Chevy Silverado 1500 Transmissions: Overview, Problems, Fluids

On this blog, we’ve already done extensive research on several Chevrolets and their transmissions. Today, we will talk about the four generations of the Chevy Silverado 1500 and give you an overview of what transmissions are actually used in this vehicle. First, a quick answer:

The 1998 – 2007 Silverado 1500 has a 4- or 5-speed automatic. The 2007 – 2013 Silverado 1500 has a 4- or 6-speed automatic and a 4-speed transmission for the hybrid. Between 2013 – 2018 the Silverado had a 6- or 8-speed automatic. The fourth-generation has either a 6-, 8- or 10 speed automatic.

However, that doesn’t tell the whole story. Below we first outline all the generations of the Silverado 1500 and explain which transmissions have been used with each generation.

After that, we’ll talk about how long these transmissions last and the cost of replacing them. Finally, we’ll look into the common problems of each type of transmission.

Unlike fuel requirements, which are the same across most Silverado models, transmission facts can vary greatly between the 1500, 2500, and 3500 so make sure you’re in the right spot before reading on!

What Transmissions Has The Chevy Silverado 1500 Used

In its lifetime, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 has used 4, 5, 6, 8, and 10-speed transmissions. For each generation, we outlined below exactly what kind of transmission has been used in that generation.

First Generation (1998 – 2007)

• 4-speed 4L60-E automatic (2WD)
• 5-speed NV3500 manual (4WD)

Second Generation (2007 – 2013)

• 4-speed 4L60-E automatic (2WD)
• 4-speed “2-Mode Hybrid transmission” 2ML70 (Hybrid)
• 6-speed 6L80 automatic (4WD)

Third Generation (2013 – 2018)

• 6-speed 6L80 automatic (2WD/4WD)
• 8-speed 8L90 automatic (2WD/4WD)

Fourth Generation (2018 – Present)

• 6-speed MYC automatic (2WD/4WD)
• 8-speed 8L90 automatic (2WD/4WD)
• 10-speed Hydra-Matic 10L80 MF6 automatic (2WD/4WD)

How Long Does A Chevy Silverado 1500 Transmission Last?

Chevrolet Silverado 1500’s are known to have quite a few problems (we’ll talk about that later on). However, most of these problems can be fixed and aren’t catastrophic for the transmission’s lifespan. Furthermore, Chevy Silverado’s are still very reliable trucks which also means the transmission normally matches the car’s lifespan.

You can expect the transmission of a Chevy Silverado 1500 to last between 200,000 – 300,000 miles.

How Much Does A Chevy Silverado 1500 Transmission Cost?

If you’re looking to replace the transmission of your Silverado 1500, then you’re most likely also interested in knowing how much your particular transmission costs. Below we’ve outlined the specific transmissions that are used in the production span of the 1500, and we’ve attached prices that we found with online retailers:

• 4-speed 4L60-E automatic: $1,795
• 5-speed NV3500 manual: $2,000
• 4-speed “2-Mode Hybrid transmission” 2ML70: $1,749
• 6-speed 6L80 automatic: $3,899
• 8-speed 8L90 automatic: $5,894
• 10-speed Hydra-Matic 10L80 MF6 automatic: $5,700

Common Chevy Silverado 1500 Transmission Problems

Chevy Silverado’s and their transmissions are known to have quite a few problems but it’s far from the only issue with these trucks. Many of these transmission problems can be found in both the 2500 and 1500 models.

Below we’ve outlined the most common ones that you should look out for and it’s important to realize that transmission problems are one of the most common issues with the 1500 so don’t take this lightly if you’re considering a purchase.

4L60-E

The 4L60-E is a transmission that’s good or bad, depending on the vehicle that you own. If you happen to have a Silverado 1500 with a bad transmission then you can expect the following symptoms:

• Problems with shifting into 3rd gear whereas the car acts like it’s in neutral. The problem here is 3/4th gear clutch pack failure. You’ll need new pistons and a clutch pack to replace this.
• You lost your second or reverse gear. In this case we’re talking about a broken drive shell which will need to be replaced.
• Problems with shifting into 2nd gear with a possible ‘check-engine’ light. Problem here is a worn TCC regulator valve that causes the converter clutch to slip.

If you’re not sure what a slipping transmission looks like, you can check it out in this 2015 Silverado here:

NV3500

The NV3500 seems to be a more reliable transmission than the 4L60-E based on the forums we’ve read with owners’ experiences. Common problems are worn synchronizer rings which you’ll recognize if your clutch starts to make a grinding sound and when the transmission starts popping out of gear. Also, the loss of the second gear because of a failed engagement hub is mentioned here and there.

