FaultScore report
Owners have filed 643 complaints about the 2005 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with NHTSA between 2006 and 2026. The largest single group is the electrical system. Across this model's run it ranks 15 of 32 worst.
FaultScore 50/100
Higher is worse. Measured against the other years of the Chevrolet Silverado 1500.
How this is worked out643
Complaints
27
Crashes reported
45
Fires reported
14
Injuries reported
2 complaints report a death.
64,000 mi
Median mileage at failure
Half of reported failures happened before this
20%
Failed under 36,000 miles
Inside a typical bumper-to-bumper warranty
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
Click any bar to open that year's report.
Every complaint is filed against a part. Follow any row for the complaints about that part alone.
0 crashes, 1 fires · median 110,500 mi
Median failure at 35,500 miles
1 crashes, 1 fires · median 64,500 mi
1 crashes, 0 fires · median 80,000 mi
Median failure at 46,500 miles
Median failure at 51,089 miles
NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all complaints include one.
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single owner can see from inside their own car.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
THE INSIDE AND OUTSIDES LIGHTS STARTED GOING OFF BY THEMSELVES. THERE WAS NO SMOKE OR BURNING SMELL. MY HUSBAND WAS GOING TOO HAVE IT CHECKED OUT ON PRESIDENTS DAY, BUT THE TRUCK BURNT THE DAY BEFORE. OUR INSURANCE WOULD NOT COVER IT DUE TO NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR. SO HERE WE ARE OUT VEHICLE.
NHTSA complaint #11302641 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
SERVICE BRAKES
WHILE TRAVELING IN TRAFFIC ON THE HIGHWAY AT LESS THAN 30 MILES PER HOUR WHEN I WENT TO APPLY MY BRAKES THE ABS CAME ON IMMEDIATELY SHORTENING MY SAFE STOPPING DISTANCE ENOUGH SO THE END RESULT WAS A COLLISION.
NHTSA complaint #11205160 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
SERVICE BRAKES
WHILE DRIVING APPROX 50MPH ON 2-LANE HIGHWAY A BRAKE LINE BURST UNDER HARD BRAKING (VEHICLE IN FRONT OF ME SUDDENLY SLOWED TO MAKE A TURN OFF THE HIGHWAY) DUE TO RUST. PEDAL WENT ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR AND I LOST SIGNIFICANT BRAKING POWER. THIS RESULTED IN A MINOR ACCIDENT WHERE I DENTED THE BUMPER OF THE TRUCK THAT WAS TURNING AND SIGNIFICANTLY BENT THE RIGHT END OF MY FRONT BUMPER. WAS ABLE TO CONTINUE THE TRIP THE LAST 50 MILES TO MY DESTINATION BUT BRAKING DISTANCES WERE CONSIDERABLY LONGER THAN NORMAL. TOOK IT TO A LOCAL MECHANIC WHO SAID ALL THE BRAKE LINES WERE RUSTED AND HAD TO BE REPLACED.
NHTSA complaint #11182401 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
SERVICE BRAKES
WHILE TRAVELING AT ABOUT 5 MPH, I EXPERIENCE A TOTAL BRAKE FAILURE. THE PETAL DROPPED TO THE FLOOR. I WAS UNABLE TO STOP THE VEHICLE RESULTING IN A REAR END COLLISION WITH THE STOPPED VEHICLE IN FRONT OF ME. IT WAS DETERMINED THAT A BRAKE LINE RUPTURED. I WAS UNDER THE IMPRESSION THAT IT WAS A LAW THAT VEHICLES OF THIS YEAR HAD A DUAL BRAKING SYSTEM TO AVOID THIS SITUATION. IF THIS VEHICLE DOES HAVE SUCH A SYSTEM IT DID NOT FUNCTION.THE VEHICLE HAD TO BE TOWED FROM THE SCENE SINCE IT HAD NO BRAKES.
