This Preliminary Information communication provides information and definitions to the technician about vehicles that have fishbite, chuggle, misfire, AFM disturbances or torque converter shudder/vibration concerns. Technician are advised to use PICO software to determine root cause of the concern. If torque converter shudder is confirmed technicians are referred to Torque Converter Diagnosis in SI.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2017 Chevrolet Silverado powertrain problems
moderate 212 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $2,500 · see powertrain across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
212
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
2fires
1injury
What stands out
Owners have filed 212 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.
Among the 21 model years of Chevrolet Silverado in our records for powertrain problems, this one ranks #2 by owner-complaint volume.
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 Preliminary information communicates to the dealer technician that the part numbers for the internal wiring harnesses for the 8 speed RWD transmissions are not listed in the Electronic Parts Catalog. Technicians are to refer to the information provided in this document to obtain the internal wiring harness part numbers by application.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Customer Satisfaction Program - Certain 2014-2019 model year Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra vehicles equipped with a power sliding rear window (RPO A48) may have areas of high electrical resistance on the rear defroster circuit. This could be caused, in part, by mechanical stress from opening and closing the rear power window, intrusion of debris, and use of the rear defroster. Over time, this condition could generate heat that could melt the areas surrounding the circuit. In rare instances, this heat could cause a non-propagating fire, increasing the risk of property damage or injury. Dealers will replace the buss bar covers and contact cover. If the rear window or sliding glass assembl
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This technical bulletin provides a procedure to replace the torque converter and inspect the front pump and the TEHCM for metal.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This Preliminary information communicates to the dealer technician that TAC recommends the utilization of the GDS2 software to aid in diagnosing automatic transmission concerns. TAC is requesting the GDS2 session logs be sent in before the dealer contacts TAC.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
Owners describe a 2017 Silverado transmission that shifts hard and jerks unpredictably from day one, often lurching forward as though rear-ended. The truck shudders violently at 40–75 mph on flat roads or mild grades, feeling like rumble strips, with vibration throughout the cabin. Cold starts deliver delayed gear engagement and hesitation before the transmission engages with a loud clunk.
Torque converters fail between 33,000 and 120,000 miles, sometimes recurring within months of replacement. When failure occurs, the truck loses power, enters limp mode (capped at 30–40 mph), or shakes so violently drivers fear losing control on highways. Metal shavings consistently appear when pans are dropped.
Dealerships perform fluid flushes, software updates, valve body and torque converter swaps—often repeatedly—without resolving the issues. Owners cite GM's knowledge: dealers have stated GM acknowledges these are known problems but offers no fix and issues no recall. Transmission replacement costs run $5,000–$8,500; rebuild $4,500+. One owner reported torque converter failure again just 500 miles after a full transmission replacement. Independent shops and transmission specialists report rebuilding 3–4 of these 6L80 units weekly for this model, confirming the problem is systemic, not isolated.
Same Chevrolet Silverado powertrain reports on nearby years: 2014 · 2015 · 2016 · 2018 · 2020
Failure modes owners describe
Harsh, jerky shifting between gears (especially 1st-2nd)
Hard, abrupt shifts that feel like being rear-ended or lurching forward unexpectedly. Owners report a loud clunk sound during shifts. Issues most pronounced at low speeds or during stop-and-go traffic. Transmission hesitates to engage and then jerks into gear.
When: Begins shortly after purchase or within first few thousand miles; occurs cold starts and throughout ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Abrupt shift from 1st to 2nd gear shortly after starting; Downshift from 2nd to 1st feeling like rear-end collision; Loud clunk when shifting; Lurching forward unexpectedly; Hesitation between gears; Hard downshifts; Vehicle jerks and skips gears
Codes mentioned: P0741, TCM programming issues
Repairs/costs cited: Dealers perform transmission fluid flushes, torque converter replacements, transmission control module reprogramming (updates like 16NA364), and valve body replacements. Multiple attempts often fail to resolve. Some owners report transmission rebuild costs of $4500–$5000, replacement transmissions $6500+. Metal shavings discovered in transmission fluid when pan drained, indicating internal wear.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM recalls related to transmission control module reprogramming (e.g., 'Chuggle Drive Quality' recall addressing drivability issues). TSBs and software updates issued. Dealership service advisors initially claimed behavior was 'normal' or that transmission must 'learn driving habits.' GM later acknowledged issue is common but cited warranty expiration to deny coverage. No recall issued for transmission defect itself.
