The Chevy Silverado 1500 is a full-size pickup with a V8 engine. The first Silverado was introduced in 1999, and the 1500 model has been manufactured with a 4.8 liter and 6-liter engine. All of the trucks require a driver to test the electronic system and engine sensors. Troubleshooting is also conducted by making observations and monitoring the performance of the vehicle.
Locate the outlet on the bottom of the driver side dash. Plug a diagnostic reader into the outlet and follow the onscreen directions. The reader will talk to the vehicle electronics and communicate problems with you. The crankshaft position sensor is a common failure in the 1500 pickups.
Drive the pickup and feel for power surges and sputtering in the engine. The fuel injectors must be cleaned if the power is inconsistent. The injectors are a common problem on the 1500 model, but they are relatively inexpensive to have professionally cleaned.
Test the transmission by changing your speed and forcing the truck to shift. If the transmission hesitates or skips gears, have it flushed and test again. If the problem continues, the transmission valve body may require replacement. This is a recurring issue with the 1500 pickup and does cost several hundred dollars to fix.
Monitor the performance of the brakes on a regular basis. Squeaking and grinding indicates normal wear, and the brake pads must be replaced. Sudden loss of pressure and failure to brake indicates the ABS control module is failing and must be replaced. It may also mean the brakes are not properly bled.
The ignition system must be serviced if the key will not engage the engine. The engine lock cylinder will fail and the ignition assembly must be taken apart in order to replace the cylinder. The problem is intermittent throughout the stock 1500 pickups.