NHTSA complaint #11163193 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
USED AUX PORT TO CHARGE CELL PHONE. WITH IN SECONDS SMOKE STARTS COMING FROM DASH. AFTER CONTAINING FIRE I REMOVED DASH COVER TO FIND THAT THE POWER WIRE THAT CONTROLS AUX PORT AND OBD2 PORT HAD OVER LOADED AND CAUGHT FIRE WITH CAUSED INTERNAL DAMAGE TO ALL ELECTRICAL AND INTERNAL DASH. AFTER DOING COMPLETE WALK THROUGH I NOTICED IN FUSE BOX UNDER THE HOOD THAT THE FUSE THAT CONTROLS 2 AUXS HAD MELTED DOWN. RIGHT FUSE WAS INSTALLED BEFORE ELECTRICAL FIRE. DURING TIME OF INCIDENT VEHICLE WAS MOBILE IN TOWN ON PUBLIC ROADS. AFTER CAB OF PICK UP STARTED FILLING WITH SMOKE I PULLED OVER AND USED CHEMICAL FIRE EXTINGUISHER TO SMOTHER FLAMES.
NHTSA complaint #11122373 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
USED AUX PORT TO CHARGE CELL PHONE. WITH IN SECONDS SMOKE STARTS COMING FROM DASH. AFTER CONTAINING FIRE I REMOVED DASH COVER TO FIND THAT THE POWER WIRE THAT CONTROLS AUX PORT AND OBD2 PORT HAD OVER LOADED AND CAUGHT FIRE WITH CAUSED INTERNAL DAMAGE TO ALL ELECTRICAL AND INTERNAL DASH. AFTER DOING COMPLETE WALK THROUGH I NOTICED IN FUSE BOX UNDER THE HOOD THAT THE FUSE THAT CONTROLS 2 AUXS HAD MELTED DOWN. RIGHT FUSE WAS INSTALLED BEFORE ELECTRICAL FIRE. DURING TIME OF INCIDENT VEHICLE WAS MOBILE IN TOWN ON PUBLIC ROADS. AFTER CAB OF PICK UP STARTED FILLING WITH SMOKE I PULLED OVER AND USED CHEMICAL FIRE EXTINGUISHER TO SMOTHER FLAMES.
NHTSA complaint #11122373 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:INSTRUMENT PANEL:SPEEDOMETER/ODOMETER
The contact owns a 2005 Chevrolet Silverado. It was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a dealer sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was supposedly 168,000. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic to be inspected, where it was diagnosed that the engine needed to be replaced and that the transmission needed to be repaired; the contact did research and discovered that
NHTSA complaint #11741631 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
AIR BAGS
The front airbag impact sensor when they stop working will not work on impact. You can get them from GMC because they stopped making them and you can not find them on the aftermarket. How can a company discontinue a safety part.
NHTSA complaint #11675771 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
AIR BAGS
Unknown
NHTSA complaint #11674628 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
STRUCTURE:BODY
Unknown
NHTSA complaint #11674628 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ENGINE
Unknown
NHTSA complaint #11674628 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
SUSPENSION
Suspension system potentially life threatening. On [XXX] I purchased a 2005 Chevy Silverado truck from used car dealer in Tallassee, AL/$6000. Several days after driving home at Interstate speeds, I discovered extreme rust on the underside of the truck. The spare tire rim was unusable from rust and the tire hoist was rusted beyond use--I had to cut the tire hoist cable tip with a grinder and let the tire fall to the driveway. At that point, I found an extremely unsafe and dangerous defect to the truck. The top of the right rear shock absorber was not attached to the truck frame. The connector bracket had rusted completely away from the truck frame. I texted pictures and called the dealer and was told the sale was “as is”--not his problem. I asked if he inspected, or even looked at the bottom of the truck—his text reply was “I personally did not do anything other than a walk around and test drive” He later said by text he had been a used car dealer for 32 years and had an excellent reputation. Subsequent research found NHTSA-DOT’s 49 CFR Section 570.8 -Suspension Systems-- where it states “Shock absorber mountings, shackles, and U-bolts shall be securely attached.” I believe the licensed used car dealer failed to properly inspect the used truck and clearly did not identify and report to me, the buyer, hidden potential life threatening deficiencies of the suspension system and other defects that would dramatically reduce the value of the vehicle. At that point the dealer refused to answer his phone or texts. My local mechanic advised me not to use the truck and only drive it (below 45 mph) in light traffic for short drives to keep the truck running and the battery charged. I have owned vehicles for over [XXX] and have never had any problems with any of the vehicles. I am [XXX]. I reported this to the Alabama Dept of Revenue ("ALDOR" - [XXX]) 8 Apr 25 and received a confirmation of receipt. No response yet-23 Apr 25. Please help. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (F
NHTSA complaint #11656464 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
SUSPENSION
