How to Diagnose and Fix the 2017 Camaro Clicking Noise and Shudder

How to Fix Clicking Noise

If you're hearing a clicking noise from your 2017 Chevrolet Camaro, you're not alone. This common issue can stem from several areas, but data from actual owners points to specific, repeatable causes related to the drivetrain and exhaust system. The sound is often more than just an annoyance; it can be a precursor to more significant mechanical issues. As one owner contemplating modifications warned about unintended consequences, "I'm concerned that if I do this, it might cause heat build-up somewhere else." This highlights the importance of a correct diagnosis before any repair or modification. This guide will walk you through the symptoms, diagnosis, and repair based on real-world experiences from Camaro owners.

Symptoms

Owners of the 2017 Camaro report a range of symptoms accompanying or related to clicking and clunking noises. The most direct report is a metal clunking sound, which is often felt through the chassis or floorboard, not just heard. This is frequently tied to drivetrain engagement, especially during acceleration, gear changes, or when coming to a stop.

Another cluster of symptoms involves heat-related damage. Owners report a burnt wiring insulation smell, which is a serious concern indicating excessive heat in the engine or exhaust bay. In severe cases, this can lead to visible smoke. These symptoms are critically important as they point to a problem that can cause secondary failures. For instance, excessive exhaust heat has been implicated in starter motor failure. One owner shared their experience, noting, "The starter did take some time to break down," suggesting that heat soak from components like unwrapped headers can have a slow, degrading effect on adjacent parts.

Finally, a symptom often described as a shudder—a rhythmic vibration through the car—can be associated with these noises. This shudder is typically most noticeable at low speeds or under light throttle and may feel like the transmission is struggling to find the right gear or the torque converter is locking and unlocking erratically. It’s a physical sensation that pairs with the audible click or clunk, confirming the issue is mechanical and not just a loose piece of trim.

Most Likely Cause

Based on aggregated owner discussions and reports, the primary cause of a clicking or clunking noise in the 2017 Camaro is drivetrain component incompatibility or failure, with a significant focus on the torque converter and transmission-related components. The 2017 model, particularly with the automatic transmission (8L90), has known tendencies for torque converter shudder. This shudder manifests as a clicking or rhythmic clunking sensation, often confused with a transmission problem itself.

The issue is frequently exacerbated by the use of incorrect fluids or fluids that have degraded. The factory-fill transmission fluid is specific and designed for the high-performance demands of the Camaro's drivetrain. Using a generic ATF or going too long between service intervals can break down the fluid's friction modifiers, leading to the torque converter clutch slipping and chattering, which creates the distinct clicking noise. Furthermore, modifications like installing longtube headers can alter the engine's harmonics and exhaust backpressure, potentially affecting transmission shift patterns and placing different stresses on the drivetrain, sometimes unmasking or accelerating an underlying converter issue.

How to Diagnose

Diagnosing a clicking noise requires a systematic approach to isolate the sound. You'll need a safe way to lift the vehicle (jack and jack stands or a lift), a mechanic's stethoscope (or a long screwdriver), a flashlight, and possibly an OBD-II scanner to check for any related transmission codes.

First, try to replicate the noise. Is it present at idle, during acceleration, during deceleration, or when turning? A noise during acceleration that disappears when coasting often points to drivetrain load issues. Next, with the vehicle safely elevated and supported, start the engine and have a helper gently apply the brake while putting the transmission into gear (Drive and Reverse). Listen carefully from underneath. Use a mechanic's stethoscope to probe different areas: the transmission bellhousing (where the torque converter lives), the transmission pan, and the driveshaft couplings. A distinct clicking or grinding from the bellhousing area strongly suggests a torque converter issue.

Inspect for secondary evidence. Look for any signs of burnt wiring or insulation near the exhaust, particularly if you have aftermarket headers. Check the starter motor for heat discoloration. Scan for diagnostic trouble codes; while a shudder may not always set a hard code, sometimes a pending code related to transmission slip or pressure can be stored. Finally, check the transmission fluid condition and level (with the engine running and at operating temperature). Fluid that is dark, smells burnt, or is low is a major red flag. As one owner wisely advised when considering modifications, it's crucial to understand the layout: "For anyone who has been under the car and knows how everything looks down there..." A thorough visual inspection is a key diagnostic step.

