4 Modern Pickup Trucks With Serious Transmission Problems
There’s no getting around just how popular pickup trucks are. Even for folks who don’t haul and tow all that often, sometimes a truck can be the vehicle of choice. At the same time, not every pickup is reliable as the next. There are plenty of modern trucks with transmission issues, and these might be the four worst offenders.
How long do truck transmissions last?
Typically, a transmission should be able to last over 200,000 miles. But for a truck with transmission issues, it is possible to experience premature failure. Simply put, some pickups are known for having more transmission problems than others.
Transmission issues range from minor to major, but they are not a problem that anyone wants to face. These four trucks made in the past 25 years are known for their transmission problems.
4. 2008 Ford F-350
The Ford F-350 has long been one of Ford’s heavy-duty trucks. But the 2008 model with the 5R110W transmission is known to have some legitimate issues. Problems include rough shifting, lack of power, and other things you don’t want to see from your truck transmission.
One of the more common issues has to do with the low/reverse planetary gear pinions. This can cause the transmission to slip along with slow gear engagement. If you notice any of that happening with your F-350, it’s probably best not to put off repairs.
3. 2003 Mazda B-Series
In 2023, Mazda no longer makes a pickup truck for the United States. But that was not always the case. The B-Series truck was once a fairly popular small pickup, and it shares quite a bit of its DNA with the Ford Ranger.
Transmission problems with this truck include shifting delays, shakiness, and grinding. Problems seem to be tied more to the automatic transmission than the manual. Generally speaking, the Mazda B-Series does apparel to be a reliable truck. Even at over 20 years old, I still see some driving in my neck of the woods.
2. 2005 Chevy Silverado 1500
The Chevy Silverado 1500 is a fairly popular full-size truck. But in the early 2000s, reliability was questionable. The 2005 Silverado 1500 has some pretty serious transmission problems. The 4L60E transmission is known to lose third gear, second gear and reverse, and other issues.
That doesn’t necessarily mean this truck needs to be avoided. But the transmission is something that you will want to inspect if you want to get one.
1. 2004 Ford F-150
It doesn’t get much more iconic than a Ford F-Series truck, but the F-150 has had a checkered past. In addition to issues with the engine, this truck can have transmission problems. In fact, even in 2023, the Blue Oval is facing criticism over its 10-speed transmission in the F-150.
The biggest transmission issue for the 2004 model year is caused by the transmission overheating. This can cause the gears to expand, which results in metal shavings. So if you’re in the market for a truck, transmission problems are what you’ll want to avoid.
