This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on the steps to diagnose and repair vehicles that may have a Service Engine Soon Malfunction Indicator Lamp on at low mileage. Technician may find Diagnostic Trouble Codes P0420 and or P0430 stored. Technician should be advised that the catalytic converter efficiency Diagnostic Trouble Codes P0420 and P0430 are disabled for the first hour of engine run time to allow break-in of the catalytic converter. Technician will need to use a Tech2 to check the verify engine run time on the Engine Hour Meter in the Instrument Panel Cluster Data Display/Data 1 List in the scan tool match. If the engine run time is less tha
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2016 Chevrolet Silverado powertrain problems
moderate 177 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $2,500 · see powertrain across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
177
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
1crash
When does it fail?
Of the 177 powertrain complaints filed for the 2016 Chevrolet Silverado, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 0-25,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Owners have filed 177 powertrain complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
Powertrain accounts for 22% of all owner complaints filed against this vehicle, across 12 categories tracked.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering powertrain on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
This technical bulletin provides a procedure to reprogram the transmission control module to correct a firm garage shift, start up clunk, and DTC P16F3 condition
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This informational buleltin provides information on Transmission Adaptive Functions and Correcting Low Mileage Harsh Shifts, Slips, or Flares and information on transmission fast learns
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This technical bulletin provides a procedure on replacing the stator shaft support for vehicles with the condition of a delayed engagement after sitting with the engine off.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
The 2016 Silverado powertrain is plagued by recurring transmission faults. The 8L90 and 6L80 transmissions exhibit shuddering, hard shifts from 1st to 2nd gear, and sudden loss of power on highways—sometimes with no warning lights. Multiple owners had transmissions rebuilt or replaced, only to see identical failures months or thousands of miles later. Torque converter failure is widespread; metal debris in the transmission pan is common. Dealers acknowledge the 1st-to-2nd shift harshness as a known issue with no fix. Transmission fluid changes haven't resolved slipping or jerking. Several owners lost all forward drive while merging onto freeways or descending grades—creating serious safety risks.
Engine problems compound the issue. The Active Fuel Management (AFM) system that cycles between 8 and 4 cylinders causes lifter wear and failure, sometimes resulting in sudden power loss and $5,600+ repair bills. One owner's engine rebuild at 103,000 miles revealed three broken lifters.
Braking feels soft or unresponsive in several complaints; vacuum pump failure and multiple brake pad replacements haven't fixed the issue. A few owners report the 'Chevy Shake'—severe vibration at 70–75 mph—that persists even after tire balancing and dealer service bulletins.
Owners report dealerships stating Chevrolet won't fix known issues and some blame EPA regulations for blocking software repairs. Warranty coverage expires at 60,000 miles for transmission; repairs beyond that are out-of-pocket.
Same Chevrolet Silverado powertrain reports on nearby years: 2013 · 2014 · 2015 · 2017 · 2018
Failure modes owners describe
8L90 Torque Converter Shudder, Slipping, and Hard Shifts
The 8L90 transmission torque converter exhibits persistent shuddering, transmission slipping, hard jerking downshifts, and erratic surging under acceleration. Owners report the truck feels like it is misfiring during merges and acceleration, with abrupt downshifts that feel like being hit from behind. Multiple repair attempts including torque converter replacement, transmission fluid flush/fill, and full transmission replacement have failed to resolve the issue in many cases.
