Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Transmission Problems & Cost

When it comes to getting stuff done, the Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD is hard to beat. No matter if you get the gasoline or diesel engine, this big rig can tow or haul just about anything (especially with the Silverado 3500HD Duramax Allison 1000 combo). But if you’re not careful, Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD transmission problems can leave you sitting on the sidelines. So let’s figure 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 Silverado 3500 HD Transmission Models

Chevy Silverado 3500 HD: 4L80E Transmission (Early Models)
Chevy Silverado 3500 HD: Allison 1000 Transmission (6.6L and 8.1L Diesel Only)
Chevy Silverado 3500 HD: 6L90 Transmission (Late Models)

Chevy Silverado 3500 HD 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 Silverado 3500 HD Transmission:

What are the DTC codes related to Chevy Silverado 3500 HD transmission problems?

Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Transmission Recalls

None Found

Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Technical Service Bulletins (TSB)

TSB 08-07-30-001 – Chevrolet Silverado 3500 4L80E
Problem: Harsh or delayed shifts, slipping, no forward/reverse gears. Possible DTCs: P0741, P0742, P0751, P0752, P0756, P0757, P0894.
Solution: Rebuild or replace the valve body.

TSB 08-07-30-015 – Chevrolet Silverado 3500 4L80E
Problem: Harsh shifts, delayed 2-3 shifts, 2-3 shift flare, no 3rd gear, slips in 3rd gear or reverse. Possible DTC 0757.
Solution: If none of the issues described in Bulletin 08-07-30-001 are present (debris in #11 checkball, leak in oil circuit, damage to the direct clutch), then replace the 2-3 shift solenoid due to a possible sticking pintle.

TSB PI488C – No forward or reverse and/or slipping – 6L80 Transmission | 6L90 Transmission
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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.

TSB 14043 – Thrust bearing failure – Allison 1000 Transmission
2012 Chevy Silverado HD – 2012 GMC Sierra HD
Problem:
Certain 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD / 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD and 2012 GMC Sierra 2500HD / 2012 GMC Sierra 3500HD trucks equipped with the Allison 1000 6-speed automatic transmission (MW7), may have been built with an incorrect transmission thrust bearing. Over time, this bearing could fail, resulting in noise and poor transmission operation.
Solution:
The bearing should be replaced with GM part # 29531106

TSB PIP3598C – Intermittent ratio codes or range inhibit – Allison 1000 Transmission
2007 – 2012 Chevrolet Silverado – 2001 – 2007 Chevrolet Silverado Classic – 2007 – 2012 GMC Sierra – 2001 – 2007 GMC Sierra Classic – 4WD Only
Problem – Drivers may experience intermittent no forward or reverse condition, the possibility of a flashing PRNDL display or a “range shift inhibited” message in the driver information center with no saved DTCs. Another possible symptom includes the following DTCs: P0729, P0731, P0732, P0733, P0734, P0735 & P0736
Solution – These Allison 1000 transmission problems may be caused by either an input speed sensor and or output speed sensor issue. The problem could also be caused by a mechanical issue inside of the four-wheel-drive transfer case like a worn bushing.

TSB 14308 – Leak at transmission cooler
2008 Chevy Silverado HD – 2008 GMC Sierra HD
Problem – Diesel powered 2008 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD / 2008 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD and 2008 GMC Sierra 2500HD / 2008 GMC Sierra 3500HD trucks equipped with the Allison 1000 6-speed automatic transmission (RPO MW7), may have a condition in which increased transmission oil cooling circuit pressure may cause transmission fluid to weep or leak. This loss of fluid occurs near the transmission cooler at the crimp joints on the metal ends of the cooler line where it joins the rubber hose. The increased oil cooling circuit pressure typically occurs while driving in extremely low temperatures.
Solution – Inspect and replace cooler lines if necessary.

TSB 04-07-30-018A – 2001-2006 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD Allison 1000
Problem – In cold climates, it may not be possible to shift the transmission after operating it in snow, slush, or icy conditions. This is likely due to ice buildup around the shift cable-to-manual shaft connection.
Solution – Install an aftermarket transmission shield.

