RoadVitals

2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Owner Complaints

Reports submitted to NHTSA by owners and drivers, shown in full

Data refreshed

Complaints on fileComplaints are reports submitted to NHTSA by owners and drivers. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a complaint does not establish that a defect exists. Volume is influenced by how many of a vehicle were sold, how long it has been on the road, and how much attention an issue has received.
730
+15 complaints in 30 days
Crash or fire reportedComplaints whose submitter recorded that a crash or a fire occurred. These are the reporter's own answers on the NHTSA form, not verified findings.
22
Filed in the last 12 monthsReports filed with NHTSA in the trailing 365 days. Recent volume reflects attention and vehicle age as much as anything else.
199
Reports on file since Dec 26, 2019

What this page shows

Our database holds 730 NHTSA owner-reported complaints for the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. Each one is a report filed by an owner or driver and published by NHTSA without most of them being verified. A complaint is not a confirmed defect, not a recall and not a manufacturer bulletin. Narratives are shown exactly as filed.

Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.

Complaints, most recent first

Showing 1–25 of 730 · page 1 of 30

BrakesDriver assistanceOther / unspecified
Filed Sep 24, 2026

1) The vehicle experienced a rear axle/rear-wheel lock-up after the recall-related repair was performed and the same diagnostic codes associated with the initial repair reportedly returned. 2)The rear axle/rear wheels locked while the vehicle was being driven on the highway, creating a significant loss-of-control and collision hazard. A sudden drivetrain/axle lock-up at highway speed causes the vehicle to stop or behave unpredictably, potentially resulting in a severe collision 3) Yes. Huffines Chevrolet performed the initial recall-related repair and subsequently the same diagnostic codes reportedly returned after said repair 4) The vehicle has been inspected by 2 Chevrolet dealerships, including Huffines Chevrolet and El Dorado Chevrolet/Motors. The matter has also been reported to GM Customer Assistance under Case No. 110236243 5) Yes. Diagnostic codes associated with the recall-related issue were present when the vehicle was initially taken to Huffines Chevrolet on August 10, 2026. Huffines performed recall-related repairs, including replacement of the transmission module as part of the attempted repair. After the vehicle was returned, the problem recurred. On August 28, 2026, while driving on the highway, the rear axle/rear wheels locked, and the same diagnostic codes reportedly returned.

NHTSA ID
11766697
Incident
Aug 28, 2026
Powertrain (other)
Filed Sep 16, 2026

I have notice that the car jerks hard from time to time and when try to accelerate the car does a quick/short stop then accelerates hards very jerky.

NHTSA ID
11764779
Incident
Jun 1, 2026
ElectricalSteering
Filed Sep 15, 2026

While driving I lost the power steering on the vehicle. I took my truck to a chevy dealership and scheduled an appointment for the following day. I research the problem and found that there was a Customer Satisfaction Program bulletin (N252515590) issued covering this specific issue for my trucks model year but it did not cover my specific VIN. I contacted Chevrolet Customer Assistance and they told me to file a complaint with NHTSA.

NHTSA ID
11764335
Incident
Aug 17, 2026
ElectricalPowertrain (other)
Filed Sep 14, 2026

rear axle locks up and transmission goes into limp mode , this happens when slow speed under acceleration, this happens almost any time in traffic , at stop light , acceleration to freeway. a safety issue, shows a p0700 code and p2729 code , engine service code light goes on , T/C and skid lights. also happen at hard brakes in traffic lights or fast slow downs

NHTSA ID
11764253
Incident
Sep 7, 2026
Electrical
Filed Sep 14, 2026

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The A/C condenser and the vehicle battery failed. The failed components are available for inspection upon request. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? The A/C failure causes the driver's side to blow warm air, creating severe window fogging and reducing visibility in extreme weather, while the electrical/battery failure compromises vehicle operation and safety features. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? The A/C issue matches General Motors Technical Service Bulletin PIT5767A, caused by an internally bypassing condenser due to a mispositioned block-off plate. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? The vehicle has not yet been officially inspected by a manufacturer representative, but the defect aligns with known GM manufacturing specifications under bulletin PIT5767A. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? Symptoms appeared suddenly with the air conditioning losing performance (driver's side blowing significantly warmer than the passenger side) alongside concurrent battery and electrical system failures.

