Aschenbach Chevrolet GMC

Aschenbach Auto Group
May 15, 2024
Best and Worst Years for Chevy Silverado 1500

Finding the Perfect Pre-Owned Chevrolet Silverado 1500 for You

Not all used trucks are created equal, and finding the perfect truck is all about finding the perfect value for you. Here at Aschenbach Chevrolet GMC, we know how excellent it can be to buy a pre-owned Chevrolet Silverado 1500, but some model years are known for being more reliable than others. It’s vital that drivers consider the best and worst years for a Chevy Silverado 1500, as considering every element that makes this truck worth its value before buying will save a lot of stress. Our professionals can help to match you with the right pickup truck for your needs, and help you get on your way.

Chevy Silverado 1500 Years to Avoid

The Worst Model Years for a Chevy Silverado 1500

2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

Buyer beware! If you’re considering purchasing a pre-owned 2008 Chevy Silverado 1500, be absolutely sure that it has met every recall and repair necessary. Following its debut, this model year faced severe issues, including faulty airbags and excessive oil consumption. The Active Fuel Management system (AFM) teased the benefit of increased horsepower while offering better fuel economy. However, this same feature ended up being its downfall, as drivers found the model year excessively hungry for oil, needing to refill with as many as four quarts of fresh oil between servicing. A common issue even found in 2008 Chevy Silverado 1500s that were lightly used and never hauled, the cause was a mystery to technicians, as there would be no oil found in the exhaust nor sign of leakage near the engine. This model year also fell victim to a significant manufacturing issue with the Takata-issued airbag system that impacted more than ten automakers. Upon airbag deployment, shrapnel would explode at passengers, causing a severe safety threat and a vulnerable risk of fatality. This is solidly one of the Chevy Silverado 1500 years to avoid, but if you’re given an offer you can’t refuse, have the vehicle inspected to guarantee it has received recall service and meets safety standards before your purchase. 

2014 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

When considering the history of this truck, of the best and worst years for the Chevy Silverado 1500, the 2014 model year does not carry with it the best reputation. In fact, with 19 recalls and over 250 reported issues, it could be considered one of the worst model years for this iconic pickup. Due to airbag problems, electrical issues, and transmission failure, drivers were confronted with a slurry of expensive repairs and frustration. Airbags were found not to deploy correctly or would fail to inflate, posing a significant risk to the safety of those riding in the truck. During this model year, Chevrolet introduced the 8-speed gearbox, which drivers reported clunking and screeching sounds emanating from when trying to shift gears. This was an early warning sign of the gearbox failing, rendering the vehicle out of service. As this vehicle has a reputation for the highest amount of recalls in a Chevy Silverado 1500 and can be an expensive fix, please guarantee that it has met every recall and meets proper safety standards.

Best Year Silverado to Buy Used

The Best Model Years of the Chevy Silverado 1500

2012 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

This model year is considered one of the best and most renowned years of the early 2010s in terms of reliability when buying a pre-owned Chevy Silverado 1500. Perhaps the best year Chevy Silverado to buy used, the iconic pickup has the ability to output up to 326 horsepower and 348 lb.-ft. torque, delivered from the range of engine options available, from a 4.3L V6 to a 5.3L V8 FlexFuel engine. Though the 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is over a decade old, it boasts preferred modern technologies including a Bose® audio speaker system and Apple CarPlay®, keeping you up-to-date with a balance of simplicity and connectivity.

2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

The closer these models move toward the current year, the better quality and power they uphold and maintain. There has been a drastic improvement in production quality and technological advancements that make any model beyond the model year 2018 worth the value, as quality assurance has significantly improved along with vehicle performance. Among the best Chevy truck years to buy, if cost or keeping within a budget is of importance for you, consider the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. This powerhouse truck includes luxury features and technology, including but not limited to, an available rear-seat entertainment system option and the Chevy MyLink Infotainment System. 

Time to Test Drive

Seeking out the ideal pre-owned pickup comes down to thorough research, exploring the best and worst years for a Chevy Silverado 1500, and matching your daily needs to the truck’s capabilities. Visit our professionals at Aschenbach Chevrolet GMC, as they are ready and willing to answer any questions you may have, guide you through the Chevy Silverado lineup, and help set you up for a test drive. We’ll ensure you’re well-informed enough to make a confident decision on the best used Chevy Silverado 1500 that compliments your needs.

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