Chevrolet Silverado 1500 research: recalls, reliability and buyer's guide

The Silverado 1500 is one of America's best-selling trucks, with a wide range of cabs, beds and engines. 2011-2013 trucks are simple and affordable; 2014-2018 trucks added stronger direct-injected V8s, a quieter cab and, from 2015, an 8-speed on some V8s. The 2019 redesign brought a lighter body, a 2.7L turbo four and a 10-speed, a 2020 Duramax diesel rated up to about 33 mpg highway, and a 2022 refresh with a much better interior.

Model years covered: 2011–2026. The Silverado 1500 is in production; 2026 is reported to be the final model year of the current (T1) generation. Verify 2026 specs against current Chevrolet data and check the VIN for recent recalls, including the 2026 4WD transfer case recall.

Last updated 2026-10-15.

Strengths

Strong V8 towing capability
Wide range of configurations
Fuel efficient duramax diesel 2020 and later
Comfortable ride for a pickup
Large dealer and parts network
Much improved interior 2022 and later
Capable off road trims trail boss and zr2

Things to know before you buy

V8 afm dfm lifter failures should be checked
8 speed automatic shudder reports
2021 2024 6.2 liter engine recall
Configuration drives towing and payload
Frame and brake line rust on older trucks
Silverado ld and ltd carryover models exist
Recall status should be checked by VIN

Generations

Generation 2 (2007–2013)

The GMT900 Silverado 1500 (2007-2013) offers a 195-hp 4.3L V6 and 302-hp 4.8L V8 with a 4-speed automatic, a 315-hp 5.3L V8 with AFM and a 403-hp 6.2L V8 with a 6-speed automatic, plus a 6.0L two-mode Hybrid. Cabs are regular, extended and crew.

Buyer takeaway: Affordable and simple; favor the 5.3L with the 6-speed. Inspect for frame and brake-line rust, AFM lifter noise and oil consumption, and confirm passenger airbag recalls.

Generation 3 (2014–2019)

The K2XX Silverado 1500 (2014-2018, plus the 2019 Silverado LD) introduced EcoTec3 direct-injected engines: a 285-hp 4.3L V6, 355-hp, 383 lb-ft 5.3L V8 and 420-hp, 460 lb-ft 6.2L V8, with a 6-speed automatic and an 8-speed on the 6.2L from 2015 and some 5.3L trucks from 2016. A 2016 refresh added new styling and smartphone integration.

Buyer takeaway: A well-rounded used truck. The 5.3L V8 is the mainstream choice; on 8-speed trucks, test for shudder, and confirm the brake vacuum pump recall.

Generation 4 (2019–present)

The T1 Silverado 1500 (2019-2026) is lighter and larger, with a 310-hp 2.7L turbo four (348 lb-ft, 420 lb-ft from 2022), 285-hp 4.3L V6 (2019-2021), 355-hp 5.3L and 420-hp 6.2L V8s with AFM or DFM, and a 3.0L Duramax diesel (277 hp/460 lb-ft for 2020-2022, 305 hp/495 lb-ft from 2023), using 6-, 8- or 10-speed automatics. The 2022 refresh brought a new interior, the ZR2 and Super Cruise.

Buyer takeaway: Choose 2022 or later for the much better interior; the Duramax suits high-mileage drivers and the 5.3L or 6.2L V8 heavy towing. Confirm the 6.2L engine, diesel transmission and 2026 transfer case recalls by VIN.

Chevrolet Silverado 1500 by model year

2026 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

The 2026 Silverado 1500 carries over the 2.7L TurboMax, 5.3L and 6.2L V8s and 3.0L Duramax (about 23/28 mpg diesel 2WD). Some 2026 4WD trucks are in a 2026 recall for a transfer case that may be missing a component and could lock the wheels; owners were told not to drive until repaired, so check the VIN. Verify 2026 specs with Chevrolet.

Engines: 2.7 liter turbo I4 310 hp 420 lb ft turbomax; 5.3 liter V8 355 hp 383 lb ft; 6.2 liter V8 420 hp 460 lb ft; 3.0 liter turbodiesel i6 305 hp 495 lb ft
Transmissions: 8 speed automatic; 10 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Four wheel drive available
Body style: Regular cab pickup; Double cab pickup; Crew cab pickup

What changed:

Reported final year of t1 generation
4wd transfer case recall on some trucks
Verify 2026 specs against current chevrolet data

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and axle by VIN; Transfer case recall completion 4wd; Afm or dfm lifter tick or misfire on V8; Transmission shift quality and shudder; Infotainment and camera operation; Driver assistance sensors if equipped; 4wd engagement and transfer case if equipped; Towing and hitch wear; Bed and tailgate condition; Tire wear and alignment; Maintenance history.

