I Had My 2019 Chevy Silverado Trans Flushed & New Filter at 72K For Harsh Shifting, Now at 99K It’s Doing It Again, and My Warranty Is Up at 100K

Derek's 2019 Chevy Silverado is harsh-shifting again at 99k, just shy of his 100k warranty limit. What's the best extended warranty? What's the dealer's endgame? Should he demand a torque converter? I'll answer those questions. Here's Derek's dilemma.

Derek Donald on the 2019 - 2026 Chevy Silverado & GMC Sierra Owners Facebook page says, 

"I have a 2019 Chevy Silverado ZR2, and I had the transmission flushed and filter changed at 72k for harsh shifting. It's at 99k miles now, and I'm bringing it in to the dealer on Monday for similar issues. My warranty is only till 100k. So two questions. First, what is the better of the extended warranties? Also, what would be my next steps with the dealership? I'm going to try to push for at least a torque converter replacement. Any insight is appreciated."

Derek's situation and the GM 10-Speed Transmission Shudder

A 2019 Chevy Silverado ZR2 with harsh shifting, returning at 99,000 miles —just shy of the 100,000-mile powertrain warranty limit —is a critical moment for many GM truck owners.

Derek's dilemma. It is a widely recognized issue affecting the 10-speed automatic (10L80/10L90) transmission, and he's trying to navigate the warranty process. Here is a blueprint for maximizing your dealership visit and securing your investment.

The Dreaded 10-Speed Shudder

Derek's problem—harsh shifting, especially after a fluid service—is not normal wear and tear; this is a known problem with the GM 10-speed transmission.

His 2019 Silverado is equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission (likely the 10L80). However, it, along with the older 8-speed, gained notoriety for a condition often described as driving over rumble strips, which is symptomatic of GM's 10-speed harsh shifting and torque converter issues.

Why the Flush Didn't Work

At 72,000 miles, the dealer performed a flush and filter change. This was likely in response to one of GM's Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs), such as 18-NA-355 or 19-NA-121, which addressed the shudder. The root cause was identified as the breakdown of the friction-modifying additives in the original DEXRON HP fluid, leading to contamination and subsequent failure of the Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) to modulate properly.

The TSB specifies a complete fluid exchange using a specialized machine (like the DT-45096 TransFlow) with the new, reformulated Mobil 1 Synthetic LV ATF HP fluid.

The TSB provides a two-step fix.

Step 1: The fluid exchange. This clears the contamination and often temporarily resolves the issue.

Step 2: If the shudder/harsh shifting returns after the fluid exchange, the TSB mandates replacing the torque converter, as the TCC surfaces are assumed to be permanently damaged.

The fact that Derek's issues have returned at 99,000 miles suggests that the initial fluid contamination caused irreversible damage to the torque converter, and now he's seeing signs of Chevy Silverado 10L80 transmission failure. The TCC is slipping, overheating, and sending contaminated fluid through the system again, causing the harsh engagement he feels.

Dealership Strategy: Securing the Torque Converter

With Derek's powertrain warranty expiring at 100,000 miles, he's in a race against the clock. Your primary goal is to get the dealership to document the problem before that odometer hits 100k.

The Action Plan

• Document Everything: Ensure your service intake paperwork clearly notes that you are experiencing the same harsh shifting issues that prompted the 72k service, and specifically state the truck has 99,000 miles. This establishes the claim within the warranty period.
• Reference the TSB: Politely and knowledgeably reference the TSB (e.g., TSB 19-NA-121 or TSB 18-NA-355, depending on the exact symptom). Inform the service advisor that since the fluid exchange at 72k failed to provide a permanent solution, the next required TSB step is the torque converter replacement. This shows them you have done your homework and follow the approved manufacturer repair procedures.
• The Diagnostic Test: The dealer will use a scanner (like the GDS system) to look for a "sawtooth" or "oscilloscope" pattern in the TCC slip speed while driving. This is how to prove the transmission issue before the 100k warranty expires. Insist that a technician must drive the truck with the diagnostic equipment to replicate the shudder and capture the data. If they cannot replicate it, ask them to hold the vehicle overnight, as the issue often worsens when the transmission is fully warmed up or when doing a cold-start shift.
• No Negotiation: Do not ask to push for a torque converter; state that, based on the truck's history (a failed fluid exchange at 72k) and the symptoms, a torque converter replacement is the necessary second step per GM's directive.

