117 of the
957 complaints about the 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 are about the
engine — 12% of everything
reported for this model year.
Half of the failures with a mileage on record happened before
56,112 miles.
B
117
Complaints
0
Crashes
1
Fires
2
Injuries
Exactly what failed
Engine
11497.4%
Engine AND Engine Cooling
21.7%
Manifold/Header/Muffler/Tail Pipe
10.9%
Engine & Cooling across every Chevrolet Silverado 1500 year
Driving home on the interstate my truck started making a knocking sound and the vehicle would shake over 45 miles an hour. We took to a dealer that said the lifters were bad, and potentially caused damage to the cam shaft. There was no warranty. I asked how this happens under 60,000 miles and was told it’s just part failure. And with the 6.2 engines, it’s a known occurrence. I then see that Chevy 6.2L engines for earlier years had a recall for this same issue but our 2017 was excluded. The dealer quoted $10,500 for repair. But we found a local shop that did the work for around $7500.
NHTSA complaint #11754129 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Naperville, IL
ENGINE
NHTSA Safety Complaint To: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Regarding: Vehicle Safety Hazard / Fraudulent Repairs on 2017 Chevrolet Silverado VIN: [XXX] To Whom It May Concern, I am writing to file an emergency vehicle safety complaint regarding a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado, VIN [XXX], purchased on XXX. Huntley Ford performed unauthorized, fraudulent, and unsafe repairs that resulted in the vehicle being returned to me as an active fire hazard, directly violating federal motor vehicle safety expectations. Huntley Ford forced a salvage engine onto the vehicle, stripped me of my repair rights, and intentionally cleared dashboard error codes to mask severe, systemic mechanical defects. Following an engine replacement, transmission replacement, and catalytic converter replacement, I took the vehicle to Sunrise Chevrolet for inspection. The technician at Sunrise Chevrolet discovered that the vehicle was actively burning fluid onto the alternator. The technician explicitly stated that the vehicle was a fire hazard and that there was an emergency safety brake problem, and brakes. Huntley Ford knowingly delivered a structurally compromised and life-threatening vehicle. I request a full investigation into Huntley Ford’s repair safety practices to protect the public from further hazardous non-compliance. I have a 16 page paper trail Word document letter proving Huntley Ford committed auto fraud, has practiced illegal practices, lied, sold us a truck that they cleared codes, after only a few months full transmission, c. converter replacement, engine, and did not fix the truck properly still, returned it back to us when they knew it was not ok, lied, cleared codes, we brought our own scanner, they lied again, said the codes just needed to be cleared. When we notified [XXX], Huntley Ford's repair manager, he did nothing. Sincerely, [XXX]/[XXX] ________________________________________ INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11752824 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Kannapolis, NC
ENGINE
The vehicle has experienced persistent engine performance issues that have not been resolved through standard repairs. Initial diagnostics indicated knock sensor faults, which were replaced at significant cost. However, the issue persisted and additional codes related to air fuel imbalance (P219B) appeared. The vehicle continues to exhibit reduced power, hesitation, and inconsistent acceleration while driving. This creates a safety concern, particularly when merging into traffic or attempting to accelerate in situations requiring reliable engine response. The dealership has quoted a minimum repair cost exceeding $7,000, with the possibility of increasing to $10,000 depending on further findings once the engine is opened. Due to the high cost and uncertainty of repair, the vehicle may remain in operation with an unresolved defect. Research indicates that similar issues have been reported by other owners of this vehicle generation, suggesting a potential broader defect that may impact vehicle safety. This issue affects the vehicle’s ability to deliver consistent power and safe acceleration. Given the relatively low mileage and the severity of the repair required, this may represent a defect that warrants further investigation. [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11732809 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Kannapolis, NC
ENGINE
My truck only has 72,000 miles on it, yet the lifters in the engine are failing/ malfunctioning. While in drive, it has a hard time shifting into higher gears causing the engine to continue revving but not picking up more speed. A quick google search shows this to be a common issue. GM was made aware of the problem but did not offer much help in resolving the matter. GM specifically stated the NHTSA needs to say it is a safety issue before they will do anything about it.
