1991 Chevrolet Silverado problems

chevrolet logo

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.

1991 Chevrolet Silverado

Social links

Common 1991 Chevrolet Silverado problems

The 1991 Chevrolet Silverado, while a powerful and capable vehicle, has some common problems that owners have reported. One of the most prevalent issues is a rough idle that persists until the engine warms up. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including a dirty or malfunctioning idle air control valve, a worn-out fuel regulator, or a clogged fuel filter. To address this issue, it may be necessary to clean or replace the idle air control valve, check the fuel pressure, and ensure that the fuel filter is not obstructed.

Another common problem with the 1991 Silverado is acceleration issues, specifically when trying to accelerate quickly. The engine may bog down and backfire through the carburetor and exhaust, causing a loss of power and a decrease in performance. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including a clogged fuel injector, a malfunctioning mass air flow sensor, or a faulty ignition system. To address this issue, it may be necessary to clean or replace the fuel injectors, check the mass air flow sensor and ignition system, and ensure that the fuel pressure is within the recommended range.

The 1991 Silverado's automatic transmission is another area where problems can arise. Some owners have reported issues with the transmission shifting roughly or slipping, particularly in high mileage vehicles. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including worn-out transmission fluid, a faulty solenoid, or a damaged torque converter. To address this issue, it may be necessary to replace the transmission fluid, check the solenoids and torque converter, and ensure that the transmission is properly maintained.

Finally, the 1991 Silverado's four-wheel drive system can also be prone to issues, particularly in vehicles that are used off-road or in harsh conditions. Some owners have reported issues with the four-wheel drive system not engaging properly, or the front axle not locking in. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including a faulty transfer case, a damaged front axle, or a worn-out four-wheel drive actuator. To address this issue, it may be necessary to check the transfer case and four-wheel drive actuator, and ensure that the front axle is properly maintained.

In summary, the 1991 Chevrolet Silverado is a powerful and capable vehicle, but it is not without its common problems. From rough idling and acceleration issues to transmission and four-wheel drive problems, there are a variety of issues that owners may encounter. However, with proper maintenance and regular checks, many of these issues can be prevented or addressed before they become major problems.

1991 Chevrolet Silverado engine

What is the most common problem with Chevy Silverado?

1. 4WD Position Switch Failure. Almost every generation of Chevy Silverado has suffered various issues with the 4WD switch. Drivers of early models reported that their truck would automatically switch between 4WD and 2WD and the Service 4WD light would appear on the dashboard.

Are older Silverados reliable?

First Generation: 1999-2006. The first generation of the Silverado may not be the most reliable choice, as the vehicle underwent significant growing pains as a new full-sized truck on the market. The most common complaints from early model years are loud knocking and clanking sounds from the steering system.

What engine is in a 1991 Chevy Silverado?

Used 1991 Chevrolet C/K 1500 Series 454SS - Specs & Features

Engine
Base engine size7.4 L
CylindersV8
Base engine typeGas
Horsepower255 hp @ 4,000 rpm

How many miles can a 1990 Chevy Silverado last?

The average Chevy Silverado will last around 200,000 miles. If you are sure to take care of your Silverado over the years, it can last as long as you'd like it to. A few truck owners have even reached the one million-mile mark on their Chevy Silverado.

What engine is in a 1991 Chevy Silverado?

Used 1991 Chevrolet C/K 1500 Series 454SS - Specs & Features

Engine
Base engine size7.4 L
CylindersV8
Base engine typeGas
Horsepower255 hp @ 4,000 rpm

Are older Silverados reliable?

First Generation: 1999-2006. The first generation of the Silverado may not be the most reliable choice, as the vehicle underwent significant growing pains as a new full-sized truck on the market. The most common complaints from early model years are loud knocking and clanking sounds from the steering system.

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 is the value of a 1991 Chevy 1500?

1991 Chevrolet C/K 1500 Series Value - $1,684-$6,880 | Edmunds.

1991 Chevrolet Silverado car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Chevrolet Silverado problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Service brakes problems
  • Hydraulic problems
  • Unknown or other problems
  • Seat belts problems
  • Visibility problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1991 Chevrolet Silverado vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1991 Chevrolet Silverado complaints

The NHTSA has received 17 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1991 Chevrolet Silverado.

2017-11-22

SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-11-16
  • VIN: 1GCEK14W31Z
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES WHILE DRIVING THE BRAKES CATCH THEN THE ABS COMES ON AND THE BRAKES PULSE AND GO TO THE FLOOR.
2014-11-25

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1991-11-03
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1991 CHEVROLET SILVERADO. THE CONTACT STATED THE WINDSHIELD WIPER WAS INOPERABLE. THE FAILURE RECURRED ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS. THE CONTACT WHO'S A CERTIFIED MECHANIC, DIAGNOSED AND REPLACED THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR. HOWEVER, THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
2004-01-15

