Best & Worst Years of Chevrolet Silverado – Graphs & Owner Surveys

The Best Years of the Chevrolet Silverado

Looking at the engine reliability data, owner feedback, safety testing, and fuel economy ratings, some Chevrolet Silverado model years are far better than others. We look at a year-by-year examination of the best Chevy Silverados. In the review, we’ll also examine the most likely diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for each model and list any relevant recalls from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

2019-2021 Chevrolet Silverado

 

Just after the beginning of the 4th generation, the 2019 -2021 Chevrolet Silverado is proving to be a real winner. Not only has it earned a great reliability rating from owners, but it’s also not expensive to repair or maintain when compared with other model years.

FIXD app engine reliability data gives the 2019 to 2021 model years an 8 to 10 out of 10. Plus, owners rank the three Silverado models between a 9 and a perfect 10. 

NHTSA crash testing gives these trucks a decent overall safety score of 4.4-4.5 (out of 5), proving it’s one of the safer trucks on the road.

Owners of these Silverado years are looking at a higher chance of over $500 repair bills, which isn’t uncommon with full-size truck models. However, these truck models have a reduced instance of engine or transmission failure when compared with older versions.

The most prevalent trouble codes with these two models include Lost Communication with TCM (U0101) and Lost Communication With ECM/PCM “A” (U0100). These two codes can be set for something as simple as a dead car battery, which is an easy fix costing around $79 to $496. There are also reports of the Random, Multiple Misfire Detected (P0300) trouble code, but it comes up far less in these models than compared with older Silverados. If the code is due to faulty spark plugs, you may spend around $66 to $250. 

There are, however, ten recalls for the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado, ten for the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado, and five on the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado. All of these should be covered repairs by the dealership, so you won’t have to pay anything out of pocket. 

2015-2018 Chevrolet Silverado

The 2015 through 2018 Chevrolet Silverado are part of the 3rd generation. These trucks have earned a stellar reliability rating from the owners and both have superior safety scores. 

FIXD app engine reliability data gives the model years a 7 or 8 out of 10, while owners rank the Silverado models with an 8 through a perfect 10. 

NHTSA crash testing gives these trucks a decent overall safety score of 4.75 to 4.8 (out of 5), which is much higher than most trucks receive.

The big difference between the four models is the annual repair and maintenance cost. With the 2015 Chevrolet Silverado, we show an annual estimate of $685, while the 2016 Chevrolet Silverado is much higher at $964. However, the chance of a repair being more than $500 goes down with these models compared with some others we’ve discussed.

These Silverado models tend to deal with the Random, Multiple Misfire Detected (P0300) trouble code, which could indicate something as simple as a bad spark plugs costing around $66 to $250 to repair. They also are known for the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold Bank 2 (P0430) DTC.  If you need to replace the catalytic converter to get rid of the code, you could spend between $1,538 and $2,041. 

As with most trucks, you are looking at a significant amount of recalls. The 2015 Chevrolet Silverado currently has 23 recalls, while the 2016 Chevrolet Silverado lists 13. Additionally, the 2017 Chevrolet Silverado has six recalls, while the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado is subject to three recalls. These repairs should be covered by the automaker, leaving you with nothing to pay out of pocket. 

2010-2011 Chevrolet Silverado

With the 2010 and 2011 Chevrolet Silverado, we don’t see quite as high reliability ratings based on the FIXD app data, but owners seem to be pleased. Additionally, the safety scores are impressive. 

FIXD app engine reliability data gives the 2010 and 2011 model years a 5 or 6 out of 10, while owners rank the two Silverado models with an 8/10. 

NHTSA crash testing gives these trucks a decent overall safety score of 4.5 (out of 5), which isn’t too  shabby.

There is a slight difference with the annual repair and maintenance cost. With the 2010 Chevrolet Silverado, we show an annual estimate of $833, while the 2011 Chevrolet Silverado is much lower at $579. However, the chance of a repair being more than $500 goes down with both of these models with the newer one more likely to experience brake trouble and the older truck subject to engine problems.

Both Silverado trucks show the Random, Multiple Misfire Detected (P0300) trouble code, but it doesn’t always indicate something severe. In many cases, spark plugs are all that are needed, and these tend to cost around $66 to $250 for the repair. They also are known for the Engine Oil Pressure Sensor/Switch Range/Performance (P0521) DTC. If an oil pressure sending unit is needed, it would cost around $91 to $151. 

