Cadillac Escalade Transmission Problems & Cost | 4L60E / 6L80 / 8L90

The Cadillac Escalade (including the Escalade ESV and Escalade EXT) is perhaps one of this automaker’s most important models of the modern era. Not only did it help to re-establish Cadillac in the luxury segment. But it also provided enough profit to develop a whole new generation of American luxury cars. Throughout the years, a number of different transmissions have been used in the ‘Slade, including the 4L60E and 4L65E in early models, and the 6-speed 6L80 and 8-speed 8L90 and 10-speed 10L80 in later models.

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 Escalade Transmission Models

Cadillac Escalade: 4L60E Transmission (Early Models)
Cadillac Escalade: 4L65E Transmission (6.0L)
Cadillac Escalade: 6L80 Transmission (Later Models)
Cadillac Escalade: 8L90 Transmission (Later Models)
Cadillac Escalade: 10L80 Transmission (2017+)

Cadillac Escalade 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 Escalade Transmission Prices:

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

Cadillac Escalade Transmission Recalls

2005 Cadillac Escalade – Recall 05V055000

Summary – On certain trucks, the shift lever position indicator in the instrument panel may not illuminate, preventing the driver from knowing what gear has been selected.
Consequence – In some instances the incorrect gear may be selected, which can then cause the truck to roll away and cause injury or property damage.
Remedy – Dealers will reprogram the instrument panel cluster, 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

Cadillac Escalade Technical Service Bulletins (TSB)

TSB 01-07-30-002C – Transmission stuck in third gear with inoperable instrument cluster and multiple DTC’s – 4L60E Transmission & 4L65 Transmission
1999 – 2003 Cadillac Escalade – 2002 – 2003 Cadillac Escalade EXT – 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV – 1997 – 2003 Chevrolet Silverado – 1997 – 2003 Chevrolet Suburban – 1997 – 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe – 1997 – 2003 Chevrolet Blazer – 1997 – 2003 Chevrolet Express – 1997 – 2003 Chevrolet S10 – 2002 – 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche – 2002 – 2003 Chevrolet Trailblazer – 2002 – 2003 Chevrolet Trailblazer EXT – 1997 – 2003 GMC Sierra – 1997 – 1999 GMC Suburban – 1999 – 2003 GMC Yukon XL – 1997 – 2003 GMC Yukon – 1997 – 2001 GMC Jimmy – 1997 – 2003 GMC Savanna – 1997 – 2003 GMC Sonoma – 2002 – 2003 GMC Envoy – 2002 – 2003 GMC Envoy XL – 1997 – 2003 Oldsmobile Bravada
Problem – Vehicles equipped with the 4L60E and 4L65E transmission may become stuck in third gear, the instrument cluster may not function, and the following DTC’s may be set: P0740, P0753, P0758, P0785 and P1860.
Solution – The most likely cause of this transmission problem is a blown fuse or an open on circuit 1020 between the fuse panel and the transmission. If no battery voltage is found at the fuse, the ignition switch will need to be replaced

TSB 01-07-30-023B – Harsh 1-2 upshift with P1870 DTC – 4L60E Transmission RPO M30
1996 Buick Roadmaster – 1996 Cadillac Fleetwood – 1999-2000 Cadillac Escalade – 1996-2000 Chevrolet Camaro – 1996-2000 Corvette – 1996-2000 Pontiac Firebird – 1996-2000 Chevrolet and GMC Light Duty Truck Models – 1996-2000 Oldsmobile Bravada
Problem – Drivers may experience an unusually harsh 1-2 shift because the ECU has commanded maximum line pressure in order to compensate for excessive wear in the bore that contains the TCC isolator and regulator valves inside of the valve body.
Solution – Replace the 4L60E valve body with revised TCC regulator and isolator valves.

TSB 01-07-30-038D – Poor transmission performance/slipping with P0757 DTC – 4L60E Transmission – 4L65E Transmission – 4L70E Transmission
2003-2007 HUMMER H2 – 2006-2007 HUMMER H3 – 2005-2007 Saab 9-7X
Problem – Drivers may experience the loss of 3rd and 4th gear, erratic shifting, slipping, freewheeling above 30 mph and a P0757 DTC.
Solution – In order to repair this transmission problem, the 2-3 shift valve, 2-3 shuttle valve, and the valve bore will need to be cleaned of any debris. The 2-4 band and/or 3-4 clutches may also need to be inspected and changed.

