The Chevrolet Silverado 2500 is a heavy-duty truck that has been in production since the late ’90s.
It is an appealing choice for those who frequently tow heavy trailers or haul heavy equipment.
In this article, we’ll be taking a look at all of the best and worst model years of the Silverado 2500.
Table of Contents
Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Chevrolet Silverado 2500 Are:
The best Chevrolet Silverado 2500 model years are 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2014, 2013, 2012, and 2010. The worst model years of the Silverado 2500 are 2004, 2003, 2002, 2001, 2005, 2008, 2007, 2015, 2006, 2016, and 2011. This is based on auto industry reviews, NHTSA statistics, reported problems, and consumer feedback.
What Are The Best Years For The Chevrolet Silverado 2500?
2023 Chevrolet Silverado 2500
The 2023 Silverado 2500 is one of the most technologically up-to-date models in the series.
It provides stout power, quick acceleration, and a roomy cabin with plenty of storage.
There are 5 trims to choose from: Work Truck, Custom, LT, LTZ, and High Country.
Pricing ranges from approximately $48,000 to $72,000.
The most popular trim is the Custom variant, priced at $49,395 (when bought brand new).
- Edmunds: 3.8 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7 / 5.0
- JD Power: 84 / 100
2023 Silverado 2500, Edmunds review:
“ … 10 speed is as smooth as butter empty or pulling a load. Best camera system on the market. LOVE the look of the interior and all the rooms. All the gadgets and safety features are nice. Oh did I mention the HEADS UP DISPLAY is cool and functions well. Exterior of the truck design looks better than anything on the market HANDS DOWN! Rides very well for a heavy duty truck.”
2022 Chevrolet Silverado 2500
The 2022 Silverado 2500 is a workhorse with great tech features to make towing and hauling significantly easier to do.
New to this particular model are a multi-flex tailgate (for all trims) and a power-adjustable driver’s seat option (for the Custom trim).
Like the previously discussed model, this truck has 5 trim levels: Work Truck, Custom, LT, LTZ, and High Country.
Each trim comes standard with a 6.6-liter V8 gasoline engine (401 horsepower) paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
If you are in need of a beefier engine and transmission combo, you can opt for the optional 6.6-liter diesel V8 engine (445 horsepower) mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission.
- Edmunds: 3.8 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7 / 5.0
- JD Power: 84 / 100
2022 Silverado 2500, Edmunds review:
“I traded in my 2019 Ram 1500 on this truck, and while the Ram was nice, it holds no comparison to this truck. The Chevy just feels better made then the Ram did, from the fit of the interior to the heft of the doors. Just a better made truck and honestly the price reflects that as they cost more. I have pulled several loads, in the 8-10k lb range and you don’t even know that they are back there. Would definitely recommend this truck.”
2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500
The 2021 Silverado 2500 is a competent full-size pickup truck.
New to this particular model year are added appearance packages, added standard equipment in the lower trims, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability.
Based on owners’ feedback, these are the best aspects of this truck: interior, transmission, ride quality, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
When properly equipped, a 2021 Silverado 2500 can tow up to a staggering 18,500 pounds.
This kind of towing capacity is more than enough to tow the heaviest of trailers, such as fifth-wheel trailers, horse trailers, boat trailers, and construction equipment carriers.
- Edmunds: 3.6 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7 / 5.0
- JD Power: 83 / 100
2021 Silverado 2500, Edmunds review:
“I bought this truck as an upgrade from our 2018 Silverado High Country 1500. We purchased an RV last year and while the 2018 towed it just fine, especially with the 6.2 liter, this is just another level. The truck is nicer in almost every way than the 2018. HUD is really handy when driving and the mirrors are really functional. The lighting is very good at night and with the mirror lights on it makes backing up very easy…”
2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500
The 2020 Silverado 2500 marks the beginning of the fourth Silverado generation.
It adds a lot of capability and assistance features, as well as refined driving dynamics.
In addition, this truck now has increased towing and payload capabilities and more spacious seating in the back.
Interesting safety features include Teen Driver, Safety Alert Seat, and Lane Departure Warning.
Among the 5 available trims, we recommend going for the midrange LT trim as it comes with a multitude of standard equipment which makes it the best option for value-seekers.
