2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Engine Problems

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

NHTSA ID

11762248

Incident

Aug 20, 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

NHTSA ID

11759165

Incident

Aug 22, 2026

Engine failure from bearings and lower rod from lifters. This is the second engine failure in vehicle for the same exact reason per dealership report. Entire engine replacement both times and all lights on dash were on.

NHTSA ID

11758665

Incident

Jun 9, 2026

The wiring harness failed causing erratic and unpredictable behavior at 65 MPH on this 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with 77,500 miles on the odometer. General Motors no longer makes the wiring harness and there are none available in the market. This otherwise flawless truck (for which I paid $40,000 at a reseller in 2024) is essentially now totaled (undrivable) and GM will not take any responsibility or provide any other remedy beside $750 toward the purchase of a brand new truck.

NHTSA ID

11758051

Incident

Jun 13, 2026

The check engine light indicate P0016 crankshaft camshaft position. It has been diagnosed by a mechanic that the timing belt is stretched. Chevrolet has redesigned these parts due to the premature failure but has not issued a recall to install the redesigned parts.

NHTSA ID

11757522

Incident

Jun 4, 2026

Dfn failure Cylinder 6 140,000 MI oil changes done at 20% using nothing but mobile one full synthetic 0w 20

NHTSA ID

11757103

Incident

Aug 14, 2026

The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle was running rough and the vehicle lost automotive power. The check engine warning light was illuminated. Additionally, the transmission made an abnormal sound while starting the vehicle and while driving, and the torque converter was shuddering. The contact and his father diagnosed the vehicle as having a cylinder misfire and performed a compression test on the engine. The contact replaced the lifter and push rods, deactivated and removed the Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM), modified the engine, replaced transmission fluid, and used Lube Gard Instant Shudder Fixx for the torque converter shudder. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 76,000.

NHTSA ID

11756458

Incident

Mar 8, 2024

Mileage

76,000 mi

Unknown which system failed. While driving on the freeway, truck lost power for a few seconds. Dash lights turned off and back on. Our safety and the safety of others on the freeway were at risk as we had no control of the vehicle. Have not had the truck checked for the problem. Scared to drive it. No warnings appeared.

NHTSA ID

11756271

Incident

Aug 9, 2026

Description of Problem: While driving, the engine intermittently revs on its own without any input from the accelerator pedal. During these episodes, the vehicle also shakes/vibrates noticeably. This has occurred [once / multiple times — specify frequency, e.g., “several times over the past X weeks”]. The engine revving is not consistent with normal acceleration and appears unrelated to throttle position. The shaking is felt throughout the cabin and is most noticeable [at idle / at speed / when the revving occurs — specify if known]. Safety Concern: This creates a risk of sudden, unintended changes in vehicle speed or loss of control, particularly if it occurs in traffic, while merging, or at highway speed.

NHTSA ID

11753094

Incident

Jan 2, 2026

While driving my 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 equipped with the 5.3L V8 engine and Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM), the engine developed an internal valvetrain failure resulting in misfires, rough running, and reduced engine performance. The vehicle was diagnosed by a Chevrolet dealership as having failed lifters associated with the DFM system, requiring major engine repairs and replacement of internal engine components. The failure occurred at approximately 81,000 miles and resulted in the vehicle entering a reduced performance condition, creating a potential safety concern when merging, accelerating, or operating in traffic due to the inability to maintain normal vehicle speed and power. The vehicle was inspected and repaired by an authorized Chevrolet dealer. Research shows numerous similar reports from owners of GM 5.3L and 6.2L engines equipped with Active Fuel Management (AFM) and Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM) systems involving lifter and valvetrain failures.

NHTSA ID

11749485

Incident

Mar 12, 2026

Dear Sir or Madam, I am submitting this complaint to request that the Federal Trade Commission investigate General Motors (Chevrolet) regarding what appears to be a known engine defect affecting the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado and the company's handling of this issue. I own a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado. In September 2025, when my truck had only 45,494 miles, I experienced an engine misfire consistent with a defect that has been widely reported by other owners. Through my research, I discovered that General Motors was aware of this issue and, rather than correcting the underlying mechanical defect, reportedly issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) instructing dealerships to reprogram the Engine Control Module (ECM) to reduce or mask the symptoms instead of permanently repairing the root cause. Now, less than one year later, my truck is experiencing the same engine problems again. Although my vehicle has relatively low mileage, it is no longer covered under the factory warranty because of its age rather than its mileage. When I contacted Chevrolet Customer Assistance, I was advised to work with my local dealership to determine whether I might qualify for a "goodwill" repair. I do not believe it is fair for consumers to rely on discretionary goodwill assistance when the manufacturer was allegedly aware of a design defect before or during the time these vehicles were sold. Based on my research, properly repairing the underlying cause of this engine failure can cost as much as $15,000. Consumers should not be expected to bear the financial burden of repairing a defect that the manufacturer allegedly knew existed but failed to adequately correct. I respectfully request that the FTC investigate whether General Motors engaged in unfair or deceptive business practices by: Continuing to market and sell vehicles with a known engine defect. Addressing customer complaints with software reprogramming rather than permanently correcting the underlying mechanical issue. Failing

NHTSA ID

11749482

Incident

Sep 3, 2025

The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated while driving at 35 MPH, the engine started knocking, and the sound grew louder while making a turn. The Electronic Stability Control and check engine warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where one diagnostic trouble code was displayed, but the vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was then taken to a second local dealer, who retrieved a code for fuel injector number eight and diagnosed that the engine needed to be replaced; however, the vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was taken to a third dealership, Knapp Chevrolet, where it was diagnosed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle remained unrepaired. The manufacturer was contacted and opened a case, but no additional assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 94,000.

