If you’re thinking about buying a Chevy Silverado, knowing which years to avoid can save you a lot of trouble. Some models, like the 2007, 2014, and 2016, are known for problems like using too much oil and having transmission issues.
The 2008 model has its own set of problems with the Active Fuel Management system, which affects engine performance. Make sure you know about these issues before you decide, so you can make a smart choice.
Want to know about other bad years and what problems to look out for?
Key Takeaways
- The 2014 Chevy Silverado has problems with using too much oil and issues with the transmission.
- The 2016 Chevy Silverado is known for air conditioning problems and transmission issues.
- The 2017 Chevy Silverado has major steering and suspension problems that affect safety.
- The 2008 Chevy Silverado 1500 has engine performance issues because of Active Fuel Management (AFM).
- Rust and corrosion are common problems in many Chevy Silverado model years, affecting brake and fuel lines.
2007 Chevy Silverado Issues
When looking at the Chevy Silverado, it’s important to know about some common issues that have affected different model years.
For example, the 2014 model has had problems with using too much oil.
The 2016 Silverado often has issues with the air conditioning not working right.
The 2019 model has had a lot of brake problems, which is a big safety concern.
In 2017, many Silverados had trouble with steering and suspension, which affects how the truck handles and feels on the road.
Knowing about these issues can help you make a better decision if you’re thinking about buying a Chevy Silverado.
This shows why it’s crucial to do thorough research before making a purchase.
2008 AFM Problems
The 2008 Chevy Silverado 1500 has a feature called Active Fuel Management (AFM) that’s meant to save gas by turning off some cylinders when the engine doesn’t need full power. However, this system often leads to the engine using too much oil, which can cause major problems.
If you own or are thinking about buying this truck, you should know that the AFM system can make the engine burn through oil quickly. This can hurt the engine’s performance and lead to expensive fixes, like replacing piston rings and other parts.
Dealing with these AFM issues can take a lot of time and money, making this truck a risky choice for buyers.
2014 Model Year Troubles
If you’re looking at buying a Chevy Silverado 1500, there are a few model years you might want to avoid due to common problems.
The 2014 model is known for using too much oil, which can lead to expensive fixes.
In 2016, some trucks had issues with the air conditioning, making it uncomfortable to drive.
The 2017 model had problems with steering and suspension, which can affect how the truck handles and its safety.
The 2019 Silverado 1500 had issues with the brake system, which is a major safety concern.
These years also had various problems with brake lines and electrical systems, making them less reliable.
Knowing about these issues can help you avoid future headaches and costly repairs.
2015 Transmission Concerns
If you’re thinking about getting a Chevy Silverado 1500, there are five specific transmission issues you should know about for certain model years.
The 2007 Silverado 1500 is well-known for having transmission problems, which can be expensive to fix.
For the 2014 model, the main issue is that it uses too much oil, which can hurt engine performance, but the transmission can also be unreliable.
The 2016 Silverado 1500 often has air conditioning problems that can put extra stress on the transmission system.
These problems could affect how dependable your Silverado is and how long it lasts.
So, it’s really important to check any used truck from these years carefully.
Always ask for maintenance records and think about getting a professional inspection before you buy.
2016 Air Conditioning Failures
Let’s move on from transmission problems to another common issue: air conditioning failures. These have been a big problem for some Chevy Silverado 1500 trucks, especially the early T1xx models. Owners have reported frequent AC breakdowns, particularly in trucks with more than 60,000 miles. This has made driving uncomfortable for both drivers and passengers because the AC can’t keep the interior cool.
Here’s a quick look at the issues by year:
| Year | Problem |
|---|---|
| 2014 | Frequent AC breakdowns |
| 2015 | Early AC system failures |
| 2016 | Ongoing cooling problems |
| 2017 | AC parts breaking down |
Fixing these AC problems was crucial for keeping the inside of the truck comfortable. Because of these issues, these Silverado 1500 model years are less appealing to potential buyers.
2017 Steering Problems
If you’re thinking about buying a 2017 Chevy Silverado 1500, be aware that some owners have reported issues with the steering and suspension. These problems include vibrations in the steering wheel, loose steering, and trouble keeping the vehicle under control, which can affect safety and how it drives.
Make sure to check the steering system carefully before you buy to avoid expensive repairs and to ensure a safe ride.
Steering Component Failures
In 2017, Chevy Silverado trucks had big problems with their steering. The steering linkage and power steering pump often failed. These issues caused vibrations in the steering wheel and made it feel loose, making the truck hard to control.
Many owners reported that these problems increased the chances of accidents. Because of these serious issues, it’s best to avoid the 2017 Chevy Silverado and consider other years with better steering systems to stay safe.
