What years did Chevy have transmission problems?
There isn’t a single year or model universally afflicted by transmission problems. Issues have appeared across multiple Chevrolet models and years, with notable clusters tied to specific transmissions like the Cruze’s dual‑clutch unit and some GM six‑speed automatics in the late 2000s and early 2010s.
In this article, we examine where problems have been reported, which models and years were most affected, and how owners can verify whether their vehicle is subject to a recall or service bulletin, and what steps to take if they experience shifting or transmission failure.
Notable problem periods and models
Representative year-model clusters cited by owners and regulators include the Cruze with a dual‑clutch transmission, and select GM six‑speed automatics in pickups and sedans from the late 2000s to early 2010s. The following subsections outline these clusters.
Cruze DCT issues (2011–2016)
Details for Cruze's Getrag 6‑speed dual‑clutch transmission issues and remedies.
- Jerky shifting, hesitations, and occasional stalling were reported in certain Cruze units with the 6‑speed DCT.
- GM issued software updates and, in some cases, extended warranties or replacement options for affected units.
Overview: The Cruze DCT problems drew substantial attention and informed owners to monitor for recalls or updates.
Full‑size pickups and SUVs with six‑speed automatics (roughly 2007–2013)
Overview of issues reported on Silverado/Sierra/Tahoe/Suburban models, including shudder and converter concerns.
- Shuddering, slipping, or hard shifts were among reported symptoms in certain production years.
- Dealers issued software updates and service bulletins; some units were repaired under warranty or recalled.
Summary: These models' issues were addressed primarily through recall campaigns or warranty repairs rather than a universal defect spanning all years.
Midsize sedans Malibu/Impala with six‑speed automatics (late 2000s–early 2010s)
Overview of reports on Malibu and Impala transmissions and typical symptoms.
- Hard shifting and occasional failure reported in certain units.
- GM and dealers offered updates and replacement options where warranted.
Summary: The affected units varied by production and region, with outcomes dependent on dealer diagnostics and warranty coverage.
How to verify recalls and service bulletins for your Chevy
To determine whether a specific vehicle is affected by a transmission recall or service bulletin, use official databases and your own vehicle history. The following steps help you verify current status and required actions.
- Obtain your vehicle identification number (VIN) and search the NHTSA recall database for open recalls, using the "Recall Lookup" tool.
- Visit the General Motors owner site or contact a Chevrolet dealer to check for dealer-installed updates related to transmissions for your exact model year and configuration.
- Review any provided service bulletins (SBs) or campaign notices that address transmission behavior, shudder, slipping, or hard shifts, and ask for a diagnostic check if you notice symptoms.
In many cases, solving transmission issues involves software reprogramming, replacement of a component such as a torque converter, or in some instances an entire transmission replacement under warranty or recall coverage.
What owners can do next
If you own a Chevrolet and have experienced shifting problems, document dates, symptoms, and service visits; gather maintenance records; and report issues to your dealer promptly. Early intervention can prevent further damage and help ensure you receive any applicable recall repairs or warranty benefits.
Summary
Transmission problems in Chevrolet vehicles have appeared across multiple years and models, with the most prominent clusters in late‑2000s to mid‑2010s models such as the Cruze and certain full‑size GM pickups and SUVs. There is no single year that defines a company‑wide fault; instead, owners should check their VIN for recalls and rely on dealership service to address model‑specific issues. Staying informed about recalls and service notices remains the best approach for Chevrolet owners.
