A8 shudder update
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 1,223
Likes: 650
A8 shudder update
Some time ago I posted a thread regarding the troubles I was having with my 2016 ZO6 A8 and the shudder problem that many experience. After the triple flush failed to correct it, the dealer replaced the torque converter. I wasn't happy that it took three weeks to get it done but the result is that the shudder is gone and the car now rides the way it ought to. I also had the MRC update done and replaced the bent OEM wheels and Michelin run-flats with forged wheels and Continentals. I installed a Range module to eliminate the AFM. The difference in ride is huge and I can now cruise along at 50 mph without feeling like I'm on a washboard road. If you're having the above problems, my advice to is to get the TC replaced. Anything short of that will not cure the shudder problem. Disengage the AFM, get some decent wheels and street friendly tires, replace that bad TC and you'll have a ZO6 that's actually fun to drive without being annoyed by these irritating behaviors.
Instructor
Joined: Oct 2018
Posts: 227
Likes: 68
From: GA
Race Director
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 16,699
Likes: 7,752
From: NJ
you do not need a torque converter replacement unless the clutch is that far gone...the new LV fluid in a TC that has minimal wear (mine was around 5k miles) fixes the problem. i've constructed a thread addressing this issue with the explanation from an engineer from the plant and corvette tech who rebuilds the A8's (and all other GM trans's when needed) and also bracket races a twin turbo C5.
the true correct fix is to reprogram the pulsing of the clutch which from what i understand even happens slightly while IN V8 mode..
Maybe chevy will surprise us in the next few months with a new trans program that cures this issue.
the true correct fix is to reprogram the pulsing of the clutch which from what i understand even happens slightly while IN V8 mode..
Maybe chevy will surprise us in the next few months with a new trans program that cures this issue.
Drifting
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 1,644
Likes: 634
From: Lake Bluff IL
Just had my Z06 in last week for the fluid flush after experiencing the shudder on low rpm light throttle tip in. Seems to have resolved the issue. --Bob
Last edited by ZR1Bob; Oct 28, 2018 at 11:39 AM.
Race Director
Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 17,700
Likes: 1,667
From: moraga ca
Triple flush took care of the shudder on my A8. I'd rather not have the dealer replace the torque converter if the flush takes care of the problem and apparently in many instances it has.
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Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 1,223
Likes: 650
It appears that if you catch it early enough you can avoid the TC change. If you don't, you have no choice. I agree with another poster that the problem is apparently caused by damage to the clutch system inside the converter. With the complexity of the software in cars these days some bad things are inevitable. It's just unfortunate that it takes a while for the trends to appear and the fixes are made. Despite the sometime aggravations, the ZO6 is still a great car and a lot of fun for the money.
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 1,223
Likes: 650
you do not need a torque converter replacement unless the clutch is that far gone...the new LV fluid in a TC that has minimal wear (mine was around 5k miles) fixes the problem. i've constructed a thread addressing this issue with the explanation from an engineer from the plant and corvette tech who rebuilds the A8's (and all other GM trans's when needed) and also bracket races a twin turbo C5.
the true correct fix is to reprogram the pulsing of the clutch which from what i understand even happens slightly while IN V8 mode..
Maybe chevy will surprise us in the next few months with a new trans program that cures this issue.
the true correct fix is to reprogram the pulsing of the clutch which from what i understand even happens slightly while IN V8 mode..
Maybe chevy will surprise us in the next few months with a new trans program that cures this issue.
Instructor
Joined: Jan 2016
Posts: 145
Likes: 29
From: Pelham Alabama
My 2016 Z06 has 13k on it and warranty left till January 2019 but I have a few bolt on's like the Borla XPipe off-road so I don't know how the dealer would respond and my shudder just started. I don't mind paying for the flush at a reputable transmission shop but I need to know what to ask for. Do I just have them replace with GM fluid and filter or is something else required. Advice appreciated!
Last edited by Oakmtnbody; Oct 28, 2018 at 09:23 PM.
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 1,223
Likes: 650
My 2016 Z06 has 13k on it and warranty left till January 2019 but I have a few bolt on's like the Borla XPipe off-road so I don't know how the dealer would respond and my shudder just started. I don't mind paying for the flush at a reputable transmission shop but I need to know what to ask for. Do I just have them replace with GM fluid and filter or is something else required. Advice appreciated!
Race Director
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 16,699
Likes: 7,752
From: NJ
Last edited by 24/Eray; Oct 29, 2018 at 07:42 PM.
Pro
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 562
Likes: 264
From: Magnolia TX
Just completed a Museum in Motion tour (KY 1 lap). Total milage from Houston and back was about 2600. This trip made me well aware of the shudder issue in my 2016 Z06 A8. When I returned home, I called my local Chevy Dealer and talked to a very well informed Service Advisor. He gave me the run down on the TSB and all the changes that it had undergone. I took it today and they didn’t even drive the car, just took it on in. He said the issue is so prevalent they don’t even question it. He said they will do the flush as many times as necessary to try and eliminate it but also said the real fix is supposed to come from GM by the end of the first quarter of 2019. He said the shudder won’t leave you stranded but it sure is a nuisance and hopefully GM will correct it. He made no excuses for GM - Said it should have never been a problem! I will let you know how this all turns out.
Instructor
Joined: Jun 2001
Posts: 244
Likes: 47
From: CT
Is there any document stating that Chevy will replace the fluid as much as needed to eliminate the shudder? I've had my fluid replaced with limited results. The shudder was reduced but not eliminated and my dealer said GM will only cover it once.
Pro
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 562
Likes: 264
From: Magnolia TX
The latest rev of the TSB (10/10/18) says .....”If the vehicle experiences a repeat shudder condition, this document should be followed Again”. There is also a note that states “the vehicle may need to be driven up to 200 miles and a minimum of two cold to hot drive cycles before determining if the fluid flush corrected the condition or not. Do not re-evaluate vehicle for additional customer shudder concerns until the vehicle has been driven 200 miles”.
My Service advisor told me that if it comes back, they will do it as often as needed until the revised service procedure (which is suppposed to corrrect the issue) comes out in 1Q 2019. I assume each dealership can interpret the TSB but the TSB says to do it again but only if you have driven it 200 miles after the flush! I was very pleased with how my service was handled and the results I felt today. Only time will tell how effective it will be.
My Service advisor told me that if it comes back, they will do it as often as needed until the revised service procedure (which is suppposed to corrrect the issue) comes out in 1Q 2019. I assume each dealership can interpret the TSB but the TSB says to do it again but only if you have driven it 200 miles after the flush! I was very pleased with how my service was handled and the results I felt today. Only time will tell how effective it will be.
Pro
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 571
Likes: 105
From: Atlanta Georgia
I had the new fluid exchange 500 miles ago and no more shudder. After the exchange I noticed the v4 light no longer came on during part throttle highway constant speed cruising, although today when the low fuel light come on when driving 35 mph at part throttle on the way to the gas station the v4 light came on (never had before). So it seems there must have been a program change with the fluid exchange. My concern is if the shudder damage means 80k miles transmission life or if it will still last 200+k miles...