2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

The 2025 Silverado 1500 continues with the 310-hp 2.7L TurboMax (8-speed, about 18/21 mpg 2WD), the 355-hp 5.3L and 420-hp 6.2L V8s and the 305-hp Duramax diesel (10-speed, about 23/29 mpg 2WD). The refreshed interior, ZR2 and Trail Boss carry over. Check the VIN for current recalls and remaining warranty.

Engines: 2.7 liter turbo I4 310 hp 420 lb ft turbomax; 5.3 liter V8 355 hp 383 lb ft; 6.2 liter V8 420 hp 460 lb ft; 3.0 liter turbodiesel i6 305 hp 495 lb ft
Transmissions: 8 speed automatic; 10 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Four wheel drive available
Body style: Regular cab pickup; Double cab pickup; Crew cab pickup

What changed:

Largely carryover
Zr2 and trail boss off road trims continue

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and axle by VIN; Afm or dfm lifter tick or misfire on V8; Transmission shift quality and shudder; Infotainment and camera operation; Driver assistance sensors if equipped; 4wd engagement and transfer case if equipped; Towing and hitch wear; Bed and tailgate condition; Tire wear and alignment; Maintenance history.

2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

The 2024 Silverado 1500 renames the 2.7L turbo 'TurboMax' (310 hp) and makes OnStar 4G LTE standard on the Work Truck. The 5.3L and 6.2L V8s and 305-hp Duramax diesel continue (about 23/29 mpg diesel 2WD). 2021-2024 6.2L V8 trucks are in a recall for possible connecting-rod or crankshaft defects; confirm the inspection or repair.

Engines: 2.7 liter turbo I4 310 hp 420 lb ft turbomax; 5.3 liter V8 355 hp 383 lb ft; 6.2 liter V8 420 hp 460 lb ft; 3.0 liter turbodiesel i6 305 hp 495 lb ft
Transmissions: 8 speed automatic; 10 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Four wheel drive available
Body style: Regular cab pickup; Double cab pickup; Crew cab pickup

What changed:

2.7 liter renamed turbomax
Onstar 4g lte standard on work truck

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and axle by VIN; 6.2 liter engine recall completion; Afm or dfm lifter tick or misfire on V8; Transmission shift quality and shudder; Infotainment and camera operation; Driver assistance sensors if equipped; 4wd engagement and transfer case if equipped; Towing and hitch wear; Bed and tailgate condition; Tire wear and alignment; Maintenance history.

2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

For 2023 the 3.0L Duramax diesel was upgraded to 305 hp and 495 lb-ft, still with a 10-speed automatic (about 24/29 mpg 2WD). Gas choices are the 310-hp 2.7L turbo, 355-hp 5.3L V8 and 420-hp 6.2L V8. The 2022 interior and tech carry over. 6.2L V8 trucks are in a 2025 engine recall, so check the VIN.

Engines: 2.7 liter turbo I4 310 hp 420 lb ft; 5.3 liter V8 355 hp 383 lb ft; 6.2 liter V8 420 hp 460 lb ft; 3.0 liter turbodiesel i6 305 hp 495 lb ft
Transmissions: 8 speed automatic; 10 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Four wheel drive available
Body style: Regular cab pickup; Double cab pickup; Crew cab pickup

What changed:

Updated 3.0 liter duramax with 305 hp and 495 lb ft

2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

The 2022 Silverado 1500 refresh brought a new front end and a far nicer interior with a 13.4-inch touchscreen on LT and above, the ZR2 off-roader, and available Super Cruise. The 2.7L turbo rose to 420 lb-ft. Early-2022 trucks with the old interior were sold as the Silverado LTD. 6.2L V8 trucks are in a 2025 engine recall.

