Chevrolet Silverado 1500 1988–1998 problems by year and mileage
GMT400 C/K 1500 (pre-Silverado nameplate)
NHTSA data through 18 October 20262,911 complaints, 455 with mileageMethod
Which year is yours? Tap it to see what breaks on it.
- 1988—too few
- 1989—too few
- 1990—too few
- 1991—too few
- 1992—too few
- 1993—too few
- 1994108kmedian
- 1995—too few
- 1996101kmedian
- 199789kmedian
- 199874kmedian
The 1988 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Close- Median failure report
- too few reports to time
- Complaints filed
- 76
- Recalls naming this year
- 5
Most reported on the 1988
- Hydraulic brake circuit27 reports
- Seat belts8 reports
- Suspension8 reports
Recall areas Power train — automatic transmission · Service brakes, hydraulic — foundation components · Latches/locks/linkages — doors
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 1989 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Close- Median failure report
- too few reports to time
- Complaints filed
- 70
- Recalls naming this year
- 4
Most reported on the 1989
- Hydraulic brake circuit15 reports
- Seat belts14 reports
- Transmission and driveline8 reports
Recall areas Service brakes, hydraulic — foundation components · Power train — automatic transmission · Seat belts — front
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 1990 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Close- Median failure report
- too few reports to time
- Complaints filed
- 48
- Recalls naming this year
- 5
Most reported on the 1990
- Hydraulic brake circuit14 reports
- Transmission and driveline9 reports
- Seat belts6 reports
Recall areas Service brakes, hydraulic — foundation components · Power train — automatic transmission · Seat belts — front
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 1991 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Close- Median failure report
- too few reports to time
- Complaints filed
- 68
- Recalls naming this year
- 2
Most reported on the 1991
- Hydraulic brake circuit23 reports
- Seat belts7 reports
- Tyres7 reports
Recall areas Service brakes, hydraulic — foundation components · Power train — automatic transmission
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 1992 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Close- Median failure report
- too few reports to time
- Complaints filed
- 115
- Recalls naming this year
- 4
Most reported on the 1992
- Visibility equipment23 reports
- Seats19 reports
- Hydraulic brake circuit14 reports
Recall areas Seats · Fuel system, other — storage · Service brakes, hydraulic — foundation components
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 1993 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Close- Median failure report
- too few reports to time
- Complaints filed
- 164
- Recalls naming this year
- 3
Most reported on the 1993
- Seats49 reports
- Visibility equipment38 reports
- Hydraulic brake circuit21 reports
Recall areas Seats · Fuel system, other — storage · Power train — automatic transmission
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 1994 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Close- Median failure report
- 108,000 mi
- Complaints filed
- 410
- Recalls naming this year
- 9
Most reported on the 1994
- Visibility equipment169 reports · median 99,000 mi
- Seats76 reports
- Hydraulic brake circuit53 reports
Recall areas Exterior lighting — brake lights · Visibility — windshield wiper/washer · Seats
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 1995 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Close- Median failure report
- too few reports to time
- Complaints filed
- 620
- Recalls naming this year
- 7
Most reported on the 1995
- Visibility equipment274 reports
- Hydraulic brake circuit102 reports
- Seats81 reports
Recall areas Fuel system, gasoline — storage · Visibility — windshield wiper/washer · Seats
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 1996 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Close- Median failure report
- 101,000 mi
- Complaints filed
- 409
- Recalls naming this year
- 6
Most reported on the 1996
- Visibility equipment103 reports
- Hydraulic brake circuit67 reports
- Seats36 reports
Recall areas Fuel system, gasoline — storage · Visibility — windshield wiper/washer · Seats
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 1997 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Close- Median failure report
- 89,000 mi
- Complaints filed
- 566
- Recalls naming this year
- 3
Most reported on the 1997
- Steering143 reports
- Hydraulic brake circuit124 reports · median 82,000 mi
- Visibility equipment76 reports · median 97,000 mi
Recall areas Fuel system, gasoline — storage · Seats
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 1998 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Close- Median failure report
- 74,000 mi
- Complaints filed
- 365
- Recalls naming this year
- 0
Most reported on the 1998
- Hydraulic brake circuit109 reports · median 68,000 mi
- Visibility equipment60 reports · median 75,000 mi
- Steering48 reports
Tiles: each year’s median failure mileage. Latest: the 1994; earliest: the 1998, and the 1994 is 4 years older (part of the gap is age). 7 of these years carry fewer than 30 reports with an odometer reading and show no median at all, rather than one computed from a handful.