TSB 08-07-30-027 – No movements when transmission is shifted into Drive or third – 4L60E Transmission – 4L65E Transmission – 4L70E Transmission
1982-2005 GM Passenger Cars and Light Duty Trucks: 2006-2007 Buick Rainier – 2006 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV & Escalade EXT – 2006 Chevrolet SSR – 2006-2008 Chevrolet Avalanche – 2006-2008 Chevrolet Colorado – 2006-2008 Chevrolet Express – 2006-2008 Chevrolet Silverado Classic – 2006-2008 Chevrolet Silverado – 2006-2008 Chevrolet Suburban – 2006-2008 Chevrolet Tahoe – 2006-2008 Chevrolet TrailBlazer – 2006 GMC Yukon Denali – 2006 GMC Yukon Denali XL – 2006-2008 GMC Canyon – 2006-2008 GMC Envoy – 2006-2008 GMC Savana – 2006-2008 GMC Sierra Classic – 2006-2008 GMC Sierra – 2006-2008 GMC Yukon – 2006-2008 GMC Yukon XL – 2006 Pontiac GTO – 2006-2007 HUMMER H2 – 2006-2008 HUMMER H3 – 2006-2008 Saab 9-7X – with the 4L60, 4L60E, 4L65E or 4L70E Automatic Transmission (RPOs MD8, M30, M32, M33 or M70)
Problem – It is possible to experience no movement when the transmission is shifted into Drive or the 3rd gear position. It is possible to experience normal operation when the transmission shifted into second, first or reverse.
Solution – Replace the forward sprag assembly

TSB 00-07-30-022D – No reverse, second or fourth gears – 4L60E Transmission & 4L65E Transmission
1993 – 2005 GM passenger cars and light duty trucks
Problem – Drivers may experience the loss of reverse, second and fourth gears. First and third gears will seem to function normally
Solution – The reaction sun gear may fail inside of the sun shell. It will need to be replaced with a stronger heat-treated 4L60E / 4L65 sun gear.

TSB 01-04-17-004B – Clunk, bump or squawk when vehicle comes to a stop, or when it is accelerating from a complete stop – 4WD/AWD vehicles with a one-piece propeller/drive shaft only
1999-2004 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade EXT, Escalade ESV – 1996-1999 Chevrolet 1500 Series Extended Cab Short Box Pickup (Old Style) – 1996-1999 Chevrolet 1500 Series Regular Cab Pickup and Utility Models (Old Style) – 1999-2002 Chevrolet Silverado Extended Cab Short Box (New Style) – 1999-2004 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Series Regular Cab (New Style) – 2000-2004 Chevrolet 1500 Series Avalanche, Suburban and Tahoe – 2001-2004 Chevrolet Silverado 2500/3500 Series Regular Cab with Long Bed or Extended Cab (New Style) – 2001-2004 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 series crew cab, short box (New style) – 1996-1999 GMC 1500 series extended cab short box (Old style) – 1996-1999 GMC 1500 series regular cab pickup and utility models (Old Style) – 1999-2002 GMC Sierra extended cab short box (New style) – 1999-2004 GMC 1500 series Yukon, Yukon XL – 2000-2004 GMC Sierra 2500/3500 series regular cab with long bed or extended cab (New style) – 2001-2004 GMC Sierra 2500 Series Crew Cab, Short Box (New Style) – 2003-2005 HUMMER H2
Problem – In vehicles equipped with 4WD or AWD, drivers may experience a clunk, bump or squawk noise when they come to a stop, or when accelerating from a complete stop. This may occur during the 2-3 upshift or 3-2 downshift.
Solution – Replace the rear driveshaft slip yoke with a more robust nickel plated slip yoke.

TSB 06-07-30-007A – Harsh 1-2 shift with P0894 DTC – 4L60E Transmission | 4L65 Transmission | 4L70E Transmission
2006 Cadillac Escalade Models – 2006 Chevrolet Light Duty Trucks – 2006 Chevrolet Express Vans – 2006 GMC Light Duty Trucks – 2006 GMC Savana Vans – 2006 Pontiac GTO – 2006 HUMMER H2, H3 – 2006 Saab 9-7X – with 4L60-E / 4L65-E / 4L70-E (RPOs M30, M32, M70) Automatic Transmission
Problem – Drivers may experience an unusually harsh 1-2 shift with a P0894 DTC
Solution – Replace the TCC enable solenoid and/or wiring harness

TSB 08-07-30-008B – Diagnostic information for P0894 and P1870 DTC – 4L60E Transmission | 4L65 Transmission | 4L70E Transmission
2003-2007 GM Passenger Cars and Light Duty Trucks – 2003-2007 HUMMER H2 – 2006-2007 HUMMER H3 – 2005-2007 Saab 9-7X – with 4L60-E, 4L65-E or 4L70-E Automatic Transmission (RPOs M30, M32 or M70)
Problem – This relates to drivers who experience unusually harsh 1-2 shifts, along with a P0804 and/or a P1870 DTC.
Solution – It is possible that a leaking TCC solenoid, a torque converter clutch valve or damaged turbine shaft O-ring seal could cause these two diagnostic trouble codes. However, it could also be caused by a failed torque converter.

