Chevy S10 Transmission Problems & Cost

Introduced for the 1982 model year, the Chevrolet S 10 was the first compact truck to be designed and built in America. It was a strong seller right up until was discontinued in 2004, and General Motors actually continued selling the second generation model in other markets until 2012. Part of the reason for it’s success were the bulletproof drivetrains, which included the Chevrolet S-10 4L60E. But no matter how good it was, 4L60E 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?

Chevy S10 Transmission Models

Chevy S10: 4L60E Transmission

Chevy S10 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 4L60E Transmission:

TransmissionStreet Smart Transmission
4L60E / 4L65E2100

What are the DTC codes related to Chevy S10 transmission problems?

Trouble CodeDescription
P0706Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
P0711Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
P0712Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Input
P0713Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit High Input
P0719Torque Converter/Brake Switch B Circuit Low
P0724 Torque Converter/Brake Switch B Circuit High
P0740Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Malfunction
P0748Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' Electrical
P0751Shift Solenoid 'A' Performance or Stuck Off
P0753Shift Solenoid 'A' Electrical
P0756Shift Solenoid 'B' Performance or Stuck Off
P0757Shift Solenoid 'B' Stuck On
P0758Shift Solenoid 'B' Electrical
P0785Shift/Timing Solenoid
P0894Transmission Component Slipping
P1860TCC PWM Solenoid Circuit Electrical
P1870Transmission Component Slipping: GM Transmission

Chevy S10 Transmission Recalls

None Found

Chevy S10 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 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 04-07-30-028A – Transmission fluid leaks from reverse servo cover – 4L65E Transmission
Problem – Transmission fluid leaks may be observed under the vehicle, which may be caused by a 4L65 reverse servo seal that can actually shrink in the cold weather below 20°F/-6.7°C
Solution – Replace reverse servo cover seal

TSB PIP4051C – Harsh Shifting
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.

PIP5071 – Squawking noise on the 2-3 shift
Problem – An unusual squawking or groaning noise may be heard on the upshift from 2nd to 3rd gear.
Solution – The 3-4 friction and steel plates, clutch plate, apply plate, and selective backing plates will have to be replaced.

Common Problems with the Chevy S10 Transmission

Intermittent harsh shifting
Problem – A common Chevrolet S-10 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.

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?

General Motors knows how to make durable trucks. However, most Chevrolet S-10 transmission problems can actually sideline your ride if you ignore them for too long. What may start out as a simple problem, can quickly grow into a transmission ending event if you don’t address it soon enough. Of course, going to a mechanic isn’t cheap. But neither is replacing that Chevy S10 4L60E.

How often does a Chevy S10 transmission need to be replaced?

The key to avoiding Chevrolet S-10 transmission problems is to service your transmission regularly and avoid hard-driving as often as you can. Factory design flaws still play a part though, and can restrict service life to 120,000-180,000 miles. However a remanufactured transmission can last a lot longer.

How are Chevy S10 transmission issues diagnosed?

To figure out what is causing your Chevrolet S-10 transmission problems, a mechanic will usually connect a code reader to the OBDII code reader under the dash. Once all of the diagnostic trouble codes are downloaded, a visual inspection may need to be performed in order to verify the problem.

How is a Chevy S10 transmission replaced?

Replacing a Chevrolet S-10 4L60E transmission requires you to first unbolt the old one from the motor, driveshaft and frame. To install a new one, simply reverse the steps.

Recommendations for Chevy S10 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 Chevy S10 transmission here, then find a local shop using our Find a Shop guide to install it for you.

How to Solve Chevy S10 Transmission Problems

Solution A: Buy a Used Chevy S10 Transmission

One of the cheapest ways to handle most Chevrolet S-10 transmission problems is to go out and buy a used 4L60E transmission from the local junkyard. They are pretty easy to find, and the prices usually won’t break the bank. However you don’t know how worn out the internal components actually are. And that junkyard warranty likely won’t cover labor charges if something goes wrong.

Solution B: Buy a Rebuilt Chevy S10 Transmission

Buying a rebuilt 4L60E transmission from your mechanic or the local transmission repair shop is certainly a better option. But unless they know how to modify to correct for all of the factory design flaws, it’s not likely to last much longer than the original did. Plus, if the warranty is only good at the shop that built the transmission, you may be paying for transmission repairs if a breakdown occurs and you’re not near that shop.

Solution C: Buy a Remanufactured Chevy S10 Transmission

One of the best solutions for most serious Chevrolet S10 transmission problems is a remanufactured 4L60E transmission. These are typically factory built, and come with modifications that will extend the service life. And many times, you can find one with a nationwide unlimited mile warranty.

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 Chevy S10 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!

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dude
5 years ago

no reverse all other gears shifts normal 1998 chevy S10 pickup 4.3 v6

joe s
5 years ago

i have a 99 s10 2.2 auto and when i am driveing along about 60 i let off the gas and hit the gas again it falls out of lockup and shifts back into lockup any ideas

wayne smith
1 year ago
Reply to  joe s

Normal. Comes out of lockup because it sees the idle contacts close( decell) then when your back on it it reengages. These are normal

Tom
5 years ago

My 98 s10 2.2 automatic wouldn’t shift into high gear. I changed both solenoids and changed the fluid and filter. Still won’t shift into high gear. Code reader says power problem to the solenoid. Any idea’s that might help me fix it?