The short answer
“Is the 1988–1998 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 reliable?”
- Median of reported failures
- 93,000 mi
- 90% of reports came by
- 170,000 mi
- Reports with mileage
- 455
- Recalls
- 28
Most reported
- Visibility equipment26.0% of complaints · median 90,000 mi
- Hydraulic brake circuit19.5% of complaints · median 80,000 mi
- Seats10.1% of complaints · median 105,000 mi
Owners filed 2,911 complaints with NHTSA about the 1988–1998 Chevrolet Silverado 1500; visibility equipment leads with 26% of them, and half of the 455 that record an odometer reading came by 93,000 miles — complaints, not a failure rate.
No single peak: the middle half runs 60,000 to 132,000 miles.
Before-you-buy checklist ↓At your mileage ↓Check this VIN — NHTSA ↗
How many miles does a 1988–1998 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 last?
On the 1988–1998 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, half of the 455 complaints that record an odometer reading were filed by 93,000 miles and 90% by 170,000 miles (why that is not a lifespan).
84 reports came in past 150,000 miles and 22 past 200,000 — each one proof that a Silverado 1500 reached that mileage, not that it failed there.
Figure 1 · Chevrolet Silverado 1500 1988–1998 · 455 reports with mileage
Mileage at failure
10,000-mile bins, 0 to 200,000 miles, linear scale; tallest bar 42 complaints
- Rest of the range
- Median
- 200,000+ — 22 complaints (4.8%), plotted separately
- 10%
- 39,000
- 25%
- 60,000
- Median
- 93,000
- 75%
- 132,000
- 90%
- 170,000
Show the numbers
| Mileage | Complaints | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 0–10,000 | 10 | 2.2% |
| 10,000–20,000 | 7 | 1.5% |
| 20,000–30,000 | 12 | 2.6% |
| 30,000–40,000 | 18 | 4.0% |
| 40,000–50,000 | 19 | 4.2% |
| 50,000–60,000 | 42 | 9.2% |
| 60,000–70,000 | 32 | 7.0% |
| 70,000–80,000 | 42 | 9.2% |
| 80,000–90,000 | 35 | 7.7% |
| 90,000–100,000 | 32 | 7.0% |
| 100,000–110,000 | 33 | 7.3% |
| 110,000–120,000 | 23 | 5.1% |
| 120,000–130,000 | 31 | 6.8% |
| 130,000–140,000 | 16 | 3.5% |
| 140,000–150,000 | 19 | 4.2% |
| 150,000–160,000 | 18 | 4.0% |
| 160,000–170,000 | 20 | 4.4% |
| 170,000–180,000 | 10 | 2.2% |
| 180,000–190,000 | 9 | 2.0% |
| 190,000–200,000 | 5 | 1.1% |
| 200,000+ | 22 | 4.8% |
Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, public domain.
Common Silverado 1500 problems, and when they happen
Figure 2 · Chevrolet Silverado 1500 1988–1998
When each system fails
Bar: middle half of reports · notch: median · proportional (log) scale (how to read it)
- Steering243 reportsmedian 70,000middle half 50,000–97,000
- Engine and its cooling system146 reportsmedian 71,000middle half 40,000–102,000
- Hydraulic brake circuit569 reportsmedian 80,000middle half 59,000–113,000
- Transmission and driveline217 reportsmedian 89,000middle half 70,000–127,000
- Visibility equipment756 reportsmedian 90,000middle half 62,000–114,000
- Seats293 reportsmedian 105,000middle half 52,000–156,000
- Electrical system119 reportsmedian 138,000middle half 106,000–184,000
- Your odometer, once entered below
Ordered by median mileage, earliest first.