Step-by-Step Fix

The most effective fix, as reported by owners, is a complete transmission fluid and filter service using the correct, high-quality fluid, followed by a torque converter replacement if the service does not resolve the shudder. Here is the detailed process:

1. Gather Parts & Prepare: Secure the correct transmission fluid (GM-approved Dexron HP or equivalent), a new transmission filter kit (includes pan gasket), and a new torque converter if diagnostics point to it. Ensure you have a torque wrench, socket set, fluid pump, and drain pan.
2. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the rear wheels. Safely lift the front of the vehicle and support it on jack stands rated for the vehicle's weight.
3. Drain Fluid: Place the drain pan underneath the transmission pan. Loosen all the pan bolts slightly, then carefully break the seal on one side to allow fluid to drain into a corner of the pan. Once drained, remove all bolts and the pan.
4. Replace Filter: Remove the old filter (it may be held by bolts or a clip). Clean the transmission pan thoroughly of all old gasket material and sludge. Install the new filter and a new pan gasket.
5. Reinstall Pan & Refill: Reinstall the transmission pan with the new gasket, tightening bolts to the manufacturer's specification in a crisscross pattern. Using a funnel and pump, refill the transmission through the dipstick tube with the specified amount of fresh fluid.
6. Fluid Level Check & Procedure: Start the engine. With the parking brake firmly set and your foot on the brake, cycle the transmission slowly through each gear (P-R-N-D), pausing for a few seconds in each. Return to Park. With the engine still running, check the fluid level on the dipstick. Add fluid as necessary until it reaches the "Hot" or "Full" mark. This is critical for proper operation.
7. Test Drive: Take the vehicle for a gentle test drive, allowing the transmission to reach normal operating temperature. Note if the clicking or shudder has improved.
8. Torque Converter Replacement (If Needed): If the fluid change does not solve the issue, the torque converter is likely faulty. This is a major repair requiring removal of the transmission. It involves draining the fluid again, disconnecting the driveshaft, exhaust components, wiring, and supports, and lowering the transmission to access and swap the converter. This step is best left to a professional mechanic or a very experienced DIYer.
9. Post-Repair Inspection: After any repair, especially a converter replacement, another fluid level check is essential. Also, inspect areas around the exhaust for any signs of the previously noted heat damage, as resolving the drivetrain issue may have been the primary fix, but heat shields or wiring may still need attention.

As one owner shared regarding the value of their vehicle, addressing such issues is key to preservation: "It seems the resale/ trade value on my car has dropped by $4,000.00." Proactive repair helps maintain both performance and value.

Parts and Tools Needed

• Parts:
  • Transmission Fluid: GM Dexron HP Automatic Transmission Fluid (Part # 19417577) - Approximately 8-10 quarts for a full service/flush.
  • Transmission Filter Kit: Includes filter and pan gasket (e.g., ACDelco # 24265896 for many 8L90 applications).
  • Torque Converter: ACDelco or GM OEM replacement (Part # varies by engine/transmission code). Aftermarket performance units are also available.
  • (Optional) Exhaust Header Wrap: If heat management is a concurrent issue (e.g., from aftermarket longtube headers).
• Tools:
  • Floor jack and (4) jack stands
  • Socket set (metric) and ratchets
  • Torque wrench
  • Fluid transfer pump
  • Large drain pan (at least 10-quart capacity)
  • Mechanic's stethoscope
  • Flashlight
  • OBD-II Code Scanner
  • Safety glasses and gloves

Real Owner Costs

The cost to fix a clicking noise or shudder varies dramatically based on the root cause and who does the work.

• DIY Fluid & Filter Service: This is the most affordable first step. Parts (fluid and filter kit) will cost between $150 and $250. If this resolves the shudder, it's a very cost-effective fix.
• Professional Fluid Service: A dealership or independent shop will typically charge $300 to $500 for a full transmission fluid and filter service.
• Torque Converter Replacement (Professional): This is where costs escalate significantly. The job requires 6-8 hours of labor. Parts (converter and fluid) can range from $600 to $1,200+ for an OEM part. Total shop bills for diagnosis, parts, and labor commonly range from $2,000 to $3,500. This aligns with owner concerns about value depreciation, as a major repair bill directly impacts a vehicle's net worth.
• Transmission Replacement/Overhaul: In worst-case scenarios where the shudder has damaged internal transmission components, costs can exceed $5,000.

One owner's comment on value reflects this financial impact: "I just paid car off... the resale/ trade value on my car has dropped by $4,000.00." A major drivetrain repair can contribute to such a depreciation hit if not addressed properly.

Prevention

Preventing torque converter shudder and related clicking noises centers on proactive maintenance and mindful modifications.