03/09/2025 Purchased 2005 Chev Silverado 1500 from Tony's Trade Co, Inc. Owner stated he had been a highly respected licensed used car dealer 34 years. AutoCheck had no issues. 1-Component: Right Rear Shock absorber--critical suspension part (49 CFR Section 570.8 Suspension Systems)-mechanic agrees. Upper mounting bracket to frame totally rusted away. Bottom of shock absorber attached--top floating in the air. Shock absorber is untouched and available for inspection. 2-Truck was driven at highway speeds several time before unattached shock absorber noticed - found. One trip included a medium load for the truck. 3-Free floating shock absorber top is apparent in pictures. I sent the used car dealer a photo of the detached shock absorber top and mount. Will pay for a professional view and statement of the shock absorber if requested by you. Heavy rust under the truck bed/frame will require extensive metal replacement to make a hard connection bracket for attachment. 4-No manufacturer, police, etc inspection. Detached and severely rusted shock absorber top and frame bracket are obvious in pictures. Will get reports if needed. 5-No warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem until I tried to remove the spare tire to fix and clean it. Spare hoist was severely rusted and unable to lower--cut hoist cable tip and let drop on floor. That is when I was able to see the detached right rear shock absorber. 6 EXTRA: Seller quote: "this is a good truck. I would sell to anyone. Like new tires and does not need one thing mechanical and in excellent condition." Tires range from DOT 2622 to DOT 1323-not new. Extreme frame rust. I drive truck 35-45 mph twice/week on low traffic highway to keep truck running and battery charged. Reported to AL Dept of Revenue 8 Apr 25--ALDOR-127348-said I would get response in 24 hours, none yet. I called seller was told truck was sold "as is". Seller will not answer phone or text messages.
NHTSA complaint #11655913 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Gear shifter indicator has no display as the GM recalls that already exists for this year. Major safety hazard with known GM issues. Why is only my vehicle not covered under this recall.
NHTSA complaint #11595627 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
AIR BAGS
AIR BAG LIGHT ON, LIGHT ON GEAR SHIFT REAL DIM
NHTSA complaint #11561178 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
AIR BAG LIGHT ON, LIGHT ON GEAR SHIFT REAL DIM
NHTSA complaint #11561178 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2005 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle in the morning, there were several unknown warning lights illuminated, and the vehicle failed to start. The contact stated that the starter motor was not turning over as designed. The contact stated that she had to wait until all the warning lights had stopped being illuminated and then the vehicle was able to be started. The contact stated that the failure had become a recurring failure. The contact had taken the vehicle to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle and stated that the failure was an electrical failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
NHTSA complaint #11557198 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
AIR BAGS
Air bag impact sensor under radiator cracked and is no bad
NHTSA complaint #11545548 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
STEERING
Power steering system has failed. Power steering pump where the hose is connected leaks out any power steering fluid left after I pour more in and turn the truck on. Issue has caused the rack and pinion steering system to leak from the left side, and cause a whining noise when I turn the truck left or right when making sharp turns or backing up. Dealership failed to look at the truck with a simple inspection.
NHTSA complaint #11524079 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ENGINE
Recently replaced o2 Sensor and cleared check engine status. I failed the state emissions test because the Cat indicates inc or not ready,(catalytic converter). The procedure to clear this condition is dangerous and unreasonable. It calls for accelerating to 55MPH or higher for 2-3 minutes then decelerating to 20 MPH, not using brakes, and travel for 2 minutes then accelerating back to 55MPH, repeating this process up to 5 cycles to clear the CAT status. Given the drive speed this procedure would have to be done on a highway and could very likely cause a collision. This is very hazardous and should not be a requirement to complete vehicle inspection.
NHTSA complaint #11496945 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
SERVICE BRAKES
I have had brakes fail twice because of corroded brake lines now one of my fuel lines ruptured because of corrosion I have been told by mechanics that corroded failing lines is a common issue on Silverado's
NHTSA complaint #11487598 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I have had brakes fail twice because of corroded brake lines now one of my fuel lines ruptured because of corrosion I have been told by mechanics that corroded failing lines is a common issue on Silverado's
NHTSA complaint #11487598 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
code po446 will not go away it is costing me a fortune to fix now i cant get it through inspection in delaware i dont have the funds to get a new vehicle
NHTSA complaint #11470058 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
AIR BAGS:SRS MALFUNCTION WARNING LAMP/LIGHT
The airbag light is on. I took it to the chevy dealership on battlecreek rd, the service clerk said they do not work on vehicles with over 150k miles. How do I get the airbag serviced.
