Chevy Silverado is one of the most popular full-size pickups in the United States.
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It's ranked high in consumer satisfaction and offers an abundance of exterior and interior customization alternatives to suit individual preferences.
While Silverado is a reliable vehicle, it has its fair share of problems that mostly include transmission issues.
If you're the owner of a 2016 Chevy Silverado, then you may have been experiencing some transmission problems as of late.
In this article, we'll provide you with all the information you need to troubleshoot and repair your truck's transmission. We'll also discuss the costs associated with doing so.
Chevy Silverado: History & Background
Chevy Silverado is the successor of the Chevy C/K pickup truck produced by General Motors (GM) since 1973.
It was first introduced as a sub-model of Chevrolet C/K and later evolved into its model in 1999.
Trucks under the Silverado nameplate are manufactured at GM's Silao Assembly Plant in Mexico and Fort Wayne Assembly Plant in Indiana.
The first generation of Silverado was replaced by its successor, the GMT900, which launched back in September 2003.
According to the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI), Silverado is one of the top five most satisfying vehicles among all brands available for purchase today.
What are the different transmission options in Chevy Silverado?
Chevy Silverado is the only full-size pickup truck in its segment that offers a choice of two transmissions, both being automatic: 4L85E and 6L80.
4L85E transmission was a 4-speed electronically-controlled automatic gearbox, while the 6L80 transmission was a 6-speed electronic gearbox.
The 6L80 transmission was available in the Vortec 6.0-liter gasoline engine or Duramax 6.6-liter LWN diesel engine, while 4L85E was only offered with the standard 5.3-liter gasoline engine (with E85 capabilities).
The 2016 Chevy Silverado did not offer both versions; the only choice was the 6L80 transmission.
Transmission Problems in 2016 Chevy Silverado: Troubleshoot, Repairs & Costs
While Chevy Silverado is considered a reliable vehicle, it has its fair share of problems that mostly include transmission issues.
If you're the owner of a 2016 Chevy Silverado, then you may have been experiencing some transmission problems as of late.
here are the top 10 Transmission Problems in 2016 Chevy Silverado:
#1. Hard shifting
Hard and abrupt upshifts or downshifts; delayed acceleration; noises coming from the gearbox.
This problem is usually caused by faulty hydraulic pressure modulator assembly inside the transmission. The issue can be resolved by replacing this part with a redesigned one. Such replacement shouldn't cost you more than $500, but it may still be a costly repair in the long run.
#2. Slow response to gas pedal input
This problem is usually caused by a faulty transmission control module (TCM) or transmission pressure modulator valve assembly. These two parts are responsible for regulating oil flow inside the gearbox, so when either of them fails, they affect your vehicle's speed and acceleration.
The TCM is a $500 part, while the pressure modulator valve can cost you up to $1,000 if it must be replaced with a new one.
#3. Decreased power and fuel economy
This happens when either of these parts isn't working properly: internal control module (ICM) or throttle position sensor (TPS).
ICM is responsible for sending electronic signals to the transmission control module, while the throttle position sensor helps with adjusting spark timing. Replacing either of these parts will cost you approximately $150-$350, depending on your vehicle's make and model year.
#4. Rough shifting
Electronic problems or faulty solenoids generally cause rough gear changes.
When diagnosing the problem, most technicians check the vehicle's fuel pressure and temperature sensors, wiring harness connectors, PCM power output stage, throttle position sensor, and transmission control module. All of these components cost less than $150 and can be replaced in a matter of minutes if you know what you're doing.
#5. Noisy gear shifts
Gear changes accompanied by high-pitched noises usually indicate failed synchronizers — either 2nd gear or 3rd gear — while clunking sounds point out to defective band apply assembly (which doesn't require replacement unless broken). While very costly to repair—up to $1,500 per component–this problem shouldn't be a deal-breaker for most car shoppers.
#6. Poor shifting
If your vehicle's transmission is having trouble shifting gears, the problem may lie with worn-out synchronizers or defective band apply assembly (which doesn't require replacement unless broken).
The repair cost will depend on the number and severity of problems you're facing; repairs should not go beyond $700 under normal circumstances.
#7. The vehicle won't start
When this happens, you are likely to have flooded your engine because of faulty spark plugs or ignition control modules since these parts work closely together when providing fuel to the engine. Replacing either could cost you around $200-$450 in labor charges alone. If this isn't the case, the problem could be with your transmission.
The most common symptoms include vehicle failed to start after being driven, battery drainage, the vehicle won't crank up or start but stalls right away.
Most of these issues are caused by faulty solenoids that create a voltage when the gear shifter is parked. While most vehicles have two solenoids on their transmission, you will need to replace whichever one failed in your Silverado for about $400-$850 each.
#8. Transmission error codes popping up
There are several possible reasons for this–ranging from a faulty throttle position sensor (TPS) to bad TCM or PCM–so troubleshooting can be a bit difficult without an experienced technician's help. However, calibration should do the trick and cost you less than $100.
