2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 problems
The Chevrolet Silverado is a range of trucks manufactured by General Motors under the Chevrolet brand. Introduced for the 1999 model year, the Silverado is the successor to the long-running Chevrolet C/K model line. Taking its name from the top trim level from the Chevrolet C/K series, the Silverado is offered as a series of full-size pickup trucks, chassis cab trucks, and medium-duty trucks. The fourth generation of the model line was introduced for the 2019 model year.
The Chevrolet Silverado shares mechanical commonality with the identically related GMC Sierra; GMC ended the use of the C/K nomenclature a model generation prior to Chevrolet. In Mexico, high-trim level versions of the Silverado use the Chevrolet Cheyenne name (not to be confused with the 2003 concept). Competing against the Ford F-Series, Ram Pickup, Toyota Tundra, and Nissan Titan, the Silverado is among the best-selling vehicles in the United States, having sold over 12 million trucks since its introduction in 1998 as a 1999 model year.
History
The Silverado nameplate made its debut for the 1975 model year, becoming the top trim level on all Chevrolet C/K trucks, slotted above Custom Deluxe, Scottsdale, and Cheyenne. For the 1968 model year (seven years before the Silverado), GMC C/K trucks used variations of the Sierra name (Sierra, Sierra Classic, Sierra Grande, and High Sierra). Even after the C/K series officially ended, GM still uses the CK and the CC in their current model codes, to denote a two-wheel drive (CC), and four-wheel drive (CK).
For the 1988 GMT400 model architecture, Chevrolet retained the C/K model nomenclature, with GMC branding its full-size line as Sierras. While sharing the same body and chassis, the model chronology of the Silverado and Sierra are different, with five generations of the Sierra, while four of the Silverado.
In 2018, at the NTEA Work Truck Show in Indianapolis, Indiana, Chevrolet unveiled the first medium-duty Silverado, expanding the model line to a 4500HD, 5500HD, and 6500HD chassis cab. Largely the successor to the 2003–2009 GMT560 chassis, the medium-duty trucks are exclusive to Chevrolet, with no plans for an equivalent GMC version. Instead, Navistar International (now partnering with GM) would sell the medium-duty trucks as a rebadged counterpart, called the CV. This is in fact a very similar nod to how the Avalanche did not have a GMC Yukon–based equivalent, but instead, Cadillac would take its place as the former's rebadged counterpart, the Escalade EXT.
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Common 2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 problems
The 2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is part of the second generation of this popular full-size pickup truck, which was produced from 2002 to 2006. While this generation of Silverado 1500 is considered to be more reliable than some later generations, there are still some common problems that owners have reported.
One common issue with the 2002 Silverado 1500 is the "Service 4WD" message, which can appear due to dirt and debris affecting the conductivity of two grounds below the transfer case. This issue can be resolved by replacing the position sensor or selector switch, which is a relatively easy and inexpensive fix.
Another issue that can affect the 2002 Silverado 1500 is transmission problems. These issues can be indicated by a lit check engine light and may involve abrupt transmission failure while driving, as well as surging and jerking. Transmission issues are more likely to occur if maintenance schedules are not kept up with.
It's worth noting that while the 2002 Silverado 1500 has relatively few complaints, later generations of this truck have had more significant issues. For example, the 2014 Silverado 1500 has been plagued by problems with its A/C unit, which may need to be replaced around 60,000 miles. More serious concerns, such as the truck stalling or stopping while driving, have also been reported for this model year.
Overall, while the 2002 Silverado 1500 is generally considered to be a reliable vehicle, it's important for owners to keep up with maintenance schedules and be aware of potential issues that may arise.
What are the bad years for Silverado 1500?
2012 and 2013 Silverado Years
Within the second generation, these two are among the worst years for the Silverado 1500. Complaints covered many topics with transmission, engine, and interior accessory problems at the top of the list.
What are the most common problems with Chevy Silverado 1500?
Common Issues With Chevy Silverado Pickup Trucks
- Fire Risks. ...
- Defective In-Car Electronics. ...
- Engine Control Module Problems. ...
- Transmission Issues. ...
- Seat Haptic Motor Failure. ...
- Clunking Steering Column. ...
- The “Chevy Shake” ...
- Fuel Pump System Failure.
How many miles can a 2002 Chevy Silverado 1500 last?
When well maintained, the average mileage life of a Chevy Silverado can be anywhere from 200,000 to 300,000 miles. That's around 10 to 20 years of service depending on how many miles you'd be driving around Galesburg with your Silverado.
What is the recall on the 2002 Chevy Silverado 1500?
2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Recalls
IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO.
Is 2002 a good year for Silverado?
Great reliable truck!
A year later a cross country, no problems with the truck, comfortable, and plenty of power from the 5.3 vortec motor, averaged 17mpg for the trip. The clear coat has peeled off top and hood, normal for this year. Replaced brakes once and of course regular oil changes.
What are the bad years for Silverado 1500?
2012 and 2013 Silverado Years
Within the second generation, these two are among the worst years for the Silverado 1500. Complaints covered many topics with transmission, engine, and interior accessory problems at the top of the list.
What are the most common problems with Chevy Silverado 1500?
Common Issues With Chevy Silverado Pickup Trucks
- Fire Risks. ...
- Defective In-Car Electronics. ...
- Engine Control Module Problems. ...
- Transmission Issues. ...
- Seat Haptic Motor Failure. ...