TSB 05-07-30-017B – Water contamination – 2004-2006 Cadillac Escalade 4L60E
Problem – A common transmission problem occurs when the transmission shudders/shakes between 40 and 50 mph, as the torque convertor clutch engages. This is caused by rain water getting into the transmission through the dipstick.
Solution – The air inlet grille panel will have to be modified according to the procedure outlined in the TSB.

TSB PIP4051C – Harsh Shifting 4L60E Problem – Unusually harsh gear changes, combined with a P0717 DTC for an input shaft speed sensor error, are often caused by damage to the ISS sensor wiring.
Solution – If wire damage is found (usually to the white wire), the wiring and sensor will have to be replaced. The pump cover should also be examined for sharp points/edges that could damage the wiring. If any are found, they should be smoothed with a file.

TSB 04-07-30-028A – Transmission fluid leak from reverse servo cover – 4L65E
Problem – An ATF leak can occur under the vehicle during cold weather (temperature below 20°F/6.7°C), due to a failed reverse servo cover seal.
Solution – To remedy the problem, an upgraded (see: better quality) reverse servo cover seal will have to be installed.

TSB PI488C – No forward or reverse and/or slipping – 6L80 Transmission | 6L90 Transmission
2010 – 2014 Cadillac CTS-V – 2010 – 2014 Cadillac Escalade (all models) – 2010 – 2013 Chevrolet Avalanche – 2010 – 2014 Chevrolet Camaro – 2010 – 2014 Chevrolet Corvette – 2010 – 2014 Chevrolet Express – 2010 – 2014 Chevrolet Silverado – 2010 – 2014 Chevrolet Suburban – 2010 – 2014 Chevrolet Tahoe – 2011 – 2014 Chevrolet Caprice PPV – 2014 Chevrolet SS – 2010 – 2014 GMC Savana – 2010 – 2014 GMC Sierra – 2010 – 2014 GMC Yukon – 2010 – 2014 GMC Yukon XL – 2010 – 2014 GMC Yukon Denali
Problem – Trucks equipped with the 6-speed 6L80 or 6L90 transmission may experience no forward or reverse engagement, or slipping between the gears.
Solution – This problem could be caused by a cracked or split transmission filter. If this is the case, the transmission pump should be disassembled and inspected for possible damage. Inspect for any of the following conditions: – scored pump rotor or pump vanes – scored pump cover or pump rotor pocket – cracked pump slide.

The transmission should also be evaluated for any possible distress to the clutches. GM’s testing and analysis found that split or damaged filters may be caused by a damaged transmission pump. This can send a high pressure fluid spike down the filter neck on a cold start, resulting in the filter body cracking or the filter seam splitting. The filter is not defective and this is not a filter quality issue. Important: Do not replace the filter without inspecting the pump. Failure to inspect the pump and clutches could lead to a repeat of this condition.

TSB 09-07-30-004J – Slips in Reverse or Third, Delayed Reverse or Drive Engagement, DTC P0776, P2715, P2723, Harsh 2-3 Shifts – 6L80 Transmission | 6L90 Transmission
2006-2009 Cadillac STS-V – 2006-2009 Cadillac XLR – 2006-2009 Cadillac XLR-V – 2007-2008 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade EXT – 2006-2009 Chevrolet Corvette – 2007-2008 Chevrolet Silverado – 2008 Chevrolet Suburban – 2007-2008 GMC Sierra – 2007-2008 GMC Sierra Denali – 2007-2008 GMC Yukon Denali – 2007-2008 GMC Yukon XL Denali – 2008 GMC Yukon XL – 2008-2009 HUMMER H2 – 2008-2009 Pontiac G8
Problem – Vehicles equipped with the 6L80 or 6L90 transmission may slip when Reverse is selected or have no/delayed reverse engagement, harsh shifts from 2-3 / 4-5 or slips while in fifth, and slipping acceleration when passing. Possible DTCs include P0776, P2715 or P2723.
Solution – This transmission problem may be caused by a cracked 1-2-3-4 / 3-5-R clutch housing.