1. Strict Fluid Maintenance: Adhere to the severe service maintenance schedule if you drive aggressively, track the car, or frequently sit in traffic. Consider a transmission fluid and filter change every 30,000-45,000 miles, not the extended intervals sometimes suggested. Always use the manufacturer-specified fluid.
2. Manage Heat: If you install performance headers (longtube headers are a common mod), consider the thermal impact. Use quality header wrap or ceramic coating to reduce underhood temperatures. This protects not just the starter, but also wiring harnesses and the transmission itself from excessive heat soak, which can degrade fluids and seals. As an owner pondered, the trade-off must be considered: "is it worth wrapping the exhaust?"
3. Avoid Abusive Driving: While the Camaro is a performance car, consistent "launch control" style starts and aggressive power shifts (in automatics) put extreme stress on the torque converter and transmission clutches, accelerating wear.
4. Address Issues Immediately: A minor shudder or click is a warning. Ignoring it allows the problem to worsen, potentially turning a $300 fluid service into a $3,000 transmission repair.

What Owners Say

Real experiences from CHEVROLET owners:

Success Stories

"Giulia QF: In the third week of ownership, I got a check engine light and the throttle was blipping itself in park. I cleared the code and was on my way." — TheWolfofBinance (source)

"Finally another alignment somewhat fixed the issue, but the steering in this car never felt right. Next, on the first day, on the drive home, the rattles were driving me nuts." — TheWolfofBinance (source)

Owner Experiences

"For anyone who has been under the car and knows how everything looks down there, is it worth wrapping the exhaust? I'm concerned that if I do this, it might cause heat build-up somewhere else." — zeegenius (source)

"The starter did take some time to break down. For anyone who has been under the car and knows how everything looks down there, is it worth wrapping the exhaust?" — zeegenius (source)

"Give me confirmation bias that a manual 2017-2018 ZL1 is still worth it in 2026! I sold my 2018 SS 1le earlier this year, and I actually regret it, so the only way to atone for my mess up is to come back with more power." — Apex_All_Things (source)

Lessons Learned

⚠️ "I still have some time to cancel and im stressing that I sould wait and get one with mag ride. I really only wanna buy from carmax for a number of reasons so im limited to their inventory." — mymoneyaltaccount (source)

Real Repair Costs

"2017 1SS 1LE 63,450 miles. It seems the resale/ trade value on my car has dropped by $4,000.00, I just paid car off, Using KBB for values,live in south west Georgia we can drive sports cars all year round here." — Next_Blood_9152 (source)

"It seems the resale/ trade value on my car has dropped by $4,000.00, I just paid car off, Using KBB for values,live in south west Georgia we can drive sports cars all year round here." — Next_Blood_9152 (source)

"first picture is my car, second is what it would look like black. also just interested in general opinions, i bought this car in 2017 off craigslist for $8k as my first car, its been through a lot and i always planned on repainting it original, but in the last year or two, the idea of making it black taunts me (i originally wanted a trans am but ain’t got that smokey & the bandit money) what are y’all’s experiences with repainting classics, and black vs white." — spcychikn (source)

FAQ

Q: How long does it take to fix a torque converter shudder? A: A simple transmission fluid and filter service can be done by a DIYer in 2-3 hours. A professional shop might take 1-2 hours. If a torque converter replacement is needed, the job is extensive. For a professional, it's typically a full-day job (6-8 hours of labor). A DIY attempt on a converter swap could take a weekend for someone with advanced mechanical skills and proper equipment.

Q: Can I drive my Camaro with a clicking noise or shudder? A: You can, but you shouldn't for long. A mild shudder may be an early fluid issue. However, driving extensively with a failing torque converter can cause excessive heat and contamination, leading to widespread transmission damage. If the noise is severe or accompanied by a burnt smell, you should avoid driving it and have it towed to a repair facility.

Q: Is this a common issue on the 2017 Camaro? A: Yes, based on owner reports and discussions, torque converter shudder is a known concern for the 8-speed automatic transmission (8L90) used in many 2017 Camaros, particularly the V8 models. It is one of the most frequently discussed drivetrain issues for this model year.

Q: DIY vs mechanic - what's recommended for this repair? A: A transmission fluid service is a high-intermediate DIY job. It's messy but straightforward if you are methodical and can safely lift the vehicle. A torque converter replacement is a professional-level repair. It requires supporting the engine, lowering the transmission, and precise reinstallation. The cost of specialized tools and the risk of improper installation leading to catastrophic failure make this a job best left to experienced technicians, as one owner hinted when discussing the complexity under the car.

Q: Will aftermarket headers cause this problem? A: Not directly, but they can be a contributing factor. Longtube headers increase performance but also increase underhood and exhaust tunnel temperatures. This excess heat can accelerate the breakdown of transmission fluid and stress nearby components. Proper heat management (wrapping or coating) is highly recommended with such modifications.

Q: Could the clicking be something simpler, like a CV axle? A: While possible, owner data for the 2017 Camaro strongly points to drivetrain-related issues like the torque converter as the primary culprit for a rhythmic click or clunk under load. CV joint clicks are usually more pronounced during tight turns. Your diagnostic process should start with the most common cause first.