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 used to own an F-350, but had to get rid of it when fuel prices went over 4.68 a gallon. I've always known that Chevy makes a good ride, and so far this truck has been great. Occasionally, I do experience a slight drop in power when going around corners, almost like a fuel hiccup, but it only lasts for a second or two. While I was monitoring my fuel mileage, it was great, but it drove my girlfriend nuts, so I stopped (took it off instant miles per gallon). Since then, my average fuel mileage has gone from 16.5 to 15.8. I've found that watching what you're doing while driving, such as slowing down gradually and taking off at a steady speed, can make a big difference. The only issue I have is with the seats, as I can't seem to keep the lint off them.
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Just want to say that this vehicle has been a good ride so far. I recently encountered an issue where a flashing signal appeared, saying 'service stabil-track control and traction control', and my engine light started flashing. I took it to the dealer and they informed me that it was a broken valve spring #3. They mentioned that if this doesn't resolve the engine light, they may have to change the manifold. I'm feeling a bit lost and was wondering if anyone could offer some help?
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My previous truck was a 2004 Nissan Titan SE model 2 wheel drive crew cab. I bought the Chevrolet because I wanted a four wheel drive. I am now getting 16.5 mpg in the Silverado, which is an improvement from the 15 mpg I was getting in the Titan. Additionally, the Silverado has a much more comfortable ride than the Nissan. I am extremely happy with my purchase!
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Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to say that I really enjoyed reading your thoughts on your new truck. It sounds like you made a great choice in upgrading to a 4WD and taking advantage of GM's rebates and incentives. I'm glad to hear that you're finding the new truck to be just as great as your old one, if not better! The Ruby red color sounds like a great choice, and I'm happy to hear that the interior is comfortable and has some great features like dual climate zones and XM radio. It's also great to know that you have OnStar for emergencies and that your insurance premium went down. Thanks for sharing your experience with us!
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I am so glad to hear that you are enjoying your new truck! It looks great and performs even better. It's wonderful to hear that you've been receiving compliments on it as well. It sounds like this may have been your best truck purchase yet!
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?
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!
Bradley Stanton 2024-10-10
I'm experiencing a number of issues with my truck. At 40,000 miles, I had to replace a set of lower ball joints. At 45,000 miles, I ran out of oil, and at 55,000 miles, I lost a bearing in the front end. Although GM made me pay $100 for the ball joints, they did replace the deflector plate to prevent further oil loss and also replaced the bearing. Currently, with 80,000 miles on the clock, I'm experiencing oil consumption issues again, and the passenger window doesn't go down. The dealer has put me on an oil consumption plan, and last time, over 900 miles, it went through 2 quarts. I'm considering calling GM. Does anyone have any suggestions or ideas? My truck is almost paid off, and I don't really want to start over.
Desmond Botsford 2024-07-16
I recently informed the dealership that I did not want OnStar, but unfortunately, it was activated anyway. When I tried to cancel the service, I found out that only the dealership can do so within the first year. This has been a frustrating experience, and I am disappointed with the customer service provided by GM. However, I must say that the dealership has been helpful throughout. The truck itself is okay, but the OnStar service has been a major issue for me. I have noticed that the gas mileage is not as good as my previous truck, which had a 5.3 engine. I have purchased several new GM trucks in the past few years, but I will not be buying another one until OnStar is optional. It is unfortunate that GM has not been able to center the OnStar antenna on the roof.
Finn Ward 2024-04-16
Did you know that the 2008 Trans typically experiences transmission failure after 125,000 miles? This is a common issue with GM vehicles of this model year.