Engines: 2.7 liter turbo I4 310 hp 420 lb ft; 5.3 liter V8 355 hp 383 lb ft; 6.2 liter V8 420 hp 460 lb ft; 3.0 liter turbodiesel i6 277 hp 460 lb ft
Transmissions: 8 speed automatic; 10 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Four wheel drive available
Body style: Regular cab pickup; Double cab pickup; Crew cab pickup

What changed:

Refreshed front end and all new interior
13 4 inch touchscreen on lt and above
New zr2 off road trim
Super cruise available on top trims
2.7 liter torque rises to 420 lb ft
4.3 liter V6 dropped

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and axle by VIN; 6.2 liter engine recall completion; Diesel transmission recall completion; Confirm ltd vs refreshed truck; Afm or dfm lifter tick or misfire on V8; Transmission shift quality and shudder; Infotainment and camera operation; Driver assistance sensors if equipped; 4wd engagement and transfer case if equipped; Towing and hitch wear; Bed and tailgate condition; Tire wear and alignment; Maintenance history.

2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

The 2021 Silverado 1500 adds the Multi-Flex tailgate and wireless smartphone integration. It is the last year of the 4.3L V6. Because of the chip shortage, some trucks were built without stop-start or heated seats, so confirm equipment. 2021 6.2L V8 trucks are in a 2025 engine recall; check the VIN.

Engines: 2.7 liter turbo I4 310 hp 348 lb ft; 4.3 liter V6 285 hp 305 lb ft; 5.3 liter V8 355 hp 383 lb ft; 6.2 liter V8 420 hp 460 lb ft; 3.0 liter turbodiesel i6 277 hp 460 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic; 8 speed automatic; 10 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Four wheel drive available
Body style: Regular cab pickup; Double cab pickup; Crew cab pickup

What changed:

Multi flex tailgate available
Wireless apple carplay and android auto
Chip shortage deleted features on some trucks
Last year of the 4.3 liter V6

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and axle by VIN; 6.2 liter engine recall completion; Diesel transmission recall completion; Afm or dfm lifter tick or misfire on V8; Transmission shift quality and shudder; Infotainment and camera operation; Driver assistance sensors if equipped; 4wd engagement and transfer case if equipped; Towing and hitch wear; Bed and tailgate condition; Tire wear and alignment; Maintenance history.

2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

For 2020 the Silverado 1500 added a 3.0L Duramax turbodiesel inline-six (277 hp, 460 lb-ft) with a 10-speed automatic, rated about 23/33 mpg 2WD, and spread the 6.2L V8 and 10-speed to more trims. Gas engines carry over. 2020-2022 diesels are in a transmission control valve recall that can lock the rear wheels; check the VIN.

Engines: 2.7 liter turbo I4 310 hp 348 lb ft; 4.3 liter V6 285 hp 305 lb ft; 5.3 liter V8 355 hp 383 lb ft; 6.2 liter V8 420 hp 460 lb ft; 3.0 liter turbodiesel i6 277 hp 460 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic; 8 speed automatic; 10 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Four wheel drive available
Body style: Regular cab pickup; Double cab pickup; Crew cab pickup

What changed:

New 3.0 liter duramax inline six diesel
6.2 liter and 10 speed on more trims
Power folding trailering mirrors

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and axle by VIN; Diesel transmission recall completion; Diesel DEF and DPF if diesel; Afm or dfm lifter tick or misfire on V8; Transmission shift quality and shudder; Infotainment and camera operation; Driver assistance sensors if equipped; 4wd engagement and transfer case if equipped; Towing and hitch wear; Bed and tailgate condition; Tire wear and alignment; Maintenance history.

2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

The 2019 Silverado 1500 was redesigned, lighter and roomier, with a new 310-hp 2.7L turbo four (about 20/23 mpg 2WD), the 285-hp 4.3L V6, 355-hp 5.3L V8 and 420-hp 6.2L V8 with 6-, 8- or 10-speed automatics. The Trail Boss debuted. The old truck was also sold as the Silverado LD Double Cab, so confirm the generation by VIN.

