Is 2017 a good year for Silverado?

Yes. Overall, the 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is a solid-used-truck option, offering strong V8 power, capable towing and payload, and a comfortable ride. However, as with any older pickup, the condition and maintenance history of a specific truck matter a lot.

In more detail, the 2017 Silverado sits in the well-regarded 2014-refresh generation, which brought improved powertrains and better technology. It benefits from modern multimedia features like Chevrolet MyLink with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and it remains competitive for work and daily driving. That said, some owners report transmission and electrical quirks in certain units, and buyers should perform due diligence—check maintenance records, look for recalls addressed, and arrange a pre-purchase inspection.

Why 2017 Is a Solid Choice in the Silverado Lineup

The following attributes commonly appeal to buyers considering a 2017 Silverado:

• Robust engine options that balance power and capability for work tasks or towing


• Strong payload and towing potential, aided by a durable frame and available configurations


• Comfortable ride quality for a full-size pickup, with a spacious cabin and solid highway manners


• Modern multimedia features, including compatibility with smartphone integration and user-friendly infotainment


• Proven reliability within the segment, and generally favorable resale value for a used truck

Taken together, these strengths help the 2017 Silverado stand out among mid-generation trucks and make it a dependable option for buyers who need a capable workhorse or a versatile daily driver.

Potential Concerns and How to Check Them

While the 2017 Silverado is broadly reliable, there are caveats to keep in mind when evaluating a used example:

• Transmission behavior: some owners have reported rough or delayed shifting in certain automatic transmissions, depending on configuration and maintenance history.


• Electrical and infotainment glitches: touchscreen freezes, Bluetooth pairing issues, or other software quirks can occur in older systems


• Recall and service history: like many trucks of this era, there have been recalls that should be addressed; verify the VIN against the NHTSA recall database and service records


• Overall wear and rust risk: inspect for underbody rust in regions with heavy road salt or moisture, and check for frame or cab corrosion in older vehicles

To minimize risk, look for a well-documented maintenance history, confirm that any outstanding recalls have been completed, and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic.

Reliability and Ownership Context

Industry reviewers and consumer data typically place the 2017 Silverado in the competitive middle tier for full-size pickups. It tends to perform well in durability and owner satisfaction, with strong resale value for a used truck. As with any vehicle in this class, results vary by how well the individual truck was maintained, how it was used (daily driving vs. heavy-duty duty), and the climate where it has lived. For potential buyers, independent inspections and a thorough VIN check are essential to gauge long-term reliability.

What to Check If You're Buying Used

Use the following checklist to evaluate a 2017 Silverado before buying:

1. Obtain a full VIN-based recall and service history to confirm all campaigns have been completed


2. Have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection focused on the drivetrain, transmission, and suspension


3. Test drive under load, including acceleration, braking, steering feel, and any transmission behavior


4. Inspect for signs of oil or coolant leaks around the engine and seals


5. Inspect the frame, underbody, and rockers for rust or collision-related damage


6. Check the tires, brakes, and steering components for even wear and adequate service life


7. Verify payload and towing equipment are appropriate for your needs and look for factory or dealer-installed towing packages if required

Following this checklist will help you identify a well-maintained example and avoid common pitfalls associated with older trucks.

Summary

The 2017 Silverado remains a strong, capable choice within the full-size pickup segment, offering robust power, practical daily usability, and solid technology for its time. Its overall reliability is competitive, but potential buyers should prioritize a thorough inspection, confirm maintenance and recall work, and tailor expectations to the truck’s specific history and usage. When carefully evaluated, a well-kept 2017 Silverado can deliver dependable service for work and recreation alike.

Which year is Silverado to stay away from?

2014, 2015, 2017 Silverado
These are the Chevy Silverado 1500 years to avoid, without question. Think twice about buying a used truck from any of these iterations. You're likely to find electrical issues, rusted brake lines, problems with the intake manifold, and so many more issues it's difficult to name them all.

Do 2017 Chevy Silverado have transmission problems?

Yes, the 2017 Chevy Silverado has been reported to have transmission problems, with many owners experiencing issues like slipping, rough shifting, clunking noises, and even complete failure. These issues can stem from various causes, including low or dirty transmission fluid, worn clutch packs, faulty shift solenoids, or problems with the transmission control module (TCM). 
Common 2017 Silverado transmission problems

• Slipping and kicking out of gear: The transmission may slip or disengage under load or during acceleration. 
• Rough shifting and hesitation: Symptoms can include rough downshifting, hesitation, or lurching, especially in the 8-speed automatic transmission models. 
• Clunking noises: Some owners report hearing clunking sounds when the transmission is failing. 
• Overheating: The transmission can overheat, which may lead to other damage. 
• Rough acceleration and shuddering: Issues with the torque converter or internal damage can cause shuddering or poor acceleration. 
• Communication errors: Faulty sensors or a faulty TCM can lead to performance issues and trouble codes. 

Potential causes

• Fluid issues: Low or dirty transmission fluid is a common cause of many problems. 
• Internal wear: Worn clutch packs or other internal components can cause slipping and shifting problems. 
• Electronic issues: Faulty shift solenoids, sensors, or the TCM can disrupt proper gear engagement and operation. 
• Torque converter: A failing torque converter can cause overheating and other significant transmission damage. 
• Communication problems: Some issues, particularly with the 8-speed transmission, can be linked to communication errors on the vehicle's network (CAN bus). 

You can watch this video to learn more about the condition of a 2017 Chevy Silverado 6L80E transmission: 57sPerformance Transmissions LLCYouTube · Mar 25, 2022

Is 2017 Silverado a good year?

With a 5/5 star ranking for overall safety, only 6 recalls, 0 investigations, and 491 complaints, the 2017 model year is among the best you should look into purchasing for your family. With a strong and efficient base V6 engine and optional powerful V8 engine, it appeals to many Chevy Silverado 1500 buyers.

What is the best year of Silverado to buy used?

The best year for a used Chevy Silverado is generally considered to be 2018, due to its balance of modern features, strong reliability, and high owner satisfaction. Other top choices include the 2012 for its exceptional reliability and the 2011-2013 models as a more budget-friendly option with good quality control. For the most modern technology, look for models from 2021 and newer. 
This video explains the best and worst years for Chevy Silverado: 59sCar ExpertlyYouTube · Jun 4, 2025
Top recommendations

• 2018: Excellent owner satisfaction, few reported electronic or mechanical issues, and a good balance of power, comfort, and technology. It offers a comfortable ride and a well-regarded powertrain. 
• 2012: Often cited as one of the most reliable years, with a reputation for durability and a comfortable ride. It has a strong V8 engine and a good J.D. Power rating. 
• 2011–2013: A great budget-friendly choice. These models improved on the earlier GMT900 trucks, with better quality control after the initial issues with the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system in 2007-2010 models. 
• 2019 and newer: Best for the latest safety and driver-assist technology, especially from 2021 onwards, which offer a wide range of trims, engines (including diesel), and advanced trailering systems. 

Things to consider

• Early Active Fuel Management (AFM): Avoid 2007-2010 models with the 5.3-liter V8, as the early versions of the AFM system are known to cause problems. 
• Third-generation (2014–2018): While the 2018 is recommended, be cautious of the 2014 due to potential AC issues and the 2017, which had some transmission problems. 
• Maintenance: Regardless of the year, a well-maintained truck with a clean history report and service records will likely provide the best ownership experience.