6T30 Clutch Module 2009-2013

First-design 6T30 transaxles are now well past 100,000 miles in many cars, and the complaints that bring them in are consistent: a flare to neutral on an upshift, a slip into 3rd or 5th, no reverse, or fluid that smells burnt. When the teardown shows glazed or flaking linings, this is the part that goes back in. It is a Gen 1 friction clutch module for 6T30 transmissions built from 2009 through 2013, the plate set for the early version of GM's smallest six-speed front-drive automatic.

What the clutch module does in a 6T30

Inside the 6T30 there are no bands, only five multi-plate clutches that combine in pairs to make six forward speeds and reverse. The low and reverse and 2-6 clutches hold a planetary member to the case, while the 1-2-3-4, 3-5-reverse and 4-5-6 clutches drive members from the input. Each clutch alternates lined friction plates with steel plates, and its piston clamps them together when the valve body sends pressure. Gen 1 units monitor some of those circuits with pressure switches on the control solenoid body, so a worn friction pack that slips can show up as a ratio code, a pressure switch code or a flare the driver feels before any light comes on.

Symptoms of worn Gen 1 frictions

• Flare or slip in reverse, 3rd or 5th, often stored with DTC P0776
• A drop toward neutral during the 1-2 shift, then a hard catch
• Slips that get worse as the fluid reaches full temperature
• Dark, burnt-smelling fluid with lining material in the pan
• Shift quality that stays poor after a correct hot level check and code repair

How to confirm it before you buy

On a Gen 1 unit the frictions are not the only suspect. Transmission Digest traced a 2011 Cruze 1.8L flare to neutral on the 1-2 shift to a damaged filter plate and the pressure switch 2 circuit, not worn clutches, and the early pressure switches had their own rivet failures through 2012. Set the fluid level hot at the check plug, read codes, and look at the solenoid body before condemning the clutches. Our solenoid symptoms guide and the speed sensor guide cover the electrical side, because a bad sensor reading can make the module report a slip that is not there.

Fitment: 2009-2013 Gen 1 6T30

This module is listed for Gen 1 6T30 transmissions from 2009 to 2013. GM's PI0604C says the family moved to Gen 2 during 2012, while the 2012 Cruze and Sonic with the 1.8L stayed on Gen 1, and it lists revised identification markings on the Gen 2 friction plates. That makes 2012 and 2013 the years to check most closely: compare each removed plate's count, thickness and teeth with the new set, or send us your year and VIN. A Gen 2 unit takes the 2013-2018 6T30 clutch module instead. If firm, harsh shifts were part of the original complaint, the 2007-2012 shift kit is worth adding while the valve body is out.

Install notes

• Soak all new frictions in DEXRON VI for 30 minutes or longer before assembly.
• Inspect the 3-5-reverse housing, piston and wave plate closely; GM calls for a bench inspection of that clutch rather than an air check through the case.
• Replace steels that are blued or warped, and drums with notched splines. The 6T30 clutch drum is available if yours is damaged.
• Check clearance on each pack with a feeler gauge or dial indicator.
• Install new piston seals and a new filter, then refill with DEXRON VI and set the level at 85-95 C at the check plug.
• Clear the adaptive values and complete a relearn with a scan tool before road testing.

Does this fit a 2012 Cruze 1.8L?

GM's PI0604C lists the 2012 Cruze and Sonic with the 1.8L as staying on the Gen 1 design, which is what this module is listed for. Match the plates you remove before installing, or send us your VIN.

How do I know if my 6T30 is Gen 1 or Gen 2?

Gen 1 units have pressure switches on the control solenoid valve body, which GM removed in Gen 2. Your VIN and the transmission ID tag also tell us, so send them if you are unsure.

My car flares to neutral on the 1-2 shift. Is it the clutches?

Not always. On early units that symptom has been traced to a damaged filter plate and the pressure switch 2 circuit. Rule out the solenoid body and fluid level before replacing frictions.

What else should I replace during the rebuild?

Piston seals or bonded pistons, the filter, gaskets, and any steels, drums or wave plates with heat damage, worn splines or cracks.

What fluid does the 6T30 use?

DEXRON VI. Set the level with the fluid at 85-95 C through the check plug, then clear adapts and complete a relearn.

• 6T40 Shift Solenoid Symptoms and Replacement
• 6T40 Input and Output Speed Sensor Symptoms: How to Tell a Bad Sensor From a Bigger Problem
• 6T40 Common Problems and Fixes
• 6T40 Fluid Leak: Common Spots and Fixes