Engines: 2.7 liter turbo I4 310 hp 348 lb ft; 4.3 liter V6 285 hp 305 lb ft; 5.3 liter V8 355 hp 383 lb ft; 6.2 liter V8 420 hp 460 lb ft; Silverado ld 5.3 liter V8 previous generation
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic; 8 speed automatic; 10 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Four wheel drive available
Body style: Regular cab pickup; Double cab pickup; Crew cab pickup

What changed:

All new t1 generation lighter and larger
New 310 hp 2.7 liter turbo four
Dynamic fuel management on some v8s
New 10 speed automatic with 6.2 liter
New trail boss trim
Previous truck sold as silverado ld double cab

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and axle by VIN; Generation resolution silverado ld; Afm or dfm lifter tick or misfire on V8; Transmission shift quality and shudder; Infotainment and camera operation; Driver assistance sensors if equipped; 4wd engagement and transfer case if equipped; Towing and hitch wear; Bed and tailgate condition; Tire wear and alignment; Maintenance history.

2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

The 2018 Silverado 1500 is the last of the K2XX generation, with the 285-hp 4.3L V6, 355-hp 5.3L and 420-hp 6.2L V8s and 6- or 8-speed automatics. The 5.3L eAssist mild hybrid was offered nationwide. 2014-2018 trucks are covered by brake vacuum pump recalls (software reprogramming), so confirm the remedy by VIN.

Engines: 4.3 liter V6 285 hp 305 lb ft; 5.3 liter V8 355 hp 383 lb ft; 6.2 liter V8 420 hp 460 lb ft; 5.3 liter V8 eassist mild hybrid
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic; 8 speed automatic on 6.2 liter and some 5.3 liter
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Four wheel drive available
Body style: Regular cab pickup; Double cab pickup; Crew cab pickup

What changed:

Final year of k2xx generation
Eassist offered nationwide
Brake vacuum pump recall on V8 trucks

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and axle by VIN; 8 speed shudder test if equipped; Afm lifter tick or misfire on V8; 8 speed automatic shudder if equipped; Brake vacuum pump recall completion; Frame and brake line corrosion; 4wd engagement and transfer case if equipped; Towing and hitch wear; Bed and tailgate condition; Tire wear and alignment; Maintenance history.

2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

The 2017 Silverado 1500 adds Teen Driver, Rear Seat Reminder and low-speed mitigation braking in the Driver Alert package. Engines remain the 285-hp 4.3L V6 and 355-hp 5.3L and 420-hp 6.2L V8s, with 6- or 8-speed automatics (about 16/23 mpg 5.3L 6-speed 2WD). A 2016-2018 is the most refined K2XX truck.

Engines: 4.3 liter V6 285 hp 305 lb ft; 5.3 liter V8 355 hp 383 lb ft; 6.2 liter V8 420 hp 460 lb ft; 5.3 liter V8 eassist mild hybrid limited states
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic; 8 speed automatic on 6.2 liter and some 5.3 liter
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Four wheel drive available
Body style: Regular cab pickup; Double cab pickup; Crew cab pickup

What changed:

Teen driver and rear seat reminder added
Low speed mitigation braking in driver alert package

2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

The 2016 Silverado 1500 got a refresh with a new grille, headlights and LED taillights on upper trims, plus Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with the 8-inch screen. The 5.3L V8 (355 hp) became available with the 8-speed automatic on some trims; the 6.2L also uses it. A 5.3L eAssist mild hybrid was offered in California.

Engines: 4.3 liter V6 285 hp 305 lb ft; 5.3 liter V8 355 hp 383 lb ft; 6.2 liter V8 420 hp 460 lb ft; 5.3 liter V8 eassist mild hybrid california
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic; 8 speed automatic on 6.2 liter and some 5.3 liter
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Four wheel drive available
Body style: Regular cab pickup; Double cab pickup; Crew cab pickup

What changed:

Refreshed grille headlights and hood
LED taillights on upper trims
Apple carplay and android auto with 8 inch screen
8 speed automatic on some 5.3 liter trucks
Eassist mild hybrid in california

2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

For 2015 the 420-hp 6.2L V8 gained a new 8-speed automatic, while the 285-hp 4.3L V6 and 355-hp 5.3L V8 kept the 6-speed (about 16/23 mpg 5.3L 2WD). OnStar 4G LTE Wi-Fi arrived on later builds. If equipped with the 8-speed, check for torque-converter shudder, a widely reported trait of this transmission.

