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The Silverado 1500 has become Chevrolet’s most popular model since its 1999 debut. For decades, Americans have trusted this full-size Chevy truck on farms, ranches, job sites, and suburban streets. If the Chevy Silverado tops your list, you might want details about its reliability ratings and most common problems.

Here are 3 of the most common Chevy Silverado 1500 problems owners report

RepairPal collects data regarding the most common issues vehicle owners face and how much the repairs cost. The three most common Chevy Silverado 1500 problems owners have reported are as follows:

  • Four-wheel-drive transfer case position sensor/selector switch failure
  • Heating and A/C temperature and air delivery mode door actuator failure
  • Fuel level sensor failure

Thankfully, none of those issues is engine-related. However, finding yourself stuck in the wilderness due to a malfunctioning 4WD system could spell serious trouble.

Still, the three most common Chevy Silverado 1500 problems are tame compared to other trucks. Check out the Ford F-150’s issues to see for yourself.

Nearly 900 owners have reported a ‘service 4WD’ message relating to the 4WD transfer case

The 4WD transfer case encoder motor position sensor or the selector switch could fail in the Chevy Silverado 1500, requiring a visit to a mechanic.

Almost 900 owners have complained about this problem in 1999 to 2017 models. Diagnosing the issue runs about $100, but repairs could cost more if the selector switch needs replacing.

The air delivery in the A/C system is one of the most common Chevy Silverado 1500 problems

When the air delivery mode door actuator fails, the HVAC system can’t deliver air to cool or heat the cabin. That should appear as a fault in the HVAC control module, which requires a diagnostic visit and potential repair costs.

Over 450 owners have reported this problem in 1999 to 2016 Silverado 1500 models. They paid about $100 to diagnose the issue.

An erratic fuel gauge can also plague this Chevy truck

It’s common for the fuel level sensor in the gas tank to misread the level. Nearly 400 owners have reported this problem in 1999 to 2013 Silverado 1500 models. When that happens, the sensor must be replaced.

RepairPal technicians recommend replacing the entire fuel pump module on a high-mileage vehicle. Replacing the fuel pump in the Chevy Silverado 1500 costs about $1,200.

Is the Chevy Silverado 1500 reliable?

2023 Chevy Silverado 1500 Towing a trailer at a job site
2023 Chevy Silverado 1500 Towing | Chevrolet

To determine where the Silverado 1500 falls on the reliability scale, we turn to U.S. News. Based on expert reviews, J.D. Power scores, and other factors, the site lists 10 most reliable pickup trucks from best to worst:

  • Toyota Tundra
  • Ram 1500
  • Nissan Titan
  • Jeep Gladiator
  • Ford Ranger
  • GMC Sierra 1500
  • Chevrolet Silverado 1500
  • Chevrolet Colorado
  • Toyota Tacoma
  • GMC Canyon
  •  Honda Ridgeline
  • Ford F-150

As you can see, the full-size Chevy pickup falls in the middle of the pack.

How long should a Silverado last?

Despite the common Chevy Silverado 1500 problems, this truck is dependable enough to last 300,000 miles or more. The model years with the highest reliability scores are 2012, 2015, and 2018. With regular maintenance and an average annual driving distance of 12,000 miles, this Chevy truck should last 20 years or more.

Is the 2023 Silverado a good truck?

Red 2023 Chevy Silverado 1500
2023 Chevy Silverado 1500 | Chevrolet

The latest Chevrolet Silverado 1500 offers excellent engine options and equipment for desired levels of capability. In addition to a fantastic range of engine choices, expect various cab configurations, bed lengths, and comfort levels. This Chevy pickup ranges from a basic work truck to the opulent High Country, with several trims in between.

Should you drive this Chevy pickup?

The Ram 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, Nissan Titan, and Toyota Tundra have higher reliability ratings than the Chevy Silverado 1500. Still, the hundreds of thousands of people who purchase the popular Silverado yearly should be sufficient proof of this truck’s quality.