- Edmunds: 3.5 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7 / 5.0
- JD Power: 85 / 100
2020 Silverado 2500, Edmunds review:
“[I purchased a] 2020 Silverado heavy duty with the new 6.6 L gas burner in it to haul my fifth wheel. It has done way better than I thought it ever would and my fifth wheel weighs 15,000 pounds. I would recommend this truck with this engine to anyone that toes gooseneck or fifth wheel towing.”
2019 and 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 2500
The 2019 and 2018 Silverado 2500 models are the final model years under the third generation of the series.
These units are considered to be highly-capable workhorses that provide great towing numbers and impressive acceleration.
Steering and braking are also commendable and are considered to be slightly better than competitors.
There are 4 trims to choose from: Work Truck (WT), LT, LTZ, and High Country.
We recommend the midrange LT if you want value for money in terms of safety features and towing equipment.
2019 Silverado 2500:
- Edmunds: 3.6 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
- JD Power: 81 / 100
2018 Silverado 2500:
- Edmunds: 3.6 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
- JD Power: 82 / 100
2019 Silverado 2500, Edmunds review:
“I have about 1100 miles on an LTZ crew cab with the Duramax package. Bought it to pull my 6800-pound travel trailer. Tows wonderfully. Diesel is the right powertrain for towing. Can cruise at highway speed so I don’t become a rolling road block. Around town the ride reminds you that this is a heavy duty truck but no complaints as it is very comfortable on highway and when towing. Having enough trucks makes trips enjoyable, not a ‘white knuckle’ experience. The LTZ interior is comfortable for my wife and I, both retired. This is the right truck for our intended purpose. Tows well, runs with traffic on the highway, and is comfortable. Just what we needed…”
2017 Chevrolet Silverado 2500
The 2017 Silverado 2500 has immense hauling and towing capabilities and is one of the best options in the full-size pickup truck segment.
It also has great ride quality, minimal road noise, a powerful diesel engine option, and great overall build quality.
New to this particular model year is, as mentioned earlier, the introduction of an optional diesel-powered V8 engine that has been redesigned to offer more power (445 horsepower).
A new air intake and hood design was also integrated into this optional engine system for more efficient usage.
Owners have also praised this truck’s interior quality and seating comfort.
- Edmunds: 3.8 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
- JD Power: 82 / 100
2017 Silverado 2500, Edmunds review:
“Even for a work Truck I keep finding great features. Truck runs and rides great. Tows great. (Not going to cry about warranty like some people) fwiw only the duramax comes with 100k powertrain warranty. Truck looks great, runs great. Only negative is that it seems to shift a lot. 6-speed over my old 4 speed maybe. Edit: 3 years into it 40k on the odo. Still working like the day I bought it. I tow regularly with it and it satisfies all my needs in a truck.”
2014 and 2013 Chevrolet Silverado 2500
The 2014 and 2013 Silverado 2500, despite being around a decade old, are two of the most reliable workhorse trucks ever produced.
Both models sport amazing towing capacities, have a smooth ride, and surprisingly responsive steering.
The standard engine across the board is a 6-liter V8 gasoline engine (360 horsepower) mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission.
An optional turbocharged 6.6-liter diesel V8 engine (397 horsepower) is a good upgrade to consider as well.
Owners of these models appreciated the following aspects of these trucks: towing, off-roading, and engine options.
2014 Silverado 2500:
- Edmunds: 4.5 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.5 / 5.0
- JD Power: 82 / 100
2013 Silverado 2500:
- Edmunds: 4.5 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.5 / 5.0
- JD Power: 83 / 100
2014 Silverado 2500, Edmunds review:
“I’ve owned almost every brand of truck and this is my favorite. I just recently hauled a 7 by 17 enclosed trailer across the country and the trailer was loaded from top to bottom front to back. Still with a v8 I have plenty of power and I averaged 13 mpg through mountains.”
2012 Chevrolet Silverado 2500
The 2012 Silverado 2500 is a full-size pickup truck that has a classic design, multiple configurations, and numerous tech and equipment.
It is a follow-up to the 2011 model year that introduced stronger suspension and frame components.
New to this particular model year are a few minor upgrades, hard-drive-based navigation, and heated/ventilated seats (for the LTZ trim).
