Last updated: 2026-04-20

2018 Chevrolet Silverado Reliability Report
The 2018 Chevrolet Silverado scores 70/100 ("Good"). With 16 recalls and 551 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
16
Complaints
551
Complaint Rate
9.4per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$649
Annual Fuel Cost
$3,000–$4,050
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues to Watch
- POWER TRAIN (150)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (86)
- SERVICE BRAKES (54)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2018 is the last model year of the Third generation (GMT K2XX).
- Final-year models are typically the most refined version of a generation.
- 3rd generation Silverado (US).
What this means for buyers
Final-year models are usually the most polished version of a generation, but resale value may dip as buyers anticipate the next redesign.
2014: Third generation (GMT K2XX) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2018: This Model Year
2018 is the last model year of the Third generation (GMT K2XX).
Should You Buy the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?
At 70/100, the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2018 is the last model year of the Third generation (GMT K2XX).
Owners log 551 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.
Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to power train (150). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado, which scored 6 points lower.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +Below-average complaint rate for Truck
- +5-star NHTSA crash rating
Cons
- −Above-average recall count
- −POWER TRAIN issues reported (150 complaints)
- −ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Rear defroster and rear sliding window (86 complaints)
- −1 fatality report in owner complaints
- −6 fire incidents reported in owner complaints
Compare 2018 Chevrolet Silverado With

2018 Ford F-150
Reliability: 58/100

2018 GMC Sierra 1500
Reliability: 66/100

2018 Ram 1500
Reliability: 64/100

2018 Toyota Tundra
Reliability: 69/100

2018 Ram Promaster
Reliability: 68/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 16 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- POWER TRAIN (150)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (86)
Recall Overview
16
recalls on record
The 2018 Chevrolet Silverado has 16 recalls on record, which is above average. A high count can flag multiple component concerns, though it also shows the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
9.4
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 17.5
Safety Incidents
11
Crashes
6
Fires
12
Injuries
1
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2018 Chevrolet Silverado Recall Details
16 recalls have been issued for the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
AIR BAGS
General Motors (GM) is recalling certain 2018 GMC Sierra 1500, 2019 Sierra 2500, 3500, Chevrolet Silverado 3500, and Chevrolet Silverado 2500 and 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Crew Cab vehicles. The left or right-side roof-rail air bag (RRAB) inflator end cap may detach from the inflator or the inflator sidewall may rupture.
Consequence
A detached end cap or inflator rupture can allow compressed gas to escape and project the end cap or fragments of the inflator into the vehicle, increases the risk of injury or crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the left and right side RRAB modules, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 23, 2025. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N252513060.
AIR BAGS
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, 2018-2019 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, 3500, and GMC Sierra 2500, 3500 Crew Cab trucks. The left or right-side roof-rail air bag (RRAB) inflator end cap may detach from the inflator or the inflator sidewall may rupture.
Consequence
A separated inflator end cap or inflator rupture can allow compressed gas to escape, resulting in the end cap or other components being propelled into the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury or crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the left and right side RRAB modules, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 8, 2024. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, and GMC Customer Service at 888-988-7267. GM's number for this recall is N242474500.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018 Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500 and Yukon vehicles equipped with either a 5.3L or 6.2L V8 engine. The output of the mechanical vacuum pump can decrease over time, decreasing the amount of vacuum/power brake assist.
Consequence
A decrease in brake assist can increase the brake pedal effort and distance required to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
GM will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the Electronic Brake Control Module, free of charge. The recall began November 11, 2020. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-866-522-9559, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-630-2438. GM's number for this recall is N202300860.
