The Chevy Silverado 1500 is a powerhouse pickup and an American icon. This light-duty truck does whatever job is requested of it and is an ideal companion for work and play. However, as the years pass, some problems develop. Let’s look at its known issues so you know what to expect when purchasing this truck.
Key Takeaways:
- Each generation of the Chevy Silverado 1500 has had issues, most of which can be fixed.
- The most recent generation may experience engine fires; however, there has been a substantial recall regarding this issue.
- The 2018 model has been specifically problematic.
What Issues Arise in the 2019-2023 Chevy Silverado 1500?
We’ll start with the most recent model years and work our way back. Issues for 2019–2023 Silverado models include:
- Silverados from 2019 and 2020 may experience engine fires, particularly those with carpeted floors. Potential causes include leaking oil cooler lines and pretensioner gas. There has been a substantial recall of vehicles regarding this issue.
- The latest Silverados have infotainment systems issues, including faulty radios (an unexpected volume jump in 2018-2020 models), continuous ringing during Bluetooth calls, a camera that stays in reverse after the driver shifts into drive, and a glitchy or unresponsive touchscreen.
- Some 2018 models experience unexpected engine stalling and failure as a result of defective software—this can be fixed with a software update from GM.
- There are a myriad of transmission issues, particularly in 2018 models. They include lunging or jerking forward while shifting, shuddering during acceleration, and transmission failure.
What Problems Are Seen From the 2014-2018 Chevy Silverado 1500?
Critics consider the 2018 Silverado to be a particularly problematic model for this reason, as customer reviews are significant. In this grouping problems include:
- If you see a driver service assist message on your dash that shows the seat haptic motors have failed. They are located on either side of the driver’s seat cushion, connecting to bumper sensors, alerting drivers when they get too close to other objects. In most cases, they fail due to their placement on the seat.
- After the 88,000-mile mark, drivers report a clunking noise in the steering column while turning.
- Models built from 2014 to 2019 are especially prone to vibrations that begin at about 35 mph. This is caused by a defective hydraulic mechanism in the 8-speed transmission or the aluminum driveshaft wearing down.
- The CP4 fuel pump fails, as it is incompatible with American diesel fuel. (This was such a big issue that owners brought a lawsuit against GM in 2018.
What Issues Are Seen From the 2007-2013 Chevy Silverado 1500?
The most common issues for the second generation of Silverado come from sensor failures, but there are other issues as well.
- When the Silverado reaches the 100,000-mile mark, fuel level sensors would begin malfunctioning, making it difficult to know how much fuel was in the truck.
- Excess oil consumption is common due to leaking piston rings on the 5.3L Vortec 5300 engine.
- The truck’s brake lights may stay on after turning off the pickup due to faulty connectors or broken wires.
What Are the Common Issues Of the 1999-2006 Chevy Silverado 1500?
As with any first-generation truck, there are some kinks to be worked out. In these years, problems include:
- All generations of the Silverado have had issues with the 4WD switch, but early trucks will automatically switch between 4WD and 2WD and couldn’t manually be changed back. This would usually happen around the 100,000-mile mark.
- Early Silverados would see their front wheel bearings prematurely fail due to rust developing in and around the hubs.
- Early pickups also saw knock sensor failures in detecting combustion issues in the engine, which could cause it to fail.
Staying Ahead of Chevy Silverado 1500 Problems
Through GM’s Certified Pre-Owned program, our used Silverados undergo a thorough 172-point inspection and reconditioning process. The model you choose must be less than six years old, have fewer than 75,000 miles, and dealers must complete all the necessary safety recalls before selling certified pre-owned models to qualify.
How Can I Stay On Top of Any Problems I Have With My Chevy Silverado 1500?
Now that you know what to watch out for when looking for a Silverado 1500, you can make an informed decision. And if you need further help when choosing your next truck, Banner’s friendly sales associates are ready to answer any questions you have!