A new Z71 Off Road appearance package can also be paired to the Z71 suspension option.
Owners loved the comfort, towing, interior, engine, transmission, and overall value of this truck.
- Edmunds: 4.6 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.5 / 5.0
- JD Power: 83 / 100
2012 Silverado 2500, Edmunds review:
“Everything you could ever want. I have a 10,000 lb travel trailer that it pulls with ease. The suspension and ride was the most surprising to me, in a good way. It feels so amazing to drive around in. The interior is well designed and built with quality components. Buy with confidence! Have not owned a Chevy in a long time and I’m already back on the bandwagon.”
2010 Chevrolet Silverado 2500
The 2010 Silverado 2500 delivers massive towing and hauling capabilities.
It also provides a refined and quiet ride, solid build quality, comfortable seats, and confidence-inspiring steering dynamics.
New to this particular model is a more powerful 6-liter V8 engine and minor equipment changes, such as standard air conditioning for the Work Truck (WT) variant and a USB port for the uplevel sound system.
- Edmunds: 4.5 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.5 / 5.0
- JD Power: 83 / 100
2010 Silverado 2500, Edmunds review:
“I have only had this truck for a week and I already love it. After filling up the first time I averaged 17.5 mpg. That’s better than my 5.3 Chevy not to mention the addition of a 4×4. It rides firm but not harsh. The only thing that would make a nice change is a nicer interior similar to dodge… Going uphill the engine has enough torque to hold max gear and not shift down. So far so good.”
Consumer Scores For Best Chevrolet Silverado 2500 Years
| Model Year | Edmunds Consumer Rating | Kelley Blue Book Consumer Rating | JD Power Consumer Rating |
| 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 | 3.8 / 5.0 | 4.7 / 5.0 | 84 / 100 |
| 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 | 3.8 / 5.0 | 4.7 / 5.0 | 84 / 100 |
| 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 | 3.6 / 5.0 | 4.7 / 5.0 | 83 / 100 |
| 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 | 3.5 / 5.0 | 4.7 / 5.0 | 85 / 100 |
| 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 | 3.6 / 5.0 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 81 / 100 |
| 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 | 3.6 / 5.0 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 82 / 100 |
| 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 | 3.8 / 5.0 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 82 / 100 |
| 2014 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 | 4.5 / 5.0 | 4.5 / 5.0 | 82 / 100 |
| 2013 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 | 4.5 / 5.0 | 4.5 / 5.0 | 83 / 100 |
| 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 4.5 / 5.0 | 83 / 100 |
| 2010 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 | 4.5 / 5.0 | 4.5 / 5.0 | 83 / 100 |
Related: 10 Common Chevrolet Silverado 2500 Problems (Explained)
What Are The Worst Years For The Chevrolet Silverado 2500?
2004, 2003, 2002, and 2001 Chevrolet Silverado 2500
The 2003 and 2004 Silverado 2500’s are the worst model years, according to auto industry data. We grouped these model years with the slightly-less-problematic 2002 and 2001 model years as they all shared similar issues, which were mostly brake-related.
Numerous owners reported severe rusting and corrosion of the brake lines which caused brake fluid leaks and intermittent loss of brake power.
Here is a handful of examples of what a lot of owners experienced:
“Total brake failure while attempting to stop due to rusted brake line. Brake lines leading to rear brakes and left front rusted through and bled out. I was traveling 55 mph.”
“The brake line system is incredibly rusted. I have never seen so much corrosion before on a vehicles brake lines.”
“The brake lines and fuel lines leaked and were replaced due to excessive corrosion. The front brakes failed while driving. The gas line leaked in my driveway.”
- The 2004 Silverado 2500 had a total of 373 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 26 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
- The 2003 Silverado 2500 had a total of 444 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 32 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
- The 2002 Silverado 2500 had a total of 276 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 12 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
- The 2001 Silverado 2500 had a total of 197 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 25 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
Common problems:
- Brakes stopped working
- Broken exhaust manifold
- Transfer case failed
- Injector failure
- Rotted brake lines
- Distributor and rotor corrosion
- Stalls while driving
- Fuel gauge is erratic
- Rust deteriorated brake lines
2005 Chevrolet Silverado 2500
The 2005 Silverado 2500 received a large number of complaints for brake issues and instrument panel problems.