TSB 06-07-30-013 – 2006 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD Allison 1000
Problem – Owners may experience a shudder occurs in 6th gear in 4Hi between 46 mph (74 km/h) and 49 mph (79 km/h).
Solution – Reprogram the TCM with TIS version 6.0 or higher.

TSB 08-07-30-049A – 2006-2007 Chevrolet Silverado Classic 2500 Allison 1000 & 2007-2009 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD Allison 1000
Problem – ATF leak coming from one of the transmission cooler lines.
Solution – Replace lines with updated design: GM Part #’s 20759971 (upper), 20759972 (lower), 20759971 (hose).

TSB 10-07-30-008A – 2006-2010 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD Allison 1000
Problem – Owners may experience a failure to shift into overdrive, or a 4-5 shift flare. Possible DTC P0777 or P0735.
Solution – Inspect and possibly replace the 3rd, 5th, and reverse clutch piston.

PIP4290A – 2007-2013 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD Allison 1000
Problem – Owners may experience stalling or surging when stopped with the transmission in gear. Possible DTC P0742.
Solution – Inspect and replace the TCC solenoid and valve inside the valve body.

Common Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Transmission Problems

Solenoid DTC’s – Chevrolet Silverado 3500 6L90
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?

Many Chevrolet Silverado 3500 transmission problems will start out small, and many people will choose to continue driving until it’s convenient to have the repair made. But doing that is the financial version of playing Russian roulette. If the transmission problem turns out to be no big deal, then you are fine. However if the problem grows, or creates new problems, then you could be staring down the barrel of a really big repair bill.

How often does a Chevy Silverado 3500 HD transmission need to be replaced?

Obviously, the way you drive and take care of your truck has a lot to do with how long your gearbox will last. The average lifespan of a stock Silverado 3500HD transmission we’ve seen is:
4L80E – 120,000-180,000 miles
6L90 – 130,000-200,000 miles
Allison 1000 – 160,000-220,000 miles

However, if you invest is a remanufactured Silverado 3500 transmission that has had all of the factory design flaws addressed, you could get considerably more mileage.

How are Chevy Silverado 3500 HD transmission issues diagnosed?

Diagnosing most Chevrolet Silverado 3500 transmission problems is a fairly simple affair; plug a diagnostic computer into the OBDII port under the dash, read the diagnostic trouble codes, verify the source of the problem with a visual inspection. Sometimes however, a mechanic may have to put their sleuthing skills to the test if there are no DTC’s related to the problem.

How is a Chevy Silverado 3500 HD transmission replaced?

Because it’s a RWD/4WD, body – on – frame truck, replacing a Chevrolet Silverado 3500 transmission isn’t all that complicated. Once the driveshaft has been removed, the transmission can be unbolted from the engine and frame, then lowered to the ground. Installation is the reverse of that procedure. However, the ECU/TCM will need to be reprogrammed to accept the new transmission.

Recommendations for Chevy Silverado 3500 HD 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 Silverado 3500 HD transmission here, then find a local shop using our Find a Shop guide to install it for you.

How to Solve Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Transmission Problems

Solution A: Buy a Used Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Transmission

The quickest way to fix your transmission problems is to simply buy a used transmission or used transmission. These can be found at most junk yards, and they often come with a 30-90 day warranty. However, there’s no way to determine the actual condition of the internal components, so you could be spending a bunch of money to have the exact same problems. Plus, that warranty only covers the transmission if it’s defective, not the labor costs that you’ll have to pay.

Solution B: Buy a Rebuilt Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Transmission

Another option would be a rebuilt transmission or rebuilt transmission. A local repair shop will remove your transmission, then install a bunch of new parts during the rebuild. The problem here is, the skills and experience of each transmission rebuilder will vary widely from shop to shop, so you could have problems from something that wasn’t adjusted properly. And the 1-2 year warranty might only cover you at certain transmission repair shops, in a specific geographical area.

Solution C: Buy a Remanufactured Chevy Silverado 3500 HD Transmission

Many owners depend on their vehicle to commute and get things done. Their gasoline engines are designed to go 100’s of thousands of miles, so it makes sense to invest in a remanufactured transmission.

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 Silverado 3500 HD 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!