Bobby
5 years ago

have a 97 s10 automatic put it in drive transmission will not engage have to shift to low before it will engage but will shift up ok when I stop have to put in back in low to get it to move again

Steve
5 years ago

About 35 0r 40 mph before it will shift into 2nd

Steve
5 years ago

Transwont shift unless your heavy on the throttle

Ruth
5 years ago

Not shifting in high

Jennifer
5 years ago

I love my chevy s10. She’s been quite needy lately. Today just all of a sudden she doesn’t want to shift into 3rd or 4th gear, automatic tranny. Can you tell me any other causes before I replace the tranny?

Jeremy
5 years ago

Mine is stuck in a forward gear and wouldn’t come out and now it’s lick the starter or transmission is locked

Johnny C Baber
5 years ago

If a $2,400 for a 700 R4 Transmission 1992 model problems with it not going into 3rd gear when it was cold under heavy throttletake it back for warranty he was also making a a noise down at the pump was getting noisy in it you’re going to do it after transmission get hot so take it back in the warranty cost me $1,200 replace the flexplate I didn’t see anything wrong flexplate said it was a shift cable pretty sure that making model transmission we’re still going to gear regardless of where you got the cable adjustment now that not wanting to extend my warranty any and that’s why she’s not going into gear when I put it in drive until I put it into a lower gearmechanic for most of my life 45 years or so now ASC Certified repair so I know a little bit about what’s going on can pull the wool over my eyes

Dale Watson
6 years ago

88 T5 went from 5th to reverse,locked up and long skid , have it out everything looks perfect, any ideas what is wrong ?

Pauler1961
6 years ago

I have a 2000 Chevy S-10 2WD P/U with 368K miles on it. Everything about it is fine (I maintain it myself), except I’m now getting that dang P1870 trouble code, which is preventing me from passing PA inspection. It also shifts harshly from 1st to 2nd but only when its hot, usually after driving more than 30 minutes. I’ve seen a video which cites a faulty/failing TCC pressure regulator valve, and which recommends a replacement TCC valve using a reamer tool as part of the installation. I’m wondering if this is the way to go before splashing the cash for a replacement tranny…………??

wayne smith
1 year ago
Reply to  Pauler1961

I would not . To easy to over ream. Then your buying a trans anyway. I like to think that a reconditio Ed or rebuilt teams should have all the short comings ( faults) addressed and therefore I would opt for the new trans.

Paul
6 years ago

Have a 2002 4.3 S-10 ZR5 4×4 with auto. trans. Around 125k reverse shell broke. Had no reverse. Had complete rebuild done at a reputable transmission repair shop for $2k. Now all of a sudden at 165k trans. won’t shift properly. Speedometer stays at 0 for awhile then starts jumping erratically.
ABS & brake light goes on & off while driving. If anyone has ever had these problems, any kind of advice would be greatly appreciated.

Adam H
5 years ago
Reply to  Paul

I saw this same issue on YouTube. It is the vehicle speed sensor.

TBGood
6 years ago

I have an 01 S-10 ZR2 and I have found transmission fluid in my vacuum lines in the dash Has anyone else had or heard of a failure that could cause this ?

wayne smith
1 year ago
Reply to  TBGood

From transfercase vacuum shift actuator

robert
6 years ago

I have a 1997 2.2 litre 5 speed s10 with 302 thousand on it a little grinding in the transmission all but 4th gear need help

wayne smith
1 year ago
Reply to  robert

Syncronisers are out

Michelle
6 years ago

My reverse went out all other gears are working fine it’s a 2002 s10 4.3 v6 4L60E can I drive this and for how long?

Gregory Ferguson
6 years ago
Reply to  Michelle

Hey i have a 1984 chevy s 10 and my reverse went out about 3 weeks ago and then it didnt want to shift gears right so i took it to the shop and they said my transmission is shot. Its a 700.

paul DUELL
6 years ago

HI My 4L60E Works Fine My Problem IS My Speedo Is Off By About 20 Miles An Hour. The Faster I Go The More Off IT Reads. ie:95 is actually 75. In Wich shuts down the truck via speed limiter. IS THIS A SPEED SWITCH on the externall of TRANS? THANKS PAUL

Jorge Bgartner
6 years ago

4l60e in my 2000 S/10 with 2.2 always searching from 3 to 4th unless driving 60 or more mph..at 55 gears up n down constantly ??above 60 fine ??

James
5 years ago
Reply to  Jorge Bgartner

Vacuum line under left fender off or split

Bruce Miller
5 years ago
Reply to  James

Exactly where under the fender

Jim Reedy
6 years ago

I have a 2000 Chevy S10 4.3 Liter with a Automatic transmission. I was reading your thing about how often should the transmission be replaced. I laughed at your mileage. Mine has 301,892 miles on it now. The reverse band just now went out. I have no reverse but I still have all the other gears. I change my transmission fluid and filter every 3,000 miles just like I do with my engine oil and filter. The truck is my every day driver and everything is still original. Thank you for letting me post this.

TBGood
6 years ago
Reply to  Jim Reedy

I love your truck. That’s all

Oscar
6 years ago

How much would a change from manual to automatic cost

kevin evans
6 years ago

1995 chevy s-10 5 speed manual sticks between gears 1ST,2ND,& 3RD/ 4TH 5TH are fine

Dale Watson
6 years ago
Reply to  kevin evans

My 88 t5 flew from 5th to reverse, locked up trans. And a long skid , have it out everything looks great , any ideas how to fix it ?

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