History/Description: Competing with the Ford F-150, Toyota Tundra and Dodge Ram, the Chevrolet Silverado remains a popular pickup truck choice that offers plenty of selection, options and configurations to suit a variety of needs.
The 1998 to 2007 generation of this truck offered numerous engine and driveline combinations, including 6- and 8-cylinder power, automatic and manual transmissions, and 2- or 4-wheel drive. Numerous body and box combinations were also available.
Feature content included heated leather, premium audio, remote start, air conditioning, power seats, automatic climate control, remote access, power heated mirrors and power adjustable pedals. LS and LT models were the more highly-equipped models, though more basic or ‘work’ trucks could also be had.
What Owners Like: Silverado owners note a roomy cabin, great looks, confident passing and towing power, pleasing ride and handling as well as a solid, heavy-duty feel. Some owners even rate mileage highly, particularly on the 4.8L and 5.3L powered models. Many owners say their Silverado ‘tows like a dream.’
What Owners Dislike: Silverado owners mention wishing for a more positive and precise brake-pedal feel, a better standard audio system, and higher-quality interior trim. Some models are reported to deliver a stiff or even jarring ride.
Common IssuesWith A used Chevrolet Silverado: Standard used pickup truck checks apply to any used Silverado you may be considering. As a bare minimum, a Chevrolet-trained mechanic should check the underside of your potential used truck for signs of excessive rust, dents or holes, leaking differentials, transfer case leaks, and oil or coolant leaks from the engine.
Ensure the vehicle’s 4-wheel drive system (if equipped) can be shifted between its various modes as outlined in the owner’s manual. A bad actuator in the 4x4 system, or an electronic problem, may be to blame if that’s not the case.
Check the engine oil level and condition, as some owners have reported oil consumption issues. Avoid a model that’s low on oil, or with engine oil that looks dirty or burnt. Ensure the engine hasn’t been ‘warmed up’ before your test drive, and start it cold – noting any ‘slapping’ or ‘knocking’ noises that may be present. Also, check for signs of oil smoke from the tailpipe. If any of the above issues are present, move to another model.
The 1998 to 2007 generation of this truck offered numerous engine and driveline combinations, including 6- and 8-cylinder power, automatic and manual transmissions, and 2- or 4-wheel drive. Numerous body and box combinations were also available.
Feature content included heated leather, premium audio, remote start, air conditioning, power seats, automatic climate control, remote access, power heated mirrors and power adjustable pedals. LS and LT models were the more highly-equipped models, though more basic or ‘work’ trucks could also be had.
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| 2006 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (Photo: General Motors) |
What Owners Like: Silverado owners note a roomy cabin, great looks, confident passing and towing power, pleasing ride and handling as well as a solid, heavy-duty feel. Some owners even rate mileage highly, particularly on the 4.8L and 5.3L powered models. Many owners say their Silverado ‘tows like a dream.’
What Owners Dislike: Silverado owners mention wishing for a more positive and precise brake-pedal feel, a better standard audio system, and higher-quality interior trim. Some models are reported to deliver a stiff or even jarring ride.
Common IssuesWith A used Chevrolet Silverado: Standard used pickup truck checks apply to any used Silverado you may be considering. As a bare minimum, a Chevrolet-trained mechanic should check the underside of your potential used truck for signs of excessive rust, dents or holes, leaking differentials, transfer case leaks, and oil or coolant leaks from the engine.
Ensure the vehicle’s 4-wheel drive system (if equipped) can be shifted between its various modes as outlined in the owner’s manual. A bad actuator in the 4x4 system, or an electronic problem, may be to blame if that’s not the case.
Check the engine oil level and condition, as some owners have reported oil consumption issues. Avoid a model that’s low on oil, or with engine oil that looks dirty or burnt. Ensure the engine hasn’t been ‘warmed up’ before your test drive, and start it cold – noting any ‘slapping’ or ‘knocking’ noises that may be present. Also, check for signs of oil smoke from the tailpipe. If any of the above issues are present, move to another model.