How do I know what gears my Silverado has?
Knowing your Silverado’s gear ratio is essential for towing, acceleration, and fuel economy. The quickest and most reliable way to confirm the exact gearing is to consult official factory documents or read the rear differential tag. If those aren’t accessible, a VIN-based lookup or a dealer can provide the precise specification.
The term “gears” in this context refers to the axle gear ratio (and, for four-wheel-drive models, the transfer-case gearing). Gear options vary by model year, engine, transmission, cab/bed configuration, and whether the vehicle is two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. Below is a practical guide to find and verify your Silverado’s gearing.
Official sources to confirm your gear ratio
Document checks
Start with the factory documentation that accompanies the truck. These are the most reliable sources for the exact axle ratio.
- Window sticker (Monroney label) on a new Silverado lists the axle ratio.
- Build sheet or RPO/option codes, which may be found in the glove box or requested from the dealer, detail drivetrain specifications including the axle ratio.
- VIN-based lookups via GM’s official portals or your dealer can reveal the exact axle ratio and drivetrain configuration for your specific vehicle.
Rely on these official sources first, as they reflect the exact factory configuration for your truck.
Reading the rear differential tag
What to look for on the tag
If you have access to the rear differential, the axle tag or stamp on the cover typically shows the gear ratio directly or a code that translates to the ratio.
- Look for a line labeled “RATIO” or “AXLE” followed by a decimal number such as 3.23, 3.42, 3.73, or 4.10. This is the axle gear ratio (driveshaft revolutions per wheel revolution).
- Some models use a code (for example, a three-character code) instead of a numeric ratio. In that case, you’ll need to cross-check with the build sheet or an axle-code reference to translate it to the actual number.
- If the cover or tag is faded or missing, photograph it and consult a dealer or GM tech who can interpret the code accurately.
The differential tag is the most direct identifier of gearing on a vehicle you already own or are inspecting, especially when documentation is incomplete.
Using the VIN to confirm your gears
VIN-based tools and practical steps
The 17-digit VIN can unlock the exact drivetrain details for your Silverado, including axle ratio and transfer-case gearing (for 4x4 models).
- Chevrolet Owner Site / MyChevrolet: Enter your VIN to view a spec sheet that includes the axle ratio and drivetrain configuration.
- GM VIN decoders or dealer portals: These pull the factory build sheet or configuration data, which contain the precise axle ratio.
- Third‑party VIN decoders: These can be helpful but should be cross-checked against official GM sources for accuracy.
VIN-based lookups provide a model-year- and region-specific answer, ensuring you account for any factory changes or optional gearing packages.
What to do with your findings
Once you have a confirmed axle ratio (and transfer-case gear if applicable), you can use it to calculate towing performance, estimate RPMs at highway speeds, and compare aftermarket parts. If any source yields conflicting information, contact the dealer with your VIN to obtain the official build sheet or a certified diagnostic printout.
Summary
To determine your Silverado’s gears, rely first on official sources such as the window sticker, build sheet, and VIN-based lookups. If needed, inspect the rear differential tag for a direct read of the axle ratio or decode any codes with the help of a dealer. A VIN-based confirmation is the most precise way to account for year-to-year variations and factory options.
