Any solutions for 8 speed harsh shift???

mcoble54 · March 4, 2017

I have a 2016 Silverado with a 5.3 and the dreaded 8 speed. Took my truck in for a fast learn last week and problems haven't resolved at all. I cringe every time I come to a stop because feels like tranny is gonna fall out it slams so hard. Have to come to a complete stop for truck to shift to first gear. But then after its warmed up I'll go drive it and it's smooth as butter. I DONT GET IT! Very annoying and don't even want to drive it anymore. Unacceptable to pay 50k for a vehicle and have these problems. Has anyone found a concrete fix for this issue? I've researched this problem with for countless hours but haven't found an ah hah moment yet

newdude · March 4, 2017

Take it to the dealer. Be persistent with them and make sure they follow every bulletin and procedure out there for it.

mcoble54 · March 4, 2017

I have. I'm just looking for a definitive, this is what you do answer. I just haven't found one

Dnt · March 5, 2017

If that were a consistent problem I would be back at the dealer. I noticed the 2nd to 1st harshness a few times when new (below 4 to 5000 miles).I have not had one "bump downshift" since then. I am not sure if it just learned or the little clutch got worn in or something? I have made some changes now to the trans setting via a tune I actually increased the upshift pressures (to the point of getting tire chirps LOL) and still do not have the "bump downshift" I might go back to the butter smooth factory setting today just to compare but I like the tire chirp it takes me back to high school and my old Transam

Sir Dan · March 5, 2017

If your dealer won't address it, find another one that will but good luck on a permanent fix. Mine has had software updates a few times now for harsh downshift and a loud bang and violent shudder at around 45 mph that scares the hell outta me.

muhsfink07 · March 6, 2017

took my truck in on saturday for the third time for harsh shifting. i mentioned that it was like driving over rumble strips sometimes at speed, not sure if you have this problem, but they are replacing the torque converter. It seems that this is a known defect. try that route

MrNasty · March 6, 2017

Had my torque converter and stator assembly replaced in mine, and adaptive relearn, shifts great now. Has been 6 months and about 5,000 miles.

Donstar · March 6, 2017

I have a 2016 Silverado with a 5.3 and the dreaded 8 speed. Took my truck in for a fast learn last week and problems haven't resolved at all. I cringe every time I come to a stop because feels like tranny is gonna fall out it slams so hard. Have to come to a complete stop for truck to shift to first gear. But then after its warmed up I'll go drive it and it's smooth as butter. I DONT GET IT! Very annoying and don't even want to drive it anymore. Unacceptable to pay 50k for a vehicle and have these problems. Has anyone found a concrete fix for this issue? I've researched this problem with for countless hours but haven't found an ah hah moment yet

Welcome to this forum! I agree with 15HDriver when he says to take it back to your dealer. These transmissions are designed to shift smoothly and yours will when operating properly. Your dealer has several steps they can take and may have to try several before they get the right fix. Be persistent but be polite. Your service department has to follow procedures properly in order to get reimbursed for warranty claims. The price you pay for a vehicle does not prevent mechanical malfunctions.

NomadicCPO · March 6, 2017

Had the same experience as MyFav...the harsh downshift was pretty frequent during the first few thousand miles, but now it is rare, even when cold.

sk · March 7, 2017

Search these forums. There was a new Tech Bulletin or PI released recently that addresses this on the 6.2L/8 speed.

muhsfink07 · March 7, 2017

trade it in. not to sound glib but thats the only permanent fix. im locking horns with a dealer right now.

Uncus · March 7, 2017

I had the same experience as several of the other posters. Mine got real bad at the 4K mile mark and I had intended to take it to the dealer when I had time, but the thing self corrected over a short period of time and has been fairly normal ever since. On very rare occasion I'll notice a harsh downshift.

sk · March 8, 2017

Here's the info I was talking about. It only applies to the 8-speed:

http://sandyblogs.com/techlink/?p=7170

SkiDooNick700 · March 9, 2017

Do you guys ever notice when you gotta brake hard to a stop sometimes the trans kinda lurches you forward as it downshifts?

Another thing is that like if I take off from a stop going around a tight corner and let up off the gas for a sec then get back onto it when I'm gettin straightened out the trans usually clunks, like I caught it between a gear. This happens daily when leaving work.