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-08-15
  • VIN: 1GCDC14K1MZ
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: I WAS JUST MADE AWARE OF THE PAINT PROBLEM AND I TRIED TO FOLLOW YOUR SUGGSTIONS GIVEN ON YOUR WEB SITE. JUST LIKE YOU STATED I GOT NOWHERE. THE DEALER TOLD ME I WAITED TOO LONG AND AM NO LONGER COVERED. WHEN I CALLED THE 800 NUMBER FOR CHEVROLET, INITIALLY I WAS TOLD THEY WOULD REPAINT MY TRUCK BUT THEN AFTER THEY TALKED TO THE DEALER I WENT TO THEY CHANGED THEIR MIND. SO NOW I AM READY TO TAKE TO SMALL CLAIMS COURT.
2003-12-31

SEATS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-10-01
  • VIN: 1GCDK14K2MZ
  • Components: SEATS
  • Summary: THE DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BACK BOLT SHEARED OFF. AS A RESULT THE DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BACK SLAMMED BACKWARDS INTO THE REAR WALL OF THE TRUCK. THERE WAS A RECALL ON THE 92'S THAT DESCRIBED THE EXACT PROBLEM. 99 V 130 000 DEALER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. PLEASE DESCRIBE FURTHER. *JB *MR
2001-02-13

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: PASSENGER'S SIDE RESTRAINT WILL NOT RETRACT OUT. DEALER HAS BEEN NOTIFIED.*AK
2000-12-28

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2000-10-01
  • VIN: 1GCDC14K1ME
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: BOTH FRONT SEAT BELT BUCKLES HAVE BROKEN AND WILL NOT LATCH, CAUSING LOSS OF PROTECTION. *AK
2000-02-23

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1GEDK14K9MZ
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: BRAKES TAKE LONG TIME TO STOP THE VEHICLE SINCE NEW. YH
1999-10-27

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1CDCK14K7MZ
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: WHEN MAKING EITHER LEFT OR RIGHT HAND TURN STEERING WHEEL LOCKS UP. THEN RELEASES, CAUSING LOSS OF POWER STEERING CONTROL. CONSUMER HAS CONTACTED THE MANUFACTURER. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER DETAILS. *AK
1999-07-29

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES PEDAL BECOMES HARDENED AND DOES NOT STOP FOR A FEW SECONDS. MECHANIC SAYS IT'S NORMAL. *AK
1999-07-26

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1999-07-25
  • VIN: 1GCDC14K2ME
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: THE REAR BRAKE LINES RUSTED AT ONE OF THE CONNECTORS, RESULTING IN LEAKAGE OF THE BRAKE FLUID. THE MANUFACTURER WILL BE NOTIFIED. *AK
1999-06-18

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1997-06-15
  • VIN: 1GCDK14K2MZ
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: VEHICLE EXPRIENCING ON-GOING / INTERMITTENT PROBLEM WITH VEHICLE WIPER FAIL TO WORK WHILE ON; WIPER WOULD TURN ITSELF OFF WHILE ON. DEALER/MFR. NOTIFIED.
1999-03-26

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1GCEC14Z4ME
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE.
1999-02-03

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 2GCHC39N9M1
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: I AM THE SECOND OWENER OF THIS TRUCK AND WOULD LIKE TO KNOW IF THIS WOULD BE CONSIDER A RECALL, AND WHO WOULD HONOR IT IN THIS AREA. IF YOU COULD RESPOND BY E-MAIL WITH INFORMATION IT WOULD BE APPRECIATED. THANK YOU VERY MUCH. NO DEFECT MENTIONED. *AK
1998-06-25

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: PAINT HAS PEELED OFF IN THREE DIFFERENT PLACES. *MJS
1998-05-05

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-12-06
  • VIN: 1GCDK14H8MZ
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: WHEN THE BRAKES ARE APPLIED IN A PANIC STOP, THERE IS EXTENDED STOPPING DISTANCE. OWNER HAS HAD A NEW BRAKING SYSTEM INSTALLED . THE DEALER HAS BEEN NOTIFIED. *AK
1998-05-05

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-03-14
  • VIN: 1GCDC14K0MZ
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE FREEWAY, THE GLASS ON THE OUTSIDE REARVIEW MIRROR ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE CAME OFF AND FLEW BACK AND HIT THE DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR. THE DAMAGE HAS BEEN CORRECTED. *AK
1997-10-29

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES THE VEHICLE DO NOT STOP QUICKLY ENOUGH, AND THE BRAKES SEEM TO BE TOO SMALL FOR THAT VEHICLE. HAS NOT SEEN DEALER. *AK
Leave your review of 1991 Chevrolet Silverado

Other years of Chevrolet Silverado

chevrolet silverado 1992 photo
Silverado 1992
Chevrolet

46

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet silverado 1993 photo
Silverado 1993
Chevrolet

0

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet silverado 1994 photo
Silverado 1994
Chevrolet

0

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet silverado 1995 photo
Silverado 1995
Chevrolet

0

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet silverado 1996 photo
Silverado 1996
Chevrolet

0

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet silverado 1997 photo
Silverado 1997
Chevrolet

293

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Are you having problems with your 1991 Chevrolet Silverado?

Add car complaint
1991 Chevrolet Silverado photo