What transmission does a 2016 Chevy have?

There isn’t a single transmission that applies to every 2016 Chevrolet model. The exact setup depends on the model, engine, and trim. In general, the lineup used more gears for efficiency and performance, with automatics being the norm and manuals appearing on a smaller selection.

In 2016, Chevrolet’s roster spanned compact cars, sedans, trucks, SUVs, and sporty variants. Most models relied on automatic transmissions—typically six speeds—while higher‑end or sportier versions and some base trims offered eight‑speed automatics or, in rarer cases, a manual option. To know the exact transmission for a specific vehicle, you’ll need to check the VIN, window sticker, or owner’s manual.

Overview of transmission options in 2016 Chevrolet models

The following summary highlights the main transmission configurations you could encounter across the 2016 lineup.

• Six‑speed automatic transmissions were the most widespread across many models, pairing with a broad range of engines to balance performance and fuel economy.


• Eight‑speed automatic transmissions appeared on select engines and trims to improve efficiency and performance in certain configurations.


• Manual transmissions were offered on a limited number of base or sport-oriented trims for buyers seeking a hands‑on driving experience.

In short, the 2016 Chevrolet lineup didn’t rely on a single transmission type; the exact configuration varies by model and trim. For a specific vehicle, verify the transmission with the VIN, window sticker, or owner’s manual.

How to determine your specific 2016 Chevy transmission

Use these steps to confirm the exact transmission installed on your 2016 Chevrolet model.

1. Locate the vehicle’s VIN and use Chevrolet’s official resources or a trusted VIN decoder to identify the transmission family associated with that VIN.


2. Check the vehicle’s window sticker or owner’s manual, where the transmission type is listed among the vehicle’s specifications.


3. If you still need confirmation, contact a Chevrolet dealer with your VIN; the service department can pull the precise transmission specification from GM’s databases.


4. Review any supplemental owner documentation for your model year and trim, as some printings differ by region or production run.


5. Cross‑check with reputable automotive databases or GM’s official owner resources to ensure consistency with your exact trim and engine combination.

Following these steps will help you verify the exact transmission configuration for any given 2016 Chevrolet model, regardless of its specific nameplate.

Summary

Across the 2016 Chevrolet lineup, transmissions varied widely: most models used six‑speed automatics, some trims employed eight‑speed automatics, and a limited number offered manual transmissions. Because the specifics depend on model, engine, and trim, the best way to know for sure is to check the VIN, window sticker, or owner’s manual and, if needed, confirm with a dealer or GM’s official resources.

Do 2016 Chevy Silverados have transmission problems?

Silverado often faces transmission hesitation and limp mode activation during upshifts from first to second gear. Transmission hesitation and inability to shift beyond first gear often indicate a failing transmission control module (TCM) or solenoid issues.

How do I tell if I have a 4L60 or 6L80?

Control like the other GM automatics the easiest way to identify a 4L80 is to look at the shape of the pan. And you can see compared to this 4L60 pan that the 4L80 pan is just enormous.

What trucks have the 6L80 transmission?

The GM 6L80 transmission is found in many trucks and SUVs from the 2006 model year onward, including the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Yukon, Cadillac Escalade, and Chevrolet Suburban. It was often used in V8-powered vehicles and replaced the 4L60E in many applications.
 
Chevrolet
Silverado 1500, Tahoe, Suburban, and Avalanche. 
GMC
Sierra 1500, Yukon, Denali, and Savana. 
Cadillac
Escalade, STS, CTS, XLR, STS-V, and CTS-V.

How do I know if I have a 6L80 or 6L90?

The main ways to identify a 6L80 from a 6L90 are by the RPO code (6L80=MYC, 6L90=MYD), the length, and the pan shape. The 6L90 is a heavier-duty version that is approximately 1-3/8 inches longer and has a pan with a flatter corner, while the 6L80 is shorter and has a more rounded pan corner. You can also check the part numbers or look at specific internal components if you have the transmission disassembled.
 
This video explains the difference between 6L80 and 6L90 valve bodies: 57sBrad's TransmissionYouTube · Apr 24, 2024
Key identification methods 
This video shows how to identify a transmission by using the gear selector on the dashboard: 52sCodemans autoYouTube · Nov 2, 2023

• RPO Code: Look for the RPO (Regular Production Option) code on the glovebox or vehicle service tag. 
  • MYC: indicates a 6L80. 
  • MYD: indicates a 6L90. 
• Transmission Length: The 6L90 is longer than the 6L80. 
  • 6L80: Case with bell housing length is approximately 23.5 inches. 
  • 6L90: Case with bell housing length is approximately 25 inches (1-3/8 inches longer). 
• Transmission Pan: The shape of the transmission pan is a reliable indicator when the unit is out of the vehicle. 
  • 6L80: The pan has a rounded corner on the back. 
  • 6L90: The pan has a flatter corner on the back. 
• Part Numbers: GM part numbers for transmission parts often begin with 242. The specific part number on the TEHCM sticker (under the transmission pan) can help identify the exact model and year. 

This video discusses the size differences between 6L80 and 8L90 transmissions: 1mSwap TimeYouTube · Feb 19, 2020