NHTSA ID
11764002
Incident
Sep 11, 2026
Powertrain (other)
Filed Sep 10, 2026

The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado. The contact stated that while driving between 20 mph and 60 mph, the vehicle shudders a lot while accelerating. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with a failure in the transmission. The contact stated he contacted a dealer where they confirmed the failure but stated there are no recalls nor TSBs related to the failure, although there are recalls for different model vehicles that have the exact same transmission as the contact's vehicle. The contact referenced TSB 19-NA-121 (powertrain); however, the VIN was not included in the repair. The contact stated he could feel the shaking shuddering. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired.

NHTSA ID
11763486
Incident
Sep 10, 2026
ElectricalExterior lightingSteering
Filed Sep 8, 2026

Body to frame ground cables corroded in half two different times within about 6 months. First time engine wouldn’t start had to have it towed to dealer for repair, over 30 codes were shown when this happened. Next incident some of my lights were working intermittently and my steering was rendered inoperable for 20 to 30 seconds at a time making it impossible to steer the vehicle, several codes were found when this happened, I drove the truck to a Chevrolet dealer for repair. Both repairs were deemed to be corroded ground cables. Chevrolet has a “customer appreciation program” covering 2019-2024 Silverado trucks but for some reason my VIN number doesn’t land in the program even though it has the same issues that are covered for the other silverados.

NHTSA ID
11762918
Incident
Aug 5, 2026
Brakes
Filed Sep 8, 2026

While driving my 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, the braking system suddenly malfunctioned without any prior warning. When I released the accelerator, the vehicle began slowing as though the brakes were being applied even though I was not pressing the brake pedal. When I attempted to brake normally, the vehicle did not stop as expected and braking ability was significantly reduced. The red BRAKE warning, ABS warning, traction/ESC warnings, and check engine light illuminated. The dashboard displayed “Brake System Failure – 43 MPH Top Speed,” “Service ESC,” and “Service Trailer Brake System.” Because of the reduced braking ability, I stopped the vehicle and had it transported by flatbed tow to a Chevrolet dealership rather than continue driving it. The Chevrolet dealer inspected the vehicle and documented diagnostic trouble codes P25A2 and C053D. The dealer stated that the Brake System Control Module requested the warning light and that updated software was available to address these codes. The dealer reprogrammed the Brake System Control Module according to a GM technical service bulletin. No mechanical brake components were replaced. I was charged $362.95 for the diagnosis/reprogramming. I am reporting this because the failure occurred suddenly while the vehicle was being driven and resulted in significantly reduced braking ability, creating a serious risk of a crash. The vehicle had approximately 74,221 miles at the time of the incident. The dealer repair invoice documenting the codes and repair is available upon request.

NHTSA ID
11762914
Incident
Sep 7, 2026
Body & structureElectrical
Filed Sep 6, 2026

Rear windows water leak. May caue electrical issues and mold in the cab

NHTSA ID
11762450
Incident
Sep 6, 2026
Engine
Filed Sep 4, 2026

Motor blew up. 6.2 L87. 2020 silverado 90000 miles, this will be the 4th motor

NHTSA ID
11762248
Incident
Aug 20, 2026
Driver assistance
Filed Sep 3, 2026

Vehicle came to abrupt stop with no warning and no reason. There was not a vehicle in front of me, nor behind me when this occurred. If there had been a vehicle coming behind me there would have been a collision.

NHTSA ID
11762037
Incident
Sep 2, 2026
Brakes
Filed Sep 3, 2026

Complete brake system, master cylinder, pads, rotors. Only 75000+- miles. Morning start and the brakes are locked up. Had to get towed and the entire system needed to be replaced. So after several days and almost $5,000 I started driving home. After about 5 miles something fell off the front brakes and bounced along underneath but I was close to home so I continued and didn't need to apply the brakes until my driveway and then a terrible grinding sound. Called the dealer (Modern Chevrolet) Winston-Salem NC. Turns out the Einsteins who did the work forgot to tighten the bolts holding the rotor and one fell out and the other one was grinding against the wheel. So another extended stay at the dealership to correct this, a new wheel and correction to the brake components.