PIP5437B – Harsh shifts – 8L45 Transmission | 8L90 Transmission
2016 – 2017 Cadillac ATS – 2016 – 2017 Cadillac CT5 – 2016 – 2017 Cadillac CT6 – 2015 – 2017 Cadillac Escalade – 2016 – 2017 Chevrolet Camaro – 2017 Chevrolet Colorado – 2015 – 2017 Chevrolet Corvette – 2017 Chevrolet Express – 2015 – 2017 Chevrolet Silverado – 2017 GMC Canyon – 2017 GMC Savana – 2015 – 2017 GMC Sierra – 2015 – 2017 GMC Yukon Denali
Problem – One of the more common 8L90 transmission problems is excessively hard or abrupt gear changes.
Solution – The TCM may need to be recalibrated with the latest control software. It could also be caused by one or more of the clutch fill times not being learned by the TCM. In which case, the Service Fast Learn (SFL) procedure will have to be performed. Should the problems persist, the valve body will need to be replaced.

Common Problems with the Cadillac Escalade Transmission

Intermittent harsh shifting – Cadillac Escalade 4L60E
Problem – A common Cadillac Escalade transmission problem is an intermittent hard 1-2 shift, often accompanied by engine bogging. This condition can be caused by the torque convertor clutch applying during the shift.
Solution – To remedy the problem, the wiring harness needs to be inspected from the transmission case connector to the rear of the engine on the driver side. It’s possible that the wires for the TCC solenoid and pressure control solenoid have become frayed on a body seam. If this is the case, the wiring will need to be repaired, and the harness repositioned.

Solenoid DTC’s – Cadillac Escalade 6L80E
Problem – A number of diagnostic trouble codes, including P0776, P0796, P2714 and P2723, can be caused by a pressure leak at the end of the clutch regulating valve.
Solution – The bore plug will have to be replaced with updated versions, or modified to accept an O-ring kit.

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?

Cadillac Escalade transmission problems usually start as a minor inconvenience, which most people will ignore for as long as possible. However, it doesn’t matter if you have a major or minor transmission problem, continuing to drive your truck can compound the issue until it becomes a lot more expensive to fix.

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

The key to long transmission life, is regularly scheduled maintenance and careful driving. If treated properly, a Cadillac Escalade transmission can last between 150,000-200,000 miles. A properly built remanufactured transmission by comparison, can last for considerably longer if it has been updated correctly.

How are Cadillac Escalade transmission issues diagnosed?

Thanks to a bevy of sensors, the on-board computer will store error codes whenever something goes wrong. To access this information, a technician will connect a code reader to the OBDII port and download all of the diagnostic trouble codes. Then a visual inspection can be performed, verifying the source of the transmission problems.

How is a Cadillac Escalade transmission replaced?

Since the Cadillac Escalade is primarily a RWD truck, replacing the transmission is simply a matter of unbolting it from the engine, driveshaft/transfer case and chassis. Once the new gearbox is installed, the ECU/PCM will have to be reprogrammed / reflashed to accept the new transmission.

Recommendations for Cadillac Escalade 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 Escalade transmission here, then find a local shop using our Find a Shop guide to install it for you.

How to Solve Cadillac Escalade Transmission Problems

Solution A: Buy a Used Cadillac Escalade Transmission

One of the fastest ways to solve your Cadillac Escalade transmission problems, is to pop down to the local salvage yard and get a used 4L60E / used 4L65E / used 6L80E / used 8L90. However, you can’t guarantee the condition of the internal components, so you don’t know how long it will really last. And that 30-90 day warranty likely won’t cover labor charges if something goes wrong with the first transmission.

Solution B: Buy a Rebuilt Cadillac Escalade Transmission

To avoid the uncertainties of buying a used Cadillac Escalade transmission, many people will opt for a rebuilt 4L60E / rebuilt 4L65E / rebuilt 6L80E / rebuilt 8L90. But the problem there is, most mechanics will use OE spec Cadillac Escalade transmission parts, so all of the factory design flaws will return. And that rebuilt transmission warranty is usually only good at the shop the transmission came from. So if you experience problems while you’re traveling, you’ll have to pay to fix them yourself.

Solution C: Buy a Remanufactured Cadillac Escalade Transmission

To solve your Cadillac Escalade transmission problems once and for all, you might consider getting a remanufactured 4L60E / remanufactured 4L65 / remanufactured 6L80E / remanufactured 8L90. If you purchase from right supplier, your new transmission will be upgraded beyond factory specifications, which means it will last considerably longer. And some offer an actual nationwide warranty, which will protect you no matter where you go.

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 Escalade 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!