E transmission?

The GM 4L60E transmission was used in a wide variety of trucks from 1993 to 2013, including many models from Chevrolet and GMC. Common examples include the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, Chevrolet C/K 1500, GMC C/K 1500, and various other trucks, SUVs, and vans like the Chevrolet Astro and GMC Sonoma.
 
Chevrolet and GMC trucks

• Chevrolet: C/K 1500 (1993–1999), Silverado 1500 (1999–2013)
• GMC: C/K 1500 (1993–1999), Sierra 1500 (1993–2013)
• Chevrolet: S-10, Colorado (1993–2012)
• GMC: Sonoma, Canyon (1993–2004)
• Chevrolet: Tahoe (1995–2010)
• GMC: Yukon (1992–2009)
• Chevrolet: Avalanche (2002–2008)
• Chevrolet: Express and van (1996–2014)
• GMC: Savana and Vandura (1993–2014) 

Other GM vehicles

• Cadillac: Escalade (1999–2006)
• Oldsmobile: Bravada (model years vary)
• Hummer: H3
• Saab: 9-7X (2005–2009)
• Isuzu: Ascender (2003–2008) 

Important considerations

• Engine compatibility: It's crucial to note that transmission compatibility can vary depending on the engine it was paired with, particularly between early and late models with different engine families (e.g., Gen 1/2 vs. Gen 3 LS engines). 
• Transmission type: While this list focuses on the 4L60E, there are related and upgraded versions like the 4L65E and 4L70E that were also used in some trucks, often featuring stronger internal components. 
• Transmission end of production: The 4L60E was phased out in favor of 5 and 6-speed transmissions by 2013, but some trucks with the 4L60E were still produced around this time. 

How do you tell if you have a 6 or 8 speed transmission?

You can tell if you have a 6 or 8-speed transmission by checking the vehicle's owner's manual, the sticker on the driver's side doorjamb, or by using an online VIN decoder. For a quick check on some vehicles, you can put the shifter in manual mode and use the plus button to see how many gears it will cycle through. 
Check your car's documentation and labels

• Owner's Manual: This is the most straightforward method. The manual should list your car's specifications, including the transmission type. 
• Doorjamb sticker: Look for a white sticker with black lettering inside the driver's side door. It contains a lot of information, including a code for your transmission. It may be labeled with "TR" for transmission. 
• Window sticker: If you still have the original window sticker, it will often list the transmission type as a specific feature. 

Use the VIN or online resources 

• VIN decoder: Enter your vehicle's VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) into an online VIN decoder. Many free services, like those offered by AutoZone or Carfax, can provide detailed specifications about your car, including the transmission model.
• Dealership or manufacturer: Call your local dealership or the manufacturer directly with your VIN, and they can tell you the exact transmission model. 

This video shows how to identify the transmission type by counting the gears on the shifter: 55sCodemans autoYouTube · Nov 2, 2023
Physically inspect the vehicle 

• Manual mode on the shifter: If you have an automatic with a manual shift mode, put the shifter in "M" or "L" and tap the "+" button. Count how many gears it goes through before it stops. This will tell you the total number of gears. 
• Transmission tag or label: Look for a metal tag or sticker on the transmission itself. It will have a model number that you can look up online. For example, a 6L80 transmission is a 6-speed, and an 8L90 is an 8-speed.