What Are the Most Common 4L60E Transmission Problems? (5 Warning Signs)
By
Vroomouk
In this brief guide, we are going to provide you with the common 4L60E transmission problems and what you can do to rectify these problems before they worsen.
4L60E transmissions manufactured by General Motors in the 1990s were made to replace and upgrade existing 720R4 transmissions. This type of transmission became quite popular and was used in many different vehicles. We’ll mention a few common problems with these transmissions.
What are the common 4L60E transmission problems?
Most of the common 4L60E transmission problems are:
- Slow, slipping or no reverse
- Unable to 1-2 shift at high throttle input
- 3rd or 4th gear shift failure
- Sudden grinding noise
- Torque Converter Clutch engagement/disengagement failure
Why is slow, slipping or no reverse a 4L60E transmission problem?
Because you wouldn’t want your 4L60E transmission to be responding slow or slip when put into drive. Also, sometimes the transmission is unable to go into reverse which is a problem with the 4L60E.
What signs are shown as a result of this 4L60E transmission problem?
Generally, you sense while driving if the car is responding slow to your throttle input or slipping when you press the pedal. Also, when put in reverse, the car just won’t move indicating a problem.
How to fix this 4L60E transmission problem?
The clutch of the transmission can be checked for wear and tear and also the transmission fluid can be checked and replace it if it is also worn out. These are the most common solutions to the slipping problem.
Why is unable to 1-2 shift at high throttle input a 4L60E transmission problem?
You would want a seamless and smooth shift even at low throttle input, so if your 4L60E transmission is unable to shift from 1st to 2nd gear even at high throttle then there is definitely a problem.
What signs are shown as a result of this 4L60E transmission problem?
You would immediately notice and sense if the 4L60E transmission is unable to shift from 1st to 2nd gear as these are the most important gears to start moving the vehicle.
How to fix this 4L60E transmission problem?
Firstly try replacing the transmission pressure sensor, if that doesn’t work then check for an oil leak in the servo assembly of the 2nd gear. These are primarily two fixes for this problem.
Why is 3rd or 4th gear shift failure a 4L60E transmission problem?
While driving on road if you experience a difficulty or complete failure while shifting from 3rd to 4th gear then your 4L60E transmission is surely having problems.
What signs are shown as a result of this 4L60E transmission problem?
While driving you will surely notice the shifting difficulty and in worst case complete failure for this problem. As this is a shifting failure, only while driving at the set speed and rpm you will notice this problem.
How to fix this 4L60E transmission problem?
Usually clutches are worn out and need to be replaced to solve this problem. Also in other cases it has been seen that clutch assemblies can be removed and rebuilt to solve this issue.
Why is Sudden grinding noise a 4L60E transmission problem?
These 4L60E transmissions are not manufactured to make such unpleasant noises and if you are hearing such grinding noise while driving then you immediately check with your mechanic as this might be a serious issue.
What signs are shown as a result of this 4L60E transmission problem?
You will hear these noises while driving and will be very unpleasant to your ears which can be taken as a sign that the transmission is having some problem.
How to fix this 4L60E transmission problem?
Normally this sound means that the sunshell within the differential assembly needs to be replaced as it might be fractured. The entire differential assembly must be removed and rebuilt to fix this problem.
Why is torque converter clutch engagement/disengagement failure a 4L60E transmission problem?
If your torque converter or if you are not getting the desired response when you release the brake and press the throttle pedal then you are most definitely experiencing torque converter engagement or disengagement problems.
What signs are shown as a result of this 4L60E transmission problem?
Firstly you would be unable to stop the car when releasing the throttle pedal for disengagement problem and secondly for engagement from even if you press too much throttle the car will not move forward.
How to fix this 4L60E transmission problem?
If the clutch of the torque converter is worn out then you need to replace it or else the solenoid might be broken which also might need replacing. In the worst case the entire assembly needs to be replaced if the state of the torque converter is beyond repair.
How to diagnose these common 4L60E transmission problems precisely?
As most of these problems can be felt while driving you can tell immediately the cause of the problem. If you want to pinpoint the cause then you can use a software diagnostic tool to be plugged into your transmission control unit but it is recommended to use one as written in the manual.
How to prevent getting these problems in the first place?
To prevent these problems you should also change the transmission oil as recommended by the car company and for 4L60E it is after about 30,000 miles. Also, you should service your vehicle at the recommended time or after specified miles from the previous one.
FAQs: 4L60E transmission problems
How long does a 4L60E transmission last?
The transmission can last around 250-300k Km and further it should be rebuilt if its original. Although Reverse was sort of finicky, every now and then it would slip but had a good life.
Why is my 4L60E transmission slipping?
Because of mainly low fluid level or a slipping torque converter clutch, or slipping clutch or band within the transmission. This is a common issue with many GM vehicles using the 4L60E transmission, and the odds are high it will not require overhaul.
Conclusion
In this brief guide, we have provided you with the common 4L60E transmission problems and what you can do to rectify these problems before they worsen.
If you have any questions or comments please let us know.
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