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What year did Silverados have lifter problems?

The Chevrolet Silverado, a popular full-size pickup truck, has faced some well-documented issues with its engine lifters over the years. While the specific years affected may vary, the lifter problems have been a source of frustration for many Silverado owners. In this article, we'll dive into the details of when these issues occurred and what Chevrolet has done to address them.


The Lifter Problem Explained


Engine lifters are responsible for opening and closing the valves in an internal combustion engine, allowing air and fuel to flow in and out. In the case of the Silverado, certain model years experienced premature wear or failure of these lifters, leading to a variety of issues, including:



  • Ticking or knocking noises from the engine

  • Reduced engine performance and power

  • Increased fuel consumption

  • Potential engine damage if left unaddressed


These problems can be frustrating for Silverado owners, as they can significantly impact the vehicle's reliability and performance.


Affected Model Years


The Silverado lifter problems have been reported in several model years, though the exact years may vary depending on the specific engine and transmission configuration. According to various sources, the most commonly affected model years include the 2014-2018 Silverado with the 5.3L V8 engine, as well as the 2019-2020 Silverado with the 6.2L V8 engine.


It's important to note that not all Silverados within these model years experienced the lifter issues, and the severity of the problem may have varied from vehicle to vehicle.


Chevrolet's Response


Chevrolet has acknowledged the lifter problems in certain Silverado models and has taken steps to address the issue. The company has issued technical service bulletins and extended warranties to cover the cost of lifter replacement in some cases.


Additionally, Chevrolet has made design changes to the lifters and engine components in newer Silverado models to improve their durability and reliability. However, some owners have reported ongoing issues, even with the updated parts.


Recommendations for Silverado Owners


If you own a Silverado and are experiencing any issues related to the engine lifters, it's recommended to take your vehicle to an authorized Chevrolet dealer or a trusted mechanic for diagnosis and repair. Staying on top of regular maintenance and monitoring any unusual engine noises or performance issues can also help prevent more serious problems down the line.


By understanding the history of the Silverado lifter problems and Chevrolet's efforts to address them, Silverado owners can make informed decisions about the maintenance and care of their vehicles.

What is the reliability rating of a Silverado 1500?


The 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 has a predicted reliability score of 80 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.



What was the worst year for Chevy Silverado?


2014
Of the best and worst years for the Chevy Silverado 1500, the 2014 model year is the worst of the worst. With over 250 problems reported and 19 recalls, this model is reputable for electrical issues, airbags not deploying or failing to inflate, and transmission oil cooler lines prone to failure.



What year was the Silverado Bad engine?


From 2012 to 2019, each Silverado year model was littered with issues. The 2012 and 2013 year models have a few dozen reported problems, mainly about faulty engines and transmissions. 2014 Silverados have the highest number of complaints by far, with a significant portion of them relating to A/C and heating defects.



What years of 5.3 are bad?


The bad years: 2007-2014
There are eight different variations of the Vortec 5.3-liter V8 in the fourth-generation small-block V8 family.



Is it worth fixing a lifter?


If you want to have an exciting driving experience, you need to get your faulty engine lifter replaced.



How much to replace lifters on 5.3 Chevy Silverado?


Expect to pay somewhere between $1000 and $2,500 to get a professional to replace an engine lifter.



What years did the Chevy 5.3 have issues?


Major Oil Consumption
The cars with this engine between 2010 and 2014 are the most likely to run into this trouble, which was so terrible it led to many drivers attempting a class-action lawsuit to receive reparations for the awful oil consumption their car dealt them.



What year Silverado was the most reliable?


2012
The 2012 model year is known as one of Chevy's most reliable pickups due to the comfortable ride it creates and attractive exterior build. With only 4 recalls and 236 complaints, it has a good rating for crashworthiness with the IIHS. It also ranked as the #1 pickup in the full-size truck division.



Which Silverado has lifter problems?


The models affected are Chevrolet Silverado trucks from 2016 to present and, most particularly the 2021 models with 5.3L and 6.2L engines.



What is the average life of a Chevy Silverado engine?


between 150,000 and 200,000 miles
The lifespan of a Chevy Silverado 1500 varies based on factors such as overall lifetime care and use. Typically, drivers can expect their Chevy Silverado 1500 to last between 150,000 and 200,000 miles, translating to an average of 10 to 20 years of continuous use.


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.