2021 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 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 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 problems
The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 has been reported to have several common problems, primarily related to the electrical and powertrain systems.
One of the most significant issues is related to the engine fuel rail crossover tube retainer screws, which may not meet specifications and may break. This can lead to fuel leaks and potential fire hazards. The recall for this issue began in July 2004, and owners were notified by telephone with a follow-up owner letter beginning August 5, 2004.
Another issue is related to the bolt that attaches the intermediate steering shaft to the steering gear, which may not meet specifications and may fracture, resulting in the loss of steering. This recall began in January 2005, and owners were advised to contact Chevrolet or GMC for repairs.
Additionally, certain trucks, sport utility vehicles, and vans equipped with Bosch hydro-boost brake assemblies may have a hydraulic brake booster pressure accumulator that may crack and separate from the hydro-boost assembly during normal operating conditions. This recall is expected to begin during March 2005, and owners were advised to contact Chevrolet, GMC, or Hummer for repairs.
In 2023, General Motors, LLC (GM) recalled certain 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, 3500, and GMC Sierra 2500, 3500 vehicles due to the steering gear shaft that may fracture and disconnect from the steering arm. Dealers will inspect and replace the steering gear, if necessary, free of charge.
In 2024, General Motors, LLC (GM) recalled certain 2020-2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, 3500, GMC Sierra 2500 and 3500 vehicles equipped with power-unlatching tailgates due to the tailgate's electronic gate-release switch that may short circuit due to water intrusion, which can result in the tailgate inadvertently unlatching while the vehicle is in park. Owners are advised to check that the tailgate is closed and latched before driving. Dealers will replace the exterior touchpad switch assemblies, free of charge.
According to a report by Brian Jones, a former ASE Certified Master Tech and Parts Specialist, electrical and powertrain problems top the list of issues for the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 3500.
The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD Crew Cab has been reported to have several common problems, primarily related to the electrical and powertrain systems. However, it is important to note that this prediction is based on the similar 2500HD model.
What issues does the 2021 Silverado have?
The 2021 Chevy Silverado is also experiencing multiple complaints for the following defects:
- Transmission defects including shudder and lurching.
- Navigation system and electrical defects.
- Suspension and driveability defects.
- Air conditioning, (A/C)
- Engine light on.
Is there a recall on 2021 Chevy 3500?
GM's number for this recall is N232426400. Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, 3500, GMC Sierra 2500 and 3500 vehicles equipped with power-unlatching tailgates.
What are the most problematic Silverado years?
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.
Is the Chevy Silverado 3500 a good truck?
the Competition. The 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD is a great pickup for buyers who want serious heavy-duty capability combined with good drivability and a quiet ride. The Chevy is a workhorse with extreme towing and hauling skills, especially with its formidable diesel engine and 10-speed automatic transmission.
Are there any problems with 2021 Chevy Silverado?
The 2021 Chevy Silverado is also experiencing multiple complaints for the following defects: Transmission defects including shudder and lurching. Navigation system and electrical defects. Suspension and driveability defects.
Is there a recall on 2021 Chevy 3500?
GM's number for this recall is N232426400. Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, 3500, GMC Sierra 2500 and 3500 vehicles equipped with power-unlatching tailgates.
Is the Chevy Silverado 3500 a good truck?
the Competition. The 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD is a great pickup for buyers who want serious heavy-duty capability combined with good drivability and a quiet ride. The Chevy is a workhorse with extreme towing and hauling skills, especially with its formidable diesel engine and 10-speed automatic transmission.
How many miles per gallon does a 2021 Chevy 3500 get?
Based on data from 38 vehicles, 2,519 fuel-ups and 799,218 miles of driving, the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD gets a combined Avg MPG of 12.89 with a 0.15 MPG margin of error. Below you can see a distribution of the fuel-ups with 17 outliers (0.67%) removed.
2021 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Chevrolet Silverado 3500 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Air bags problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2021 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 complaints
The NHTSA has received 16 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 3500.
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-06
- VIN: 1GC4YVEY9MF
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 3500. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked in the rain at night, the contact became aware that the tailgate had opened unintendedly. The contact stated that the failure also occurred while driving over bumpy road surfaces. Additionally, the contact stated while driving 65-70 MPH and towing a trailer, the tailgate opened unintendedly and struck the trailer hitch, which scratched the tailgate. The contact stated that the tailgate warning light had illuminated several times while driving. The contact stated that the failure had caused him to frequently check a camera to see whether the tailgate opened while driving. The contact stated who is a disabled veteran was using a wheel chair, and was concerned for his safety. The dealer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V060000 (Latches/Locks/Linkages). The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 42,000.
POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-31
- VIN: 1GC4YTE73MF
- Components: POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: July 20, we were driving the 2021 3500HD to church w/our single axle trailer w/mower on it when we were stopped at a yield sign and proceeded to pull forward, our truck made a loud boom noise and immediately stopped. Warning lights on the dash began coming on, when the gas pedal was pressed it made a loud RPM sound of engine revving, following by barely coasting action. We were able to drift into the turn lane & get out of danger. We had to be towed to Capital Chevrolet bc something isn't functioning properly. Dealership said they believe it's transmission related and the power train warranty should cover repairs needed. We have tow receipt and gas receipts for rental vehicle.
FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-25
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1GC4YVEY6MF
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 3500. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 45 MPH, he noticed smoke coming from the rear of the vehicle. The contact mentioned that the smoke would become more aggressive as the accelerator or brake pedal was depressed. The vehicle caught on fire however the origin was unknown. The contact and his family exited the vehicle safely and discovered unknown fluid emitting from the rear of the vehicle. The contact used a fire extinguisher to attempt to extinguish the fire however the fire kept returning a total of 4 times. The fire department was contacted and extinguished the fire. A fire report was not filed. A police report was filed however the police report number was unknown. No injuries were sustained. The vehicle was destroyed and burned to the frame. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 15,521.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-10
- VIN: 1GC4YUEY3MF
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Tilt sensors, upper air bags deployed almost causing a catastrophic crash. I did report to gm but I have not received answers yet. Vehicle deployed air bags without warning.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-07
- VIN: 1GC4YVEY5MF
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 3500. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds and attempting to depress the brake pedal, there was an abnormal sound coming from the brakes. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where the brakes were replaced; however, the failure persisted. The local dealer advised the contact that it was a common manufacturer defect and that she needed to wait until parts became available to replace the brakes. The contact stated that the local dealer had not returned her call. The contact reached out to the local dealer recently and was informed that the vehicle was no longer under warranty and that the brakes could not be replaced free of charge. The contact also stated that while turning to the left or right, there was an abnormal sound coming from the tires. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 35,000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-05
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1GC4YVEY5MF
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The tailgate opened and closes on its own while trailering causing sever binds and damage to the trailer and allowing loads to become unsecured. There is a recall already from GM on this issue, but for some reason our VIN is not included. This is a well documented issue. We have video of this occurrence if necessary. The dealer said it’s water in the tailgate switch.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-08
- VIN: 1GC4YUEY3MF
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Without warning tailgate will drop without being actuated, even while driving. Things could fall out of the truck box into traffic following me. The tailgate came down while in my garage overnight and the garage door was opened in the morning with electronic opener causing the tailgate to be scratched up as well! Dealer has said this has become a reoccurring problem with my vehicle model. GM apparently has no service bulletin or recall notice for this problem. I called Chevrolet and they have annotated my issue.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-09
- VIN: 1GC4YUEY9MF
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: When I shift the vehicle to park and turn it off, about 90% of the time the instrument panel will display a message that says “Shift to park”, and the electrical components will not shut down. The vehicle is in park, but the computer won’t detect it. I took it to dealer while under warranty, and dealer simply stated that it wasn’t happening. It continues to happen, and I fear that it it won’t shift into park later. As is, sometimes it takes an hour or more to detect that the vehicle is in park. I fear that it will cause a dead battery and leave me stranded. I don’t know if this is a computer issue or a transmission issue. It has been ongoing for at least 10 months. Vehicle was dropped off for repair at dealer in December, 2022, but no repair was performed.
AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-01
- VIN: 1GC4YUEY8MF
- Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Bought the truck in 2021. Replaced both outside mirrors during warranty. At about 44000 miles the passenger mirror malfunctioned again. The mirror resets to downward position and when you restart vehicle you need to readjust mirror each time. This is very dangerous especially while pulling the 5th wheel. Received a warning lite for a safety restraint failure. Took the truck to the dealer and was told the passenger side air bag was defective and it was a $1700 repair! Defective at 44000 miles? Are air bags only supposed to last such a short time? This is a serious safety issue that should be addressed and covered by all manufacturers warranties!
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-30
- VIN: 1GC4YTEY3MF
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Automatic tailgate open by itself while vehicle was traveling at 65mph on I64 in Virginia between Charlottesville and Waynesboro. And when we stopped the tailgate reclosed by itself. But we lost our load in bed of truck. State police was called but no report was made because load did not cause accident. The driver heard a warning sound and display said tailgate open while vehicle was moving at 65 mph.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE,LANE DEPARTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-28
- VIN: 1GCPYSED2MZ
- Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE,LANE DEPARTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 3500. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH and above, the radar sensors failed to function intermittently. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed. The dealer found no cause for the failure. The contact was informed to replace the sensors. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 7,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-12
- VIN: 1GC4YTEY1MF
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Rear sliding window plastic is getting hot and melting
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-23
- VIN: 1GC4YVEY2MF
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Check engine light came on followed almost immediately with an Onstar warning to service the engine and transmission within 7 days. Took truck to dealer. They diagnosed problem was fuel system contamination. Hole was found on the inner mesh liner of the fuel filter which allowed water and a sludge like material to get into the fuel system.