The total cost for a torque converter replacement, parts, labor, and a new fluid cycle can exceed $3,000 to $4,500, so knowing the right dealer service advice for transmission warranty claims is the difference between a zero-cost repair and a catastrophic out-of-pocket expense.

What is the Best Extended Warranty for GM Trucks?

Derek asked what the best option is. For owners with known high-risk components (like the 10L80), it's best to stick with the manufacturer-backed plan: The Chevrolet Protection Plan.

Why Factory-Backed is Superior:

• No Hassle Claims: GM-backed plans are honored instantly by GM dealerships. There is no waiting for a third-party adjuster to approve a specific labor rate or decide whether to use an OEM part. When dealing with TSBs and complex proprietary repairs, this seamless approval process is priceless.
• Platinum Coverage is Key: When looking for the best extended warranty for GM truck owners, you need the top tier—the Platinum Protection Plan. This plan provides exclusionary (bumper-to-bumper equivalent) coverage. While the Powertrain plan covers the transmission, the Platinum plan eliminates any ambiguity regarding sensors, solenoids, TCM programming, or other related electronic components that often fail alongside major mechanical parts.
• Terms are Limited: Since Derek is at 99k miles, his options for maximum term length and mileage may be restricted, so he needs to purchase this immediately.

What the Community is Saying

Many Silverado owners share Derek's concern, asking, "Is the 10-speed automatic transmission reliable in the 2019 Silverado?"

Derek's ZR2 (Facebook): "The fluid change only lasted 25k miles for me. Took it back in, and they confirmed the TCC shudder was back. They replaced the entire torque converter under warranty. It's been perfect ever since. Do not accept another flush!"

GMC Sierra Forum: "I had the TCC replaced under the extended warranty at 110k. I used the official GM Platinum plan. Best money I ever spent. The bill was over $4,000, and I paid a $100 deductible."

Reddit /r/Silverado: "Make sure they check your maintenance records. They look for the proper maintenance schedule for GM 10L80 transmission fluid service. If you didn't do the 45k severe service interval, they can try to deny the claim, even though the shudder is an internal fluid issue, not a lack of maintenance issue."

My article: "2019 Chevy Silverado Owner Says, 'I Had My Transmission Flushed, Just Shy Of 45K Miles, The Dealer Charged Me $562, Did I Pay Too Much?'" directly relates to Derek's initial action of getting a "transmission flushed and filter changed." In my report, I explain that the flush is critical preventative maintenance for the 8-speed transmission's known "shudder" issue.

Conclusion and Final Takeaways for Silverado Owners

Derek's priority is to ensure the dealer performs the TCC slip test and documents the required follow-up repair (the torque converter) before his warranty expires.

Regarding the maintenance schedule, Silverado owners should be aware that GM defines "severe" conditions as frequent towing, heavy traffic, or hot climates, which pulls the recommended fluid service interval from 60,000 miles down to 45,000 miles. Keeping up with this accelerated schedule is key to preventing fluid breakdown.

It's Your Turn 

Have you personally had your Silverado torque converter replaced under warranty after a failed fluid flush, and did the replacement permanently solve your harsh shifting issue? Click the red Add New Comment link below and let us know.

I'm Denis Flierl, a Senior Torque News Reporter since 2012, bringing over 30 years of automotive expertise to every story. My career began with a consulting role for every major car brand, followed by years as a freelance journalist test-driving new vehicles—equipping me with a wealth of insider knowledge. I specialize in delivering the latest auto news, sharing compelling owner stories, and providing expert, up-to-date analysis to keep you fully informed.

Follow me on X @DenisFlierl, @WorldsCoolestRides, Facebook, and Instagram
 

Photo credit: Denis Flierl via Derek Donald