All systems in a table
| System | Complaints | Share | Median | 25–75% |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Visibility equipment | 756 | 26.0% | 90,000 | 62,000–114,000 |
| Hydraulic brake circuit | 569 | 19.5% | 80,000 | 59,000–113,000 |
| Seats | 293 | 10.1% | 105,000 | 52,000–156,000 |
| Steering | 243 | 8.3% | 70,000 | 50,000–97,000 |
| Transmission and driveline | 217 | 7.5% | 89,000 | 70,000–127,000 |
| Engine and its cooling system | 146 | 5.0% | 71,000 | 40,000–102,000 |
| Electrical system | 119 | 4.1% | 138,000 | 106,000–184,000 |
| Airbag system | 118 | 4.1% | 121,000 | 113,000–150,000 |
| Fuel system | 113 | 3.9% | 118,000 | 80,000–162,000 |
| Seat belts | 107 | 3.7% | 114,000 | 75,000–180,000 |
Known problems with the 1988–1998 Silverado 1500
Transmission 1993–1998
4L60E 3-4 clutch pack and sun-shell failures causing loss of 3rd/4th gear.
Fuel System 1996–1998
Central port injection (CPI/'spider') fuel injector poppet leaks on the 4.3L V6 causing hard starting and rough running.
Body 1988–1998
Cab-corner, rocker-panel and rear wheel-arch rust in salt-belt use.
Before you buy a 1988–1998 Silverado 1500: the 3-minute check
Generated from 455 mileage-tagged complaints, 28 recall campaigns, 3 documented problem areas.
- Run the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. 28 campaigns cover this generation.
- Check transmission on 1993–1998 cars. What each looks like: Known problems.
- Check fuel system on 1996–1998 cars.
- Check body on 1988–1998 cars.
- Years differ here: from 48 to 620 complaints a year — compare them by model year.
- End with a pre-purchase inspection of this car.
Silverado 1500 problems by mileage: where your car sits
Type your odometer, or read the table.
| System | Middle half of reports, mi | At 60k mi24% below | At 90k mi48% below | At 120k mi67% below | At 150k mi82% below | At 200k mi95% below |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Visibility equipment | 62,000–114,000 | later | in window | earlier | earlier | earlier |
| Hydraulic brake circuit | 59,000–113,000 | in window | in window | earlier | earlier | earlier |
| Seats | 52,000–156,000 | in window | in window | in window | in window | earlier |
| Steering | 50,000–97,000 | in window | in window | earlier | earlier | earlier |
| Transmission and driveline | 70,000–127,000 | later | in window | in window | earlier | earlier |
| Engine and its cooling system | 40,000–102,000 | in window | in window | earlier | earlier | earlier |
| Electrical system | 106,000–184,000 | later | later | in window | in window | earlier |
Figure 3 · Chevrolet Silverado 1500 1988–1998 · 455 reports with mileage
Share of reports below each mileage
Steps at bin edges (how to read it)
- 60,000 mi — 24% of reports below
- 90,000 mi — 48% of reports below
- 120,000 mi — 67% of reports below
- 150,000 mi — 82% of reports below
- 200,000 mi — 95% of reports below
- Median (the 50% line)
- Your odometer, once entered
Linear axis, same as Figure 1.
1988–1998 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 recalls (28)
NHTSA records 28 recall campaigns covering vehicles in this generation (what a recall is).
The campaigns cluster around seats (5), the hydraulic brake circuit (4), the fuel system (3) (why one area can repeat).
May 1999 · 1992 · SeatsIf this were to occur to the driver's seat, this could result in a sudden loss of vehicle control, increasing…
The defect. Vehicle description: extended-cab pickup trucks equipped with high-back bucket seats. The seat recliner to frame attaching bolts can loosen, fatigue, and fracture allowing the seat back to suddenly recline.
What can happen. If this were to occur to the driver's seat, this could result in a sudden loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
The free fix. Dealers will remove all foam and/or fabric sandwiched between the recliner assembly and the seat frame, install washers between the seat recliner and the seat frame at each attachment point, and…
Feb 1999 · 1994 · Exterior LightingThis would fail to warn a following driver that the vehicle is braking and could lead to a crash.
The defect. Vehicle description: pickup trucks, crew cabs, utility trucks and sport utility vehicles. These vehicles were built with the polarity of the wiring for the zero adjust brake switch reversed from what was specified on the switch drawing. With the reversed…
What can happen. This would fail to warn a following driver that the vehicle is braking and could lead to a crash.