Engines: 4.3 liter V6 285 hp 305 lb ft; 5.3 liter V8 355 hp 383 lb ft; 6.2 liter V8 420 hp 460 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic; 8 speed automatic 6.2 liter
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Four wheel drive available
Body style: Regular cab pickup; Double cab pickup; Crew cab pickup

What changed:

6.2 liter gets new 8 speed automatic
Ls trim returns
Onstar 4g lte on later builds

2014 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

The 2014 Silverado 1500 was redesigned with a quieter cab and new direct-injected EcoTec3 engines: a 285-hp 4.3L V6, 355-hp 5.3L V8 (about 16/23 mpg 2WD) and 420-hp 6.2L V8, all with a 6-speed automatic. The Double Cab replaced the extended cab. First-year trucks are in brake vacuum pump and other recalls, so check the VIN.

Engines: 4.3 liter V6 285 hp 305 lb ft; 5.3 liter V8 355 hp 383 lb ft; 6.2 liter V8 420 hp 460 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Four wheel drive available
Body style: Regular cab pickup; Double cab pickup; Crew cab pickup

What changed:

All new k2xx generation
New ecotec3 direct injection engines
Double cab replaces extended cab
Quieter cab and improved interior

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and axle by VIN; First year recall completion; Afm lifter tick or misfire on V8; 8 speed automatic shudder if equipped; Brake vacuum pump recall completion; Frame and brake line corrosion; 4wd engagement and transfer case if equipped; Towing and hitch wear; Bed and tailgate condition; Tire wear and alignment; Maintenance history.

2013 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

The 2013 Silverado 1500 is the last GMT900 light-duty truck and the last Silverado Hybrid. Engines remain the 195-hp 4.3L V6, 302-hp 4.8L and 315-hp 5.3L V8s (about 15/21 mpg 2WD) and 403-hp 6.2L V8. These are simple, durable trucks, but compare them with the more efficient, more powerful 2014 redesign. Check rust and airbag recalls.

Engines: 4.3 liter V6 195 hp 260 lb ft; 4.8 liter V8 302 hp 305 lb ft; 5.3 liter V8 315 hp 335 lb ft; 6.2 liter V8 403 hp 417 lb ft; 6.0 liter V8 two mode hybrid limited availability
Transmissions: 4 speed automatic 4 3 and 4.8 liter; 6 speed automatic 5 3 and 6.2 liter; Hybrid electric variable transmission
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Four wheel drive available
Body style: Regular cab pickup; Extended cab pickup; Crew cab pickup

What changed:

Final year of gmt900 light duty truck
Last year of the hybrid

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and axle by VIN; Active fuel management lifter noise and oil consumption on 5.3 liter; 4 or 6 speed automatic shift quality; Frame and brake line corrosion; Airbag recall completion; 4wd engagement and transfer case if equipped; Towing and hitch wear; Bed and tailgate condition; Tire wear and alignment; Maintenance history.

2012 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

The 2012 Silverado 1500 carries over the GMT900 lineup: 4.3L V6 and 4.8L V8 with a 4-speed automatic, the popular 315-hp 5.3L V8 and 403-hp 6.2L V8 with a 6-speed automatic, and the low-volume Hybrid. The 5.3L uses Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation, so listen for lifter tick and check oil consumption. Confirm airbag recalls by VIN.

Engines: 4.3 liter V6 195 hp 260 lb ft; 4.8 liter V8 302 hp 305 lb ft; 5.3 liter V8 315 hp 335 lb ft; 6.2 liter V8 403 hp 417 lb ft; 6.0 liter V8 two mode hybrid limited availability
Transmissions: 4 speed automatic 4 3 and 4.8 liter; 6 speed automatic 5 3 and 6.2 liter; Hybrid electric variable transmission
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Four wheel drive available
Body style: Regular cab pickup; Extended cab pickup; Crew cab pickup

What changed:

Largely carryover

2011 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

The 2011 Silverado 1500 is a late GMT900 truck with regular, extended or crew cabs and RWD or 4WD. Engines: 195-hp 4.3L V6 and 302-hp 4.8L V8 (4-speed automatic), 315-hp 5.3L V8 and 403-hp 6.2L V8 (6-speed automatic), plus a rare 6.0L Hybrid. The 5.3L with a 2WD is rated about 15/21 mpg. Check frame and brake-line rust, and airbag recalls by VIN.

