Last updated: 2026-10-10

Chevrolet Silverado

Chevrolet Silverado Years to Avoid

9 scored model years (2018–2026) · model average 73/100

The Chevrolet Silverado years to avoid are 2019, 2021 based on reliability scores, NHTSA recalls, and owner complaints. The worst year is 2019 with a reliability score of 64/100. The best Chevrolet Silverado year to buy is 2023 75/100.

Verdict

The 2019, 2021 Chevrolet Silverado score significantly below the model average of 73/100. The weakest year is 2019 with a score of 64/100 due to power train (290) issues. The best year to buy instead is 2023 75/100. Newer model years (2025–2026) score higher partly because they've had less time to accumulate owner complaints.

See years to avoid ↓See best year ↓See all years ranked ↓

Chevrolet Silverado Years to Avoid

These model years score significantly below the Chevrolet Silverado average of 73/100.

#YearScoreRatingRecallsComplaintsTop Issue
1201964/100Good201043Power Train (290)
2202167/100Good13720Engine (205)

Why These Years Should Be Avoided

64
GoodReliability score: 64 out of 100, rated Good

2019 Chevrolet Silverado

Weakest of the nine scored years, with far more complaints than 2018 or 2020, led by engine lifter and camshaft failures.

20 recalls1043 complaintsEst. repair:

Top issues: Power Train (290), Engine (184), Electrical System (149), Unknown Or Other (80), Steering (70), Service Brakes (69)

View full 2019reliability report →
67
GoodReliability score: 67 out of 100, rated Good

2021 Chevrolet Silverado

Rated good yet among the weaker Silverado years, with sudden 6.2L V8 engine failures, electrical fires, and a long recall list.

13 recalls720 complaintsEst. repair:

Top issues: Engine (205), Power Train (201), Electrical System (77), Engine And Engine Cooling (42), Steering (33), Unknown Or Other (30)

View full 2021reliability report →

What Are Common Chevrolet Silverado Problems?

Silverado transmission problems

1153 complaints

Most reported in 2019, 2021, 2020

2019: Hard, erratic shifting is a common complaint, along with clunks, shudder, and lurching at stops as the torque converter locks.

Silverado engine problems

830 complaints

Most reported in 2021, 2019, 2022

2021: Sudden engine failure dominates these reports, mostly on the 6.2L V8.

Silverado electrical problems

616 complaints

Most reported in 2019, 2022, 2018

2019: Many warnings light up at once, including service brake, parking brake, ESC, and ECM, and power loss often follows.

SERVICE BRAKES

280 complaints

Most reported in 2019, 2018, 2020

2019: The brake pedal goes soft or sinks to the floor, power assist drops out, and the dash shows "Brake System Failure" with speed capped at 43 or 62 mph.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

268 complaints

Most reported in 2019, 2020, 2022

2019: Oil cooler lines leak at their crimp joints or pop off and set off zero oil pressure warnings, usually around 36,000 to 42,000 miles in these reports.

STEERING

261 complaints

Most reported in 2020, 2019, 2018

2020: Power steering cuts out suddenly, usually when the truck is restarted after sitting, and the dash shows Service ESC and Service Power Steering.

Best Chevrolet Silverado Year to Buy Instead

75
GoodReliability score: 75 out of 100, rated Good

2023 Chevrolet Silverado

Final year of the fourth generation, with fewer complaints and recalls than 2022 and 2024, though 6.2L engine seizures remain the main concern.

Score: 75/100 (Good)4 recalls299 complaints
View full 2023reliability report →
VIN History Report

Found a Safe Year? Check the Specific Car

Even the 2023 Chevrolet Silverado has 4 recalls on file. A VIN check confirms the recall work on the exact car and shows its accident, title, and service history.

No VIN? Just hit “Check VIN” to look one up.

  • Accidents
  • Open Recalls
  • Title History
  • Odometer Rollback

All Chevrolet Silverado Years by Generation

Frequently Asked Questions

What Chevrolet Silverado years should you avoid?
Based on our data, you should avoid the following Chevrolet Silverado years: 2019 (score: 64/100), 2021 (score: 67/100). These model years score significantly below the Chevrolet Silverado average of 73/100.
What is the best year for the Chevrolet Silverado?
The best year for the Chevrolet Silverado is 2023, with a reliability score of 75/100 ("Good"). It has 4 recalls and 299 owner complaints. Newer model years (2025–2026) score higher partly because they've had less time to accumulate owner complaints.
How many recalls does the Chevrolet Silverado have?
Across all years in our database, the Chevrolet Silverado has a total of 91 recalls. Recall counts vary by year — check individual model year reports for details.
Is a used Chevrolet Silverado worth buying?
Yes, especially the 2023 model year, which scores 75/100. Stick to years at or above the model average of 73/100 for the best ownership experience.
What are common Chevrolet Silverado problems?
The most common Chevrolet Silverado problems are power train (1153 complaints), engine (830 complaints), electrical system (616 complaints). These issues are reported across multiple model years based on NHTSA owner complaint data.
Is the Chevrolet Silverado reliable long-term?
The Chevrolet Silverado has an average reliability score of 73/100 across all model years in our database, rated "good". Overall, it is a reliable vehicle, though some model years perform better than others.
Which Chevrolet Silverado generation is most reliable?
The most reliable Chevrolet Silverado generation is the Third generation (GMT K2XX) with an average score of 70/100. Compare generations in our all-years-by-generation section above.
Is the 2023 Chevrolet Silverado a good used buy?
Yes, the 2023 Chevrolet Silverado is our top-recommended model year with a reliability score of 75/100 ("Good"). It has 4 recalls and 299 owner complaints, making it a solid used buy.

How we score every Chevrolet Silverado model year

Scores weight complaint severity at 35%, repair costs at 30%, recall impact at 20%, and the spread of complaints across systems at 15%, with complaint counts adjusted for US sales. Read the full methodology.

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