- Clunking Steering Column. ...
- The “Chevy Shake” ...
- Fuel Pump System Failure.
How many miles can a 2002 Chevy Silverado 1500 last?
When well maintained, the average mileage life of a Chevy Silverado can be anywhere from 200,000 to 300,000 miles. That's around 10 to 20 years of service depending on how many miles you'd be driving around Galesburg with your Silverado.
2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
Negative 2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 car reviews
Positive 2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 car reviews
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I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to share my experience with my 2002 Chevy Silverado that I bought back in 2004. At the time, it had 39,000 miles on it and I was a bit nervous about paying too much. However, I was confident that the engine would make it a sweet deal. Fast forward to now, I have over 230,000 miles on it and I have never had a single issue with it. It's hard to believe that it's been almost ten years since I bought it! The only maintenance I had to do was to clean out the fuel injection-stuff at around 185k miles, which wasn't too bad. I'm currently looking for a vehicle for my twin sons and I've noticed that many vehicles, including this truck, have had transmission issues. However, I felt compelled to write a review on my Chevy because I have had NO ISSUES with it. EVER!!! God Bless this TRUCK!!!
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Hi there! Thank you for considering this outstanding pickup truck. It has been well cared for and is still going strong with 300,000 miles on the clock. With only one major repair (a new transmission) 50,000 miles ago, it's sure to last another 100,000 miles. Please let me know if you have any questions or would like to take it for a test drive. [non-permissible content removed]
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Possibly the best Chevy truck ever! With 198,000 miles and still going strong, it's definitely a reliable vehicle. Plus, it's the most comfortable vehicle I've ever owned.
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This truck has a great motor. It gets up and goes with very little effort, running circles around my dad's 06 F-150. Not only does it look great, but it also runs great.
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I drove this truck off the lot with only 17 miles on the odometer 14 years ago. Since then, I have driven it over 230,000 miles and I would still drive it across the country without hesitation. I have towed many items with this truck, some of which were heavier than the truck itself. I have always used MOBIL1 synthetic oil since 1000 miles and it has made a noticeable difference. The only negative aspect is the weak transmissions, which unfortunately seems to be a common issue with GM vehicles that I have owned in the past. However, this truck is still a great vehicle overall.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 problems:
2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Problems and Complaints - 25 Issues
Top 2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Problems · 4WD Transfer Case Position Sensor/Selector Switch May Fail · Heating and AC Temperature and Air Delivery Mode Door ...
2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Reliability - Consumer Reports
Owner Reported Trouble Spots · Paint And Trim · Fuel System/Emissions · Climate System · Steering And Suspension · Transmission Minor · Engine Minor · Body ...
2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 HD Problems and Complaints - 24 ...
Top 2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 HD Problems · 4WD Transfer Case Position Sensor/Selector Switch May Fail · Steering May Develop Clunk Noise From Upper ...
Q&A: Intermittent Charging Issues with 2002 Chevy Silverado ...
Jun 6, 2013 ... I have an intermittent charging problem with my 2002 Chevy Silverado 1500 HD (170000 miles). Sometimes it is 14v, and - Answered by a ...
Opinion on Chevy 1500 trucks '96-'98 - Chevrolet Forum - Chevy ...
Mar 12, 2009 ... I know the 5.7 have intake gasket problems and fuel pump and fuel gauge issues and ball joints and tie rods going bad for trucks around 120K ...
Other years of Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Are you having problems with your 2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500?
Brendan Hudson 2025-02-23
The gas mileage could be improved by adjusting the rear end ratio, which unfortunately cannot be lowered beyond 3.73. However, since I do not tow anything, a ratio of 3.42 would have been more suitable. Additionally, there is a noticeable shake when shifting from first to second gear.
Skylar Kilback 2024-06-21
My Silverado has been exactly what I expected it to be. It runs quietly, smoothly, and rides comfortably. Although I haven't done any heavy hauling or towing, it has handled the heaviest loads of stones with ease. The power is a little lacking compared to other trucks of its time. As everyone says, the interior is not the best, but it has held up well. I particularly like the leg room in the back. When I was looking for a truck, I wanted a Tundra, but the rear was way too cramped. The MPG is decent for a truck, but it needs to be improved if GM wants to stay competitive. In my opinion, the Silverado looks much nicer than every model since 2002. However, I do think that GM designers could do better. They should focus on creating more attractive vehicles across their entire product line.
Jovany Gleichner 2024-01-20
Congratulations on rolling 100K the other week! It's great to hear that you have no complaints and that you're getting about 14-15mpg with construction work in subdivisions and driving backwards 1/2 the time there. I completely understand your preference for a 3/4 ton truck and your desire for a smooth ride. It's good to know that you test drove all three options and that you will be going with the Duramax and Chevy's Smoooth HD ride. This truck pulls the 16' low-boy when needed and gets you from A-to-B, which is exactly what you need. Overall, it's a great choice! Thank you for sharing your experience with us.
Uriel Blanda 2024-01-09
My truck is just okay, but there is a serious problem with the air-conditioner solid tube. It is routed directly over the distributor, cap, and rotor, causing continuous water dripping onto the distributor. This corrosion of the internal electronics can cause unexpected stalling without the possibility of restarting, making the vehicle very dangerous. Despite this design flaw, Chevrolet has yet to admit to it. I have a lemon law case file in progress and am notifying local news sources in an effort to save other people from this negligence.