Like the previously mentioned models, the brake lines were prone to severe rusting resulting in a loss of braking ability.
Instrument panel glitches were even more common, owners reported that their speedometer would display inaccurate readings, as described by the owners below:
“The speedometer sticks, works intermittently. Sometimes reads slower than actual speed, sometimes reads faster than actual speed, sometimes doesn’t work at all.”
“My speedometer is not working. It is frozen at 30 mph.”
“Speedometer reads wrong, sometimes shows over 100 mph when going 50 mph.”
The 2005 Silverado 2500 had a total of 253 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 21 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
Common problems:
- Brake line failure
- Blown head gasket
- Fan quit working
- Speedometer broken
2008 and 2007 Chevrolet Silverado 2500
The 2008 and 2007 Silverado 2500 models both fell prey to the infamous Takata airbag recall.
In summary, low-quality airbags were installed in millions of different vehicles of various makes and models.
The airbags were a significant safety risk as they had the potential to explode, firing metal shrapnel into the cabins.
To add insult to injury, owners were forced to wait unreasonable amounts of time for the repairs.
Another widespread problem with the 2008 and 2007 Silverado 2500 models is that the dashboard was prone to cracking.
Here is what owners had to say:
“My dash has cracked in multiple locations including the airbag surround. Shards of the dash have now begun to break off – clear indication of an unsafe condition.”
“The dash around the air bag has formed a crack and upon deployment of the air bag could result in sharp plastic breaking off and hitting passengers. Along with the sharp plastic it could result in the rupture of the airbag and could result in a passenger death.”
- The 2008 Silverado 2500 had a total of 210 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 17 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
- The 2007 Silverado 2500 had a total of 207 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 11 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
Common problems:
- Dashboard cracking
- Coolant lines leaking
- Power steering pump stopped working
- Trailer brake, ABS, and parking brake lights are on
- Loss of electrical power intermittently
2015 Chevrolet Silverado 2500
The 2015 Silverado 2500 received more complaints than many of its direct predecessors and successors. The most common issue was related to the Stabilitrak system – which is GMs patented traction control system.
Owners reported that the Stabilitrak warning message would appear on the dash and the truck would subsequently go into limp mode.
Here are a few owner reports:
“Driving 70 on interstate 15 and the Stabilitrak message came on the dash, truck went into limp mode, the truck went from 70 mph to 45 mph really fast. This was during rush hour traffic and I could have gotten in a wreck. This is a transmission control module and gm and Chevrolet do not have the replacement part. It’s on a nationwide back order.”
“Truck went into limp mode. Stabilitrak check light came on vehicle slowed down to 27 miles per hour.”
Water leaking was another reported issue.
According to owners water would leak into the vehicle by the driver’s side sun visor and above the parking brake – the leaks were linked to issues with the shark fin antenna.
The 2015 Silverado 2500 had a total of 191 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 31 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
Common problems:
- Locks up at low speeds
- Steering pulls
- Air conditioning blowing hot air
2006 Chevrolet Silverado 2500
The 2006 Silverado 2500 received a high number of complaints due to brake failure. Like many other Silverado 2500 models from the same era, the 2006 model was prone to rusted brake lines.
The rusting was so severe that numerous owners reported that their brakes failed whilst driving.
Below is one owner’s experience:
“Sudden failure of brakes during low speed stop, brake line failed near frame underside in driver seat area. Was able to quickly stop the vehicle with the emergency brake just short of going into heavy traffic. This truck is meticulously maintained including underside washes, no body rust anywhere and was undercoat protected from new. Shocked at the level of rust on what are apparently high carbon steel lines, these should be stainless steel.”
The 2006 Silverado 2500 had a total of 175 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 25 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
Common problems:
- Brake line broke
- Spark plug broken in cylinder
- Wheel hub and bearing failure
2016 Chevrolet Silverado 2500
The 2016 Silverado 2500 had a high number of complaints that were all related to a new electric steering system.
Owners reported that there was excessive play in the steering wheel (they would have to turn more than they should to get the desired response) making the truck dangerous to drive.