Buying a used 2018 Chevrolet Silverado? Check its history first
Every 2018 Chevrolet Silverado has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2018 Chevrolet Silverado NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 17.4%
Safety Technologies
Chevrolet SilveradoRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
4Maintenance rating: 4 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$649
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
2018 Chevrolet Silverado Example Repair Prices
National average price ranges for common repairs. These are not model-year-specific failure predictions.
| Repair | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Power Steering Hose Replacement | $322 – $356 |
| Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Replacement | $609 – $678 |
| Multi-Function Switch Replacement | $662 – $924 |
| MAP Sensor Replacement | $198 – $286 |
| Oil Pump Replacement | $938 – $1,220 |
| Active Suspension Mode Switch Replacement | $99 – $116 |
| Intake Manifold Gasket Replacement | $969 – $1,168 |
| Suspension Ball Joint Replacement | $361 – $603 |
| Fuel Evaporative Canister Replacement | $385 – $461 |
| Window Switch Replacement | $122 – $145 |
Estimates based on national average repair costs. Actual costs may vary by location and shop.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
17–20 MPG
Running cost: $3,650–$4,700/yr
Fuel + repair
15–18 city / 19–24 hwy MPG
Hybrid
18–20 MPG
Running cost: $3,650–$3,950/yr
Fuel + repair
16–18 city / 21–24 hwy MPG
Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2018 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Silverado C15 2WD 4.3L 6-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic 6-spd | 18 | 24 | 20 | $3,000 |
| Silverado C15 2WD 5.3L 8-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic 6-spd | 16 | 23 | 19 | $3,150 |
| Silverado C15 2WD 5.3L 8-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic 6-spd | 16 | 23 | 19 | $3,150 |
| Silverado K15 4WD 4.3L 6-cyl | 4-Wheel Drive | Automatic 6-spd | 17 | 22 | 19 | $3,150 |
| Silverado C15 2WD 5.3L 8-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic 8-spd | 16 | 22 | 18 | $3,300 |
| Silverado K15 4WD 5.3L 8-cyl | 4-Wheel Drive | Automatic 6-spd | 16 | 22 | 18 | $3,300 |
| Silverado K15 4WD 5.3L 8-cyl | 4-Wheel Drive | Automatic 6-spd | 16 | 22 | 18 | $3,300 |
| Silverado C15 Cab Chassis 2WD 5.3L 8-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic 6-spd | 15 | 20 | 17 | $3,500 |
| Silverado K15 4WD 5.3L 8-cyl | 4-Wheel Drive | Automatic 8-spd | 15 | 20 | 17 | $3,500 |
| Silverado K15 Cab Chassis 4WD 5.3L 8-cyl | 4-Wheel Drive | Automatic 6-spd | 15 | 19 | 17 | $3,500 |
| Silverado C15 2WD 6.2L 8-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic 8-spd | 15 | 21 | 17 | $4,050 |
| Silverado K15 4WD 6.2L 8-cyl | 4-Wheel Drive | Automatic 8-spd | 15 | 20 | 17 | $4,050 |
Hybrid trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Silverado 15 Hybrid 2WD 5.3L 8-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic 8-spd | 18 | 24 | 20 | $3,000 |
| Silverado 15 Hybrid 4WD 5.3L 8-cyl | 4-Wheel Drive | Automatic 8-spd | 16 | 21 | 18 | $3,300 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado.
Test for transmission shudder and hard shifting, especially between 2nd and 3rd gear
Check for engine ticking or knocking noises indicating lifter issues
Inspect for rust on the frame and suspension components
Verify steering functionality and check for any warning lights related to stability control
Examine brake pedal feel for stiffness or increased stopping distance
Inspect rear defroster and sliding window for signs of overheating or damage
Check for any visible oil leaks or signs of excessive oil consumption
2018 Chevrolet Silverado Common Problems by Component
551 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
POWER TRAIN
150 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report frequent issues with the transmission in the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado, particularly hard shifting and shuddering, often at speeds around 60-65 mph. Many describe hard downshifting, especially from 2nd to 1st gear, and a delay in shifting that results in a noticeable jerk. Transmission failures are noted at mileages ranging from approximately 70,000 to over 115,000 miles, with some attributing problems to the torque converter. Safety implications include one reported crash and two injuries, with incidents of the vehicle losing power or the transmission locking up, causing sudden stops. Buyers should be aware of these issues, as they are commonly mentioned and may require significant repair costs.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
86 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report significant issues with the electrical system of the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado, particularly involving the rear defroster and rear sliding window. Complaints frequently mention overheating of the rear defroster, which has led to smoke, shattering windows, and in some cases, fires. These incidents often occur without prior warning and can happen while the vehicle is in motion, posing a potential safety risk. Additionally, some reports indicate problems with wiring harnesses leading to power failures, and touchscreen malfunctions causing distraction. These issues are noted at various mileages, with some occurring as early as 30,000 miles. Potential buyers should be aware of these specific electrical concerns and the associated safety implications.