Transmission shuddering and vibration at highway speeds
Noticeable shaking and vibration while driving at 40–75 mph, particularly under light throttle on flat roads or slight hills. Feels like driving over rumble strips. Vibration felt in steering wheel, seat, and console. Sometimes accompanied by transmission noise or whining.
When: Can occur early in ownership or develop after 20,000+ miles; persists despite fluid changes
Symptoms owners cite: Shaking and vibration at 30–75 mph; Vibration felt in seat, steering wheel, console; Rumble-strip-like sensation; Transmission whining noise; Jerky, stuttering feel; Problem worse under light load on flat roads
Repairs/costs cited: Transmission fluid drain and refill performed; heavier-weight fluid applied. For some, driveshaft replacement attempted. Problem often recurs within weeks or months. No permanent fix identified by dealers. Some independent shops recommend transmission rebuild or replacement.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealerships initially blamed wheels, tires, or alignment; tire balancing and replacement attempted. GM claims to know of issue but states no fix exists and no safety hazard present. No recall issued.
Torque converter failure
Torque converter fails, causing sudden loss of power, rough shifting, violent shaking, and jerking. Vehicle may enter limp mode (limited to 30–40 mph) with no warning. Metal shavings found in transmission fluid. Some failures occur within warranty, others just outside it.
When: 33,000 to 120,000+ miles; failures reported at as low as 33k miles and recurring shortly after replacement
Symptoms owners cite: Violent shaking and jerking while driving; Sudden loss of power or reduced speed; Transmission will not shift or stuck in gear; Whining, loud noise from transmission; Metal shavings in transmission fluid; Check engine light (though sometimes absent); Vehicle enters limp mode
Codes mentioned: P0741 (Torque Converter Clutch Solenoid)
Repairs/costs cited: Torque converter replacement cost $1500–$4000. Transmission rebuild/replacement $4500–$8500. One owner experienced torque converter failure again 500 miles after transmission replacement. Transmission shop reports rebuilding 3–4 of these 6L80 transmissions weekly, stating issue is 'common.' Metal in pan indicates internal damage; many shops recommend full transmission replacement.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM stated torque converter issue is programmed to kick in at 2nd gear, causing overheating. One dealer had 30 spare transmissions on hand, acknowledging this is 'a known issue.' No recall issued. Warranty often expired by failure date, leaving owners liable for full cost.
Transmission hesitation and delay engaging gear
Transmission hesitates or delays when shifting into gear, especially after overnight parking (cold start). Noticeable lag between pressing accelerator and vehicle moving. Loss of power during acceleration, creating a slip-like feel.
When: Cold starts and overnight periods most problematic; can occur throughout ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Delayed gear engagement after sitting overnight; Hesitation when accelerating from stop; Feels like transmission is slipping; No power to wheels for brief moment; Slow response to throttle input
Codes mentioned: 16NA364 (transmission control module update)
Repairs/costs cited: Transmission control module updates applied (e.g., 16NA364). Some owners warm truck before driving to reduce severity. Problem often returns within days or weeks after software update.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM issued transmission control module software updates (TSBs) to address delay. Updates provide temporary improvement but problem recurs. Dealerships acknowledged issue but told owners no permanent fix available.
Transmission overheating and fluid temperature issues
Transmission fluid temperature rises excessively, particularly during towing or highway driving. Transmission temperature reaches 190–230°F+. Wiring harness and fluid temperature sensor may malfunction, triggering check engine light.
When: During towing or sustained highway driving; can occur early in vehicle life
Symptoms owners cite: Excessive transmission fluid temperature (190–230°F+); Check engine light illumination; Inability to shift properly when hot; Transmission fluid smell; Burning smell from transmission
Codes mentioned: Transmission overheating code, U1501 (LIN Bus 1 communication fault)
Repairs/costs cited: Transmission cooler added in some cases. Wiring harness and fluid temperature sensor replacement performed per TSB. Transmission fluid flushes attempted. One owner spent $14,000+ on multiple transmission replacements and added cooler, still experiencing temperature issues while towing.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: TSB issued for wiring harness and fluid temperature sensor replacement (referenced in GM Recall Number N192291660). No permanent cooling system fix; owners advised not to tow or limit load, contradicting truck's intended capability.
