Most 1996 Blazers used a 4-speed automatic (the 4L60-E); a rare base-model with the 2.2-liter four-cylinder could be ordered with a manual five-speed.
In detail, the 1996 Blazer lineup spanned two main configurations and several engines. The majority of Blazers from that year relied on GM’s widely deployed 4L60-E four-speed automatic transmission, paired with the 4.3L V6 or the available V8 options. A manual transmission option existed only for certain base models equipped with the 2.2-liter four-cylinder, making a five-speed manual the exception rather than the rule. The exact setup could vary by body style (S-series Blazer vs. full-size K5 Blazer) and by the drivetrain configuration.
Transmission options by engine and model
Before listing the common configurations, here is a quick guide to the two main transmission paths you might encounter on a 1996 Blazer, depending on engine and trim.
- 4L60-E automatic four-speed overdrive, widely used behind the 4.3L V6 and any available V8 engines.
- 5-speed manual transmission, available on some base models paired with the 2.2L four-cylinder.
In practice, the automatic transmission was the prevalent choice for most 1996 Blazer buyers, while the manual option appeared only on select base configurations with the smaller engine.
How to confirm your specific Blazer’s transmission
To be certain which transmission your 1996 Blazer has, use these verification steps:
- Check the gear selector: an automatic will show P-R-N-D-2-1; a manual will have an H-pattern shifter with a clutch pedal.
- Inspect the transmission case for identification: many 4L60-E units carry a stamping or tag indicating “4L60-E.”
- Look at the build sheet or door jamb/RPO codes if available; this can indicate the factory-installed transmission option for your specific vehicle.
These checks will help you confirm the exact transmission installed on your 1996 Blazer, regardless of engine or trim.
Summary
For most 1996 Chevy Blazers, the standard transmission was the 4L60-E four-speed automatic, especially with the 4.3L V6 and optional V8 engines. A five-speed manual was available only on limited base configurations with the 2.2L four-cylinder. To know for sure, verify the shifter, look for a 4L60-E designation on the transmission, and consult the vehicle’s build sheet or RPO codes.
What year Blazer to stay away from?
If we were going to pick one year to avoid, it would be 2019, which had two recalls and 111 consumer complaints via the NHTSA—and 2020 was a close second. For the classic Blazer, the 2000 model year logged 626 complaints and had four recalls.
What transmission goes in a 1996 Chevy 1500?
4L60E automatic Transmission
1996-1997 Chevy & GMC K-1500 Series 5.0 & 5.7 Truck 4L60E automatic Transmission with Converter.
What transmission does a 1997 Chevy Blazer have?
4L60E 1996-1997 Chevy/GMC Astro/Safari, Blazer/Jimmy, and S10/Sonoma – Remanufactured 4-Speed Automatic Trans.
What type of transmission does a Chevy Blazer have?
Standard Blazer trim.
2.0L Turbo 4-cylinder engine. Standard Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), available All-Wheel Drive (AWD) 9-speed automatic transmission.