SERVICE BRAKES
54 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado frequently report issues with the service brakes, particularly related to the brake vacuum pump and brake booster failures. Common symptoms include a hard or stiff brake pedal, increased stopping distance, and intermittent "Brake Assist" or "Service Trailer Brake" warnings, often without any prior warning lights. These issues are generally noted at mileages ranging from 30,000 to over 160,000. Safety implications are significant, with at least one crash and injury reported, and several owners mention near-miss incidents due to brake failure. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential brake system issues, especially if the vehicle falls outside of recall coverage.
ENGINE (53 complaints)
ENGINE
53 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report frequent issues with the engine of the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado, particularly involving lifter and camshaft failures. Complaints frequently mention symptoms such as ticking or knocking noises, rough idling, and the illumination of the check engine light. These issues often occur around 70,000 to 120,000 miles, with some cases leading to complete engine failure. Safety implications include sudden loss of power and potential engine seizure, though no crashes or injuries are reported. Buyers should be aware of these recurring problems, especially since repairs can be costly and time-consuming.
STEERING (44 complaints)
STEERING
44 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado frequently report issues with the steering system, particularly involving intermittent loss of power steering and electrical failures. Typical symptoms include the steering wheel locking up or becoming difficult to turn, often accompanied by dashboard warnings such as "service stability control" or "power steering drive with care." These issues are commonly linked to faulty battery cables or electrical components, with some complaints occurring around 69,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with at least three reported crashes due to steering lockup or electrical failures while driving. Potential buyers should be aware of these recurring issues, as they can lead to loss of vehicle control.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (37 complaints)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
37 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report several issues with the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado, notably vibrations at highway speeds, which persist despite wheel balancing attempts. Multiple complaints highlight problems with the rear sliding window defroster, leading to smoke and shattering glass, with some mentioning similarities to a Canadian recall. Transmission issues are also prevalent, with reports of rough shifting and complete failure, often occurring under 40,000 miles. Safety concerns are noted, including a crash attributed to wheel lockup and a fire risk from the rear defroster malfunction. Buyers should be aware of these patterns, especially regarding potential safety hazards and repair costs.
SUSPENSION (24 complaints)
SUSPENSION
24 complaintsOwners report frequent issues with the suspension of the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado, particularly involving upper control arms and leaf springs. Complaints often describe control arms breaking at the ball joints, sometimes while driving, with rust visible at the break points, suggesting pre-existing cracks. Leaf springs are also noted for causing clunking noises and vibrations, with some reports of them cracking or requiring repeated retightening of u-bolts. These issues are commonly observed at mileage as low as 2,000 to 25,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with some owners expressing concern over potential loss of control or accidents, especially at highway speeds or while towing. These patterns are important for used car buyers to consider.
