2008 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 2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 problems
The 2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is a popular full-size pickup truck, but like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems reported by owners. Here are some of the most frequently mentioned issues and their details:
- Power Door Lock Failures: This is another common issue in the 2008 Silverado 1500. The best way to fix the problem is by replacing the door lock actuators or the lock computer, depending on the source of the issue. Replacements cost about $500, depending on local labor rates.
- Transmission Cooler Lines: The transmission cooler lines are a weak spot in the truck, with failures occurring around every 50,000 miles. Replacing these lines can cost about $400, but aftermarket lines that last significantly longer are available.
- Recalls: There are five recalls for the 2008 Silverado 1500, including headlamps, heated windshield wipers, threshold warning systems, and airbag inflators. The most serious recall involves airbag inflators, which can injure passengers in the event of an accident.
- Rust Issues: Rust is a significant problem in the 2008 Silverado 1500, with several owners reporting rusted frames and body parts, even with regular washing and waxing. In some cases, rusted parts needed to be replaced, costing hundreds of dollars.
- Dashboard Cracking: Some owners have reported cracking in the dashboard of their 2008 Silverado 1500.
These issues do not necessarily mean that the 2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is a bad truck, but potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and consider them when making their purchasing decision. Regular maintenance and inspections can help identify and address these issues before they become more serious and costly to repair.
Is 2008 a bad year for Silverado?
2008 Chevy Silverado 1500
The 2008 model year competes with the 2014 model year as one of the worst ever produced. Due to its frequent engine problems and overuse of oil, which was repair that cost owners over $2,700 to fix, this problem continued onward from the 2007 into the 2009 model years.
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 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.
Is there any recalls on a 2008 Chevy Silverado 1500?
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2007-2008 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade EXT, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, ...
2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500.
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2007-2011 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade EXT, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, Yukon XL, and 2009-2011 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, Silverado 3500, GMC Sierra 2500 and Sierra 3500 vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." Additionally, GM is recalling certain 2007-2008 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade EXT, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, Yukon XL vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." These vehicles are equipped with non-desiccated passenger frontal inflators containing phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator with an alternate one, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed on February 22, 2021. Second notification letters will be mailed once the remedy is available. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 1, 2021. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020; Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006; and GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N212328760.
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2009 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade EXT, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, Silverado 2500, Silverado 3500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Sierra 2500, Sierra 3500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." Additionally, GM is recalling certain 2007-2008 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, and Escalade EXT, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "Zone C." These vehicles are equipped with non-desiccated passenger frontal inflators containing phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator with an alternate one, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed on February 23, 2021. Second notification letters will be mailed once the remedy is available. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 20, 2021. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, and GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N212328780.
- Manufacturer: QUALITY VANS
- Components: EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
- Summary: QUALITY VANS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004 THROUGH 2008 VANS MANUFACTURED BETWEEN AUGUST 2005 AND NOVEMBER 2007, EQUIPPED WITH RICON PLATFORM STYLE WHEELCHAIR LIFTS. THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 404, "PLATFORM LIFT INSTALLATIONS IN MOTOR VEHICLES." THE THRESHOLD WARNING SYSTEM MAY NOT DETECT THE PRESENCE OF A WHEELCHAIR OR MOBILITY AID USER IN A CERTAIN SPOT WITHIN THE DEFINED THRESHOLD AREA.
- Consequence: THE USER OF THE LIFT COULD BE INJURED SHOULD THE LIFT MOVE UNINTENTIONALLY.
- Remedy: QUALITY VANS IS WORKING WITH RICON TO CORRECT THE WHEELCHAIR LIFTS FREE OF CHARGE (PLEASE SEE 07E095). OWNERS MAY CONTACT RICON AT 1-818-267-3000 OR QUALITY VANS AT 1-480-464-7007.
Negative 2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 car reviews
Positive 2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 car reviews
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I've been wanting a truck for a while now and I'm really happy with my choice of this vehicle over the F-150. So far, my experience with it has confirmed that I made the right decision. One thing I really appreciate is how smooth it rides. The only thing I'm not too fond of is how the air conditioner automatically switches back to outside air, but I'm sure I'll figure it out soon enough.
