If you own a vehicle with a 4l60e transmission, you may have encountered some problems with it.
The 4l60e is a four-speed automatic transmission that is widely used in many cars and trucks, such as Chevrolet, GMC, and Cadillac.
However, it is not without its flaws, and it can cause a lot of headaches for drivers.
Some of the common 4l60e transmission problems include slipping, shifting hard, overheating, and losing reverse.
Otherwise, this guide on the 4L60E transmission problems will provide an in-depth insight into GM’s 4L60E transmission.
Not only the reliability issues, but data on what causes these to appear, in the first place.
And, we’ll then look at how you can diagnose and troubleshoot these issues.
Moreover, what a proper fix might entail for your 4L60E transmission problems.
What Does 4160E Transmission Mean?
4L60E is an acronym for a type of automatic transmission from General Motors. It stands for:
- 4: The number of forward gears
- L: Longitudinal, meaning the engine and transmission are aligned in the same direction
- 60: The relative torque capacity of the transmission, rated at 6000 lbs
- E: Electronic, meaning the shifting and pressure are controlled by electronic sensors and solenoids.
The 4L60E is an evolution of the Turbo-Hydramatic 700R4, which was introduced in 1982.
The 4L60E became available in 1993 for trucks, vans, and SUVs, and in 1994 for rear-wheel-drive passenger cars.
It is one of the most widely used and versatile transmissions in the GM lineup.
4L60E Transmission History & Overview
The 4L60E transmission is one of the most recognizable and well-known on the US car market today.
That’s despite the 4L60E transmission problems that we’ll be taking a closer look at later.
It was first seen commercially from 1993 to 1994, on cars such as the Chevrolet Suburban, Cadillac Fleetwood, and GMC Sonoma.
It replaced the 4L60. This previous transmission had been named the TH700R4 (Turbo-Hydromatic 700R4) and had been introduced in 1982. In 1990, GM altered its designations, and so the 700R4 was renamed “4L60”.
Produced by GM (General Motors), it was first produced in 1992 and began being phased into the market during the following 2 years.
Many updates, of various levels of significance, followed – the most notable of these being the introduction of a bolt-on bell housing (phased in from 1996 to 1998).
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What Are The 4L60E Transmission Problems?
While most argue that the 4-speed 4L60E is one of the best transmissions ever to come out of a factory, it also has its haters. Despite a great reputation, there are a few well-known things to go wrong on a 4L60E.
You could experience any number of 4L60E transmission problems, and so this list is by no means conclusive.
However, if you are experiencing problems with your transmission, perhaps one of the following might ring true.
If you need to look at purchasing a replacement 4L60E transmission there are lots available online. However, just know that figuring out how much is a brand-new transmission can be shockingly expensive.
This is partly due to the complex work required, as you’ll figure out once you learn how long it takes to replace a transmission.
1: Transmission Slipping
If your transmission is slipping, you may notice one or more of the following:
- “Bad-sounding metal noises” – to use the technical term – such as whining, grinding, or screeching.
- The car might not go into some gears, especially in reverse.
- Shifting might not happen when you expect it – it could be too early or too late.
- A lack of power, usually most obvious when accelerating – the car might feel sluggish.
- Burning smells.
- ‘Check engine light‘ turning on.
This isn’t, by any stretch of the imagination, a problem solely limited to 4L60E transmissions.
Any transmission could go through this at some point. The most likely cause is something to do with the transmission fluid (like a leak).
The level might be low, which could be due to a leak, or it could just be old or you’re dealing with burnt transmission fluid.
So, consider learning how to check your transmission fluid with the dipstick to see what it looks like and what the level is.
If anything’s wrong, you might need to top it up or completely drain it and refill it with some fresh stuff.
Transmission slipping in the 4L60E can arise from several factors:
- Low transmission fluid levels – Often caused by leaks or insufficient filling.
- Old or burnt transmission fluid – Fluid degrades over time and may not provide sufficient lubrication.
- Worn-out clutch plates – Found in the transmission, can lose their gripping power.
- Faulty solenoids – Responsible for controlling fluid flow, if malfunctioning, can disrupt shifting.
- Damaged bands – These hold the gear system and can affect shifting when damaged.
2: Gear 3-4 Shift Problem
The 3rd to 4th clutches can wear out quickly. If you find a lot of problems when you are shifting from 3rd to 4th, this could be the issue.
