List of Chevy 6 Speed Automatic Transmission Problems (5+ Warning Signs)

In this brief guide, we are going to provide you with the common Chevy 6 speed automatic transmission problems and what you can do to rectify these problems before they worsen.

6L80 transmissions which are also commonly known as Chevy 6 speed transmissions manufactured by General Motors in 2006 were designed for RWD and AWD/4WD applications. 

This type of transmission had features such as clutch-to-clutch operation with a wide gear ratio for optimum performance and efficiency. We’ll mention a few common problems with these transmissions.

What are the common problems with Chevy 6 speed automatic transmission?

Most of the common problems with Chevy 6 speed automatic transmission are:

  • Harsh or slow shifting
  • Failure to engage gears
  • Gear slipping
  • Transmission overheating
  • Shaking and shuddering
  • Reverse gear engagement issue

Why is harsh or slow shifting a problem with Chevy 6 speed automatic transmissions?

You would want a seamless and smooth shift even at low throttle input, so if your Chevy 6 speed automatic transmission is shifting harshly or slow even at high throttle then there is definitely a problem.

What signs are shown by this Chevy 6 speed automatic transmission problem?

You would immediately notice and sense if the Chevy 6 speed automatic transmission is shifting harshly from one gear to another as this is one of most important issues with Chevy.

How to fix this Automatic 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 particular gear. These are primarily two fixes for this problem.

Why is failure to engage any gears a problem with Chevy 6 speed automatic transmissions?

As a gear is important for any vehicle and if a gear is not engaging as it should then there is definitely a problem with the Chevy 6 speed automatic transmission.

What signs are shown by this Chevy 6 speed automatic transmission problem?

If you are finding it difficult to engage or if the gear is not engaging at all then this can be taken as a sign that the transmission is not functioning well.

How to fix this automatic transmission problem?

The engagement problem can be fixed by visiting a mechanic checking if there is a problem with the mechanical part of the particular gear in the transmission. Also the shifting solenoids need to be checked and repaired.

Why is gear slipping a problem with Chevy 6 speed automatic transmissions?

Chevy 6 speed automatic transmission gear systems are not designed to slip and if you are experiencing slippage then it is definitely a sign of a problem with the mechanical components of the transmission.

What signs are shown by this Chevy 6 speed automatic transmission problem?

You will be able to hear the gear slip while driving and this would be a good sign if there is slipping. Also, an error code will be displayed if you use a diagnostic tool.

How to fix this automatic transmission problem?

The solenoids of the two gears might be worn out and need to be replaced. Also, there is a chance that these solenoids might also be broken. Rarely, complete mechanical failure occurs with these transmissions.

Why is transmission overheating a problem with Chevy 6 speed automatic transmissions?

Overheating would mean the transmission is operating at a temperature above its normal working temperature. This is why overheating is a problem of the Chevy 6 speed automatic transmission.

What signs are shown by this Chevy 6 speed automatic transmission problem?

A few common signs are slow response while accelerating and not getting the desired drive when needed. Also, you could see some sort of malfunction sign on the dashboard. 

How to fix this automatic transmission problem?

Check the transmission oil and its level. If it is too low then fill the required amount of oil in the transmission. If it is too dirty, then drain the entire oil from the transmission and fill it again.

Why is shaking and shuddering a problem with Chevy 6 speed automatic transmissions?

Because shaking and shuddering would mean the Chevy 6 speed automatic transmission is not functioning smoothly as automatic transmissions are designed for a smoother drive than manual. Therefore if you’re experiencing shuddering when you accelerate then it means you have a problem.

What signs are shown by this Chevy 6 speed automatic transmission problem?

Shuddering itself can be taken as a sign of this Chevy 6 speed automatic transmission problem because automatic transmissions are not meant to shudder when loaded or accelerated. 

How to fix this automatic transmission problem?

Visiting your trusted mechanic or service center at the earliest is possibly the only way to fix this issue as the weights that control the pulleys might be worn out and it requires experience and expertise to repair this problem.

Why is reverse gear engagement failure a problem with  Chevy 6 speed automatic transmissions?

As reverse gear is one of the most important gears in any vehicle and if the gear is not engaging at all then there is definitely a problem with the Chevy 6 speed automatic transmission.

What signs are shown by this Chevy 6 speed automatic transmission problem?

If the reverse gear is not engaging at all then this can be taken as a sign that the transmission is not functioning well.

How to fix this automatic transmission problem?

The shifting solenoids need to be checked and repaired also the engagement failure can be fixed by visiting a mechanic checking if there is a problem with the mechanical component or gear of the reverse gear in the transmission.

How to diagnose these common problems with Chevy 6 speed automatic transmission precisely?

To properly diagnose these problems, you need a scan tool to read these codes from the Transmission Control Unit. Firstly, If a Chevy transmission is malfunctioning, it immediately informs the driver with an error message on the screen. 

How to prevent getting these problems in the first place?

Regularly changing your gearbox oil and other lubricants may save you a lot of trouble and money in the future. Although many experts suggest different number miles for servicing, your car manual will give you a proper recommendation when you should change it. 

FAQs: Chevy 6 speed automatic transmission problems

Are Chevys known for transmission problems?

Yes, Chevy drivers have reported a range of transmission problems, most of which involve automatic transmissions, such as slipping between gears and cracks in the transmission housing.

What years did Chevy have transmission problems?

From 2012 to 2019, each Chevy Silverado year model was littered with issues. The 2012 and 2013 year models have more than a few reported issues each, mainly pertaining to faulty and transmissions.

Conclusion

In this brief guide, we have provided you with the common problems with Chevy 6 speed automatic transmission and what you can do to rectify these problems before they worsen.

If you have any questions or comments please let us know.

Citations:

https://www.capitol-chevy.com/service/information/7-signs-of-transmission-trouble.htm