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This is listed as a LT regular cab long bed, 4 wd, but it is actually an LS. In 2008, LS was just a Work Truck with a chromed front bumper and chromed steel wheels. It comes with the 'Trailering equipment package', which is the same as the 'Towing package' without the locking G80 rear differential. It has the 4.8 with 4 speed auto. Although it doesn't have power windows, power locks, cruise control, or power mirrors, it does have A/C. The 4.8 is a reliable engine and thankfully, it did not have the variable cylinder engine until a few years later. Then the 4.8 was dropped entirely. I purchased it new in Sept. 2008 at the old GM's fire sales. The truck was made the last week of 2008 production in June 2008 at their best plant at the time, Ft. Wayne. It has been very dependable with almost no problems. I do all maintenance on it and it has no rattles or squeaks at 65k. It has seen all sorts of use from heavy urban gridlock to local country roads to freeway use. I changed out all fluids between 50k and 60k miles, including brake, coolant, transmission, front differential, rear differential, and transfer case fluids. This year, at 62k miles, I replaced the front and rear brake rotors, drums, pads, and shoes. The rear drum shoes were almost done, but the front pads could have gone another 10k. The engine consumes almost no oil between 4k to 5k oil changes. Non-wear items replaced since new include the rear shocks, which were shot at about 40k. I replaced them with KYB gas-adjust mono tubes which are great and match the front strut valving well. The turn signal clicker was not audible at 50k, but the sound for TS comes from the left speaker. I replaced the unbelievably cheap paper door speakers with cheap Pioneer speakers and they are all good (a common problem). That's it! The good reliability of my Silverado can be attributed to the fact that it doesn't have the things that frequently cause trouble on the GMT's, such as cylinder deactivation on the 4.8 in that era, or piston ring/oil consumption or camshaft problems because of that. It also doesn't have power locks or power windows which cause many problems.--This truck is a great option for those who prioritize reliability and performance. Unlike some other models, it does not come with an Eaton G80 locker rear differential, which has been known to fail. However, with manual shifted 4wd and an open rear axle, I have had no trouble navigating even heavy snow. Additionally, the truck's lack of power accessories and regular cab make it fairly light, allowing the 4.8 engine to easily match or even beat the ubiquitous 5.3 in acceleration. While the turning circle is quite wide, the use of rack and pinion steering starting in 2007.5 makes it a pleasure to drive. Gas mileage is not the best, but it still manages 17 to 18 mpg on infrequent Interstate highway runs. It's worth noting that GM made up different equipment packages in 2008 and post-bankruptcy 2009, so used buyers may get something that shouldn't have been on their truck or not get something that should have been included. Overall, this truck is a reliable and high-performing option for those who don't need all the bells and whistles. --
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Hey there! It's been 2 years since I got this truck and I must say, I'm pretty satisfied with it overall. I've always been more of an imports guy, so getting a Chevy was a bit of a change for me. Before this, I had a '06 Titan Crew 4x4. One of the things I love about this truck is the rear doors that open to 170 degrees and the electric side windows. The ride comfort is also the best I've experienced in a 4x4 truck. The exterior styling is great too! However, I was expecting better fuel mileage from this truck. The best I've got is 17 MPG. I've heard that some people are getting well over 20 MPG, so I'm not sure what's going on there. Mine is equipped with the 20
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I'm happy to report that the tires have held up surprisingly well even after a year. The leather seating is very comfortable, allowing us to take lengthy trips exceeding 6-9 hours without experiencing any aches or pains. We did have an initial flapping noise at 60 mph, which turned out to be the front windshield plastic trim. We got it replaced and it's been smooth sailing since. There is a little thing called GM driveline lash, which causes slop in the differential between the ring and pinion gears, resulting in a clunk when starting forward after a stop. GM says it's normal, but I'll keep checking. Overall, we're very satisfied with our purchase.
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Congratulations on your new pickup! It's great to hear that you've been a GM fan for 10 years now, especially after switching from Ford. Just like your previous Tahoe, this truck is well-built and looks great both inside and out. While the ride may be a bit more truck-like than your Tahoe, the engine and road noise are fantastic, with the exception of some tire noise which is likely due to the dueler tires that came with the truck. It's also impressive that you're already seeing better gas mileage than your 03 Tahoe, according to the computer. Enjoy your new ride!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 problems:
2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Problems and Complaints - 33 Issues
Top 2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Problems · 4WD Transfer Case Position Sensor/Selector Switch May Fail · Heating and AC Temperature and Air Delivery Mode Door ...
2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Review, Problems, Reliability, Value ...
Jan 26, 2022 ... It's very comfortable and has a lot of power. I've pulled tractors with my flatbed trailer with no issues. It has 133k miles on it, the only ...
2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Reliability - Consumer Reports
Owner Reported Trouble Spots · Paint And Trim · Brakes · Exhaust · Fuel System/Emissions · Climate System · Steering And Suspension · Noises And Leaks · Body ...