Like most of these cases, the transmission will need a full rebuild. Specifically, the 3-4 clutch pack needs replacing.
It’s caused by the rubber seals on the 3-4 pistons shrinking. This happens because of age, heat, and general wear. This leads to the clutch pack getting too hot and, eventually, it will stop working. This is one of the most commonly reported 4L60E transmission problems.
The transition from 3rd to 4th gear is crucial for optimal vehicle performance.
When there’s a malfunction during this shift, it can lead to a poor driving experience and further damage if not addressed.
This section delves into understanding the 3-4 shift problem, its symptoms, causes, diagnosis, DIY repair attempts, and the costs involved.
The 3-4 shift problem is often attributed to:
- Worn-out 3-4 clutches: These can degrade over time, leading to ineffective shifting.
- Shrinking rubber seals: The 3-4 piston rubber seals might shrink due to age, heat, and general wear.
- Overheated clutch pack: Resulting from degraded seals, leading to the clutch pack getting too hot.
- General wear and tear: As with any vehicle part, prolonged use can lead to issues.
3: No 2ND Gear
This could be caused by a broken drive shell. If this is the case, there will probably be no reverse gear at all as well.
It’s not possible to definitively tell whether or not the drive shell has cracked or fractured without taking the transmission out of the car and considering the cost of a rebuild, but if you’re experiencing these symptoms, there’s little else that’s likely to be causing it.
When doing this, be sure to also check the planetary gears and the input ring gear for damage. The broken drive shell may have stripped some of the splines on these if it was heavily damaged.
You’ll need, as a minimum, a new drive shell. The transmission will need to be taken apart to fix this.
Having a vehicle stuck in first gear or completely losing its second gear can significantly hamper its performance.
Often linked to a broken drive shell, this problem needs immediate attention. In this section, we’ll explore the symptoms, causes, diagnostic approaches, potential DIY fixes, and associated costs for the ‘No 2nd Gear’ issue.
The main culprit behind the ‘No 2nd Gear’ issue:
- Broken Drive Shell: The drive shell can crack or fracture, leading to these gear problems.
- Wear and Tear: Prolonged use without proper maintenance can cause components to degrade.
- Damaged Planetary Gears and Input Ring Gear: The damage to the drive shell can impact these crucial components.
4: Heavy Shift Into 2ND
This could be due to a worn TCC regulator valve. You will also probably have a check engine light flashing on the dashboard and a diagnostic code of 1870 – internal slippage.
The transmission will need to be taken apart to access the TCC regulator valve. Once it’s replaced, and the transmission reinstalled, the problem should be fixed. In that case, you’ll likely won’t have to face issues where the transmission shifts hard from 1st to 2nd again.
The smooth transition between gears is essential for a comfortable driving experience.
A heavy or hard shift can disrupt this, making the ride less enjoyable and possibly signaling more significant problems in the transmission.
In this segment, we’ll break down the problem of the 4L60E transmission’s heavy shift into 2nd, examining its symptoms, causes, diagnostic measures, DIY solutions, and potential repair costs.
Several factors can lead to a hard shift into the second gear, including:
- Worn TCC Regulator Valve: A degraded or malfunctioning TCC (Torque Converter Clutch) regulator valve is often the culprit.
- Old or Contaminated Transmission Fluid: This can cause resistance to shifting.
- Wear and Tear: Prolonged usage and inadequate maintenance can degrade transmission components.
5: Transmission Only Shifts Manually
If the transmission only shifts manually (and therefore doesn’t shift automatically), there is probably a problem in either the PCM (powertrain control module) or one of the related sensors sending information to the PCM.
This could be the VSS (vehicle speed sensor) or the TPS (throttle position sensor).
Alternatively, there could be a problem with the wiring, such as a short or damaged circuit.
Hopefully, diagnostics can work the problem out for you. You are likely to either need a new sensor, new wiring, or an entirely new PCM.
This might also be due to a bad TCM. So, be sure you’ve studied where is the transmission control module located in a Chevy or any other 4L60E-fitted vehicle.
Automatic transmissions are designed to facilitate the driving experience by automatically shifting between gears based on various factors.
If an automatic transmission only operates manually, it’s a clear indication that something’s amiss.
Several factors can lead to this issue:
- Faulty PCM (Powertrain Control Module): The central unit that controls the transmission could malfunction.
