The 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is one of the most capable, hard-working trucks on the road — but long-term owners know it comes with a set of recurring mechanical headaches. Whether you're hauling, towing, or just commuting, two areas deserve your close attention: the transmission and the 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 engine. Both systems have well-documented failure patterns that can put your truck out of commission far sooner than expected.
The good news is that solutions exist — and you don't have to overpay for them. At expediaparts.com, we specialize in quality used and remanufactured engines and transmissions for trucks exactly like yours. We've helped thousands of Silverado owners get rolling again without dealership markups or guesswork. Whether you need a 6L80 transmission or a replacement 5.3L engine, we're your premier source for parts that fit, function, and last.
We want to get you back on the road — and this guide is the first step. Below, you'll find a breakdown of every major failure pattern, what it costs to fix, and how to choose the right replacement strategy for your situation.
What the Research Shows
Owner reports, independent reviewers, and automotive data sources all point to the same recurring problems on the 2017 Silverado 1500.
On YouTube, Man Vs Machine 727 published an honest owner review in "2017 CHEVROLET SILVERADO 1500 PROBLEMS AND REVIEW AFTER 3 YEARS OF OWNERSHIP!", detailing how the infamous "Chevy shake" developed around 30,000 miles — a transmission fluid-related shudder that dealers have been slow to address. The channel's hands-on perspective reflects what countless other owners experience in real-world driving.
On the technical side, NewParts.com published "2017 Silverado Transmission Issues Explained", which details the most common 6L80 and 8L90 failure modes, including torque converter problems, pump failures, and reverse drum failures. Consumer Reports data on the 2017 Silverado 1500 further confirms below-average reliability ratings in the powertrain category for this model year.
The common theme across all sources: the 2017 Silverado's drivetrain issues are not isolated incidents. They are widespread, predictable, and — if you own one long enough — almost inevitable.
Common Transmission Problems
The 2017 Silverado 1500 paired its 5.3L V8 with either the 6L80 6-speed automatic or the 8L90 8-speed automatic depending on trim. Both have documented failure patterns.
Torque Converter Failure
This is the most frequently reported transmission problem on the 6L80 and 8L90. Early symptoms — surging, jerking, or a shuddering sensation — often begin appearing around 3,000 miles and tend to compound over time. Complete torque converter failure typically occurs between 90,000 and 107,000 miles. Left unaddressed, overheating from the failing converter cascades into broader transmission damage.
Thermal Bypass Valve Failure / Transmission Overheating
A malfunctioning thermal bypass valve prevents the transmission from reaching proper operating temperature quickly, which accelerates wear throughout the unit. Owners report unusual noises, vibrations, and warning lights as early symptoms.
Reverse Drum Failure
Stress-induced cracks in the drum's seams cause it to lose structural integrity. The most obvious symptom: the truck will not engage reverse. This failure is specific to the 6L80 and typically requires a full rebuild or replacement.
Clutch Material Failure
Extended use or neglected fluid changes cause the clutch material to deteriorate and disintegrate into the transmission fluid, contaminating the entire system and accelerating wear on every internal component.
Pump Assembly Failure
ATF pump failures cause a loss of hydraulic pressure, producing slipping gears and harsh or unpredictable shifting. Pump issues are frequently tied to prior torque converter damage.
A full transmission rebuild on this platform runs $5,500–$6,750 at most independent shops — a number that makes replacement worth serious consideration.
Common Engine Problems
The 2017 Silverado's standard powerplant is the 5.3L EcoTec3 V8, which uses GM's Active Fuel Management (AFM) system — also called Dynamic Oil Displacement (DOD) — to shut down cylinders at highway speeds. The technology is fuel-efficient in theory, but problematic in practice.
AFM Lifter Failure
This is the 5.3L's most serious and most common issue. The AFM system causes premature wear on the valve train lifters, leading to a distinctive ticking noise, misfires, and eventually complete lifter collapse. Repair involves removing the cylinder heads and replacing the lifters — an expensive job that often costs more than the engine is worth if the truck has high miles.
Excessive Oil Consumption
The DOD system's variable displacement operation contributes to above-normal oil consumption. Many owners report needing to add a quart or more between oil changes, which — if unmonitored — leads to low-oil damage over time.
Timing Chain Wear
At higher mileage, the timing chain and its guides begin to show wear, producing a rattling noise on cold starts. A worn timing chain affects engine performance and, if it jumps or breaks, causes catastrophic damage.
Recall Note
AFM lifter issues on the 5.3L EcoTec3 have generated multiple Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs). Before purchasing any parts or authorizing repairs, look up your specific VIN at NHTSA.gov to confirm which TSBs or open recalls apply to your truck. This takes two minutes and could save you from paying out of pocket for a repair that may be covered.
Other Common Failures
Beyond the major powertrain issues, 2017 Silverado 1500 owners frequently deal with:
• Accessory Belt Squeal: The DOD belt tensioner is a known weak point. A squealing or chirping belt noise — especially on cold starts — often points to a failing tensioner rather than the belt itself.
