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How many miles to the gallon does a 2000 Chevy 1500 with a 5.3 get?

The 2000 Chevy Silverado 1500 with a 5.3L typically gets about 15 miles per gallon in city driving and around 18 mpg on the highway for two-wheel-drive models; four-wheel-drive versions are usually around 14 mpg city and 17 mpg highway. Real-world mileage varies widely based on condition, payload, and driving habits.


EPA estimates by drivetrain


Official figures from the era reflect modest differences between 2WD and 4WD configurations, with highway efficiency dropping slightly in four-wheel drive due to drivetrain losses.



  • 2WD with 5.3L V8 and a 4-speed automatic: City approximately 15 mpg, Highway approximately 18 mpg

  • 4WD with 5.3L V8 and a 4-speed automatic: City approximately 14 mpg, Highway approximately 17 mpg


Note: EPA ratings are based on standardized tests and may not mirror real-world conditions, especially when towing, hauling, or operating in extreme terrain.


Real-world fuel economy and influencing factors


Most drivers report mileage in the low-to-mid teens during daily use, with better results on long highway trips and when the truck is lightly loaded. The following factors can cause mileage to vary significantly:



  • Payload and towing: Heavier loads reduce efficiency, particularly when towing

  • Terrain and driving style: Stop-and-go city driving lowers mpg more than steady highway speeds

  • Tire type and pressure: Under-inflated or aggressive tires increase rolling resistance

  • Vehicle condition: Worn spark plugs, clogged air filters, and outdated fluids can reduce efficiency

  • Drivetrain and gearing: Axle ratio and 2WD vs 4WD configurations affect mpg


Real-world results depend on how the truck is used, maintained, and driven, as well as the specific configuration and modifications made over its lifespan.


Tips to maximize mpg


To improve fuel economy in a 2000 Silverado 1500 with the 5.3L, consider these practical steps:



  • Keep tires properly inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure

  • Perform regular maintenance: air filter, spark plugs, oil changes with the correct viscosity

  • Avoid unnecessary idling; combine trips and plan routes efficiently

  • Minimize unnecessary weight and remove roof racks when not needed

  • Use cruise control on highways when appropriate to maintain steady speeds


By adhering to these practices, owners can get closer to the EPA figures in favorable conditions and maximize efficiency within the vehicle’s design limits.


Summary


In brief, a 2000 Chevy Silverado 1500 with a 5.3L V8 typically achieves around 15 mpg in city driving and 18 mpg on highways for 2WD models, while 4WD models usually run about 14 mpg city and 17 mpg highway. Real-world mileage varies based on payload, towing, terrain, and maintenance. With mindful driving and regular upkeep, owners can optimize fuel economy for this vintage pickup.

How many miles per gallon does a 5.3 Chevy 1500 get?


16/21/18 MPG
Chevy Silverado 1500 MPG by Engine
5.3-Liter EcoTec3 V-8 (2WD): 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque / 10-speed automatic transmission / up to an EPA-estimated 16/21/18 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)



Is the 2000 Chevy 5.3 a good engine?


Overall, the Chevy 5.3 liter engine is a reliable engine that can last for many years if it is properly maintained. Drivers who take good care of their engines can expect to get 200,000 miles or more out of them.



How many miles per gallon does a 2000 Chevy Silverado 1500 get?


A 2000 Chevy Silverado 1500 gets an EPA estimated 14–17 MPG combined, with city/highway estimates varying by trim and engine. For example, the base model gets an estimated 15 city / 21 highway MPG, while the LT trim gets around 14 city / 19 highway MPG. 

Model EPA Estimated MPG (City/Highway)
Base 15 / 21 MPG
LT 14 / 19 MPG
LS 15 / 21 MPG
Other (e.g., some Regular Cab LS) 13 / 16 MPG
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How many gallons are in the fuel tank of a 2001 Silverado 5.3 V8?


26 gal
364/494 mi. 26 gal.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.