Check engine light and limp mode without warning
Check engine light illuminates suddenly during normal driving or remains on intermittently. Vehicle enters limp mode, restricting speed to 30–40 mph with no advance warning. Sometimes no diagnostic codes stored.
When: Can occur with no prior warning; sometimes after service work
Symptoms owners cite: Check engine light (steady or flashing); Vehicle limited to 30–40 mph; No power available for acceleration; Transmission stuck in gear or will not shift; Sometimes no codes present in system
Codes mentioned: P0741, U1501, Transmission-related codes when present
Repairs/costs cited: Dealers scan vehicle for codes; when no code found, advised to continue driving or wait for recurrence. Torque converter or transmission replacement often needed. One owner experienced vehicle shutdown and lock-up while turning.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No clear manufacturer guidance. Dealers reset check engine light without fixing underlying issue. In some cases, GM authorized partial cost sharing if diagnosed at dealership.
Lifter failure and engine misfire (AFM/DОD cylinders)
Bent or failed lifters in AFM (Active Fuel Management) / DOD (Displacement on Demand) cylinders cause rough running, misfires, and cylinder deactivation issues. Engine runs roughly when cylinder deactivation activates, then lugs when switching back to full 8-cylinder mode. Abnormal ticking sound from engine.
When: Reported at 85,000 to 140,000+ miles; some issues at lower mileage
Symptoms owners cite: Engine running rough and jerky; Cylinder misfires; Abnormal ticking sound from engine; Rough idle; Engine lugging when AFM switches; Check engine light (may not illuminate); Loss of power on highway
Codes mentioned: Misfire codes (cylinders 4, 8, etc.), Check engine light (sometimes absent initially)
Repairs/costs cited: Lifter and camshaft replacement required; complete engine teardown necessary. Cost $10,000–$15,000+. One owner replaced all lifters, cam, and bent rods at $10,500+ (partially covered by BG warranty). Multiple spark plug replacements attempted initially but did not resolve issue.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM acknowledged this as 'a known issue with these lifters and engines' even in prior model years but offered no recall or extended warranty coverage. Owners told repairs are out of pocket.
Automatic starter engagement and electrical fire hazard
Starter motor engages and attempts to crank engine repeatedly without key in ignition or remote start activated. Electrical burning smell and blue/grey smoke visible. Starter described as having 'consumed itself.'
When: Occurred after brief 15-minute drive and 10 minutes of parking
Symptoms owners cite: Starter cranking without key or command; Continued cranking attempts despite key removal; Electrical burning smell (strong); Blue/grey smoke from passenger side near hood/windshield junction; Smoke clears within 5–15 minutes
Repairs/costs cited: Starter replacement required. Initial diagnosis: 'starter had consumed itself.' No further electrical root cause diagnosis available.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No manufacturer response documented in complaint.
Rear axle/driveshaft detachment
Rear axle detaches from vehicle while driving at highway speeds. Driveshaft strikes transfer case. Flames visible from rear end due to friction.
When: At 74,000 miles during highway driving
Symptoms owners cite: Grinding sounds from rear; Violent truck shake; Flames visible from rear differential; Driveshaft detached from vehicle
Repairs/costs cited: Rear axle and transfer case replacement required. Driveshaft repaired or replaced.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No manufacturer response documented.
Synthesized from 212 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 2 most recent
In the midst of rush hour traffic without any indication in a major interstate, 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT lost power as the engine reeved up and then check engine light came on. Once vehicle was carefully moved from interstate with citizens to the service road, engine running but would go into gears (D, R, L) without any movement. Transmission issues (p0700, p0796, etc... from OBD II).…
Transmission jerks,surges ahead,clunks when downshifting and is completely unpredictable. Checked transmission fluid and everything is good. This is a serious issue as you never know what’s going to happen
Had powertrain trouble with your 2017 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 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 212 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 85 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most powertrain failures cluster between 24,000 and 84,000 miles, with the median around 56,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 24,000; a quarter make it past 84,000. 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/2017/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.