Engines: 4.3 liter V6 195 hp 260 lb ft; 4.8 liter V8 302 hp 305 lb ft; 5.3 liter V8 315 hp 335 lb ft; 6.2 liter V8 403 hp 417 lb ft; 6.0 liter V8 two mode hybrid limited availability
Transmissions: 4 speed automatic 4 3 and 4.8 liter; 6 speed automatic 5 3 and 6.2 liter; Hybrid electric variable transmission
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Four wheel drive available
Body style: Regular cab pickup; Extended cab pickup; Crew cab pickup

What changed:

Largely carryover
Hybrid and xfe fuel economy models offered
Regular extended and crew cabs

Known issues and what to check

V8 Cylinder-Deactivation (AFM/DFM) Lifter Failures (2011–2026)
The 5.3L and 6.2L V8s use Active Fuel Management (AFM) or Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM) to shut off cylinders. A widely reported failure is a collapsed or stuck lifter, which can cause ticking, misfires and camshaft damage. Older 5.3L AFM engines are also associated with oil consumption. Not every engine is affected.
What to do: Listen for ticking, scan for misfires and favor V8 trucks with regular oil changes.
6.2L V8 Engine Recall (2021-2024) (2021–2024)
Recall 25V-274 covers 2021-2024 Silverado 1500s with the 6.2L V8 (L87): connecting rods and/or the crankshaft may have manufacturing defects that can cause engine damage or failure. Dealers inspect the engine and repair or replace it as needed; trucks that pass get a higher-viscosity oil, a new oil filter and oil-fill cap.
What to do: On a 2021-2024 6.2L truck, confirm the recall inspection or engine replacement was completed.
8-Speed Automatic Shudder and Harsh Shifts (2015–2026)
GM's 8-speed automatic (used on many 2015-2018 V8s and later trucks, including the 2.7L turbo) is widely reported to develop torque-converter shudder or harsh shifts; GM service guidance has addressed this with a transmission fluid change and software updates. The 6- and 10-speed automatics are different units.
What to do: On an 8-speed truck, test for shudder at light throttle and ask whether the fluid service was done.
Airbag and Brake Vacuum Pump Recalls (2011-2018) (2011–2018)
2011-2013 Silverado 1500s are included in passenger frontal airbag inflator recalls (21V-050, 21V-051, 21V-053), and 2014-2018 trucks in brake vacuum pump recalls (19V-645; 20V-603 for 2018 V8s) where pump output may decrease and reduce power brake assist; dealers reprogram the brake control module. Other build-specific recalls exist.
What to do: Run the VIN and complete any open recall before purchase.
3.0L Duramax Transmission Recall and Diesel Emissions Equipment (2020–2026)
2020-2022 Silverado 1500 diesels are in recall 24V-797 (and follow-up 26V-083 for incorrect repairs): the transmission control valve may fail and cause rear-wheel lockup; dealers update software and GM offers special coverage for defective valves. All Duramax trucks also use DEF and a particulate filter that need proper service.
What to do: On a diesel Silverado, confirm both transmission recalls and check the emissions system.
2026 4WD Transfer Case Recall (2026)
Recall 26V-289 covers certain 2026 Silverado 1500s with 4WD: a component may be missing from the transfer case, which can cause the front and/or rear wheels to lock up without warning. GM advised owners not to drive affected trucks until dealers inspect and, if needed, replace the transfer case.
What to do: Do not deliver or buy an affected 2026 4WD truck until the recall is completed.
Generation, Silverado LD/LTD and Configuration Resolution (2011–2026)
Silverado 1500 specifications vary by cab, bed, engine, transmission, axle ratio and drivetrain. The 2019 Silverado LD (previous-generation Double Cab) and early-2022 Silverado LTD (pre-refresh design) were sold alongside newer trucks, and the GMC Sierra 1500 is a sibling with different trims.
What to do: Resolve the exact configuration by VIN before quoting towing, payload or fuel economy.

Recalls

Recall applicability varies by model year, production date, engine, transmission, drivetrain and VIN. Check the VIN for current open recalls and completed remedies.

Similar vehicles to consider

Questions this guide answers

What generation is this Silverado 1500?
What engine, transmission and axle ratio does this truck have?
Is the 5.3L or 6.2L V8 lifter problem a concern?
Is this 6.2L truck in the engine recall?
Does this truck have the 8-speed transmission shudder issue?
How much can this Silverado tow?
What fuel economy does the Duramax diesel get?
Is this a Silverado LD or LTD?
What recalls should I check by VIN?
What similar trucks should I consider?