1998 Chevrolet Silverado problems

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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.

1998 Chevrolet Silverado

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Common 1998 Chevrolet Silverado problems

The Chevrolet Silverado 1998 has been reported to have several transmission problems, which can significantly impact the driving experience. Here are some of the common issues:

  • Intermittent starting issue: Some Silverado 1998 owners have reported an intermittent starting issue, where the vehicle sometimes starts fine and sometimes barely cranks over, especially at night after using headlights. This issue has been traced back to a faulty battery, alternator, or starter.
  • Transmission doesn't stay in gear when slowing down: This problem occurs when the vehicle is in 4 low and going down a hill without giving it gas. The transmission will just coast, as if it is in neutral. This issue also happens when coming to a stop sign from a higher speed, making it difficult to control the vehicle.
  • Unusual amount of time to shift from reverse to drive: Some Silverado 1998 owners have reported that it takes an unusual amount of time (3-5 seconds) for the transmission to shift from reverse to drive. This issue can be caused by various factors, including transmission fluid levels, linkage problems, or internal transmission issues.

These transmission problems in the Chevrolet Silverado 1998 can be frustrating for owners and may require professional assistance to diagnose and repair. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent or identify these issues early on, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable driving experience.

1998 Chevrolet Silverado engine

How many miles can a 1998 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 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.

What is the most reliable year of Chevy Silverado?

Second Generation: 2007-2013

In contrast, second-generation Silverado trucks are known for their reliability. Chevy ironed out many steering column issues and electrical issues with the truck's first design overhaul. Both the high-performance V8 engine trims and everyday V6 engine trims are consistently reliable.

How long do Silverado engines last?

200,000 miles

Drivers who take good care of their engines can expect to get 200,000 miles or more out of them. However, there are some factors that can shorten the lifespan of this engine. Improper maintenance, stop-and-go driving, and cold climates can all shorten the lifespan of a 5.3 engine.

How long will a 1998 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 years were bad for Silverado?

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.

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.

1998 Chevrolet Silverado complaints

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1998 Chevrolet Silverado problems:

Just picked up this truck for cheap, any common problems with these ...
Just picked up this truck for cheap, any common problems with these ...
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Jan 23, 2020 ... ... truck for cheap, any common problems with these I should watch out for? 1998 k1500 Silverado. ... Intake gaskets are known for leaking, just did ...

1998 Chevrolet C1500 Problems and Complaints - 25 Issues
1998 Chevrolet C1500 Problems and Complaints - 25 Issues
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Top 1998 Chevrolet C1500 Problems · Windshield Wipers May Fail Due to Faulty Wiper Motor Control Board · Intake Manifold Gaskets May Leak Coolant or Engine Oil.

1998 Chevy Silverado K1500 Z71 Issues - Chevrolet Forum - Chevy ...
1998 Chevy Silverado K1500 Z71 Issues - Chevrolet Forum - Chevy ...
https://chevroletforum.com/forum/silverado-fullsize-pick-ups-21/1998-chevy-silverado-k1500-z71-issues-43228/

Jun 17, 2011 ... For the 1998 they put the injectors in the upper intake which is an odd place to put them they get oil on them and get gummed up and sometimes ...

Problems with 2000 Silverado Z71? | Chevy Silverado and GMC ...
Problems with 2000 Silverado Z71? | Chevy Silverado and GMC ...
https://www.silveradosierra.com/threads/problems-with-2000-silverado-z71.428473/

Jul 23, 2015 ... I'm new to the forum, so wish I had known this was available back when I had my other Chevy truck (1998 1500 Cheyenne, a retired Forest Service ...

Opinion on Chevy 1500 trucks '96-'98 - Chevrolet Forum - Chevy ...
Opinion on Chevy 1500 trucks '96-'98 - Chevrolet Forum - Chevy ...
https://chevroletforum.com/forum/silverado-fullsize-pick-ups-21/opinion-chevy-1500-trucks-96-98-a-21213/

Mar 12, 2009 ... I want to know what are the common problems on the 5.7 V8 found on '96-'98 chevy 1500??? I know the 5.7 have intake gasket problems and fuel ...

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