The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 lasts around 250,000 miles with some average engine lifter and stereo system issues reported. At $28,025 to $53,125, it’s expensive, but still a good value for a full size truck capable of hauling.
Is the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 a Good Used Truck?
- Overall Rating 8/10 – 2021 is a good year for the Chevy Silverado 1500 series since it offers a spacious cabin along with strong V8 engines. Owner reviews praise the efficient engine, smooth ride, along with the high towing capacity.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – Interior materials are reasonably nice for a full size truck, the seats are supportive on long drives, the three bed lengths are also practical.
- Reliability 8/10 – There are no mechanical complaints on the 2021 Silverado. Models from 2015–2017 should be avoided due to transmission issues, while 2018–2022 are more reliable.
- Performance 8/10 – Performance is okay from the base engines, while the optional V8s offer more power than a lot of other trucks on the market.
- Safety 8/10 – The 2021 Silverado is safe, earning 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests. It comes standard with a rearview camera. Optional upgrades include adaptive cruise control along with automatic emergency braking.
- Gas Mileage 7/10 – Fuel economy is good at up to 24 MPG, giving up to 679 miles of range from the 28 gallon tank. Gas costs are $30 cheaper than average at $289 per month.
- Value 8/10 – The 2021 Chevy Silverado is cheaper than some other full size trucks while still offering powerful engines, making it a good value.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Chevy Silverado?
- Consumer Reports says the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado offers an improved driving experience from earlier years, with good owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds rates the Silverado at 3.2/5, enjoying the spacious cabin, but doesn’t like the cheap interior materials.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the 2021 Silverado a 3.9/5, praising the very high towing capacity, but owners don’t like the lack of luxury features.
What Common Problems Does the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Have?
Common problems found on the 2021 Chevy Silverado include lifter failures in the engine, the stereo system freezing, along with excessive noise from the driver’s side front wheel. Overall, these problems are a bit worse than some other full size trucks, although repair costs are still average.
Lifter failures in the engine are the most serious and widespread complaint on 2021 Silverado models, with the 5.3L V8 engine, showing up in the first 20,000 miles. The only way to fix the problem is by replacing the lifters, which cost around $3,500. Fortunately, most of the time this is covered under warranty for free, but out of warranty it’s an expensive project.
The stereo system freezing has also been reported on some 2021 Silverado models at around 2,500 miles. There are software updates for the stereo which improves its reliability. Most dealerships will install these updates for free, while some charge around $50.
Excessive noise from the driver’s side front wheel also shows up on some Chevy Silverado models in the first 10,000 miles. The problem is typically caused by a wheel bearing issue. Replacing the wheel bearing costs around $250, depending on local labor rates.
There are five recalls on the 2021 Chevy Silverado, which is similar to many other full size trucks on the market. The most serious recall covers incorrect bolts which were used to attach the seat belts. Chevy will replace the bolts on affected models for free. Other recalls cover air bags along with the tires.
How Long Will the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Last?
A well-maintained 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500 series can last around 250,000 miles, which is shorter than the long-lasting Toyota Tundra. Regular annual maintenance costs are similar to other large trucks according to data provided by Repair Pal at $664 per year.
As a used 2021 Chevy Silverado ages, reaching 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history, owners should be prepared to replace the ignition lock cylinder for $200, oil pressure sensor costing $250, along with the thermostat which costs $675.
How Is the Technology?
Entertainment technology is very good, offering a standard 7-inch touchscreen stereo system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Optional upgrades include a larger 8-inch touchscreen along with a more powerful stereo system.
Standard safety technology is average for a large truck, offering:
- Rearview camera
- Teen driver mode
Optional advanced driver assistance features in the safety package include:
- Head-up display
- Forward collision warning
- Front pedestrian braking
- Lane keep assist
- Blind spot monitoring
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Rear camera mirror
- Adaptive cruise control
- Automatic emergency braking
- Lane change alert
- Rear cross traffic alert
- Lane departure warning
- Surround-view parking camera system
- Safety alert seat
Is the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 a Good Value?
The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is considered a good value in the full-size pickup truck segment due to its versatility, performance, and range of options. With various engine choices, trim levels, and configurations, the Silverado caters to a wide array of preferences and budgets. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $28,025 to $53,125. While competitors like the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500 offer strong alternatives, the 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500’s blend of capability, comfort, and customization options makes it a solid value proposition in the pickup truck market.
What are the Different Models of the Chevy Silverado?
There are eight main models of the Chevy Silverado offered, from the entry-level Work Truck (WT) all the way through to the more luxurious High Country. The Silverado comes standard with rear-wheel drive, while four-wheel drive is available as an optional upgrade.