- Malfunctioning Sensors: The VSS (Vehicle Speed Sensor) or TPS (Throttle Position Sensor) could be sending incorrect data.
- Wiring Issues: Damaged circuits, shorts, or disconnections in the transmission’s electrical system.
- Defective TCM (Transmission Control Module): The dedicated module for transmission operation might be compromised.
6: Won’t Come Out Of Gear While Driving
If your transmission is stuck in one gear (usually the lowest gear), this could be due to the car going into “limp home mode“.
When the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) senses an electrical problem, it might prevent the transmission from shifting.
That may be why your truck won’t move in any gear. This is to prevent any damage, or perhaps any further damage, from occurring.
Acceleration will be virtually non-existent and the car will suddenly feel like it is very heavy.
All non-essential systems will be shut down, for example, the air conditioning. You may feel more vibrations from the engine. Or, something akin to a transmission shudder.
Essentially, what’s going on is that the ECU is making everything run as slowly as possible. It’s a bit like when the human body goes into a coma – shutting down all but the essential things to save itself as a whole.
If the car goes into limp-home mode, don’t ignore it! Although it might feel like a darned inconvenience, putting the car through too much stress in this mode is likely to finish it off for good.
Instead, you should take the car to an auto shop immediately, or get a call-out mechanic to your house. The car may have to be taken to a specialist automotive electrician to diagnose the fault.
When the car enters the “limp home mode”, it’s generally a protective response to:
- Electrical Issues: The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) may have detected an electrical malfunction.
- Sensor Failures: Malfunctions in critical sensors can force the vehicle into a protective state.
- Transmission Errors: Irregularities or failures in the transmission mechanism.
Troubleshooting 4L60E Problems
All in all, transmission problems – no matter the specifics – usually require a full rebuild to be properly fixed.
To play it safe, it may be a better idea to get a call-out mechanic to come to your house and have a look at your car there.
Driving a car with a transmission that’s on the verge of seizing or breaking in any other way would be extremely dangerous.
It’s not worth the risk of driving it.
We would recommend either calling someone out to your house or getting the vehicle towed to a nearby garage.
You may need to take it to a transmission specialist – not every garage deals with transmission rebuilds.
Of course, rebuilding your transmission yourself is a possibility.
However, we wouldn’t recommend it unless you know what you’re doing. There are a lot of parts to an automatic transmission and, once you’ve got everything taken apart, it can be very easy to forget to reinstall a very small – but very important – valve, bolt, sensor, or something else. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
OBD Diagnostic Error Codes
A bad transmission will throw an OBD diagnostics trouble code (DTC), and here are some of the most popular codes that you’ll come across when trying to diagnose and troubleshoot 4L60E transmission problems:
- P0706 – Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
- P0711 – Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
- P0712 – Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Input
- P0713 – Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit High Input
- P0719 – Torque Converter/Brake Switch B Circuit Low
- P0724 – Torque Converter/Brake Switch B Circuit High
- P0740 – Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Malfunction
- P0748 – Pressure Control Solenoid ‘A’ Electrical
- P0751 – Shift Solenoid ‘A’ Performance or Stuck Off
- P0753 – Shift Solenoid ‘A’ Electrical
- P0756 – Shift Solenoid ‘B’ Performance or Stuck Off
- P0757 – Shift Solenoid ‘B’ Stuck On
- P0758 – Shift Solenoid ‘B’ Electrical
- P0785 – Shift/Timing Solenoid
- P0894 – Transmission Component Slipping
- P1860 – TCC PWM Solenoid Circuit Electrical
- P1870 – Transmission Component Slipping: GM Transmission
Note: These are among the more common OBDII diagnostics error codes that you might spot. Otherwise, 4L60E transmission problems might prompt other, more specific codes to appear.
These can be helpful, as a single (or numerous) error code can tell you more precisely what the underlying issues are.
These simple definitions can help you enormously with saving time on diagnostics.
Thus, freeing more time to troubleshoot and solve them.
Is Your Transmission 4L60E?
If you’re still not sure what transmission your car has, look for the VIN – the Vehicle Identification Number.
If the car was made before 1981, it may have 16 characters (letters or numbers) – cars made after this time will have a VIN of 17 characters.
The VIN is usually found on either the dashboard (from looking through the windscreen) or the passenger doorframe.