When: Starting around 24,000–28,000 miles; symptoms persist across mileage ranges up to 151,000+ miles
Symptoms owners cite: Transmission shuddering and hard downshifts; Erratic transmission slipping and surging under acceleration; Hesitation and jerking during merging and uphill driving; Abrupt downshift feels like vehicle is struck from behind; Poor acceleration response at low speeds
Codes mentioned: P0711 (Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor), P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction)
Repairs/costs cited: Drain/flush and fill of transmission fluid ($300); torque converter replacement ($2,956); full transmission replacement recommended; owners report repairs have not resolved the issue
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Multiple torque converter replacements under warranty; dealer service bulletins; owners report dealer has stated Chevrolet has no intention of fixing the known problem; some coverage limited to 6.2L engines only (GM special coverage N192291660)
Complete Transmission Failure with Internal Damage
Transmission experiences sudden complete loss of drive or severely limited power output, often accompanied by internal gear and clutch pack failure, metal debris in pan, or transmission pump failure. Failures occur without warning at highway speeds, forcing drivers to coast to shoulder or requiring towing. At least one owner experienced this twice on the same vehicle.
When: 32,000 miles (first occurrence); 92,000+ miles on replacement; range from 37,900 to 160,000 miles reported
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden loss of forward drive or severely limited acceleration (stuck at 20–28 mph or 1st gear only); Engine revs but no power transfer to wheels; Grinding or loud pop sounds during failure; Check engine light illuminates after failure occurs; Transmission fluid pan full of metal shavings or flakes; Violent jerking during restart attempt
Codes mentioned: P0796 (Pressure Control Solenoid C Performance or Stuck), P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction)
Repairs/costs cited: Transmission rebuild or replacement; costs range $4,500–$8,000+ depending on warranty coverage; owner at 98,000 miles paid $4,500 for GM rebuilt 6L-80
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: One owner's replacement transmission (Nov 2021) failed again with identical issue; dealership rebuilt same vehicle; warranty expires at 60,000 miles for most owners
Inappropriate Downshifting and Gear Selection Logic
Transmission programming keeps vehicle in high gears (5th or 6th) at low city speeds (25–30 mph), causing 'chugging' under light throttle load. When driver accelerates from standstill or attempts merges, transmission fails to downshift appropriately or experiences dangerous hesitation, creating risk of collision. Two owners reported near T-bone accidents due to lack of power during merge attempts.
When: Present from as early as 300 miles and second week of ownership; ongoing throughout ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Engine chugging/misfire-like feeling under acceleration in high gears at low speeds; Delayed downshift response during acceleration from stop or low speed; Dangerous loss of acceleration during merge attempts (truck 'falls flat on its face'); Erratic throttle response; truck surges at 100% throttle when it finally engages; Transmission cannot decide which gear to engage
Repairs/costs cited: Dealers confirm it is a programming issue but state there is no fix from GM due to EPA regulations; aftermarket tuners can address issue but void warranty
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealer diagnosed as 'programming issue' with no available fix; GM directs owners to call dealership with no resolution; owners report GM will not provide fix due to EPA constraints
Transmission Slipping on Hills and Grade Changes
Transmission slips out of gear when descending hills or encountering grade changes, causing RPM to spike to 4.5–5.5K with no acceleration response. Engine revs remain high even when braking is applied, forcing owner to coast until gear engagement is restored. Owner reports this occurred 6+ times in same drive and on subsequent test after purchase.
When: First reported on trip to Moab, Utah; recurred on subsequent hill descent; occurs at 2,000+ miles out of warranty
Symptoms owners cite: RPM increases to 4.5–5.5K but vehicle does not accelerate; Unable to shift out of slipped gear; braking does not lower RPM; Gear slipping specifically following hill descents; Occasional gear clunks reported since purchase (2017)
Repairs/costs cited: No repairs documented; owner cannot check transmission fluid level in this model
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealership (2017) stated 'that is not a problem'; no recall issued; no TSB found
Hard 1st-to-2nd Gear Shift at Low Speeds
Transmission shifts from 1st to 2nd gear with extreme force, both on upshift and downshift, creating jarring sensation that passengers interpret as vehicle being struck from behind. Downshift can cause unintended forward lurch, raising concern about hitting vehicles ahead. Shuddering extends into first few gears. Issue is known to dealers; at least one chief mechanic confirmed it is a known problem with no manufacturer fix.
