Best and Worst Years for Chevy Silverado 1500

2003 and 2024 Models

Things were pretty great for the Silverado 1500 until 2003. This second-generation Silverado, along with the 2004 model year, has the most complaints lodged with the NHTSA at well over 1,000 for each model year. Rough idling, stalling, and a check engine light appearing often as a result of an engine issue were common complaints. Electrical issues and power steering hiccups are also an issue for these two model years.

2005, 2006, and 2007 Models

The 2005, 2006, and 2007 Silverado 1500 model years are third-generation trucks from Chevy, and it’s clear the automaker didn’t learn much from previous mistakes. Interior accessory concerns plague this generation, and many reported problems with the heating and air conditioning systems. This generation also suffered from drivetrain issues, and these three model years received many recalls.

2011 and 2014 Models

Both the 2011 and 2014 model years had several issues, but the 2014 Chevy Silverado 1500 is the worst model year. Transmission failures, engine problems, cooling issues, stalling, and a noisy engine plague both model years, but the 2014 earned far more complaints from owners.

The Best Years for the Chevy Silverado 1500

If you want to purchase a pre-owned Chevy Silverado, these are the model years to focus on:

• 1996

• 1998

• 1999

• 2000

• 2001

• 2002

• 2008

• 2009

• 2010

• 2011

• 2012

• 2020

• 2021

The Top-Rated Chevy Silverado 1500 Years

Of all the great model years Chevy has had with the Silverado, three stand apart: 2021, 2012, and 1998.

2021 Model

The 2021 Chevy Silverado has very few complaints logged with the NHTSA, making it one of the most reliable Silverados Chevy has ever made. Owners also say Chevy did well with interior fit and finish, ride comfort, and towing capacity. A few faulty interior accessories and minuscule electrical issues are the only negative thing people have to say about the 2021 model year.

2012 Model

The 2012 is also seen as reliable and well-built, though it does have a few complaints regarding brakes. Still, most owners feel it’s well built and reliable.

1998 Model

1998 is well behind us, but this model year Silverado has a shockingly low 350 complaints registered with the NHTSA. The 1998 Chevy Silverado may be the most reliable truck Chevy has ever made. Most issues lodged with NHTSA involved interior components failing.

The Most Common Chevy Silverado Issues

Failed Starts

Some models of the Chevy Silverado fail to start at random times. A dead battery is often the root cause of a truck failing to start, so keep an eye on your Silverado’s battery health.

Transfer Case

Transfer case failures are common for the Chevy Silverado. The transfer case transfers power from the transmission to the axles, powering the truck. When it fails to work properly, transfer cases can make a truck feel sluggish and lose power.

Fuel Tank Sensor

Some Silverados give false fuel level readings thanks to a faulty fuel tank sensor. Replacing sensors on older trucks often solves the issue, but replacing the fuel pump itself may be necessary, too.

Power Loss

Much like the power drain found with the transfer case, complete and sudden power loss also dogs the Silverado. This is a concerning problem because it can be caused by myriad reasons like poor electrical connections, damaged fuel pumps, worn spark plugs, bad torque converters, and more.

Other Questions You Might Have

Is the Chevy Silverado a reliable truck? 

Generally, yes, but bad model years have significant issues that make them hard to recommend. When purchasing a pre-owned Silverado, it’s best to avoid the 2003-2007 model years as well as the 2011 and 2014 model years.

Are issues easy to fix on a Chevy Silverado? 

Many are, but serious issues will require professional intervention. If your Silverado has engine, transmission, drivetrain, or fuel sensor issues, take it to a licensed mechanic as soon as possible.

What should I do before buying a used Chevy Silverado? 

Given the serious issues plaguing some model years, it’s highly advisable to get a CarFax report and to have a pre-owned Silverado inspected by an independent mechanic.