The free fix. Dealers will replace the brake switch and reverse the wiring.
Aug 1998 · 1995–1997 · Fuel System, GasolineThis condition can result in fuel leakage and a distinct fuel odor if the tank were filled above the level of…
The defect. Vehicle description: crew cab pickup trucks. The front, inner corner of the fuel tank can contact the body sill either intermittently or constantly. This movement can cause a discernible noise and, over time, can wear a hole in or crack the fuel tank at point…
What can happen. This condition can result in fuel leakage and a distinct fuel odor if the tank were filled above the level of the hole or crack. In the presence of an ignition source, a fire could result.
The free fix. Dealers will inspect the fuel tank for wear and, either install a spacer between the fuel tank and the front crossmember, or if necessary, replace the fuel tank.
Jul 1998 · 1994–1996 · VisibilityThis condition can result in inoperative wipers, reducing a driver's visibility, and increasing the risk of a…
The defect. Vehicle description: light duty pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles, 2 and 4-wheel drive. Solder joints near the wiring harness connector can crack causing the windshield wipers to work intermittently.
What can happen. This condition can result in inoperative wipers, reducing a driver's visibility, and increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
The free fix. Dealers will replace the wiper motor circuit board and cover.
Oct 1997 · 1997 · SeatsIn the event of a vehicle crash, a seat with this condition will not protect the occupant as required by the…
The defect. Vehicle description: light duty pickup trucks. One or two of the front seat mounting bolts were not installed. This does not comply with the requirements of fmvss no. 207, "Seating systems."
What can happen. In the event of a vehicle crash, a seat with this condition will not protect the occupant as required by the standard.
The free fix. Dealers will check all seat mounting bolts and install any missing bolts.
Mar 1997 · 1995–1997 · SeatsThis pinching can cut the hand or possibly sever the finger(s) without prior warning.
The defect. Vehicle description: extended cab and 2-door utility vehicles equipped with reclining seats and the easy-entry feature. These vehicles exhibit a condition in which a pinch point exists in the recliner mechanism that can trap and pinch a person's hand or…
What can happen. This pinching can cut the hand or possibly sever the finger(s) without prior warning.
The free fix. Dealers will install a protector cover over the recliner mechanism.
May 1996 · 1996 · SuspensionVehicle usage could cause the nuts to loosen and eventually fall off the u-bolt.
The defect. The four u-bolts nuts on either side of the rear axle were under-torqued.
What can happen. Vehicle usage could cause the nuts to loosen and eventually fall off the u-bolt. This could result in sudden loss of vehicle control increasing the potential for a vehicle crash.
The free fix. Dealers will check the u-bolt nut torque and re-torque any loose u-bolts to specification.
Apr 1996 · 1995–1996 · Vehicle Speed ControlConsequence of non-compliance: the engine speed may not return to idle increasing the potential for a vehicle…
The defect. These vehicles were assembled with the throttle cable contacting the dash mat which could bind the throttle. This does not meet with the maximum return times required by federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 124, "Accelerator control systems."
What can happen. Consequence of non-compliance: the engine speed may not return to idle increasing the potential for a vehicle accident.
The free fix. Dealers will inspect for adequate throttle cable to dash mat clearance, and if there is insufficient clearance, cut out a portion of the dash mat to provide proper clearance.
Jan 1996 · 1995 · SteeringThis loose engagement can provide noticeable noise and abnormal steering feeling to the driver and, if left…
The defect. The steering column upper intermediate-shaft nut may not be torqued to proper specifications. The nut could loosen and detach allowing the through-bolt that secures the upper intermediate-shaft to the lower steering column shaft joint to fall out.
What can happen. This loose engagement can provide noticeable noise and abnormal steering feeling to the driver and, if left unattended, the steering shafts can separate resulting in a loss of steering control.
The free fix. Dealers will torque the suspect fasteners to the proper specifications.
Dec 1995 · 1996 · Fuel System, GasolineIf fuel leakage occurs and an ignition source is present, an engine compartment fire could occur.
The defect. Certain trucks have fuel rail assemblies with an improperly crimped end retainer clip that results in a fuel leak.
