Was 2018 a good year for Silverado?

In broad terms, 2018 was a solid year for the Chevrolet Silverado. It remained one of the top choices in the full-size pickup segment, supported by a broad engine lineup and steady demand, even as the market continued its shift toward SUVs and crossovers and GM prepared for a major redesign in 2019.

Sales performance in 2018

Market position in the full-size pickup segment

The following snapshot highlights Silverado’s standing in a competitive market dominated by Ford’s F-Series, with Silverado typically finishing behind the leader but ahead of most rivals in overall volume.

• Maintained a leading position within the full-size pickup category, frequently ranking second behind the Ford F-Series in total sales among its peers.


• Benefited from a broad dealer network and a versatile engine lineup, including V6 and multiple V8 options, which helped appeal to a wide range of buyers.


• Continued to attract fleet buyers for work-truck applications, providing steady volumes even as consumer demand shifted toward SUVs and crossovers.

Overall, Silverado's 2018 performance demonstrated durable demand and a strong market presence, even as market dynamics favored other vehicle types and a newer generation loomed on the horizon.

Product updates and consumer reception

2018 as the final year before a redesign

The 2018 model year carried forward a proven chassis and powertrain lineup with incremental updates, while critical attention focused on how the truck would transition into a redesigned era in 2019.

• Engine and capability: The Silverado 1500 series continued to offer competitive towing and payload ratings across its trim levels, helping it serve both work and recreation needs.


• Interior and comfort: Cabin materials and seating remained solid for a mainstream pickup, with improvements in ergonomics and noise suppression compared with earlier years, though some trims lagged premium rivals on premium feel.


• Technology and safety: Infotainment and driver-assistance features progressed with available packages, aligning Silverado with evolving tech expectations without sacrificing core capability.

These factors show that 2018 solidified Silverado’s reputation for durability and capability, while signaling the need for a major update to stay competitive in design, materials, and technology.

Market context and what it signaled for the future

Industry trajectory and the coming redesign

In 2018, the broader pickup market remained robust but highly competitive, with the Ford F-Series continuing to lead sales. For GM, 2018 served as a transitional year that set the stage for a comprehensive redesign of the Silverado for the 2019 model year, aiming to improve efficiency, ride quality, interior space, and technology integration.

• Relaunch potential: The 2019 Silverado introduced a more modern design language, a stiffer frame, and upgraded interior and tech features to better compete with rivals’ new offerings.


• Market position: The year underscored Silverado’s role as a core product for GM in the highly lucrative full-size pickup segment, where even small gains in efficiency or technology can have outsized impact.

Taken together, 2018 was less about dramatic changes and more about maintaining momentum and preparing for a generation leap that would redefine Silverado’s styling, capability, and value proposition.

Conclusion

Was 2018 a good year for Silverado? By many measures, yes. It delivered dependable sales and a solid product baseline across consumer and fleet channels, while GM used the year to lay the groundwork for a much-anticipated redesign in 2019. It wasn’t a breakout year, but it was a stable and strategically important one that kept Silverado competitive as the model prepared for a more modern era.

Summary

2018 was solid but not spectacular for the Chevrolet Silverado. It remained a top choice in the full-size pickup segment, benefited from a broad engine lineup and steady fleet demand, and served as the bridge to the redesigned 2019 model that aimed to boost styling, technology, and overall capability.

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. 

Is the 2018 Chevy Silverado 1500 a good year?

2018 is a great year for the Silverado because it got a complete redesign in 2014 and is better than ever. With a stronger frame and an even more refined interior this Chevy pickup is a close as ever to the ride quality and refinement of a passenger sedan. The 5.3L V8, the workhorse engine of the Chevy truck line is up.

Are there any problems with the 2018 Chevy Silverado?

Common problems reported for the 2018 Chevy Silverado include issues with the transmission, such as hard shifts and stuttering, and electrical problems like freezing infotainment screens and dashboard malfunctions. Other frequent complaints involve engine issues related to the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system, which can lead to stalling, and potential leaks or failures in components like the water pump or A/C condenser.
 
Transmission problems

• Hard or erratic shifting, and stuttering during acceleration 
• This can be improved with a software update, though transmission failure has been reported 
• Fluid flush every 30,000 miles is recommended by some owners 

Electrical and infotainment issues

• Freezing or blank infotainment screens, and unresponsive touchscreens
• Voice control problems
• False TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) alerts
• Dash module and battery drain issues
• Intermittent problems like a theft light coming on 

Engine and mechanical problems 

• Stalling due to software glitches, which can be fixed with a software update 
• Engine fires have been reported in some 2019 and 2020 models, but owners of 2018 models should be aware of potential issues related to oil cooler lines or exhaust manifolds 
• The AFM (Active Fuel Management) system can cause engine noises or even engine damage, though 2018 models have fewer problems than earlier years. A DOD delete is often recommended for long-term reliability 
• Broken bolts on the exhaust manifold can be an issue 
• Water pump replacement 

Other common problems

• A bouncy ride is a common complaint
• The AC condenser can fail, leading to no cooling
• Problems with the steering shaft can cause a clunking sound
• Serpentine belts can wear out faster than expected
• Some owners have reported problems with the trailer hitch and undercoating 

0:172018 Silverado 1500 LTZ. Truck is at the shop. After hearing this video ...RedditStray_Bullet78 · 2y 1:162018 Chevrolet Silverado truck battery issue : r/ChevroletRedditGoldenretrieverdad2 · 2y 0:192018 Silverado LT. Anyone have something similar to this happen ...RedditCurious_Scheme_ · 11mo (function(){
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Is the 2018 Chevy 5.3 a good engine?

The 2018 Chevy 5.3L V8 engine is generally considered a good and reliable engine, especially with proper maintenance, and is known for its durability. However, like other modern engines, it can experience issues, such as carbon buildup on valves due to direct injection and potential problems with the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system. 
Strengths of the 2018 5.3L V8

• Reliability: With regular maintenance, the 5.3L engine can last for over 200,000 miles. 
• Performance: It provides sufficient power for daily driving and towing, though it's not considered a high-performance engine. 
• Durability: Its robust structure has made it a long-lasting option for many truck owners. 
• Efficiency: It offers a balance of power and fuel economy, with a best-in-class V8 fuel economy for its class in 2018. 

Potential issues

• Carbon buildup: Direct injection can lead to carbon buildup on intake valves, which may affect performance and cause rough idling over time. 
• Active Fuel Management (AFM): Some owners have reported issues with the AFM system, which can lead to lifter failure, although this is a known issue across many GM trucks. 

Factors that can affect longevity

• Maintenance: Proper and consistent maintenance is crucial to prevent problems and ensure a long life for the engine.
• Driving conditions: Stop-and-go city driving or frequent heavy towing can put more stress on the engine than highway driving. 

Recommendation
If you are considering a 2018 5.3L, ensure that the vehicle has a consistent maintenance history. Be prepared to address potential issues related to the AFM system or carbon buildup if they arise. Regular maintenance will help maximize the engine's lifespan and keep it performing well.