As with most of these older model trucks, there are some recalls to deal with. The 2010 Chevrolet Silverado has four recalls, while the 2011 Chevrolet Silverado has six to think about. These repairs should be covered by the automaker, leaving you with nothing to pay out of pocket. 

2013-2014 Chevrolet Silverado

The 2014 Chevrolet Silverado started the 3rd generation, and it wasn’t riddled with major problems as most new models are. These two models feature strong reliability ratings, they earned great safety scores, plus they received some of the best fuel economy ratings of the Silverado lineups.

FIXD app engine reliability data gives the 2013 and 2014 model years a 6 or 7 out of 10, while owners rank the Silverado model with an 8 or 9. 

NHTSA crash testing reveals a generous safety score of 4.6-4.8 (out of 5), still landing higher than many other full-size trucks.

The annual cost to repair and maintain the 2014 Chevy Silverado may be on the higher side at $825, but this is common with trucks. Yet, the 2013 model is much lower at just $567. With that said, the chance of major repairs being needed is lower than average with every system except for air conditioning and heat on the 2014 truck and the engine on the 2013 model. 

One of the most common DTCs is the Random, Multiple Misfire Detected (P0300) trouble code. It may require spark plugs, which can cost $58 to $167. Additionally, you could face the Engine Oil Pressure Sensor/Switch Range/Performance (P0521) DTC. If an oil pressure sending unit is needed, it would cost around $91 and $151. There’s also the chance for the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold Bank 2 (P0430) DTC.  If you need to replace the catalytic converter to get rid of the code, you could spend between $1,538 and $2,041. 

The 2014 Chevrolet Silverado has 20 recalls while the 2013 Chevrolet Silverado suffers from 5. You shouldn’t need to pay anything out of pocket for the covered recall repairs. 

The Worst Years of the Chevrolet Silverado

If you are looking to buy a used Chevrolet Silverado, these are the models you want to be wary of. If you currently own one of them, be aware that you may spend more on repair and maintenance bills, and your truck may not last as long as the model years listed in the “best years” category above. 

Using the same data from above, let’s look closer at these troublesome Silverado models. 

2012 Chevrolet Silverado

The 2012 Chevrolet Silverado may not have terrible ratings, but it’s one of the most expensive model years to own. Additionally, the truck suffers a higher chance of mechanical failure of most of the essential systems. 

FIXD app engine reliability data gives the 2012 Silverado a 7 out of 10, while owners rank the Silverado models with a 9/10. 

The annual cost to repair and maintain the 2012 Chevy Silverado is the highest of all models at $1,000.  Additionally, the value of the truck dips down lower than the model before it. 

Sadly, the list of common trouble codes with the 2012 isn’t much different from some of the others. It commonly suffers from the Random, Multiple Misfire Detected (P0300) trouble code, which could be due to the spark plugs, costing around $66 to $250 for a replacement. They also are known for the Engine Oil Pressure Sensor/Switch Range/Performance (P0521) DTC. If an oil pressure sending unit is needed, it would cost around $91 to $151. 

Not only does the 2012 Chevrolet Silverado have four recalls, but also two investigations. More than likely there should have been additional recalls that never occurred.   

2003-2005 Chevrolet Silverado

The 2003 to 2005 Chevrolet Silverado has some of the lower reliability scores amongst Silverado years and they are typically expensive to repair. They also feature lower-than-average fuel economy ratings, forcing drivers to spend more at the pump. 

FIXD app engine reliability data gives the 2003-2005 model years a 1-2 out of 10, while owners rank these Silverado years as a 7. 

The annual cost to repair and maintain the 2003 Chevy Silverado is on the high side at $926, making it more costly to own. Additionally, the value of the truck dips down lower than the two previous model years before it. 2001-2002 Silverados are worth more, according to KBB values. 

Sadly, the list of common trouble codes with the 2003-2005 Chevrolet Silverado is long. It commonly suffers from the Evaporative System (EVAP) Vent Circuit Control Malfunction (P0449), which could range in cost to repair from $200 to $750, and the Random, Multiple Misfire Detected (P0300) trouble code that may require a new intake manifold gasket, costing $357 to $746. We also see lots of data indicating System Too Lean Bank 1 (P0171), which could also be the intake manifold gasket, and Catalyst System Low Efficiency (P0420), which may require a catalytic converter costing $1,538 to $2,041.