Silverado Work Truck (WT) is the entry-level model with:
- 17-inch steel wheels
- Locking tailgate
- Vinyl seat upholstery
- Rubber floor covering
- Air conditioning
- Power windows and door locks
- 7-inch touchscreen
- Bluetooth
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration
- Six-speaker audio system
Silverado Custom is a step up, adding:
- Body-colored trim
- 20-inch aluminum wheels
- Remote engine start
- LED cargo bed lighting
- Power-locking and power-release tailgate with assisted lift
- Power and heated mirrors
- Floor carpeting
- Cloth seat upholstery
- Satellite radio capability
- Wi-Fi capability
- Trailering package
- Hitch guidance lines for backup camera
Silverado Custom Trail Boss is next with:
- Four-wheel drive
- Z71 off-road suspension package
- 18-inch wheels with all-terrain tires
- Automatic locking rear differential
Silverado LT offers more upgrades such as:
- Chrome exterior trim
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- LED headlights
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat
- Heated front seats
- Heated tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel
- 8-inch touchscreen
Silverado RST is a sportier model with:
- Body-colored exterior trim
- 18-inch aluminum wheels
- LED fog lights
- All Star Edition package (optional, may be named Texas Edition)
Silverado LT Trail Boss offers minor changes such as:
- Auxiliary transmission oil cooler
- Heavy-duty battery
- Bucket front seats with a center console
Silverado LTZ is more luxurious with:
- 20-inch alloy wheels
- Power tailgate
- Power-sliding rear window
- Bucket front seats with center console
- 10-way power-adjustable front passenger seat
- Leather upholstery
- Ventilated front seats
- Heated rear seats
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Advanced Trailering System
- Trailer brake controller
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Higher-definition backup camera
- Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
Silverado High Country is the flagship model which has:
- Spray-in bedliner
- Digital driver information display
- Navigation system
- Seven-speaker Bose audio system
- Wireless phone charging
- Lane departure warning
What Engines Come In the Chevy Silverado?
- 4.3L V6: This engine generates 285 hp and 305 lb-ft of torque, with a combined fuel economy of 17 mpg. It comes with a 6-speed automatic transmission and has a maximum towing capacity of 7,900 pounds.
- 2.7L Turbo I4: Producing 310 hp and 348 lb-ft of torque, this engine achieves a combined fuel economy of 21 mpg. It is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and boasts a maximum towing capacity of 9,600 pounds.
- 5.3L V8: The 5.3L V8 engine delivers 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. It has a combined fuel economy of 18 mpg when paired with the 6-speed automatic transmission, and 19 mpg with the 8-speed automatic or 10-speed automatic transmission. The maximum towing capacity ranges from 9,500 to 11,500 pounds, depending on the transmission and configuration.
- 6.2L V8: This powerful engine offers 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque, with a combined fuel economy of 17 mpg. It is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission and has an impressive maximum towing capacity of 13,300 pounds with the max trailering package.
- 3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel I6: For diesel engine enthusiasts, the 3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel provides 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque, achieving a combined fuel economy of 24 mpg. It is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, and its maximum towing capacity is 9,500 pounds.
What Colors Does the Chevy Silverado Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Chevy Silverado?
The 2021 Chevy Silverado is designed with comfort and convenience in mind, making it an excellent choice for drivers and passengers alike. Inside the cabin, you’ll find ample space with well-padded seats and generous legroom especially in the crew cab model, catering to occupants of various sizes. The Silverado’s suspension system has been refined for a smooth ride, effectively absorbing bumps and reducing road noise.
Depending on the trim level, the vehicle offers a range of luxury features such as heated and ventilated seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and premium audio systems. elevating the overall driving experience. Furthermore, the intuitive infotainment system and user-friendly controls enhance convenience and provide a pleasant journey. In summary, the 2021 Chevy Silverado combines practicality with comfort, making it a top contender in the full-size pickup truck segment.
How Much Storage Space Does the Chevy Silverado Have?
The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado offers impressive storage space designed to meet various hauling and payload needs. Available in three distinct bed lengths, the Silverado caters to a wide range of preferences. The Short Bed measures 5 feet 8 inches, providing ample room for smaller items such as bicycles, ATVs, or gardening equipment.
The Standard Bed, at 6 feet 6 inches, accommodates larger cargo like motorcycles, kayaks, or small boats. Lastly, the Long Bed, which spans 8 feet, is perfect for heavy-duty tasks and can fit items such as full-size sheets of plywood, construction materials, or large furniture. The Silverado’s versatile storage options make it a practical choice for both work and leisure purposes.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The fourth generation of the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 was launched for the 2019 model year.
2015: New eight-speed automatic transmission paired with the 6.2L V8 engine.
2016: Improved touchscreen, small exterior styling updates, new LED lights.
2017: New active grille shutters, along with low-speed automatic emergency braking.
2018: Rearview camera is standard along with a 7-inch touchscreen across the lineup.
2019: Fully redesigned for the fourth generation with new engines, technology, and styling.
2020: Optional 3.0L Turbodiesel engine introduced, optional adaptive cruise control, new camera system.
2021: Redesigned multi flex tailgate offered, upgraded towing camera, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
How Does the Chevy Silverado Compare to the Competition?
The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is a very good full-size truck, offering some of the strongest V8 engines on the market, paired with a spacious cabin.
The Ford F-150 is another popular competitor, which costs about $3,000 more. Standard safety technology is better in the Ford F-150, while the Chevy Silverado offers a more powerful V8 engine choice. We recommend the Ford F-150, although both are very similar to each other, so it’s worth test driving both to see which you prefer.
The GMC Sierra 1500 is another full size truck available in the same price range. Both the GMC Sierra 1500 and the Chevy Silverado 1500 are built on the same platform, while the Sierra offers a more luxurious cabin. We recommend the GMC Sierra since you get more for your money, although both are very similar trucks.
