Cadillac SRX Transmission Problems & Cost | 5L40E | 6L50 | 6T70

The Cadillac SRX is a mid-size luxury SUV that was first introduced for the 2003 model year. Initially, it was rear wheel drive and offered the option of a Northstar V8 engine. But that all changed for the 2010 model year, when the SRX was redesigned on a FWD platform and became what we now know as a crossover/CUV. This transition more than doubled the sales volume, and made Cadillac an actual player in the luxury CUV segment. Throughout its life, a number of fairly reliable 5 and 6-speed transmissions have been offered. With proper maintenance, these gearboxes can last for a good long time. However, Cadillac SRX transmission problems do still happen. So let’s find out what you can do about them.

Need a replacement transmission? Get an estimate for replacement transmissions and local installation. Look up your transmission model by vehicle make and model.

What Transmission Do I Have?

Cadillac SRX Transmission Models

Cadillac SRX: 5L40E / 5L50 Transmission
Cadillac SRX: 6L50 Transmission
Cadillac SRX: 6T70 Transmission

Cadillac SRX Transmission Replacement Cost Estimate

Pricing varies by model. To be 100% sure on pricing, have your VIN# handy and use our Get An Estimate feature to look up your transmission by VIN#.

Replacement Cadillac SRX Transmission Prices:

What are the DTC codes related to Cadillac SRX transmission problems?

Cadillac SRX Transmission Recalls

2013 Cadillac SRX Recall – 13V097000
Summary – On certain models of the 2013 Cadillac SRX, the transmission may inadvertently shift into ‘Sport Mode’, reducing any engine braking effect.
Consequence – As a result of losing engine braking, the vehicle may not slow as expected, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy – To fix this problem, GM released a software update for the transmission control module/TCM, and will install it free of charge. Owners can contact Cadillac at 1-866-694-6546. Or they can call the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236

Recall 13V097000 – Reduced engine braking
2013 Buick LaCrosse – 2013 Cadillac SRX

Summary –
On certain models of the 2013 Buick LaCrosse and 2013 Cadillac SRX, the transmission may inadvertently shift into ‘Sport Mode’, reducing any engine braking effect.

Consequence –
As a result of losing engine braking, the vehicle may not slow as expected, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy –
To fix this problem, GM released a software update for the transmission control module/TCM, and will install it free of charge. Owners can contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236

Cadillac SRX Technical Service Bulletins (TSB)

TSB 07-07-30-032B – Ignition key sticks, shifter binds, “shift to park” message displayed, dead battery – 5L40 Transmission | 5L50 Transmission | 6L50 Transmission | 6L80 Transmission
2007 – 2008 Cadillac SRX – 2007 – 2008 Cadillac STS – 2007 – 2008 Cadillac STS-V – 2008 Cadillac CTS
Problem – Owners may notice that the shifter seems to bind when shifting into gear or park. The ignition key may stick or be difficult to remove (SRX only). A “shift to park” message may be constantly displayed in the driver information display screen, resulting in a dead battery.
Solution – These transmission problems may be caused by out of adjustment shift linkage, a slow Brake Transmission Shift Interlock mechanism, or a Park Confirmation microswitch that is not closed.

TSB 02-07-30-026 – Transmission shudder during hard acceleration – Cadillac SRX 5L40E / 5L50
Problem – During hard acceleration, it is not uncommon for the transmission to shudder/shake after launch. This is caused by insufficient clearance between the driveshaft attaching bolts and the transmission output shaft flange.
Solution – Install a revised transmission output shaft flange.

TSB 13120A – 2013 Cadillac SRX 6T70E
Problem – The torque converter clutch solenoid can stick due to debris in the transmission. When the vehicle is at the end of a coast-down, as the vehicle is coming to a stop, a stuck solenoid will fail to release the torque converter clutch. This keeps the engine directly connected to the driven wheels. As the vehicle stops, the engine speed will be pulled down below normal idle speed and the engine may stall. The vehicle can be immediately restarted and driven.
Solution – The valve control solenoid should be replaced, and the transmission control module will have to be reprogrammed in order to correct the problem.