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-09-26
- VIN: 1GC4YTEY7MF
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: Was driving my 3500 (an 8000# truck capable of towing 20k#) and suddenly the vehicle lost power and steering, forcing me to the shoulder of a curvy mountain road, going downhill. Truck then started blinking lights and telling me to restart. upon restart, the truck would not engage the transmission. Truck was in drive but the motor was just rev'ing. I turned truck off and then back on and it seemed to return to normal. Am not comfortable driving truck at this time. GM has been notified of the issue, and, has not diagnosed an issue, as of this writing.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-22
- VIN: 1GC4YUEY1MF
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE NEW GM 2021 TRAILER LIGHTING MODULE AND/OR SYSTEM IS DEFECTIVE. IT FAILS A PRE-CONNECTION TEST WITH TESTER, GIVES "CHECK TRAILER WIRING" WARNING ON DASH WITHOUT A TRAILER CONNECTED AND TURNS OFF ANY TRAILER LIGHTING CONNECTED WITHOUT WARNING ON THE ROAD, WITHOUT BLOWING A FUSE. THIS PROBLEM IS MUCH LIKE THE TSB REPORT #20-NA-198 FOR EARLIER MODELS. THIS ISSUE WAS ADDRESSED BY THE DEALER BY REPLACING THE MODULE, BUT THE PROBLEM HAS RE-OCCURRED WHILE ON THE ROAD CAUSING A ROAD SAFETY ISSUE (NO TRAILER LIGHTING), SOME TIMES WITHOUT WARNING. THE DEALER DOESN'T KNOW WHAT ELSE TO DO AT THIS POINT.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-10-10
- VIN: 1GCUYEED2LZ
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I GOT MY TRUCK IN MAY AND AFTER TWO MONTHS THE BATTERY WENT COMPLETELY DEAD WITHOUT WARNING SO HAD DEALERSHIP TOW IT TO SERVICE KEPT TWO WEEKS SAID IT WAS BATTERY. NOW SAME THING HAPPENED AGAIN. CALLED ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE FROM PHONE BECAUSE ON STAR WOULDN'T EVEN WORK. THEY COME OUT AND JUMPED IT. THE JUMP STARTED TRUCK BUT NOW PARKING BREAK WON'T RELEASE AND I HAVE A SERVICE LIGHT ISSUE,, STILL WAITING FOR CHEVY TO OPEN TO HAVE IT TOWED AGAIN. IS ANYONE ELSE DEALING WITH PROBLEMS? I WAS TOLD BY THE DEALER LAST TIME THAT THE ROCKY RIDGE ADDITIONS ARE.
2021 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 3500.
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:TAILGATE:LATCH
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, 3500, GMC Sierra 2500 and 3500 vehicles equipped with power-unlatching tailgates. The tailgate's electronic gate-release switch may short circuit due to water intrusion, which can result in the tailgate inadvertently unlatching while the vehicle is in park.
- Consequence: An unlatched tailgate may open while driving and result in a loss of unsecured cargo, creating a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to check that the tailgate is closed and latched before driving. Dealers will replace the exterior touchpad switch assemblies, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 17, 2024. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N232426400.
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:ELECTRIC:CONTROL MODULE
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, Silverado 3500, GMC Sierra 2500, and Sierra 3500 vehicles with electronic brake control modules (EBCM) replaced during vehicle assembly. The bolts that attach the brake pressure modulator valve (BPMV) assembly may not be properly tightened, which could fail to seal the two sub-assemblies and allow water intrusion.
- Consequence: Water in the BPMV may cause an electrical short circuit and increase the risk of fire.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from other structures until the recall repair is completed. Dealers will replace the BPMV assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on October 20, 2021. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N212349181.
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Chevrolet Bolt EV and 2021 GMC Canyon and Sierra 1500, 2500 and 3500, Yukon, Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV and Chevrolet Blazer, Camaro, Colorado, Equinox, Silverado 1500, 2500 and 3500, Suburban and Tahoe vehicles. Incorrect bolts may have been used at one or more fastening locations to secure the seat belts to the vehicle. If an incorrect bolt was used, the seat belt may not be properly attached to the vehicle.
- Consequence: If a seat belt assembly is not properly attached to the vehicle, the seat belt may not properly restrain an occupant in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the suspect bolts, free of charge. The recall began January 29, 2021. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8785, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N202322230.
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500, 2021 Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe and GMC Yukon XL and 2020-2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 and 3500 and GMC Sierra 2500 and 3500 vehicles. The seat belt brackets may not be secured to the seat frame in the front-row center seating position.
- Consequence: If a seat-belt bracket is not secured, the seat belt may not properly restrain an occupant in the front-row center seat position, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect left-side and right-side front-row center seat-belt bracket attachments and reassemble it correctly as necessary, free of charge. The recall began January 26, 2021. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N202314670.
Additional sources
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