Chevy SSR Transmission Problems & Cost

Birthed during that retro craze of the early 2000’s, the Chevrolet SSR was one of the most unique vehicles that General Motors ever made. It was half sports car and half pickup truck, with a retractable hardtop that was designed by Karmann and built by ASC. Power came from a selection of Chevy LS V8 engines, but the only gearbox available was the Chevy SSR 4L60E. Although it tends to be fairly reliable, Chevrolet 4L60E transmission problems do still happen. So let’s find out when 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 SSR Transmission Models

Chevy SSR: 4L60E Transmission

Chevy SSR 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:

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

Chevy SSR Transmission Recalls

None Found

Chevy SSR Technical Service Bulletins (TSB)

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.

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.

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.

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.

Common Chevy SSR Transmission Problems

Intermittent harsh shifting – Chevy SSR 4L60E
Problem – A common Chevrolet SSR 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?

Chevrolet SSR transmission problems are not to be taken lightly. The issue might be small enough that it feels like you could keep driving, but that could be a big mistake. As transmission parts break, they not only cause additional strain on other components, sometimes the debris can completely destroy the inside of a transmission. So do the smart thing and have an experienced mechanic diagnose the problem when it starts.

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

Maintenance and driving style have a lot to do with how long your Chevrolet SSR transmission will ultimately last. Factory design flaws play a part too, as premature component failure can cut the service life short. On average, we’ve seen the Chevy SSR transmission last for between 130,000-180,000 miles. However if you spring for a remanufactured Chevrolet SSR transmission, it could last considerably longer.

How are Chevy SSR transmission issues diagnosed?

Thanks to the miracle of computers, most Chevrolet SSR transmission problems can be diagnosed using an OBDII scan tool. However, a visual inspection and good old-fashioned mechanical know-how may be needed as well.

How is a Chevy SSR transmission replaced?

Although it is rear wheel drive, removing a Chevrolet SSR 4L60E transmission may be a bit challenging due to the dimensions of the chassis. But no matter the work space restrictions, you still have to unbolt it from the engine, driveshaft and frame. You’re also going to have to reprogram the ECU/TCM so it will accept the new gearbox.

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

How to Solve Chevy SSR Transmission Problems

Solution A: Buy a Used Chevy SSR Transmission

Buying a used 4L60E might seem like a financially wise decision at first. But with no way to know the actual condition of the internal transmission parts, you could be looking at even more transmission problems in the future. Plus, most junkyard warranties do not cover labor charges for repairs.

Solution B: Buy a Rebuilt Chevy SSR Transmission

Buying a rebuilt 4L60E is certainly a better option. But you’re relying on the skill of the mechanic that built it, which can drastically affect the actual service life that you will get. In addition, most rebuilt transmission warrantees are only good at the shop that built it. So if you go out of town and happen to have transmission problems, you might be paying that repair bill yourself.

Solution C: Buy a Remanufactured Chevy SSR Transmission

Compared to the previous two options, buying a remanufactured 4L60E is really your best bet. You see, most of these are built on an assembly line, using only OE spec or uprated parts. They may also be modified to correct for common factory design flaws, which can significantly improve the amount of mileage that you get from it. Plus, you may be able to get a nationwide warranty too.

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 SSR 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!