Not only does the 2003 Chevrolet Silverado have 15 recalls, but there are also nine NHTSA investigations and more than 2,000 complaints. The 2004 Chevrolet Silverado has 17 recalls and one investigation, while the 2005 Chevrolet Silverado has 16 recalls. Learn from those who have gone before you and avoid these Chevy trucks. 

2006-2009 Chevrolet Silverado

The 2006-2009 Chevrolet Silverados don’t fare much better than the previous models. They can be expensive to repair and maintain, have low-reliability ratings, and earlier ones plummet in safety rating scores. 

FIXD app engine reliability data gives the 2006-2009 model year a 2-4 out of 10, while owners rank the Silverado models with a 7-9/10. 

NHTSA crash testing reveals a lower safety score of 3.75-4.6 (out of 5), indicating that occupants may be at risk in some of these trucks. 

The annual cost to repair and maintain the 2006 Chevy Silverado may be on the higher side at $891, with a high likelihood of brake failure. It also faces an above-average chance of needing engine or transmission repair. Models after the 2006 model year tend to do slightly better.

These pickups suffer from many of the same DTCs as the previous models we reviewed, such as Catalyst System Low Efficiency (P0420), which may require a catalytic converter costing $1,538 to $2,041. It also looks like the Engine Oil Pressure Sensor/Switch Range/Performance (P0521) DTC is common. If an oil pressure sending unit is needed, it would cost around $91 to $151. 

Maybe the only good thing going for the 2006 Chevrolet Silverado is that there are just 11 NHTSA recalls. The 2007 Chevrolet Silverado has 6 recalls, the 2008 Chevrolet Silverado suffers from 5 recalls and the 2009 Chevrolet Silverado has 3 recalls. It’s also possible that there are plenty of defects that were worthy of recalls, but they never got issued. 

2001-2002 Chevrolet Silverado

The 2001 and 2002 Chevrolet Silverado aren’t looking like a winner if you want a reliable pickup truck. The safety rating is low, they have poor fuel economy numbers and a higher-than-average chance of major mechanical failure. 

FIXD app engine reliability data gives the 2001 and 2002 model years a 1 out of 10, while owners rank these years with a 7 or 8. 

NHTSA crash testing reveals one of the lowest safety scores of 3.5 (out of 5), revealing that this isn’t the safest truck on the road.

The annual cost to repair and maintain the 2001 and 2002 Chevy Silverado may be a little more reasonable at $733 to $792, but there’s a high likelihood of engine malfunctions, brake failure, or trouble with the AC and heating system. 

We continue to see a longer list of trouble codes with the 2001 and 2002 Chevrolet Silverado. As with some other models, you may see the Random, Multiple Misfire Detected (P0300) trouble code that could be due to a faulty mass air flow sensor for around $172 to $309. Otherwise, it’s common to get the System Too Lean Bank 1 (P0171), System Too Lean Bank 2 (P0174), both of which also point to the mass air flow sensor. 

There may only be 18 recalls on the 2001 Chevrolet Silverado, but it’s been involved in 15 NHTSA investigations. Plus, the 2002 Chevrolet Silverado has 18 recalls and 15 investigations. These numbers indicate these are trucks to stay away from. 

FAQs

What years of the Chevrolet Silverado have engine and/or transmission problems?

The Chevrolet Silverado models with the highest chance of engine trouble include the 2007, 2011, and 2001. However, there’s a higher-than-average chance for a $500+ engine repair bill with the 2003-2013 Chevrolet Silverado models. Major transmission problems aren’t as common but can occur more frequently with the 2002, 2005 and 2012 Chevrolet Silverado trucks.

What is considered high mileage for a Chevrolet Silverado?

Because pickup trucks can be used in a variety of ways, it’s difficult to determine an average mileage for the Chevrolet Silverado. With proper maintenance and gentle driving, the Silverado could last more than 200,000 miles, while others that have been heavily used and abused may only last 100,000 miles. High mileage is better determined by a professional technician that can evaluate the truck. 

Our data suggests that high mileage could generally be considered 130,000 miles or above. 

Most of the oldest years we have data on (1996-2006) generally range between an average of 170,000 to 195,000 miles or so. This plateau suggests that these vehicles are the few still left on the road because they have less mileage and therefore, less wear and tear than the average vehicle. But, at this point, they are probably only a few thousand miles away from being sold as scrap to the nearest junkyard. 