Here is what owners had to say:
“Steering wheel has become very sloppy and there is a large “gap” when turning left or right. Truck wanders left/right and hard to keep straight. It used to be very precise.”
“Loose steering causes difficulty maintaining lane and constant steering input to attempt to go straight. Steering wheel can be off the left or right while going straight. Safety to passengers and other drivers on the road is at risk due to inability to maintain the intended course of travel…”
The 2016 Silverado 2500 had a total of 115 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 18 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
Common problems:
- Fuel pump exploded
- Trailer brakes do not work
- Poor headlight visibility
2011 Chevrolet Silverado 2500
Like the 2008 and 2007 model years, the 2011 Silverado 2500 suffered from airbag problems as it was fitted with the notoriously problematic Takata airbags.
The airbags were known to explode sending shrapnel into the cabin and in many instances did not deploy when needed.
The issues were so widespread that numerous owners were left to wait for unreasonable periods of time for repairs.
The 2011 Silverado 2500 had a total of 107 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 11 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
Common problems:
- High pressure fuel pump failed
- Will not start
- Diesel exhaust fluid system failure
Related: 14 Best & Worst GMC Sierra 2500HD Years (With Pictures)
What Years Have The Most Complaints?
| Model Year | Complaints(CarComplaints.com) | Problems(CarProblemZoo.com) | Recalls(NHTSA.gov) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 | – | 3 | – |
| 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 | – | 7 | – |
| 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 | 3 | 30 | 4 |
| 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 | 1 | 47 | 7 |
| 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 | 5 | 51 | 3 |
| 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 | 2 | 41 | 4 |
| 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 | 11 | 44 | 5 |
| 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 | 18 | 115 | 7 |
| 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 | 31 | 191 | 18 |
| 2014 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 | 5 | 37 | 16 |
| 2013 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 | 2 | 62 | 6 |
| 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 | 1 | 52 | 5 |
| 2011 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 | 11 | 107 | 6 |
| 2010 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 | 2 | 24 | 6 |
| 2009 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 | 10 | 71 | 5 |
| 2008 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 | 17 | 210 | 6 |
| 2007 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 | 11 | 207 | 7 |
| 2006 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 | 25 | 175 | 11 |
| 2005 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 | 21 | 253 | 15 |
| 2004 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 | 26 | 373 | 16 |
| 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 | 32 | 444 | 14 |
| 2002 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 | 12 | 276 | 17 |
| 2001 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 | 25 | 197 | 17 |
What Problems Do Chevrolet Silverado 2500s Have?
- Brakes failed
- Locks up at low speed
- Fuel filter failure
- Steering pulls
- Air conditioning blowing hot air
- Injector failure
- Brakes stopped working
- Broken exhaust manifold
- Transfer case failed
- Brake line failure
- Blown head gasket
- Fan quit working
- Spark plug broken in cylinder
- Wheel hub and bearing failure
- Brake lines not protected
- Fuel gauge is erratic
- Rust deteriorated brake lines
What Are The Best Alternatives To The Chevrolet Silverado 2500?
| Make & Model | Score | MSRP | Fuel Economy (MPG) |
| Toyota Tundra | 8.1 | $37,865 – $76,145 | City: 17 – 20 /Highway: 20 – 24 |
| Nissan Titan | 7.2 | $39,700 – $61,980 | City: 15 – 16 /Highway: 20 – 21 |
| Ram 2500 | NA | $51,090 – $79,290 | City: NA /Highway: NA |
| Ford F-250 | NA | $44,830 – $91,675 | City: NA /Highway: NA |
| GMC Sierra 2500HD | NA | $48,495 – $74,995 | City: NA / Highway: NA |
Source: cars.usnews.com, edmunds.com
Related: 21 Best & Worst Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Years (Explained)
References
https://www.caranddriver.com/chevrolet/silverado-2500hd-3500hd-2023
https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/rankings/trucks
https://www.edmunds.com/chevrolet/silverado-2500hd/
https://www.kbb.com/chevrolet/silverado-2500/
https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2023/chevrolet/silverado-2500hd
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Chevrolet/Silverado_2500/
https://www.carproblemzoo.com/chevrolet/silverado2500/
https://www.cars.com/research/chevrolet-silverado_2500/recalls/