Suspension System Issues
The 2017 Chevy Silverado 1500 has major suspension problems that affect how the truck handles and its overall safety. Owners have said that these issues make the steering less responsive and the vehicle less stable.
If the suspension isn’t working right, you might find it harder to steer, which can be dangerous, especially at high speeds or in emergencies. It’s important to regularly check and maintain the steering and suspension systems for this truck. Fixing problems early not only keeps you safer but also saves you money on big repairs later.
In short, keeping an eye on your 2017 Silverado’s suspension and steering is key for safe and smooth driving.
2019 Brake System Malfunctions
The brake system in the 2019 Chevy Silverado 1500 has some serious issues that could make driving unsafe. Problems with the brakes can mean your truck takes longer to stop, which increases the risk of accidents.
If the brakes aren’t working right, it can also mess with how your truck handles, making it harder to drive safely. It’s really important to fix these problems quickly to keep yourself and your truck safe.
Regular checks and maintenance can help avoid these issues. If you own or are thinking about buying a 2019 Silverado 1500, be aware of these brake problems and take steps to stay safe.
First Generation Weak Points
When looking at first generation Chevy Silverados (1999-2006), you’ll notice early transmission problems and high engine oil usage, particularly in the 2002 models.
However, reliability improved from 2004 to 2006.
Compared to the older C/K series, these early models had more reported issues, so it’s better to choose the later years within this generation.
Early Transmission Issues
Many early Chevy Silverado 1500 models, especially from 2007, had major transmission problems that affected their performance and reliability. These trucks were known for having frequent transmission failures and issues, which led to expensive repairs and safety worries.
Owners often reported problems like slipping gears, hard shifts, and complete transmission breakdowns. These issues were so common that they hurt the reputation of the first-generation Silverado trucks.
If you’re thinking about buying a used Silverado, it’s best to avoid the 2007 model year to dodge these costly and annoying transmission problems. Knowing the history of these issues in early Chevy Silverado 1500 models can help you make a smarter purchase and get a more dependable vehicle.
Engine Oil Consumption
The first-generation Chevy Silverado trucks, especially the 2007 models, had a big problem with using too much engine oil. This was mainly because of the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system, which was supposed to save fuel but often ended up causing the engine to use too much oil. If not taken care of quickly, this could damage the engine and lead to expensive repairs. Owners had to keep a close eye on their oil levels and change the oil more often than usual.
| Year | Issue |
|---|---|
| 2007 | Using Too Much Oil |
| 2008 | Ongoing AFM Problems |
| 2009 | High Maintenance Costs |
| 2010 | Risk of Engine Damage |
| 2011 | Frequent Oil Changes |
Reliability Improvements 2004-2006
Despite the engine oil consumption problems in the 2007 models, the 2004 to 2006 Chevy Silverado had some big reliability improvements. Chevy fixed the early transmission and oil consumption problems during these years, making the trucks more reliable.
If you’re looking at a first-generation Silverado, the 2005 and 2006 models are especially good choices. These years were a turning point for Chevy, leading to better performance in later models.
Second Generation Reliability
The second-generation Chevy Silverado (2007-2013) has a reputation for having problems with its transmission and engine, especially in the later years. This raises questions about how reliable the truck is overall. Even though the 2007 model won the North American Truck of the Year award, models from later years had issues that hurt the truck’s durability.
Some key problems included:
- Transmission issues that got worse from 2012-2013.
- Engine problems, like using too much oil, which affected the engine’s long-term health.
- Frequent repairs and higher maintenance costs.
- Mixed opinions on how durable the truck’s parts are.
- Interior upgrades initially looked good but didn’t make up for the mechanical problems.
These points suggest that buyers should be careful when thinking about getting a second-generation Silverado.
Third Generation Common Issues
When looking at the third-generation Chevy Silverado 1500 (2014-2018), you’ll notice that the earlier models, especially from 2014-2015, had several problems like air conditioning failures and transmission issues. Transmission problems were a big deal, affecting how reliable and well the truck performed. There were also engine problems that could hurt the truck’s overall toughness, and some owners found the fuel efficiency to be poor.
| Year | Common Issues | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 2014-2015 | Air conditioning failure | Comfort |
| 2014-2018 | Transmission problems | Reliability, Performance |
| 2014-2018 | Engine issues | Durability |
| 2014-2018 | Poor fuel efficiency | Fuel Costs |
Despite these issues, the later models, especially from 2016 onwards, got better. Keep these points in mind when checking out a third-generation Silverado 1500.
Fourth Generation Concerns
The fourth generation Chevy Silverado 1500, which came out in 2019, had some early complaints about the air conditioning, engine performance, and transmission. Despite these issues, the 2019 model year didn’t really hurt the overall reputation of this generation.