Only 2 of the older years have an average mileage over 200,000, the 1997 (258K) and the 1999 (250k). High mileage for newer vehicles may be very different but, assuming it improves with time, you may get even more out of a high-mileage vehicle than we see now.

Just in case you’d rather buy low mileage, 2014 and forward, the average mileage is less than 130,000 miles.

What other vehicles should I consider?

There aren’t many other truck options offered by the Chevrolet family. However, if you don’t need a full-size truck, you could consider the smaller Colorado. It’s still plenty capable and provides the truck experience you are hoping for. There’s also the heavy-duty Silverado lineup for those of you looking for something a little beefier. You could also explore Ford’s F-150, the Toyota Tundra, Honda Ridgeline, or RAM 1500.

Aside from trucks, don’t forget that Chevrolet provides a long list of capable and reliable SUVs. You can tow and haul with many of the SUVs, giving you some of the same capability as a truck. On the smaller end, you have the Trailblazer, Equinox, and Blazer to consider. If you need something larger, take a look at the Traverse, Tahoe, or Suburban instead. 

What owners of the Chevrolet Silverado like to use their car for:

Percent based x/5-star: 0-10% = 1, 11-20% = 2, 21-30% = 3, 31-40% = 4, 41%+ = 5

Frequent Use Categories:	How Useful? (Out of 5 Stars)
Family Vehicle	****
Lots of Driving (travel/long commute)	*****
Hauling/Towing	*
Office on Wheels	*
Sport/Fast Driving	*
Luxurious Driving	*
Outdoor/Off-Road	*

A Note About Data and Information Sources

This article has many details about Chevrolet Silverado reliability; here’s what we used for our assumptions and recommendations.

• FIXD Reliability Score & Data: Engine reliability information is captured via the FIXD App. 

The FIXD Reliability Score is calculated using the number of DTCs per year, weighted by mileage. This is then turned into a scale of 1-10 for easy graphing. 

This is an objective score.

• Owner Reliability Score & Data: This data is the result of surveying Chevrolet Silverado owners who use FIXD. 

The Owner Reliability Score comes straight from owners of the Chevrolet Silverado.  

This is a subjective score.

To determine the Owner Reliability Score we ask each car owner:

How reliable would you say your Chevrolet Silverado isa

a. Just point A to point B driving

b. A Daily Commuter

c. Good for a 100 mile road trip

d. Good for a 500 mile road trip

e. I could take a cross-country road trip, no problem

From here we translate their answers into the Owner Reliability Score:

a. = 2

b. = 4

c. = 6

d. = 8

e. = 10

Keep in mind, owners may think their car is more or less reliable than it actually is. 

One potential problem is that people often buy the same make or model they are used to when they go car shopping, just a newer year.

Ford, for instance, has a number of consumer loyalty awards for the Ford F-Series, Ford Mustang, and Ford Expedition.

Car owners may be so loyal to the make or model they currently own that they would have trouble accurately comparing their cars’ reliability to others. 

It’s for this reason that we intentionally ask car owners a question that is relative to mileage rather than relative to other cars. 

Still, be mindful of the accuracy of these Owner Reliability Scores, people’s perceptions and unconscious blindspots can skew data. 

We suggest looking at both the FIXD Reliability Score and the Owner Reliability Score for this reason.

• KBB Value: Average private-seller valuations as supplied by Kelley Blue Book (KBB), based on a {make} {model} with typical mileage for that respective model year.
• Fuel Economy: Mileage-per-gallon estimates according to the EPA MPG on Fueleconomy.gov
• Annual Maintenance/Repair: Upkeep expenses as reported by surveyed Ford Chevrolet Silverado owners
• Safety Rating: Crash test data collected and reported by NHTSA. We average all ratings for each year to come up with a simplified, average safety score. This makes it easier to look at on a graph. 

References

1. Best-selling pickup trucks in the United States in 2022, Statista (March 10, 2023). Retrieved March 19, 2023, from https://www.statista.com/statistics/204473/best-selling-trucks-in-the-united-states-from-january-to-october-2011/
2. Chevrolet Silverado sales figures, Good Car Bad Car. Retrieved March 19, 2023, from https://www.goodcarbadcar.net/chevrolet-silverado-sales-figures/
3. Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Cars.com. Retrieved March 20, 2023, from https://www.cars.com/research/chevrolet-silverado_1500/