NHTSA complaint #11730371 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
West Winfield, NY
ENGINE
Transmission issues that I have reported since 2 months into owning it. Anti-lock brake issues or braking issues where brake pedal is stiff but not stopping vehicle. Front grill shutter issues Temperature Transmission thermostat issues
NHTSA complaint #11727786 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
West Winfield, NY
ENGINE
I have had shifting issues with the transmission since 2 months into having this vehicle I have been reporting it to the dealership who has told me consistently that jerking grinding and loud noises are totally normal then the recall came out for these specific issues in the 2017 Silverados though my VIN is not listed but I still haven't always have had the very same problems stated in the recall
NHTSA complaint #11727789 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Banning, CA
ENGINE
Truck started making a solid bass thumping as driving then got worser as days went by, then I spent money at 4 places to get opinions but no1 wasn't definitely, so I had the engine opened up and there it was a SPLIT CRANKSHAFT, I knew it was something there bcas I pull oiled and I seen metal themes/ grit in my oil, And there's no recall on my truck, then I did research online and yesss it's alot of issues like that, plus DOD is defeated on those chevys, so I need a whole other motor
NHTSA complaint #11727144 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Baltimore, MD
ENGINE
I was driving in the rain 3 nights ago when my Chevy Silverado unexpectedly started shaking very bad , jerking while trying to brake, surging forward and total loss of acceleration. My dash lights were blinking and I was scared ,I had no idea what was going on. Since our family are loyal Jba customers( we own 2 silverados) and payed for the extended warranty and certified warranty I drove straight there and explained what happened. I was scared and crying, just diagnosed with Vulva Cancer stage lllC. Well the truck has been in the shop at jba diagnosed with bad Cam shift rod and lifts. They want $10,300.00 for repair. Even though we've been with them so long and had every maintenance done through them they weren't helpful in helping. Can someone help me? I need to be able to get to John's Hopkins for my cancer treatments. I've looked up this issue and it looks VERY common. Please, help me. Jba had me sign a document so the dates can be verified.
NHTSA complaint #11725678 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Hemet, CA
ENGINE
I am submitting a complaint regarding my 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT. My truck currently has approximately 80,000 miles, and it has recently been diagnosed by a Chevrolet dealership as needing a complete transmission replacement. This vehicle has been lightly driven and very well maintained, and I rarely drive it. Because of this, I am extremely concerned and disappointed that such a major mechanical component has failed at such relatively low mileage. A transmission should reasonably last well beyond 80,000 miles under normal driving conditions. The dealership informed me that the entire transmission needs to be replaced, which is a very costly repair. Given the mileage and the way the vehicle has been used, I believe this may indicate a defect or premature failure rather than normal wear and tear. I am requesting that General Motors review this situation and consider goodwill assistance or coverage for the repair. I purchased this vehicle with the expectation that it would be reliable for many more miles, and this issue has significantly affected my confidence in the vehicle. I would appreciate a review of my case and any assistance GM can provide toward resolving this problem
NHTSA complaint #11722867 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 140,000 milesInternational Falls, MN
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated that the vehicle was making an abnormal ticking sound while driving. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed, and it was determined that the lifters were bent and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The contact stated that while driving at 30 MPH, the transmission skipped while shifting to a gear, and the vehicle jolted and jerked. The failure had progressively worsened, and the vehicle was making an abnormal high-pitch sound at start-up. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with transmission component failure, and the dealer informed the contact that it would be cost-effective to replace the entire transmission. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.
NHTSA complaint #11720272 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Forney, TX1 injured
ENGINE
1. The vehicle's transmission does not operate consistently and safely. 2. At times, the transmission will not engage, and this has placed my family in very dangerous situations when changing lanes. 3. At red lights, at times, the transmission will not engage to drive. 4. When slowing in traffic at times , the transmission will not adjust to the slower speed, although the operator is applying the brakes. Then, without warning, the transmission will engage the higher speed, almost launching the vehicle forward suddenly, potentially into another vehicle or person, depending on the situation.