NHTSA ID
11762018
Incident
Apr 16, 2026
BrakesElectrical
Filed Sep 2, 2026

While stopped at a highway red light, the vehicle jolted forward and numerous dash lights came on, including messages saying “Brake System Failure, Service ESC, Service Trailer Brake, Service Parking Brake, Engine Power Reduced, Power Steering Reduced.” This is the first time any of these messages have ever appeared. This made the vehicle incredibly difficult to steer and the braking ability was almost non-existent. Had this happened one minute earlier or later, a multi-vehicle and potentially fatal accident would likely have occurred. Vehicle was towed to a dealer who confirmed the error messages and severely reduced performance. To me, this seems consistent with GM service bulletins PIT5730 and 20-NA-073. The dealer, however, is quoting me $3,700 to repair the master cylinder and electronic control braking module. Whatever the case, this absolutely needs to be upgraded to a recall before this happens to somebody at the wrong time.

NHTSA ID
11761729
Incident
Aug 28, 2026
Engine
Filed Sep 1, 2026

My 2020 high country with a 6.2 l is 6 months away from the recall. Driving on the interstate with my family coming out of devil's Tower lost all power!!. I just replaced my motor at 60000 miles total engine loss catastrophic bearing failure!! This is the exact sameproblem from the 2021-2024 recall on the GMC 6.2liter

NHTSA ID
11761440
Incident
Jun 28, 2026
Fuel system
Filed Sep 1, 2026

Vehicle sent alert on phone saying battery critically low, then the vehicle started having fuel gauge issue and started lurching. Shut the vehicle down saw a P129F in the alerts. Checked battery vehicle was a no start. Luckily near a shop so it wasn't catastrophic and was able to r eplace the fuel pump control module and it instantly started. This part NEEDS to be recalled it is a safety hazard that chevy does not aknowledge

NHTSA ID
11761424
Incident
Aug 20, 2026
Engine
Filed Aug 28, 2026

Engine defect,I was driving down Claiborne ave.,and my truck just cut off while I was doing 50 mph with my daughter in the truck with me,an 18 wheeler came real close to running in the back of me,also my fuel door popped out,I brought it to West Bank gmc lagacy and got it fixed,this will be my 2nd time getting this same part fixed.

NHTSA ID
11760490
Incident
Jun 17, 2026
ElectricalEnginePowertrain (other)
Filed Aug 28, 2026

The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated that the infotainment center intermittently went black, and there was water leaking into the vehicle through the top and lower center of the front windshield and the rear windshield. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where the rear windshield was replaced without a diagnostic being performed; however, the failures persisted. Additionally, the side view mirrors intermittently failed to unfold when starting the vehicle. The contact stated that while driving approximately 40 MPH, white smoke emitted from the exhaust, the vehicle hesitated, and it lost power. The Check Engine warning light illuminated, along with "Service Electronic Stability Control", "Trailer Brake System", "Steering Assist Reduced", "Service Brake Assist", and "Brake System Failure" messages, and the vehicle failed to exceed 40 MPH. The vehicle was towed to a second dealer, Arcadia Chevrolet Buick (210 S Brevard Ave, Arcadia, FL 34266), where it was diagnosed that the lifter and torque converter had failed. The lifter and torque converter were replaced, and the system was flushed. Approximately 800 miles later, the engine failed again. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed that the torque converter and transmission had fractured. The torque converter and transmission were replaced; however, the warning lights and messages illuminated again, and the vehicle continued to hesitate when driven over 42 MPH. After being parked for a few days, the warning lights were no longer illuminated and the mirrors opened, but the engine hesitation persisted. The vehicle was not further diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 10,000.

NHTSA ID
11760384
Incident
Aug 28, 2026
Mileage
10,000 mi
ElectricalSteering
Filed Aug 28, 2026

On July 22, 2026 took truck to dealership for oil change and reported getting random (trailer brake, power steering) service alarms. Was told it might be a ground strap issue and was sent on my way. After investigating, there is a GM service bulletin (#23-NA-201) on the issue but does not cover my truck. After a week of vacation, began driving truck again and alarms became more frequent, including loss of power steering and jerking of steering wheel while driving. Arranged with dealership to replace the ground strap (at my expense). By the time they could schedule, the alarms were constant and the truck had completely lost power steering. One of the power steering failures nearly resulted in an accident while turning.