You should be able to find the VIN location by looking in your owner’s manual or simply searching online: “Where is the VIN on a 2000 Chevrolet Corvette”, for example.
Entering your VIN on a specialist website, such as autocheck.com, or taking it to your local mechanic, will provide you with information such as the vehicle history, service history, and – what we’re looking for – the technical specifications.
Also Read: Ford 6R140 Transmission: All You Need To Know About This Transmission!
Why Do 4L60E Transmissions Fail?
There are many possible causes for 4L60E transmission failure, but some of the most common ones are:
- Low fluid levels: This can be due to a leak in the transmission, a worn-out seal, or not checking the fluid level regularly. Low fluid levels can cause overheating, friction, and damage to the internal parts of the transmission.
- Worn-out internal parts: Over time, the gears, clutches, bands, and seals of the transmission can wear out and lose their effectiveness. This can result in slipping, delayed shifting, or no shifting at all.
- Incorrect adjustments: The 4L60E transmission relies on electronic sensors and solenoids to control the shifting and pressure of the fluid. If these components are not adjusted properly, they can send wrong signals or apply incorrect pressure, leading to shifting problems.
- Electrical issues: The 4L60E transmission is controlled by the vehicle’s computer, which communicates with the transmission through wiring and connectors. If there is any damage, corrosion, or loose connection in the electrical system, it can interfere with the transmission’s operation and cause various malfunctions.
To diagnose and fix 4L60E transmission problems, it is recommended to check the fluid level and condition, scan the vehicle for any trouble codes, inspect the wiring and connectors, and perform a pressure test.
Depending on the severity of the problem, the transmission may need to be repaired, rebuilt, or replaced.
Can I Replace A 4L60E With A 4L60?
The short answer is no, you cannot replace a 4L60E with a 4L60 without some modifications. The 4L60E is an electronically controlled transmission, while the 4L60 is a mechanically controlled transmission.
They have different wiring, sensors, solenoids, and computer systems.
You would need to install a new transmission controller, modify the wiring harness, and possibly change the torque converter to make the swap work.
However, you can upgrade your existing 4L60E to a 4L65E, which is a stronger and more reliable version of the same transmission.
The 4L65E has a five-pinion rear planetary, a hardened input shaft and sun shell, and a different clutch stack-up that can handle more torque and power.
You can swap these parts into your 4L60E during a rebuild, or buy a complete 4L65E unit and install it as a direct replacement.
This way, you can avoid the hassle and expense of converting to a 4L60, and enjoy the benefits of a 4L65E.
How Do I Know If My 4L60E Gearbox Is Damaged?
Some common symptoms can indicate a problem with your 4L60E gearbox, such as:
- No third gear: This means that the transmission fails to shift from second to third gear, and the engine revs up as if it is in neutral.
- This is usually caused by a worn-out or burned 3-4 clutch pack.
- No second gear or reverse: This means that the transmission does not engage in second gear or reverse, and the vehicle does not move.
- This is usually caused by a broken or stripped drive shell.
- Hard second gear: This means that the transmission shifts harshly or abruptly into second gear, and the check engine light may come on.
- This is usually caused by a worn-out TCC regulator valve.
To confirm if your 4L60E gearbox is damaged, you should check the transmission fluid level and condition, scan the vehicle for any trouble codes, inspect the wiring and connectors, and perform a pressure test.
Is The 4L60E A Good Transmission?
The 4L60E is a four-speed automatic transmission that is widely used in many GM vehicles, such as Chevrolet, GMC, and Cadillac
It is an electronically operated version of the 4L60, which was a successor to the TH700RA.
The 4L60E is considered to be a good transmission by many car owners and experts, as it is versatile, reliable, and delivers good performance and fuel economy.
However, it is not flawless, and it can have some common problems, such as slipping, shifting hard, overheating, and losing reverse.
These problems can be caused by various factors, such as normal wear and tear, improper maintenance, excessive heat exposure, or using the wrong type of fluid.
Some of these problems can be fixed by replacing or repairing the damaged parts, such as the clutch pack, the piston seals, the solenoids, or the valve body.
How To Reset 4l60E Transmission?
The 4l60e transmission is a four-speed automatic transmission that is used in many GM vehicles, such as Chevrolet, GMC, and Cadillac. Sometimes, the transmission may have some problems, such as slipping, shifting hard, overheating, or losing reverse.