When: Present since early purchase (early 2017); ongoing at 63,000+ miles and beyond
Symptoms owners cite: Extremely hard 1st-to-2nd gear shift on upshift and downshift; Jarring sensation feels like vehicle struck from behind; Downshift causes forward lurch/lunge; Shuddering through first few gears; Dangerous delay in gear engagement during acceleration into traffic
Repairs/costs cited: Service visits (5+) at dealership; torque converter replaced at 58,000 miles under warranty; same issue recurred at 63,000 miles when warranty expired (60,000-mile limit)
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Chief mechanic stated Chevrolet has 'no intention of fixing' the known problem; warranty limited to 100,000 miles for some components but 60,000 miles for transmission; Chevrolet 'has moved on from that transmission'
Transmission Solenoid and Electrical Failures
Transmission solenoid pack and electrical control modules fail, causing transmission to malfunction or refusing to shift properly. Pressure control solenoid C failure is documented. Transmission temperature sensor wiring harness failures occur, though manufacturer special coverage (N192291660) only applies to 6.2L engines despite same 8L90 transmission being used in 5.3L engines.
When: Mileage varies: 45,000 miles (solenoid); 52,000 miles (temperature sensor); 87,000+ miles reported
Symptoms owners cite: Transmission will not shift properly or stay out of gear; Vehicle shaking and vibration with transmission lights on; Check engine light illuminated; Rear wheels lock up; Burning rubber odor from tires; Loss of motive power with no warning lights; Temperature sensor provides erroneous readings (e.g., 20°F on 80°F day) or wild swings
Codes mentioned: P0796 (Pressure Control Solenoid C Performance or Stuck), P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction), P0711 (Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor A Circuit)
Repairs/costs cited: Transmission solenoid replacement; transmission wiring harness replacement; fluid additions attempted without lasting resolution
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM special coverage notice N192291660 issued for transmission wiring harness, but limited to 6.2L engines only; 5.3L owners with same transmission not covered; manufacturer referred some owners to NHTSA to report
Chevy Shake—Severe Driveline Vibration
Severe under-seat driveline vibration at highway speeds (69–79 mph, most prevalent 70–75 mph) causes driver distraction and safety concerns. Vibration felt throughout vehicle and is described as intense enough to be startling. GM issued service bulletin PI1354C but owners report no improvement after following recommended procedures. Issue documented in 2014–2015 models and continues in 2016.
When: Present at early mileage (340 miles reported); affects vehicles at 1,345 miles onward
Symptoms owners cite: Severe driveline vibration at 69–79 mph, most prominent 70–75 mph; Vibration felt through seat and entire vehicle; Causes driver distraction and safety concerns; Vibration felt at 65–70 mph and above; May be related to wheels, driveshaft, or transmission
Repairs/costs cited: Tire rebalancing attempted; road force balance attempted; picoscope and axle inspection considered; GM service bulletin PI1354C recommended but did not resolve issue; owners paid out-of-pocket for TSB work
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM issued service bulletin PI1354C; no recall issued despite documented complaints in forums; one owner filed GM case 82405350103
Erratic Braking with Transmission/Powertrain Issues
Brakes fail to engage properly or become soft, requiring excessive pedal pressure to stop vehicle. In some cases, brakes fail during backing or low-speed maneuvers. Multiple brake pad replacements (GM, Raybestos, NAPA ceramic, O'Reilly) have not resolved the issue. Vacuum pump failure identified in at least one case. Some complaints also mention traction control and ABS issues concurrent with transmission problems.