What can happen. If fuel leakage occurs and an ignition source is present, an engine compartment fire could occur.
The free fix. Dealers will inspect the fuel rail assembly and replace any fuel rail assembly with a julian date code of 95318 through 95338.
Dec 1995 · 1993–1994 · SeatsIf this were to occur to the driver's seat, this could result in a sudden loss of vehicle control increasing…
The defect. The seat recliner to seat frame attaching bolts on these vehicle could loosen, fatigue and fracture, allowing the seat back to suddenly recline.
What can happen. If this were to occur to the driver's seat, this could result in a sudden loss of vehicle control increasing the risk of a vehicle accident.
The free fix. Dealers will remove all foam and/or fabric sandwiched between the recliner assembly and the seat frame, install washers between the seat recliner and the seat frame at each attachment point, and…
Dec 1995 · 1994–1995 · Seat BeltsIn the event of a vehicle crash, the occupants of these seats may not be properly restrained.
The defect. These vehicles were built with front seat belt systems with no energy management loops and may not meet the head injury criteria requirements of fmvss no. 208, "Occupant crash protection."
What can happen. In the event of a vehicle crash, the occupants of these seats may not be properly restrained.
The free fix. Dealers will replace the retractor portion of the seat belt assembly(s) with one having the newly designed energy-management twin-loop system.
Dec 1995 · 1994–1995 · Seat BeltsIf the buckle released, the system would fail to provide adequate occupant restraint protection.
The defect. If both the lap-belt and shoulder-belt energy management loops on the front seat belt assemblies release at or near the same time, acceleration forces can cause the buckle release mechanism to activate and allow the buckle to separate from the latch.
What can happen. If the buckle released, the system would fail to provide adequate occupant restraint protection.
The free fix. Dealers will remove the stitching that creates the energy management loop in the shoulder belt(s).
Oct 1994 · 1994 · VisibilityConsequence of non-compliance: the separation of the windshield from the vehicle during collision increases…
The defect. The windshields were installed with incorrect windshield opening pinch-weld-flange primer. This primer will not properly etch the painted surface of the flange, allowing the windshield to separate from the vehicle during a collision. This does not comply with…
What can happen. Consequence of non-compliance: the separation of the windshield from the vehicle during collision increases the risk of injury for all persons involved.
The free fix. Dealers will remove the windshield and reinstall it using the correct primer.
Apr 1994 · 1994 · SuspensionIf this occurs, a loss of vehicle control and a crash could result.
The defect. Trucks were assembled with the left-hand lower control arm to frame rear nut tightened below the specified torque. Low torque on this nut may allow the attachment bolt to loosed and subsequently fatigue and break. The bolt breakage can cause the left hand…
What can happen. If this occurs, a loss of vehicle control and a crash could result.
The free fix. Dealers will tighten the left-hand lower control arm to frame rear nut to the proper torque specification.
Apr 1994 · 1992–1993 · Fuel System, OtherIf the tank ruptures, personal injury to individuals in or near the vehicle may occur.
The defect. Vehicles altered by pas, inc. Have compressed natural gas fuel tanks that can develop stress corrosion, which crack the e-glass wrapping. This stress corrosion cracking can lead to tank ruptures.
What can happen. If the tank ruptures, personal injury to individuals in or near the vehicle may occur.
The free fix. Gm is offering to exchange these vehicles with a comparably equipped 1994 gasoline 1/2 or 3/4 ton gm pickup. If the owner chooses not to exchange the natural gas vehicle, gm will repurchase the…
Dec 1993 · 1994 · SeatsThe missing bolts may cause the driver's seat to becomeloose and in a sudden stop or accident may subject the…
The defect. The seats have been assembled without bolts that connect the upper slave hinge to the seat back frame, or without bolts that connect the seat to the seat adjuster. In either case, the vehicles fail to conform to fnvss no. 207, "Seating systems."
What can happen. The missing bolts may cause the driver's seat to becomeloose and in a sudden stop or accident may subject the occupant to increasedrisk of injury.
The free fix. Dealers will inspect seats for missing bolts and install bolts if required.