NHTSA complaint #11717640 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Antioch, CA
ENGINE
Hard jerking while driving clunks while driving shifts rough really bad when driving changes gears its an automatic stalls at lights runs rough jumps forward has no power at times brakes fail when stopping lunges when breaking Dealership and manufacture know about this Its been to dealership over 9 times same problem
NHTSA complaint #11716571 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 156,000 milesPacifica, CA
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal metal-on-metal sound coming from the engine. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that on a separate occasion, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal, and the engine sounded rough. The vehicle was taken to two different independent mechanics, who diagnosed that the Active Fuel Management (AFM) and Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM) were impacting the lifters, which impacted the camshaft, and scraped the cylinder walls, causing the engine to fail. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was then towed to the dealer, who confirmed the engine failure. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The vehicle was towed to the residence and no longer driven. The failure mileage was approximately 156,000.
NHTSA complaint #11715397 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Burns, TN
ENGINE
Our 2017 High Country 1500 Chevy Silverado is garage-kept and has very low mileage (73k). But it has the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system, which just caused lifter failure, thus causing catastrophic engine damage. In research, we discovered newer models with the AFM have been recalled for this exact problem. Unfortunately, our model truck with the AFM has not been recalled, despite the fact that the problem and damage are the same.
NHTSA complaint #11712983 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Imperial, MO
ENGINE
At 54,900K miles my truck started to experience a tapping sound from the engine. I took it to a shop and was told that the Auto Fuel Management system can cause problems with the lifters. I tried to use my 200,000/10 year Warranty, but the warranty company refused because I went over 6 months on my oil change. The cost of repairs was over $6,900 and the push rods were bent, one lifter was broke off, the cam was damaged from the lifters and a piece on the timing chain was broke. Chevy knows there's a problem with the 5.3L Engine and refuses to fix it. No warning light ever came on. This problem first appeared in December of 2025 around 54,900 miles. I have since had the vehicle repaired and I kept all the parts. Chevy should recall this engine instead of letting their customers pay the repair costs for a flawed design caused by their AFM System. I was told to stop driving my vehicle because if I continued to drive it with the tapping sound it could cause the engine to blow up. I also have an After Market Warranty which would not cover the repair because Chevy issued a Technical Service Bulletin about the problem, Bulletin No.: 19-NA-219.
NHTSA complaint #11712615 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Broken Arrow, OK
ENGINE
Bought the truck brand new, after 20,000 miles started vibrating. Took it to the dealership said it was the transmission shutters. They changed the fluid. At 50,000 miles did it again, they said GM came out with a thicker fluid, but it in there. Was fine for a while. At around 135,000 miles getting the vibration again. Also, at 140,000 miles cylinder 8 misfiring. Took it in and they tore it apart and said cylinder 4 and 8 lifter failure. Damage to cam and bent rods. Had to replace all lifters, cam and rods. Cost over $10,500, but had BG warranty used that additive every oil change so BG covered $4,000. I went by the oil life indicator on the truck to determine when I needed to change it, but apparently for engine for life you have to change it more frequently at 6,000 miles, so they wouldn’t cover that part.
NHTSA complaint #11711965 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
La Vergne, TN
ENGINE
I bought the vehicle with 14000 miles.had oil changed at dealership ever ,5000 miles.I drive 10 miles a day.at 55000 miles the lifters are ticking like a time bomb.It makes me sick that a vehicle with no more miles than this is in this shape.Gm should stand behind there junk motors with this afm.
NHTSA complaint #11706300 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Pegram, TN
ENGINE
The lifter collapsed causing it to scar the cam shaft due to afm/dod
NHTSA complaint #11705705 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Springfield, OH
ENGINE
Nothing yet. Between doing research and general observation the DOD/AFM is a known issue for these motors. The engine will randomly loose a valve and cause the engine to shut down causing for a major Saftey concern if traveling or towing
NHTSA complaint #11704841 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Oxford, MS
ENGINE
Loud tapping sound appears to be coming from Lifters and/or camshaft lobes from cylinder 2. Preliminary diagnosis was done by independent service center. Estimated cost to repair could be as much as $10,000. Vehicle odometer reads 72,108 miles. Vehicle started this problem early November 2025.
