3 Silverado Engines You Should Steer Clear Of

Key Points:

• Since its market debut in 1999, the Chevrolet Silverado has been a flagship full-size truck known for its practicality and versatile trim and engine options, competing closely with the Ford F-150.
• The 2014 Silverado introduced the Ecotec3 engine lineup, including the problematic 5.3L V8 with an active fuel management (AFM) system known for causing excessive fuel consumption, lifter failures, and potential engine failure, affecting models from 2014 to 2018.
• The 2019 generation retained updated engines and introduced new ones, but issues persisted, especially with the 6.2L L87 V8 (2021-2024), which faced a major recall due to crankshaft and connecting rod failures leading to engine knocking and potential catastrophic damage.
• Earlier Silverado models from 2007 to 2013 with the 5.3L engine also experienced significant problems, including excessive oil consumption, cam and lifter failures, and spark plug issues, largely related to the AFM system; the 4.3L V6 and 6.0L engines had fewer complaints.
• Buyers are advised to avoid Silverados with the 5.3L engine from 2007-2018 unless the AFM system has been permanently disabled, due to the high risk of costly engine failures associated with this technology.