Sep 1993 · 1994 · Service Brakes, HydraulicBrake pedal push rod problems can cause the stop lampswitch and the brake booster push rod to disconnect from…
The defect. The brake pedal push rod retainer is missing, mispositioned or not properly seated.
What can happen. Brake pedal push rod problems can cause the stop lampswitch and the brake booster push rod to disconnect from the brake pedal,resulting in loss of brake operation, and a vehicle crash could occur…
The free fix. Inspect vehicles to assure the brake pedal push rod retainer is present and fully seated in its correct position.
Aug 1993 · 1989–1992 · Service Brakes, HydraulicSeparation of the rotor sections can cause loss ofbraking ability in the affected wheel.
The defect. Severe corrosion due to road salt at the joint of the stamped steel center section and the cast outer section can cause the sections to separate.
What can happen. Separation of the rotor sections can cause loss ofbraking ability in the affected wheel. This could result in increased stoppingdistance and/or loss of vehicle control and an accident.
The free fix. Replace the front brake rotors with new rotors with a corrosion protection coating. However, if replacement of brake linings are necessary, it will be done at owner's expense since brake linings are…
Feb 1993 · 1988–1993 · Power TrainThe vented transmission fluid can catch fire if exposedto a source of ignition.
The defect. Unanticipated heat in the transmission can force the transmission fluid out of the vent tube.
What can happen. The vented transmission fluid can catch fire if exposedto a source of ignition.
The free fix. Install a longer transmission vent hose routed to the left side of the engine compartment of the vehicle.
Sep 1990 · 1989–1990 · Seat BeltsIncorrectly adjusted seat belt would not properlyrestrain occupant in an accident of sudden stop; trucks…
The defect. Trucks can contain incorrect instructions on how to properly adjust rear seat lap-shoulder belts as required by fmvss 209.
What can happen. Incorrectly adjusted seat belt would not properlyrestrain occupant in an accident of sudden stop; trucks would not comply withfmvss 209.
The free fix. Provide owner's manual insert containing the correct rear lap-shoulder belt instructions.
Jun 1990 · 1990 · Service Brakes, HydraulicThis could cause loss of braking activity that couldresult in a truck crash without prior warning.
The defect. Loose pivot bolt holding the brake pedal to its support bracket could disengage from the nut.
What can happen. This could cause loss of braking activity that couldresult in a truck crash without prior warning.
The free fix. Retorque brake pedal pivot bolts to specifications to prevent loosening.
Jan 1990 · 1990 · Fuel System, GasolineA hole could be rubbed through these fuel lines, allowing fuel leakage near exhaust crossover pipe; this…
The defect. On c and k models, feed and or return fuel lines can contact the automatic transmission shift linkage cordon shaft. In addition, on k models lines may also contact front propshaft. In either case the fuel lines could be damaged resulting in a fuel leak.
What can happen. A hole could be rubbed through these fuel lines, allowing fuel leakage near exhaust crossover pipe; this could result in an engine compartment fire that could spread to the passenger compartment.
The free fix. Install newly designed fuel line routing bracket to prevent contact and, if necessary, replace fuel lines.
May 1989 · 1989 · Trailer HitchesFasteners could fail; if this occurs while traileris being pulled, hitch and trailer could separate and a…
The defect. There may be below specified torque on the trailer hitch attaching fasteners, allowing the trailer hitch to move under towing loads.
What can happen. Fasteners could fail; if this occurs while traileris being pulled, hitch and trailer could separate and a vehicle crash couldoccur without prior warning.
The free fix. Correct torque in trailer hitch fasteners to prevent trailer separation.
Sep 1987 · 1988 · Service Brakes, HydraulicIf the hose makes contact with the wheel or tire it willeventually wear the hose to a point of rupture…
The defect. Right and left hand brake hose may contact the wheel or tire in a full turn.
What can happen. If the hose makes contact with the wheel or tire it willeventually wear the hose to a point of rupture, resulting in a loss of thefront brakes. Loss of front brakes would increase the stopping…
The free fix. Install new repositioning brackets for the front brake hoses.
Aug 1987 · 1988 · Latches/Locks/LinkagesIn a collision, cracked or broken striker nut couldallow door to open unexpectedly and possibly cause injury…
The defect. Trucks may have cracked or broken door striker nuts, which do not conform to fmvss 206.