Here are some specific problems people reported:
- Air Conditioning: The A/C system often failed, making it uncomfortable in hot weather.
- Engine Performance: Owners noticed the engine wasn’t as powerful or efficient, making the driving experience less enjoyable.
- Transmission: There were frequent issues with shifting and unexpected malfunctions.
- Reliability: While the initial reviews were mixed, ongoing assessments suggest the reliability is getting better.
- Quality: Later models have shown improvements, keeping the Silverado known for its durability.
Electrical System Problems
Among the various issues reported with some Chevy Silverado model years, electrical system problems are particularly troublesome. Models like the 2008 and 2014 Silverado have experienced a range of these problems, from malfunctioning speedometers to faulty ABS systems.
One of the most common issues involves power door lock failures, which can be both inconvenient and a security risk. Airbag deployment problems have also been noted, posing significant safety hazards.
Owners of Silverado 1500s from these problematic years often face challenges that affect vehicle safety and functionality. Proper maintenance and timely repairs are essential to fix these electrical system issues and ensure the safe operation of your Chevy Silverado.
Excessive Oil Consumption
Owners of the 2014 Chevy Silverado 1500 often face major problems with using too much oil, which affects how well the engine works and how long it lasts. This common issue leads to:
- Constantly needing to add oil
- Worries about the engine’s reliability
- Higher maintenance costs
- Possible engine system repairs
- Always having to check oil levels
These problems come from using too much oil, which can cause serious engine damage if not fixed quickly.
The ongoing need to refill oil isn’t just a hassle; it points to deeper engine issues that could shorten the truck’s life.
This problem with the 2014 Chevy Silverado 1500 means you should be careful with this model, as frequent oil top-ups and potential engine repairs aren’t cheap or practical for long-term ownership.
Fuel System Issues
If you’re looking at certain years of the Chevy Silverado, be aware that there can be fuel system problems, especially with pressure sensors and fuel pumps. These issues can cause wrong fuel readings, bad gas mileage, and even make your engine stall, which can be dangerous.
Chevrolet has put out recalls and service bulletins to fix these problems, but knowing about them ahead of time can help you avoid surprise repairs and hassles.
Pressure Sensor Failures
If the pressure sensor in your Chevy Silverado fails, it can mess up your fuel system and cause problems with your engine. When this sensor isn’t working right, it can give false fuel pressure readings, which then affects how fuel gets to the engine.
You might notice:
- Worse gas mileage
- The engine misfiring
- Trouble starting the truck
- The engine running unevenly
- Higher emissions
It’s important to fix these sensor issues quickly to avoid more damage to your fuel system and engine. Regular check-ups and replacing bad sensors on time can help keep your Chevy Silverado running smoothly.
Fuel Pump Malfunctions
Fuel pump problems in Chevy Silverado trucks can really mess with how well the engine works. If your truck starts stalling or has trouble starting, it might be a fuel pump issue. These problems can lower the fuel pressure, hurting the engine’s efficiency and overall performance. Fixing or replacing a bad fuel pump can be expensive and take a lot of time.
| Symptom | Impact |
|---|---|
| Engine Stalling | Sudden loss of power |
| Difficulty Starting | Delayed engine ignition |
| Low Fuel Pressure | Decreased engine efficiency |
Regularly checking and maintaining the fuel system is crucial. By staying on top of it, you can avoid big problems and keep your Chevy Silverado running smoothly.
Rust and Corrosion
Chevy Silverado trucks, especially those built from 1999 to 2006, are well-known for rust and corrosion problems. These issues affect important parts like:
- Brake lines
- Fuel lines
- Frame
because they weren’t rustproofed well.
Trucks from 2007 to 2013 also have rust problems, especially on the rear wheel wells and tailgates.
The 2014 Silverado has been reported to have frame rust too soon, and models from 2014 to 2018 have rust on the:
- Cab corners
- Rocker panels
- Frames
Salt, moisture, and other environmental factors make the rusting worse, which can reduce how long the truck lasts and hurt its resale value.
When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Chevy Spark, Chevy Tahoe, Chevy Traverse and Chevy Trax. Knowing which model years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Our expert reviews break down these models, providing insights into the years that are celebrated for their engineering excellence and driving satisfaction, as well as those that are best to avoid due to potential issues.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you’re looking at a Chevy Silverado, be cautious with the 2007, 2014, 2016, and 2019 models because they’ve significant problems. For example, a study showed that 28% of people who owned a 2014 Silverado had their air conditioning break down within the first three years.
Make sure to do thorough research and consider avoiding these specific years to make a smart choice. This way, you can avoid pricey repairs and have a more reliable truck.