To fix these problems, you may need to reset the transmission control module (TCM), which is the computer that controls the transmission’s operation.
There are different methods to reset the TCM, depending on the model and year of your vehicle.
Here are some common steps that you can try:
- Turn off the engine and disconnect the negative battery cable for 10 to 30 minutes. This will clear the TCM’s memory and reset the adaptive learning parameters.
- Turn on the engine and put the vehicle in neutral.
- Press and hold the brake pedal for a few seconds, then turn off the ignition.
- Release the brake pedal and wait for 5 minutes. This will perform a TCM relearn procedure.
- Use an OBD2 scanner to access the TCM and erase the trouble codes. This will reset the TCM and clear the check engine light or the check transmission light.
After resetting the TCM, you should drive the vehicle for a while and observe if the transmission problems are resolved.
How Many Gears Does A 4L60E Have?
The 4L60E is a four-speed automatic transmission that is used in many GM vehicles, such as Chevrolet, GMC, and Cadillac
It has four forward gears and one reverse gear. The gear ratios are:
- 1st gear: 3.059
- 2nd gear: 1.625
- 3rd gear: 1.000
- 4th gear: 0.696
- Reverse: 2.294
What Controls The 4L60E Transmission?
The 4L60E transmission is controlled by an electronic device called the transmission control module (TCM).
The TCM is the computer that monitors and regulates the transmission’s operation, such as gear shifting, fluid pressure, and torque converter lockup.
The TCM receives input signals from various sensors, such as the throttle position sensor, the vehicle speed sensor, and the engine coolant temperature sensor.
Based on these inputs, the TCM calculates the optimal shift points and commands the transmission to execute them. The TCM also controls the solenoids and actuators that operate the valves, clutches, and bands inside the transmission.
The TCM can also adapt to the driving conditions and the wear and tear of the transmission.
It can adjust the shift timing and pressure to improve the performance and fuel economy of the vehicle.
It can also store and clear trouble codes that indicate any problems with the transmission
Sometimes, the TCM may need to be reset or reprogrammed to fix some issues or to update the software.
The TCM is usually located inside the vehicle, under the dashboard, or behind the glove box.
It is connected to the transmission by a wiring harness. The TCM can be identified by its shape, size, and number of pins.
Different models and years of the 4L60E transmission may have different types of TCMs, so it is important to match the correct one for your vehicle.
What Engines Are Compatible With A 4L60E Transmission?
The 4L60E transmission is a four-speed automatic transmission that is used in many GM vehicles, such as Chevrolet, GMC, and Cadillac.
It is compatible with most Chevrolet 90-degree small block and big block patterned engines, such as the V6, V8, and I6 engines.
It is also compatible with some LS engines, such as the 4.8L, 5.3L, 6.0L, and 6.2L, as long as they have a normal, six-bolt LS crank flange.
However, some LS engines, such as the 5.7L LS1 and the 6.2L LS3, have a different crank flange and require a different flexplate and converter.
To connect the 4L60E transmission to a factory engine, you need to have an electronic control module (ECM) or a powertrain control module (PCM) that can send signals to the transmission.
You also need to have a wiring harness that connects the ECM or PCM to the transmission.
To connect the 4L60E transmission to an older engine, you may need to use a GM controller, such as #12497316, that can communicate with the transmission.
The 4L60E transmission is a versatile and reliable transmission that can handle a lot of power and torque.
However, it is not flawless, and it can have some common problems, such as slipping, shifting hard, overheating, and losing reverse.
To prevent or fix these problems, you need to maintain the transmission properly and follow the recommended service schedule.
You also need to check the fluid level and condition regularly and change it when necessary.
You also need to avoid overloading the vehicle, shifting gears too harshly, or driving in extreme temperatures.
Conclusion
4L60E transmissions are one of the most widely used and versatile automatic transmissions in the GM lineup.
They offer four forward gears, electronic control, and high torque capacity, making them suitable for a variety of vehicles and driving conditions.
They also have the potential to be upgraded to 4L65E transmissions, which are stronger and more reliable.
However, 4L60E transmissions are not without problems, and they require regular maintenance and repair to avoid failure.
By following the tips and guidelines provided in this paper, you can diagnose and fix common 4L60E transmission problems, or prevent them from happening in the first place