AIR BAGS (14 complaints)
AIR BAGS
14 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report several issues with the airbag system in the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado, including unexpected airbag deployment and failure to deploy during crashes. Complaints frequently mention the "Service Restraint System" warning light and issues with airbag module connectivity, with some incidents occurring around 50,000 to 72,500 miles. There are reports of airbags not deploying in crashes, resulting in injuries, and instances of airbags deploying without a crash, causing concern. Additionally, some owners describe a lack of passenger seat belt warning systems, which could affect airbag effectiveness. These patterns indicate potential safety implications for prospective buyers.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (13 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
13 complaintsOwners of the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado frequently report issues with the fuel/propulsion system, notably involving fuel pump failures and injector problems. Common symptoms include rough idling, stalling, loss of power, and engine misfires, often without immediate warning lights. Several reports mention fuel pump failures around 60,000 miles, while injector issues are identified through diagnostic codes and require significant repairs. Safety concerns are noted, with some owners experiencing stalling in traffic or fuel leaks, potentially increasing the risk of accidents. Buyers should be aware of these recurring issues and the associated repair costs when considering this model.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (11 complaints)
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
11 complaintsOwners of the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado frequently report issues related to engine oil consumption and leaks, often accompanied by abnormal sounds from the engine and difficulty accelerating. Complaints commonly mention oil leaks due to deteriorating gaskets and excessive oil consumption, with some cases involving coolant intrusion and metal shavings in the engine oil. These issues typically arise around 50,000 to 110,000 miles. Additionally, several owners describe problems with overheating, faulty water pumps, and radiator leaks, which can lead to further engine damage if unresolved. Safety implications include reduced power and vehicle shutdowns, particularly when the engine overheats or enters limp mode, but no crashes or fires are reported. These patterns suggest potential maintenance challenges for prospective buyers, especially for higher-mileage vehicles.
When Do 2018 Chevrolet Silverado Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Chevrolet Silverado Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Chevrolet Silverado Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Chevrolet Silverado year is 2025 with a reliability score of 85/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2023 (75/100) and 2024 (73/100).
Chevrolet Silverado Years to Avoid
The worst Chevrolet Silverado year is 2019 with a score of 64/100, primarily due to power train (290) issues.
Chevrolet Silverado Reliability Score Trend
Chevrolet Silverado reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 76/100 compared to 67/100 for older years.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 70/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 64/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 67/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 67/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 70/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 75/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 73/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 85/100 | Excellent |
Chevrolet Silverado Reliability Compared to Other Years
| Year | Score | vs Prior Year | Rating | Recalls | Complaints |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 78/100 (predicted) | — | Predicted | 0 | 0 |
| 2025 | 85/100 | +12 | Excellent | 1 | 76 |
| 2024 | 73/100 | -2 | Good | 9 | 367 |
| 2023 | 75/100 | +5 | Good | 4 | 299 |
| 2022 | 70/100 | +3 | Good | 8 | 514 |
| 2021 | 67/100 | 0 | Good | 13 | 720 |
| 2020 | 67/100 | +3 | Good | 20 | 693 |
| 2019 | 64/100 | -6 | Good | 20 | 1043 |
| 2018(selected) | 70/100 | — | Good | 16 | 551 |
2018 Chevrolet Silverado Common Questions
10 questions from 2018 Chevrolet Silverado owners.
2018n Cruze engine light on and high idle, connected?
This is the second time the engine light has come on in about 3 years time. first time it came on I had it checked and the code was catalytic converter fail. But the light went off on its own and was fine for almost a year. had car oil changed and tires rotated and it came back on a few days after the service. could this be a glich? why would it say cc fail and then be fine? it makes no sense. the engine idle runs high when i first start the car, is it related? engine light seems to go on after the car is serviced..second time this happened. i notice its running a little rough and then it idles high. A few days
Hvac problem
My forward and floor vents wont blow warm air but when I use my max defrost it blows warm?
Fluid
I accidentally pull approximately a cap full of washer fluid in my brake reservoir. Once I realized what I did I soaked up the washer fluid with paper towels until all I saw on the towel was brake fluid. Do I need to do anything else Will my car be OK. 2025 Chevy trax
Car won't start
Put a new engine in after it was blown has gas and compression but no power why won't it start
Transmission won't engage 3-4.
Transmission won't engage 3-4. Code 73. More than a month
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?
How many recalls does the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado have?
Is the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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