2008 silverado 1500 big problems. - Chevrolet Forum - Chevy ...
Jan 18, 2010 ... 2007 - 2013 (GMT900) - 2008 silverado 1500 big problems. - Hi, I have an 08 I purchased dec of 08, had 29000 miles on it, I have only put ...
2008 Chevy Silverado 1500 Problems: Q&A on Power Window Issues
Feb 28, 2021 ... That would indicate a bad switch. If there is power at the rd/wh wire and none at the blue, then the problem is inside the switch. If you back ...
Other years of Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Are you having problems with your 2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500?
Salvador Cronin 2025-05-18
I noticed that my 5.3L engine with 3.73 gears and flex fuel is not providing any fuel economy improvement compared to the 04 model, even though I now have active fuel management. On gas, I get about 16.5mpg on the highway. I wish I could have gotten 3.42 gearing for better mpg, but unfortunately, to get incentives, you must take delivery from dealer inventory and they just don't set them up that way. Both trucks turn 1750 rpm at 60mph. I can set the info center to instant mpg readout to learn when the vehicle is in 8cyl vs 4 cyl mode. At highway speeds, wind resistance forces the truck into V8 unless going downhill. Also, parked together, the 08 cab is noticeably bigger than the 04 cab, which creates more wind resistance. At 75mph, the economy drops to 13.5. Hope this helps!
Kim Zulauf 2025-04-28
We're sorry to hear that you've been experiencing issues with your 2008 Chevy Silverado, despite it having low miles and being purchased new. One of the problems you've encountered is power lock failure, and unfortunately, since you're out of warranty, GM won't cover the cost. However, we've discovered that GM will do a voluntary recall if they receive enough complaints from consumers about this issue. Even if you've already paid to have this problem fixed in the past, we encourage you to call 866-790-5600 [non-permissible content removed] to let them know about the problem. With enough complaints, we hope that GM will initiate a voluntary recall and reimburse consumers for the repair costs. Thank you for your help in resolving this issue.
Wilson Heller 2025-03-29
I purchased my truck in the summer of '09 with 22K miles on the odometer. Currently, it has 86K miles. Unfortunately, last summer at 65K miles, I experienced some transmission issues. The only indicator was that at highway speeds, the RPM's would jump up about 1500 and back down sporadically for about a week before it locked up on me on the service road of a busy freeway. I had to drive it in reverse half a mile to a gas station to park it. Additionally, there have been some electrical issues with the driver's side lock not locking when I press the remote and window switches not working. I'm also on my 2nd battery already, which is a bit puzzling. Lastly, the Stabilitrak disengages at times. I'm considering selling it, but I'm not sure yet.
Lafayette Cronin 2025-01-03
I purchased a 2008 LT with Z71 package and have driven it for 116,000 miles. While I wish I could say it has been trouble-free, unfortunately, that has not been the case. However, I have been diligent in changing the oil every 10,000 miles using Royal Purple and a top-of-the-line filter, and I have never had to add oil between changes. On the positive side, the truck has been reliable in that regard. On the negative side, I have had a few issues. Firstly, the fuel line ruptured and sprayed gas all over, including near the catalytic converter. Fortunately, there was no fire, and even though it was off warranty, the dealer fixed it for free as it was a safety issue. Secondly, around 90,000 miles, I noticed that the cover on the left CV joint was torn, and grease was everywhere. I had to have that repaired, and in the process, a new wheel bearing was installed. Lastly, at 116,000 miles, the right wheel bearing failed. I have never had a wheel bearing failure in any of the vehicles I have owned, and I don't understand why this happened. I don't work the truck hard, and it is not used in harsh environments. Despite these issues, I still like the truck, and there is nothing I don't like about it. However, I am considering another make other than GM for my next truck.
Larue Gutkowski 2024-10-15
I bought this truck brand new in December 2007 specifically for its fuel management system. Unfortunately, in January 2009, the check engine light came on and I had to make repeated trips to the dealer. We had to replace several parts, including a map sensor, valve spring, 2 oxygen sensors (which were not covered under warranty), manifold and gasket, and wiring to the cargo lamp. On top of that, we are now experiencing issues with the dome light and a chattering noise near the dashboard when decelerating from 55 to 40-45 mph (which is quite annoying). We traded in a fully loaded 2-year-old Dodge pickup for this Chevy (which had less on it), hoping for better gas mileage, but we only got about 3 more miles per gallon and a truck with several problems that is not comfortable to ride in. Needless to say, we will not be making this mistake again!