NHTSA complaint #11453428 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Design flaw - Brake light switch- the end section of the internal spring is placed in a position that allows it to potentially slide down and block the space needed for when the plunger is depressed, jamming up the switches ability to properly function. I have not determined what happened to the switch on my truck, but noticed that this scenario was a possibility and felt obligated to report my opinion.
NHTSA complaint #11441178 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
SERVICE BRAKES
Design flaw - Brake light switch- the end section of the internal spring is placed in a position that allows it to potentially slide down and block the space needed for when the plunger is depressed, jamming up the switches ability to properly function. I have not determined what happened to the switch on my truck, but noticed that this scenario was a possibility and felt obligated to report my opinion.
NHTSA complaint #11441178 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Well, I contacted GM years ago asking why the frames on these vehicles rot out so fast. They told me to send pics. and that’s all that came from that. So, years ago, I heard a banging noise in the right rear side of my truck. My rear shock mount rotted out and driving home later there was even more noise. The left rear shock mount rotted out also. I removed the bed to assess damage, and I couldn’t believe the amount of rust I was looking at. I bought an aftermarket kit and had the shock mounts welded back on. The company selling the kit said that they sell tons of those kits. I would say that’s a safety issue. Especially when the whole from appears to be rotting away. That seems like a mayor issue to me. I probably won’t be buying another Chevy truck seeing how my wife’s Honda is as old as my truck and has no rust under it.
NHTSA complaint #11440737 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
SUSPENSION
Well, I contacted GM years ago asking why the frames on these vehicles rot out so fast. They told me to send pics. and that’s all that came from that. So, years ago, I heard a banging noise in the right rear side of my truck. My rear shock mount rotted out and driving home later there was even more noise. The left rear shock mount rotted out also. I removed the bed to assess damage, and I couldn’t believe the amount of rust I was looking at. I bought an aftermarket kit and had the shock mounts welded back on. The company selling the kit said that they sell tons of those kits. I would say that’s a safety issue. Especially when the whole from appears to be rotting away. That seems like a mayor issue to me. I probably won’t be buying another Chevy truck seeing how my wife’s Honda is as old as my truck and has no rust under it.
NHTSA complaint #11440737 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
SUSPENSION
Frame broken behind cab on both sides
NHTSA complaint #11430811 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
SERVICE BRAKES
As I approached an intersection to make a left-hand turn, I stepped on my trucks brake pedal. I experienced a complete loss of braking power, with the trucks brake pedal going straight to the floor, after an instant of a firm, solid pedal. Pumped the pedal to try to regain brake operation to no avail. No hydraulic pressure was present. No warning lights or other indications of brake system failure occurred. Truck was driven home a very short distance using e-brake. Brake fluid was seen dripping from the rear axle area in large amounts. Truck was towed to my local garage which found a burst steel brake line at the junction with the rear hydraulic flex hose. Other brake lines were heavily rusted. Rest of the undercarriage was not similarly rust like the brake lines. The garage stated this was not the first Silverado they saw with this problem. All steel lines were replaced with stainless steel lines, and as a precaution we replaced all brake hoses as well. The bleeder screws on the front disk brake calipers, and on the rear wheel cylinders were also found heavily rusted and frozen, so those components were replaced as well. The shop stated this issue of severe corrosion of brake lines and bleeders is very common on this generation of Silverado’s . They have repaired quite a few like mine after similar brake failures. If you research the issue on-line, there certainly is a problem with these trucks. In my 45 years as a mechanic and practicing mechanical engineer, I have never seen brake system components so severely corroded as the ones removed from my truck. I was lucky I wasn’t towing anything, or was at highway speed when the failure occurred. The next owner may not be that lucky if it happens to them.
NHTSA complaint #11425347 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
The contact owns a 2005 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle started to leak fuel and the brake line would leak causing the brakes to lose power whenever the brake pedal was depressed. The contact also stated that the fuel tank strap fractured due to rust causing the fuel tank to detach from the vehicle. The contact stated that the rear leaf spring fractured due to rust as well. The contact also stated that the entire sub-frame of the vehicle was rusted causing pieces of metal to fall off from the frame while driving. The brake warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the brake lines, fuel lines, the rear leaf shackle, and the fuel tank needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 58,000.
NHTSA complaint #11422995 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.