What can happen. In a collision, cracked or broken striker nut couldallow door to open unexpectedly and possibly cause injury to occupants.
The free fix. Replace existing door striker nuts.
Aug 1987 · 1988 · SteeringLoss of one or both nuts could lead to tie roddisengaging from steering knuckle resulting in possible loss of…
The defect. One or both of outer tie rod nuts may be loose and not crimped.
What can happen. Loss of one or both nuts could lead to tie roddisengaging from steering knuckle resulting in possible loss of steeringcontrol and possibly a crash.
The free fix. Replace tie rod and knuckle and set toe-in.
Aug 1987 · 1988 · Vehicle Speed ControlEngine speed would not decrease; loss of acceleratorcontrol could result in a crash without prior warning.
The defect. Cruise control cable lock mechanism may self disengage causing erratic operation or throttle not returning to idle.
What can happen. Engine speed would not decrease; loss of acceleratorcontrol could result in a crash without prior warning.
The free fix. Install a clamp around the lock tab of cruise control.
Crashes, fires and injuries owners reported
Out of 2,911 complaints against this generation, owners also reported:
- Crashes
- 216 (7.4%)
- Fires
- 80
- Injury reports
- 116
- Fatality reports
- 5
Silverado 1500 problems by model year
The 1995 drew the most complaints of this generation, 620, most of them about visibility equipment, and the 1990 the fewest, 48. A typical year drew about 164.
That makes the 1995 stand out at roughly 3.8 times a typical year (what a yearly count can and cannot say).
| Year | Complaints | With mileage | Median miles | Most reported | Recalls |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1988 | 76 | 3 | under 30 reports | Hydraulic brake circuit (27) | 5 |
| 1989 | 70 | 6 | under 30 reports | Hydraulic brake circuit (15) | 4 |
| 1990 | 48 | 5 | under 30 reports | Hydraulic brake circuit (14) | 5 |
| 1991 | 68 | 3 | under 30 reports | Hydraulic brake circuit (23) | 2 |
| 1992 | 115 | 9 | under 30 reports | Visibility equipment (23) | 4 |
| 1993 | 164 | 12 | under 30 reports | Seats (49) | 3 |
| 1994 | 410 | 62 | 108,000 | Visibility equipment (169) | 9 |
| 1995 | 620 | 23 | under 30 reports | Visibility equipment (274) | 7 |
| 1996 | 409 | 53 | 101,000 | Visibility equipment (103) | 6 |
| 1997 | 566 | 147 | 89,000 | Steering (143) | 3 |
| 1998 | 365 | 132 | 74,000 | Hydraulic brake circuit (109) | 0 |
What Silverado 1500 owners reported
The contact owns a 1997 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated while driving at 55 MPH, the corner of the front seat fell through the floor structure. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was stated that the subframe needed to be replaced. The vehicle was…
1997 · 75,000 miles · Body structure
My vehicle failed massachusetts seat belt test. They dont lock when pulled on quickly. I have removed and inspected them and it appears to me that the mechanism itself is not capable of passing this test i am believing that the test has been implemented after the manufacture of this particular design of seat belt, and…
1996 · 196,000 miles · Seat belts
The wipers just stopped working in the middle of a storm and i had to pull to the side of the road and i tried everything i could to get the wipers to work i called a friend and he said to tap the wiper motor and it did get the wipers to work until i got home and the next day i called and got a new wiper motor and…
1997 · 76,000 miles · Visibility/wiper
the contact owns a 1991 (na) Chevrolet Silverado 1500. Without warning, the front passenger side door latch failed to function properly. The contact had to hold the door together with a contraption to keep the door closed. The independent dealer was notified, but the vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The…
1994 · 150,000 miles · Latches and locks
Built from 455 NHTSA complaints with mileage · snapshot 2026-10-20 · open data · how it is built
Other Silverado 1500 generations
- Silverado 1500 1999–2006 3,937 reports with mileage, most about the brakes
- Silverado 1500 2007–2013 1,787 reports with mileage, most about the airbag system
- Silverado 1500 2014–2018 2,797 reports with mileage, most about the brakes
- Silverado 1500 2019–2025 1,056 reports with mileage, most about the engine