• TCM (Transmission Control Module) Issues: A failing Transmission Control Module can trigger erratic shifting behavior or send the truck into limp mode, limiting it to second gear. This is sometimes misdiagnosed as a full transmission failure when the fix is an electronic one.
• Reduced Engine Power Warning: This warning typically points to a throttle body issue or a faulty throttle position sensor. It causes the truck to go into a reduced-power mode that limits acceleration — frustrating and occasionally dangerous in traffic.
Used vs. Remanufactured — Which Is Right for You?
When a transmission or engine reaches the end of its service life, you have two practical replacement options: used or remanufactured. Here's how to think through the choice.
Used (Pull-Out) Units
A used transmission or engine is a direct pull from a donor vehicle with lower miles. It's the most affordable path and makes sense when your truck has lower overall mileage and you need a cost-effective bridge repair. The trade-off is that you're inheriting an unknown maintenance history.
Shop used 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 transmissions at expediaparts.com
Remanufactured Units
A remanufactured unit is completely disassembled, cleaned, inspected, and rebuilt to factory specifications using new and updated components. For a truck like the 2017 Silverado — where the AFM lifter failure and torque converter issues are systemic — a remanufactured unit eliminates the original design weaknesses that caused the failure in the first place.
Shop remanufactured 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 engines at expediaparts.com
If you plan to keep your Silverado for another several years, remanufactured is almost always the smarter long-term investment.
Price Range
Here's what to expect for the part itself on a 2017
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (price varies with mileage, condition, core charge, and shipping):
- Used transmission: $900–$1,600
- Remanufactured transmission: $2,200–$3,800
- Used engine: $800–$1,800
- Remanufactured engine: $2,800–$5,500
Important:
Shipping costs and core charge deposits are major factors in the final price. Shipping a heavy drivetrain unit can add hundreds of dollars to your total, and most remanufactured units require a core deposit — a refundable charge returned when your old unit is sent back. Factor both into your budget before comparing quotes.
Our Warranty
At expediaparts.com, we stand behind every engine and transmission we sell. We offer warranty coverage designed to give you real peace of mind — few companies offer the level of protection we do when it comes to used and remanufactured drivetrain units. Contact our team directly for warranty details specific to the unit you're purchasing, so you know exactly what's covered before you buy.
Is Replacement the Right Move?
Not every Silverado with transmission noise or an oil consumption problem needs a full replacement — but many do. Here's a straightforward way to think about it:
Transmission: Owner consensus on the 2017 Silverado is stark — it's not if the 6L80 or 8L90 will need attention, it's when. If your truck is showing torque converter symptoms, overheating, or reverse drum failure, a rebuild quote of $5,500–$6,750 often makes replacement with a quality unit the smarter financial move.
Engine: If an AFM lifter failure is confirmed, the repair cost — especially on a high-mileage truck — frequently approaches or exceeds the engine's value. A remanufactured 5.3L that has the AFM system addressed during the rebuild process is often the cleaner long-term solution.
The guiding principle: Replacement works best when the rest of the vehicle is worth saving. If your Silverado's body, frame, and other systems are in good shape, investing in a quality drivetrain replacement is a sound decision that extends the life of an otherwise solid truck.
Ready to Get Back on the Road?
Don't let a failing transmission or engine sideline a truck that still has plenty of life left. At expediaparts.com, we carry a full selection of used and remanufactured 6L80 transmissions, 8L90 transmissions, and 5.3L EcoTec3 engines for the 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 — backed by our team of drivetrain specialists who can help you find the right unit for your budget and driving needs.
We want to get you back on the road. Browse our inventory, get a quote, and see why Silverado owners across the country trust expediaparts.com for their most critical repairs.
Visit expediaparts.com to shop 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 engines and transmissions
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to replace the 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 engine or transmission?
At expediaparts.com, used transmissions typically run $900–$1,600, remanufactured transmissions $2,200–$3,800, used engines $800–$1,800, remanufactured engines $2,800–$5,500 for the 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. Final pricing depends on mileage, core charge, and shipping.
Should I buy a used or remanufactured engine or transmission for my 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500?
A used unit is the lower-cost option and makes sense when the rest of your Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is in good shape. A remanufactured unit is rebuilt to spec with stronger warranty coverage and is the smarter long-term choice if you plan to keep the vehicle for years. Both are available at expediaparts.com.
Does expediaparts.com warranty Chevrolet Silverado 1500 engines and transmissions?
Yes. We back both used and remanufactured engines and transmissions with warranty coverage, and our drivetrain specialists confirm VIN fitment before you buy. We want to get you back on the road.
Related on Expedia Parts
- Warranty policy and Expedia Protection: /warranty
- Check engine light after engine swap: /blog/check-engine-light-after-engine-swap
- Transmission slip and shudder after replacement: /blog/transmission-slip-and-shudder-after-replacement
- Torque converter shudder vs bad transmission: /blog/torque-converter-shudder-vs-bad-transmission
- Engine misfire after replacement: /blog/engine-misfire-after-replacement
- Overheating after engine or transmission replacement: /blog/overheating-after-engine-or-transmission-replacement