NHTSA complaint #11703589 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Chester, NH
ENGINE
Premature engine failure specifically the lifters failed and the push rod failed causing the vehicle to become unusable and stranding the operator. Also transmission surges and slips causing unsafe driving conditions
NHTSA complaint #11682177 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Uvalde, TX
ENGINE
making a ticking noise on the engine
NHTSA complaint #11662990 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fontana, CA
ENGINE
Unknown system or component failure. Vehicle is available upon request to inspect. My families safety was at risk, power steering goes out while driving, all service lights come on, vehicle goes into “limp mode”, would go in and out of gear while driving, gears won’t work properly (P,R,D…), when shifting into R camera won’t come on. This problem is continuing. Have not been able to get it into dealership. Vehicle has not been inspected by police, dealership, or insurance. Stabilitrak notification, and all service lights go off. No problem or symptoms prior to failure. Vehicle was well maintained and I have service records of every repair, oil change, etc.
NHTSA complaint #11662945 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Warrensburg, MO
ENGINE
While driving my vehicle, with around 85,000 miles, the engine suddenly began running rough and felt jerky and sluggish. This was concerning and potentially dangerous situation, as the engine failure happened while I was travelling at high speed. A sudden loss of power on the highway put me and other drivers at serious risk. The check engine light came on, so I pulled over as soon as I could safely do so. Shortly after, the light started flashing, so I shut off the engine and contacted the dealership service department. They advised having the vehicle towed in for inspection. Prior to this event, I had not had any issues with the vehicle nor had the check engine light come on. After looking into it, the dealership initially suspected a thrown rod but said they wouldn't know the full extent of the issue until they could tear down the engine. Upon further inspection, they determined that the lifters had failed and would need to be replaced. The dealership has performed all regular maintenance and oil changes on my vehicle. When I asked what could have caused this, they explained that it's a known issue with these lifters and engines - one that Chevrolet has experienced for years, even in models prior to my 2017.
NHTSA complaint #11659279 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Moneta, VA
ENGINE
Lost power to engine while on interstate.
NHTSA complaint #11658188 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 65,000 milesPort St. Lucie, FL
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated that while driving 30 MPH, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. The contact stated that the vehicle stalled. The contact was able to coast to the side of the road. There were several unknown warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The contact had the vehicle diagnosed by a mobile mechanic. The mobile mechanic diagnosed the vehicle and determined that there was a misfire in cylinders #3 and #7. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact towed the vehicle to B2B Fleet Services where it was diagnosed and determined that the head caskets had failed and needed to be replaced. The contact stated that the lifters were replaced; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 65,000.
NHTSA complaint #11657523 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Comanche, TX
ENGINE
Electronics for hands free stopped working. This part was already replaced once. When backing up, the whole truck shut down. I restarted, it said to roll drivers side window down and up. Truck started up again. Few days later... returning from trip, lost power, windshield wipers came on, electronics in truck started blinking. Pulled over, rolled driver's side window up and down. started back on road. This has happened numerous times. Whenever I gave it extra gas, asking for power to pass, same thing mentioned above happened. Very stressful! Next day, hit a hole, truck totally shut down again. Husband was able to safely coast off road, however, if he had been pulling out at a major intersection, this could have been bad. Warning light that comes with shutdown says "stabltrack issue". I have not seen our dealer service department yet, but plan to very soon. VERY unsafe... and I love this truck!!!!
NHTSA complaint #11657578 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Veguita, NM
ENGINE
The AFM system is a faulty system that starved my lifters of oil and they ended up collapsing causing a flat spot on my cam. The engine code would come up as a misfire but the code is caused by the flat spot created on the cam by the lifter it's a faulty system that cost me $7,000. My 8spd transmission also has a hard shift from 1st to 2nd pushing the vehicle forward and jerking it when it shifts. The dealer and GM said this was natural with this type of transmissions which we now know is a lie.
NHTSA complaint #11657123 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Bailey, CO
ENGINE
Lifters caused engine failure at 114000 miles resulting in needing a new engine
NHTSA complaint #11652164 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Wake Forest, NC
ENGINE
After remotely starting my truck, I was met with a strange noise that was both noticeable and unprecedented. The certified Chevy dealership provided three different estimates for tearing down the engine to verify the faulty lifter. Unfortunately, the dealer and warranty provider are unwilling to accept that these issues are inherent to the AFM system. Given the vehicle's relatively low mileage of 89,000 miles, such repairs seem premature.
NHTSA complaint #11648683 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.