What year does Silverado have a 6L80 transmission?
The 6L80 automatic transmission appeared in the Silverado during the GMT900 generation, most commonly associated with model years 2007 through 2013. GM later shifted many Silverado models to newer 8-speed designs starting in 2014. If you own a Silverado from 2007–2013, there’s a strong likelihood it uses the 6L80, though variations by trim and options can occur.
Background on the 6L80 transmission
The 6L80 is GM’s six-speed automatic designed for rear- and four-wheel-drive applications. It was introduced to replace earlier four-speed automatics in GM’s full-size trucks and SUVs and became the workhorse behind many V8 configurations in the Silverado lineup during the late 2000s. The transmission was praised for improving both fuel economy and towing capability relative to its 4-speed predecessors, but it has its own maintenance considerations and service limits that owners should follow.
How it fits into GM’s truck lineup
In the Silverado family, the 6L80 was primarily paired with the GMT900 platform trucks. As GM transitioned to newer platforms and more advanced eight-speed units, the 6L80 gradually gave way to the 8-speed family for most 1500 models by the mid-2010s.
Chevrolet Silverado: Which model years used the 6L80
The following model years for the Silverado 1500 (GMT900 generation) are the ones most commonly associated with the 6L80 transmission.
- 2007–2013 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (GMT900 platform) equipped with appropriate V8 powertrains
In practice, the vast majority of 2007–2013 Silverado 1500 trucks used the 6L80, with some early 2014 builds beginning to transition to or offer the newer eight-speed units depending on configuration. If your truck is from 2014 or newer and you’re unsure of the transmission, it’s best to verify using the methods described below.
How to confirm your Silverado has a 6L80
The following steps help you verify the exact transmission model in your Silverado.
- Check the transmission label or tag on the transmission case. Many units have a model designation stamped or labeled on the side or near the bell housing, indicating 6L80.
- Consult the vehicle’s build sheet, window sticker, or the dealer’s VIN-based lookup. These documents often list the transmission code installed at the factory.
- Inspect the transmission pan or nearby casing for a model-specific stamping. Look for “6L80” or a similar code that identifies the six-speed unit.
- If you’re unsure, contact a Chevrolet dealer or GM technical support with your VIN. They can decode the exact transmission originally installed in your truck.
These steps help you confirm the exact transmission in your Silverado, which is important for maintenance intervals, replacement parts, and potential software updates tied to the specific unit.
Why this matters for maintenance and ownership
Knowing whether your Silverado has a 6L80 matters for maintenance planning, such as fluid change intervals, pan gasket considerations, and the need for certain software updates or torque converter checks. The 6L80’s service schedule differs from newer eight-speed transmissions, and using the correct fluid specification is essential for longevity and performance.
Summary
In short, the Chevrolet Silverado most commonly had the 6L80 transmission in model years 2007 through 2013. Beginning with the 2014 model year, GM rolled out newer eight-speed transmissions for many Silverado configurations, though verify your specific truck to be certain. By checking the transmission tag, build sheet, or consulting a dealer with your VIN, you can confirm whether your Silverado uses the 6L80 and plan appropriate maintenance accordingly.