#9. Transmission fluid leaks
As a rule of thumb, if your car is leaking transmission fluid, then you should have it inspected as soon as possible. If the problem is with the line pressure control solenoid, for example, you'll need to replace it with any other parts that might be damaged by constant exposure to fluids.
However, other leaks can be repaired without replacing the whole unit. For example, replacing a transmission pan gasket could cost you as little as $30 even if you do it on your own, while a complete overhaul (which includes replacing several other parts) should cost no more than $700-$800.
#10. Erratic shifting patterns
Odd gear changes are usually caused by a faulty throttle position sensor or TCM. If you feel comfortable working on your car yourself, both can be replaced for less than $200 in labor charges, but it's best to leave transmission repairs to professionals unless you know what you're doing.
Are there any transmission-related recalls for the 2016 Chevy Silverado?
No. Unfortunately, there are no recalls for your particular vehicle at this time.
What is a good price to pay for a new transmission in the 2016 Chevy Silverado?
The average cost of new transmission in 2016 Chevy Silverado ranges from $1637-$2318. Labor costs add up to an additional $1135 on top of that.
How difficult is it to replace a transmission in the 2016 Chevy Silverado?
Replacing your transmission can be extremely easy if you're well-versed in automotive technology and have the appropriate tools for the job–it's not rocket science, after all. On the other hand, if you're not one hundred percent certain about what you're doing, then it may be a good idea to seek professional assistance.
How reliable are transmissions in 2016 Chevy Silverado?
Chevy's automatic transmissions have received widespread acclaim for their outstanding dependability and durability. Faulty solenoids cause most problems, so if you maintain your transmission properly, you should expect it to serve you well for at least 200,000 miles.
How to prevent purchasing a used 2016 Chevy Silverado with transmission problems?
Unfortunately, there is no surefire way to tell if the previous owner of your Silverado has abused its transmission. Keep in mind that faulty solenoids cause most problems, so checking for this particular problem is always a good idea. If you hire an experienced mechanic to inspect your car before purchase, they should be able to tell you if the transmission has been abused.
Are there any other problems with the 2016 Chevy Silverado?
Yes. The fuel pump is the most common issue, so you should check it out before purchasing. If you notice that your vehicle has trouble starting or stalls after driving for a few minutes, then you may need to replace your fuel pump assembly.
Fuel pumps are quite expensive, but they shouldn't cost more than $500-$700. On the other hand, if you don't mind sending your pump to the recycling yard, you should be able to do it for less than $50.
The second problem area is axle assembly. This doesn't affect safety but could cost you a lot of time and money down the line. If one of your half-shafts is defective, you'll have to replace it–and given the fact that both of them are integral parts of your axle assembly, you'll have to get rid of it altogether. You may be able to find a used or refurbished axle assembly for under $300, but a new one should cost no more than $400-$500.
How to prevent transmission problems in 2016 Chevy Silverado?
Most transmission problems can be avoided by performing regular maintenance on your car. Always keep in mind that the older a vehicle gets, the more difficult it is to repair–so if something feels off about your car from the moment you buy it, don't hesitate to go back and request a refund.
More specifically, here are some tips to prevent premature transmission problems in 2016 Chevy Silverado:
- Check your transmission fluid level regularly (especially if it's an older model)
- Have the TCM (transmission control module, which controls shift points and other related factors) calibrated every 30,000 miles or so
- Keep your car properly maintained by getting it serviced at an authorized dealer as often as possible
- Avoid driving at high speeds for extended periods as this puts added strain on the torque converter and entire drivetrain.
- If you feel any vibration or shudder when accelerating, have your car checked out right away – otherwise, you might need a transmission overhaul.
Is it worth fixing the 2016 Chevy Silverado transmission problems?
If you're a DIY type of person, then a bad transmission might be something that interests you.
If you know what you're doing and have the right tools for the job, replacing a failed solenoid can cost as little as $30 even if you do it on your own, while a complete overhaul (includes replacing several other parts) costs around $1500.
On the other hand, it is always a good idea to leave transmission-related repairs to professionals unless you're sure about what you're doing.
Which 2016 Chevy Silverado models experience transmission problems?
Chevy Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 are both known for having automatic transmissions that tend to fail early in the car's lifespan. However, keep in mind that faulty solenoids cause most problems, so it is a good idea to have them replaced regardless of the year or mileage of your vehicle.
Who buys the 2016 Chevy Silverado with transmission problems?
People who intend to buy a used car regardless of its condition often choose to buy one with transmission issues. Keep in mind that faulty solenoids cause most problems, so if you can find a low-mileage Silverado with an intact torque converter, then there is no need to get the transmission overhauled before you purchase it.
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Conclusion
Transmission problems in 2016 Chevy Silverado can be difficult to troubleshoot and repair. Fortunately, we have provided you with all the information necessary so that your transmission is guaranteed not to fail you anytime soon.
Whether it's a faulty throttle position sensor or TCM (transmission control module) causing erratic shifting patterns, an old transmission pan gasket is leaking fluid into your engine compartment due to age, or just general wear-and-tear from everyday driving–we've got tips for everything!