TSB PI4075 – 6T75 transmission overheating
2010 – 2012 Cadillac SRX
Problem – The 6T75 transmission could experience an overtemperature situation, even if it’s not warranted by the driving conditions. This issue will be accompanied by a warning message in the drivers information center (if so equipped) and one or both of the following DTC’s: P0218 and/or P0634.
Solution – If a mechanical issue is not determined to be at fault, then it’s possible that the problem is caused by too much transmission fluid, dirty transmission fluid or restrictions in the transmission cooler circuit. Click the above link to learn more about this TSB.

Common Problems with the Cadillac SRX Transmission

Input/Output Speed Sensor Issues – Cadillac SRX 6T50
Problem – When repairing a failed input speed sensor or output speed sensor, steering system damage could occur.
Solution – To avoid damage to the clock springs, the splined steering knuckle must be prevented from falling out of the steering rack when dropping the subframe to access the valve body.

Lack of Response
Leaking Fluid
Low Fluid
Burning Smell
Grinding or Shaking
Whining, Clunking or Humming
Refuses to Go Into Gear
Torque Converter Issues
Valve Body Issues
Transmission Noisy in Neutral
Gears Slipping
No 3rd or 4th Gear
No 1st or 2nd Gear
No Reverse
Dragging Clutch
Trouble Codes / Check Engine Light

Can I drive with a transmission problem?

In many cases, the average Cadillac SRX transmission problems won’t hamper drivability. However, you do run the risk of making the problem worse. Which can, at the end of the day, cost you a lot more money.

How often does a Cadillac SRX transmission need to be replaced?

Regularly scheduled maintenance is very important to extending the life of your Cadillac SRX transmission. But even with proper maintenance, OE design flaws can still cut the service life short. On average, we’ve noticed SRX transmissions tend to last between 130,000-180,000 miles. But a well designed remanufactured Cadillac SRX transmission can last significantly longer, if all of the factory design flaws have been addressed.

How are Cadillac SRX transmission issues diagnosed?

In order to determine what is causing your Cadillac SRX transmission problems, a technician will need to connect a code reader to the OBDII port under the dash. Once all of the diagnostic trouble codes have been read, a visual inspection can be performed to verify the source of the problem.

How is a Cadillac SRX transmission replaced?

On the first generation (RWD) Cadillac SRX, the exhaust system and driveshaft will have to be removed before lowering the transmission from the chassis. Installation is a reverse of the removal process. On FWD models made after 2010, the subframe may have to be partially removed before the transmission can be removed from the chassis. But in either case, the ECU/PCM will have to be reprogrammed / reflashed to accept the new transmission.

Recommendations for Cadillac SRX transmission issues?

To save time and get back on the road faster, have your 17-digit truck VIN# handy and you can get an online quote for a reman Cadillac SRX transmission here, then find a local shop using our Find a Shop guide to install it for you.

How to Solve Cadillac SRX Transmission Problems

Solution A: Buy a Used Cadillac SRX Transmission

To get back on the road as quickly responsible, a used 5L40E / used 6L50 / used 6T70E transmission from the local junkyard might seem like a viable option. However, you don’t know how it was maintained. So you might wind up having even more Cadillac SRX transmission problems down the road. Plus, that junkyard warranty probably does not cover labor charges.

Solution B: Buy a Rebuilt Cadillac SRX Transmission

Another solution would be to get a rebuilt 5L40E / rebuilt 6L50 / rebuilt 6T70E transmission. In this scenario, a mechanic will take your existing gearbox and install a bunch of OE spec Cadillac SRX transmission parts. Most of the time, they will also give you a 1-2 year warranty. However, that warranty may only be honored by a single shop, which means you will have to pay for transmission repairs out of pocket if you travel. And those factory spec transmission parts mean that any premature failures due to a design flaw will return.

Solution C: Buy a Remanufactured Cadillac SRX Transmission

To achieve a more permanent solution to all your Cadillac SRX transmission problems, you might consider a remanufactured 5L40E / remanufactured 6L50 / remanufactured 6T70E transmission. If they are done properly, a reman transmission will be upgraded to address all of the factory design flaws. This will provide you with a longer service life and much better performance. Plus you may even be able to get a nationwide warranty, so you don’t have to worry about breakdowns when you travel.

Need a replacement transmission? Get an estimate for replacement transmissions and local installation. Look up your transmission model by vehicle make and model.

What Transmission Do I Have?

What Problem Does Your Cadillac SRX Have?

Let us know the year, mileage and problem you’re having as well as any trouble (OBD) codes you’ve found. If you’ve been given a quote or paid for a repair, we’d like to hear about that too!