When: As early as 1,345 miles (brake vibration); ongoing at various mileages up to 98,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Soft brakes requiring excessive pedal pressure; Increased stopping distance despite pad replacements; Brakes fail to stop vehicle adequately; More prevalent during backing or reversing; Brake pedal depresses further than normal; Squealing brake noise with ceramic pads; Vehicle occasionally pulls left or right when braking
Repairs/costs cited: Multiple brake pad replacements (GM, Raybestos, NAPA ceramic, O'Reilly) without resolution; vacuum pump replacement ($X unknown); new brake pads, rotors replaced
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM issued document PIT5361D but did not issue recall; vacuum pump replacement not covered under warranty; one dealer advised disabling ABS and traction control to improve performance
Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failures
Engine lifters fail due to AFM (Active Fuel Management) system that cycles engine between 8 cylinders and 4 cylinders during coasting and idling. Lifter wear causes engine power loss and noise. At least one owner lost engine power mid-drive and required engine rebuild costing $5,600. GM discontinued AFM in 2022+ models, acknowledging the issue. Dealership service advisors confirm repeated incidents of lifter failure.
When: At approximately 103,000 miles and other mileage points; one case at 103,000 miles required full engine rebuild with 3 broken lifters
Symptoms owners cite: Check engine light with blinking severity; Loss of engine power, sometimes sudden and dangerous; Loud clunking sound from engine; Engine operates rough; AFM system cycles between 8 and 4 cylinders during normal driving
Repairs/costs cited: Full engine rebuild required; costs approximately $5,600–$6,000+; one owner had lifter repair documentation
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM discontinued AFM system in 2022+ model years, indicating awareness of the problem; dealership service advisors acknowledge seeing this problem 'on multiple occasions' but no recall issued
Hesitation, Jerking, and Rough Shifts During Acceleration
Transmission hesitates or shifts roughly when accelerating, creating dangerous delay in power delivery during traffic merges and accelerations. Multiple hard jerks or clunking sounds accompany gear changes. Some owners report this occurs even after transmission fluid changes (up to three different batches of fluid). Dealers attribute it to transmission learning shift patterns, but issue persists.
When: As early as 30,000–40,000 miles; ongoing throughout ownership at 38,000–98,000+ miles
Symptoms owners cite: Hesitation or delay in acceleration response; Rough or jerky shifts during acceleration; Hard clunking sound during gear changes; Dangerous delay when merging into traffic or making left turns across oncoming traffic; Vehicle lunges forward during acceleration
Repairs/costs cited: Transmission fluid changes (up to three different batches); dealers recommend 'relearning' shift patterns; no lasting resolution reported
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealers told owners transmission is 'just relearning shift patterns from day one' and in some cases 'that's just how the truck works'; GM offers only fluid changes; no TSB or recall
Synthesized from 177 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 6 most recent
The 2016 silverado has a programming issue for the transmission. When I drive under a load going up a hill it chugs like I have a miss fire issue. The programming is set so it stays in the highest gear for to long when driving in city conditions. It stays in 6th gear going 25-30mph and when you need the throttle. The transmission can't decide which gear to be in. On two different occasions I went…
Common issue with these trucks shudders while driving on highway Current lawsuit for same problem
Transmission shudder occurred at highway speeds in september 2017. Gm technicians said they could not find it. Shudder spread to all speeds - especially at low speeds going uphill. Truck would lurch forward from gear to gear and generally run with a constant vibration. In december 2017 gm technician replicated the problem and diagnosed it as a malfunctioning torque converter. I am now…
Transmission 6 speed is acting crazy by jumping without giving it gas, stalling , transmission is garbage
Transmission slipping, it shudders really bad at times, I’ve already replaced the transmissions twice. It’s ridiculous
Tl* the contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet silverado 1500. While driving approximately 70 MPH, the vehicle suddenly failed to accelerate. The vehicle was towed to dublin Chevrolet (2046 veterans blvd, dublin, ga) where it was diagnosed that metal shavings from the torque converter damaged the transmission and the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer…
Had powertrain trouble with your 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the powertrain problem on the 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 177 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $2,500 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the powertrain typically fail?
Across the 69 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most powertrain failures cluster between 34,000 and 96,000 miles, with the median around 66,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 34,000; a quarter make it past 96,000. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $2,500 for powertrain repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to powertrain?
No active recalls currently cover powertrain issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2016/Chevrolet/Silverado.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.