6L80

The 6L80 is another transmission that does have a small list of well-documented problems. These include:

• Vehicle not moving into, not releasing or popping out of the park position.
• Loud rattling noise in reverse
• Transmission not engaging after changing the transmission fluid and filter.
• Moisture gets trapped on the spline which destroys the trans output shaft and transfer case 4-wheel drive unit splines.

Most of these problems are caused by a rod actuator which is known to fail. The last problem is caused by failing O-rings which need to be replaced.

8L90

This 8-speed transmission is used in a wide selection of Chevy and GMC vehicles, and therefore there’s also a bunch of problems that have popped up over the years. The most common ones are:

• Hard or abrupt gear changes. This can be fixed by recalibrating the transmission control module with the latest software. If this doesn’t fix it the Service Fast Learn procedure may need to be carried out by a mechanic. If this also doesn’t fix it the valve body will need to be replaced.
• Delay in shifting after shifting from park. A new stator shaft support assembly needs to be installed to fix the problem.
• General shifting problems with code: P0747/P0777/P0797/P2715/P2724. These problems are normally cause by a software bug and updating the software should fix it.

10L80

The 10L80 is already a common transmission but hasn’t been on the market that long. Therefore, it’s not very well documented, but a few problems are popping up. These are:

• Transmission fluid leaking from under the car. Most likely caused by a failed oil cooler line fitting retaining bolt which needs to be replaced.
• Harsh/delayed shifting or the transmission being stuck in certain gears. Like the 8L90 this is most likely cause by software problems and an update at the dealer should fix it right away.

Differences Between Transmissions

Now that you know what kind of problems the transmissions have, it’s also important to consider the main differences (and which one is therefore considered better or worse). Below we’ve outlined several key features of every transmission.

The 4L60-E is generally considered to be one of the weaker transmissions of the Silverado 1500 (although it still has only a few problems). The 4L60-E is a relatively lightweight 4-speed automatic and weighs around 133 pounds without transmission fluid. It can handle 360 ft/lb and a GVW of 6,000 pounds.

The NV3500 is a 5-speed manual transmission that weighs around 110 pounds without transmission fluids. It can handle 300 ft/lb and has a GVW of 7,200 pounds.

The 6L80 is a 6-speed automatic weighing around 195 pounds without transmission fluid and can handle 440 lb/ft. It has a GVW of 8,600 pounds.

The 8L90 is an 8-speed automatic that weighs 210 pounds without transmission fluids. It can handle 635 lb/ft and has a GVW of 13,200 pounds.

The 10L80 is a 10-speed automatic that weighs 230 pounds without transmission fluids. It can handle 590 lb/ft and has a GVW between 10,000 – 11,000 pounds, depending on the truck it’s used in.

Transmission Fluid And The Chevy Silverado 1500

Suppose you want to make sure that the transmission of your Silverado 1500 lasts as long as it can last, then you’ll need to take care of it. As a general rule of thumb, Chevrolet advises you to change the transmission fluid of your Silverado 1500 every 45,000 miles. However, what type of transmission fluid you should use depends on the transmission that you have. Below we’ve created an overview of the TF’s that are recommended for each transmission:

• 4L60-E / 6L80 / 8L90 : Dexron VI
• NV3500: Mopar NV3500 Manual
• 10L80: Dexron Ultra Lower Viscosity

Closing Thoughts

And that wraps it up! We’ve walked through the details of what makes your Chevy Silverado transmission 1500 tick. Understanding your truck’s transmission isn’t just for the pros, it’s something every owner can benefit from whether you’re hauling a big load, towing a trailer, or just cruising.

But there’s a lot more to know and we’ve covered most of it. Big picture details like the transmission matter but it’s also important to understand small details like your Silverado 1500’s 6 lug bolt pattern and how it differs from the big ol’ 8-lug bolt pattern on the 2500.

Remember, regular maintenance is the secret to keeping your ride in top shape. Stay informed about your vehicle’s specs and routine upkeep to ensure it keeps performing at its best for years to come.

Sources

• Wikipedia.com/Avalanche
• Wikipedia.com/NV3500
• Wikipedia.com/6L80
• 700r4transmissionhq.com/8L90
• Dieselhub.com/10L80
• Repairpal.com
• Transmissionrepaircostguide.com
• Gearsmagazine.com