2003 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 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, several common problems have been identified:
- Knock Sensor Issue:
- Symptoms: Check engine light with a knock sensor code, no noticeable drivability issues.
- Repair: The knock sensor is located under the intake, making it tricky to access. It may require removing the intake for replacement.
- Wheel Bearing Problems:
- Symptoms: Humming or growling noise while driving, changes in noise pitch when turning the wheel, ABS activation at slow speeds.
- Repair: Cleaning the area around the sensor or replacing the hub can resolve the issue.
- ABS System Malfunction:
- Symptoms: ABS warning light illuminated.
- Repair: Addressing the ABS warning light issue may involve diagnosing and fixing problems related to the anti-lock braking system.
- Tailgate Handle Seizure:
- Symptoms: Inability to open or close the tailgate due to the handle seizing up.
- Repair: Accessing the rods by removing the trim bezel can help release the tailgate. Replacing the handle may be necessary for a permanent fix.
- Brake System Concerns:
- Symptoms: Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, issues with the antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, and brake failure.
- Repair: Depending on the specific brake issue, repairs may involve replacing components like calipers, master cylinder, or addressing rotor wear and vibration.
These problems highlight various areas of concern in the 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, ranging from sensor issues to brake system malfunctions. Owners experiencing these issues should consider seeking professional assistance to diagnose and address the specific problems affecting their vehicles.
Is a 2003 Chevy Silverado reliable truck?
Overall Rating 6/10 – The 2003 Chevrolet Silverado is a good truck, but it's showing its age with powertrain complaints piling up and the wear and tear of multiple owners taking its toll on most units.
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.
How many miles can a 2003 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 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.
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.
Is a 2003 Chevy Silverado a good truck?
A solid mix of everyday comfort and sheer towing power. The 2003 Chevrolet Silverado is a roomy, capable full-size truck. If you can't find one with low mileage, the truck is definitely showing its age with expensive repairs piling up. The unwieldy cornering makes it a poor choice for city driving.
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.
How many miles can a 2003 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.
2003 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 1500.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
Negative 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 car reviews
Positive 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 car reviews
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So far I have no complaints. You'll be happy to know that it is a very comfortable ride, and I get 16-17 mpg city and 20 mpg highway with the 4.8 engine. I even pull a 30ft camper with no problems at all. Overall, I think the Silverado is an excellent truck. However, I must say that my only complaint would be the cheap paint GM uses.
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Hey there! I totally get where you're coming from, but have you considered the Lightning? It's definitely a strong contender, but I'm happy to hear that you're a Chevy fan. Thanks for sharing your opinion!
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You're very reliable and that's great!
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I spent some time looking at Dodge, Chevy, and Ford. Each truck had some good and bad features. The Chevy had the best interior of them all and the rear seat in the extended cab is also roomier than Ford or Dodge. Additionally, the 5.3 engine stood out head and shoulders above Dodge and I felt it was quieter with a smoother transmission over the Ford. Lastly, the handling is simply unbelievable!
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I've had the same problem with two identical 2003 Silverados while taking a 6-hour road trip. Unfortunately, the first truck died just 4 hours into the trip with 300+ miles on the odometer. Despite taking it to several dealers, they were unable to find the problem, and I ended up being towed 4 different times within 10 days. The second vehicle didn't die, but it hesitated, and I knew there was trouble. A few days later, the truck died, but interestingly, if you wait 15 minutes, it starts up again before dying again 5 minutes later. I got towed once again, but thankfully, the dealer appears to have found the problem. I'm hoping that was the problem. Note: The dealer that fixed it wasn't the same one that sold it.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 problems:
2003 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Problems and Complaints - 48 Issues
Top 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Problems · 4WD Transfer Case Position Sensor/Selector Switch May Fail · Heating and AC Temperature and Air Delivery Mode Door ...
2003 Chevy Silverado 1500 starting problems - Chevrolet Forum ...
Nov 22, 2007 ... Silverado & Fullsize Pick-ups - 2003 Chevy Silverado 1500 starting problems - I have a 03 chevy silvereado 1500 with a 4.8L engine.
2003 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 HD Problems and Complaints - 23 ...
Top 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 HD Problems · 4WD Transfer Case Position Sensor/Selector Switch May Fail · Steering May Develop Clunk Noise From Upper ...
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Questions - Electrical issues with my 2003 ...
Jan 7, 2014 ... Check for Ground wires that are bad mostly G104 and G103 along with the wires on the outside frame drivers side by your feet there should be 3 ...
Q&A: Common 2003 Chevy Silverado Problems - A/C & More
Jun 4, 2017 ... A.c. problems in 2003 chevy Silverado 1500 5.3l - Answered by a verified Chevy Mechanic.
Other years of Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Are you having problems with your 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 1500?
Gay Jacobi 2024-11-24
I have owned several cars from different manufacturers, including 6 Japanese, 5 American, and 2 German cars. Unfortunately, my experience with GM has been the worst. Despite taking excellent care of my GM truck, it has had numerous issues, including a failed transmission, multiple water pump failures, poor brake performance, frequent wheel bearing replacements, and extensive rust. Despite my disappointment, I have always been a responsible owner, changing the oil every 1500 miles and never towing or off-roading. In my opinion, GM has not taken responsibility for these issues, which is why I will never purchase another GM product again.
Fritz Hettinger 2024-11-16
Great power. Tranny sucks.
Dewitt Murray 2024-09-01
The engineers are still working on this issue. Unfortunately, at around 350 miles, the service 4WD light comes on even though the truck has never been placed in 4WD. We have taken the truck to the service department twice, and the service tech gave us GM document #1243149 dated 2/14/03, which states that there is no permanent fix for this problem at this time. However, if you don't use the 4WD, you can simply unhook it. We bought the truck about a month after the document was released, and although we have been assured that it will be fixed, we don't know when. We are disappointed with the lack of help from the dealership and Chevrolet.
Clement Steuber 2024-04-28
I really like the truck and would be absolutely thrilled with it if the build quality and dealer/manufacturer support were improved. Unfortunately, there is an irritating wind noise from the rear side windows which GM has refused to fix. On the bright side, the power folding mirrors are really cool, but they do tend to get out of alignment frequently. The ride and handling are okay as long as you avoid rough pavement.
Dexter Dach 2024-02-17
I've purchased a few Chevy trucks before, and this one is no exception. I drive my boss's Ford truck quite often, but I find the Chevy to be much more comfortable and smoother to ride in.