NHTSA ID
11760322
Incident
Jul 22, 2026
Powertrain (other)
Filed Aug 28, 2026

Purchased used in 02/2022. Pickup started to shutter when shifting at 35-45 MPH. Took it to Turnpike Chevy who found thrust bearing in reaction carrier broken and damaged planetary gear set. They replaced the reaction carrier ASM and Reconditioned the transmission ASM. Replaced the valve body ASM. Took to John Sauder Chevy numerous times between July 19 2024 and July 7 2025 due to the shutter when shifting having returned. They tried the GM approved fix of flashing the computer to reprogram and kept saying they could not duplicate. On June 18, 2025 while towing a trailer on the highway while going highway speeds in the middle of rush hour traffic the transmission suddenly started making a shrill noise. Transmission disengaged and lost power. John Sauder Chevrolet found a broken oil pump drive and drive gears on the 10L80E transmission. GMC refused to replace the transmission and now it is out of warranty and starting shutter again when it shifts

NHTSA ID
11760264
Incident
Jun 18, 2025
EnginePowertrain (other)
Filed Aug 27, 2026

Vehicle: 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 4x4 LT (5.3L V8 Engine) Component: Engine (Piston Rings, Lifters, and Motor Assembly) / Powertrain Component Availability: Yes, the failed components/vehicle are available for inspection upon request. What Happened and Safety Risk: While operating the vehicle on Prince Street in Clovis, NM, the engine suddenly began knocking violently without any prior warning or symptoms. Immediately following the mechanical failure, dashboard warning lights illuminated (including the Check Engine light, ABS, and Traction Control) and the vehicle dropped into "Reduced Engine Power" mode. This caused an immediate and hazardous loss of acceleration on an active roadway, forcing an emergency maneuver to navigate out of traffic and pull over safely. This sudden powertrain failure poses an unreasonable and severe safety risk to the driver and surrounding traffic. Confirmation and Inspections: The mechanical failure has been confirmed and diagnosed by Hamilton Chevy in Portales, New Mexico, and Sanders Repair Services in Portales, New Mexico. The vehicle and components have not been inspected by the manufacturer, police, or insurance representatives. There were no warning lamps, messages, or symptoms of any kind prior to the sudden failure.

NHTSA ID
11760182
Incident
Jul 20, 2026
Powertrain (other)
Filed Aug 27, 2026

The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated that while driving at 55-65 MPH, a rattling sound was heard coming from the front passenger-side of the vehicle. No warning light illuminated; however, the contact noticed that the voltage levels were between 9 and 11 volts. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the transmission had failed and needed replacement. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and filed a case. The failure mileage was approximately 79,000.

NHTSA ID
11759909
Incident
Aug 26, 2026
Mileage
79,000 mi
Engine
Filed Aug 27, 2026

The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated that while driving 55 MPH, the vehicle suddenly began to shake, vibrate, and lose speed. An abnormal knocking sound was heard coming from the engine, and the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the contact's residence, where the contact, a master mechanic, examined the vehicle. The contact diagnosed that the fuel management system, lifter springs, camshaft lifters, engine push rods, and rocker arms needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The local dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The contact stated that the vehicle experienced the same failure described in the recall. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 11,450.

NHTSA ID
11759907
Incident
Aug 25, 2026
Mileage
11,450 mi
BrakesElectrical
Filed Aug 26, 2026

I went to the store and my brakes were working as normal. When I started my truck to leave I had a hard pedal and there we several warnings on the dash. One said to get service and the other said to limit speed to 43 MPH. I had almost no braking power. Fortunately, I was close to home and the speed limit was 30 MPH all the way home. Once I arrived home I cleared the code with my ODBII scanner and the brakes worked as expected. If I was towing my boat this could have been a bad situation resulting in an accident. I haven't had the same issue in several days however this has to be a huge liability for GM. I'm sure that this is a known failure mode for GM.

NHTSA ID
11759742
Incident
Aug 23, 2026
Engine
Filed Aug 26, 2026

My lifter failed in my Chevy Silverado 1500 on the highway, causing severe shaking while driving and an array of dash lights. After taking it to a local. Chevy dealer, they confirmed a lifter collapse and possible damage to my cam shaft. I have been up to date on all oil changes with premium synthetic oil, and there were no prior dash lights indicating a problem.

NHTSA ID
11759611
Incident
Aug 23, 2026
Engine
Filed Aug 24, 2026

Lifters are failing. Engine is making horrible engine noise. Mechanics said it was lifters.

NHTSA ID
11759165
Incident
Aug 22, 2026

Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.

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