NHTSA ID

11748710

Incident

Jun 26, 2026

Mileage

94,000 mi

while driving pulling a trailer with my kid in the car engine began knocking and lost power. upon investigation it was a failed lifter causing bent pushrod

NHTSA ID

11746286

Incident

Apr 12, 2026

I am filing this complaint regarding a major engine failure in my 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 equipped with the 5.3L V8 engine. At approximately 56,000 miles, my vehicle experienced a failed valve lifter, resulting in loud engine ticking, a check engine light, loss of power, and unsafe driving conditions. The vehicle was no longer operating properly and required immediate repair. Although the vehicle had been regularly maintained and had relatively low mileage for such a significant engine issue, I was informed that the failed lifter damaged the camshaft and related engine components, requiring extensive repairs. The total cost of the repair was $6,180, which I paid out of pocket. My Silverado was just outside Chevrolet's 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty period by time, despite having only 56,000 miles. A major internal engine failure should not occur on a well-maintained vehicle with such low mileage. After researching this issue, I discovered that lifter failures involving the Active Fuel Management (AFM) and Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM) systems in GM's 5.3L engines have been widely reported by other Chevrolet Silverado owners. This indicates a potential design or manufacturing defect rather than normal wear and tear. I am requesting that General Motors provide reimbursement or goodwill assistance for all or a substantial portion of the $6,180 repair cost. I believe customers should not be responsible for paying thousands of dollars to repair a known issue on a low-mileage vehicle. I respectfully request that this matter be reviewed and resolved promptly.

NHTSA ID

11745333

Incident

May 20, 2026

Engine light came on and off and June 10, 2026 The truck just stole and no power to go

NHTSA ID

11744865

Incident

Jun 10, 2026

I'm experiencing all the documented issues with the 10L80 10 speed transmission. Identical to all the recalls. It's shifting poorly, torque converter shudder, lose of power, unreliability, and serious safety concerns. I've tried to communicate and find a resolution to these issues through the dealership and GM. Of course getting nowhere. I don't feel a 60k dollar truck should be in this kind of condition. Recently the ac compressor went out. Conveniently after the 6.2 was considered faulty and was replaced but transmission denied. Which the dealership GM expressed in no way was any factors the warranty companies claims of a taller tire being on the truck. Being the issue at all for the transmission failure. Also the dealership didn't check a box. One that I can not physically check. Which they put on me. They swapped the stock tires to the taller brand new set I'd just bought for my trade in. Never stating anything about the tires being taller voiding the warranty I just paid for. Why would I deny the part of the extended warranty that I wanted. Cause of the suspension and drivetrain. Either way this truck is not safe to be on the road. It struggles to maintain speed on the highway. Eventually leading to the torque converter free spinning and making all kinds of noises and vibration. Of course once I've assisted it to violently shift through the gears and hopefully into 10th. On occasions it never makes it that far. Either way I feel this falls directly into the recalls with the same model and year. They replaced the 6.2 cause of cylinder failure and oil consumption. Well the next in line for the drive train is the junk 10 speed. Not sure how it can't be related. The long and stressful time. I've put into finding a solution with the dealer or manufacturer. They blow me off or just don't give me any info. I feel that's their way of dismissing not only the failure of the salesman not properly doing his job. Which the GManager also stated mistakes happen. Not OK

NHTSA ID

11743651

Incident

Feb 1, 2023

The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated that while driving at 25 MPH, the vehicle suddenly made knocking sounds. The Check Engine warning light illuminated. Additionally, the vehicle experienced rough idling and a decrease in motive power. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined the lifters had collapsed and bent the push rod. The push rod was replaced, but the newly installed part instantly bent. The mechanic informed the contact that the cam needed to be replaced. The local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 107,800.

NHTSA ID

11743459

Incident

May 28, 2026

Mileage

107,800 mi

While driving my truck it started flashing all the service lights on the dash, and then started shaking bad and making a loud ratcheting noise from the transfer case/transmission and a loud knock/tick from the engine. I scanned for codes and it has all loss of communication codes for engine/transmission/transfer case/brakes/steering

NHTSA ID

11742549

Incident

Jun 5, 2026

The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle experienced a loss of drive power with high RPM. The check engine, traction control, ABS, and parking brake warning lights were illuminated, and the message "Brake System Failure, 43 MPH Top Speed" was displayed. The contact disconnected the battery and was able to correct the failure. The failure later recurred with no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was turned off and restarted, but the failure persisted. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, but the dealer was unable to duplicate the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 55,000. The VIN was unavailable.

NHTSA ID

11742019

Incident

Nov 1, 2025

Mileage

55,000 mi