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2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Engine Problems

Owner-reported complaints naming the engine system, filed with NHTSA

Data refreshed

Engine reportsComplaints 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.
250
Latest Aug 11, 2026
Share of all reportsThis category as a share of every owner report on file for this model year. One report can name more than one component, so the categories overlap.
36%
of 695 total
Crash or fire reportedReports in this category whose submitter recorded that a crash or a fire occurred. The reporter's own answer on the NHTSA form, not a verified finding.
2
Injuries or deaths reportedTotals the submitters entered on their own reports in this category. Not verified by NHTSA and not a casualty statistic.
0

What this page shows

Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components. Every record below is an owner-reported complaint about the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 submitted to NHTSA — not a confirmed defect, not a recall and not a manufacturer bulletin. 250 reports on file name it.

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

Owner reports naming engine

The 25 most recent of 250, in the owner's own words

Driver assistanceElectricalEngine
Filed Aug 11, 2026

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
EngineFuel system
Filed Jul 27, 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
Engine
Filed Jul 10, 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
Engine
Filed Jul 10, 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
Driver assistanceEngineFuel system
Filed Jul 7, 2026

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
Engine
Filed Jun 24, 2026

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
Engine
Filed Jun 20, 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
Filed Jun 17, 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
EnginePowertrain (other)
Filed Jun 12, 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
Engine
Filed Jun 11, 2026

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
EnginePowertrain (other)
Filed Jun 7, 2026

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
BrakesEngine
Filed Jun 4, 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
Engine
Filed Jun 1, 2026

My 2020 Chevy TrailBoss 6.2L V8 L87, same engine that has been recalled for 2021-2024 literally went dead in the middle of rush hour traffic. The engine has been deemed dead due to the exact current recall reasons. Seeing that was traffic was flowing at 45mph that was not a good scene as the vehicle " locked" itself into park originally so I was stuck in the middle of traffic. The vehicle has been confirmed seized uo by the Portsmouth NH Chevy dealer which is the Key Auto Group. Warranty adjusters representatives from a third party, not GM, will be assessing it this week. I purchased an after market warranty not by GM. I had no warning lights leading into the failure.

NHTSA ID
11741326
Incident
May 29, 2026
ElectricalEnginePowertrain (other)
Filed Jun 1, 2026

The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed, however the vehicle failed to accelrate as intended. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, howeve the failure was not duplicated. The failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a failed wiring harness and a failed coolant oump. The contact was informed that the wirng harness and the coolant pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated thirteen days later the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a failed transmission and failed coolant pump. The contact was informed that the transmission and the coolant pumo needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The failure reoccurred three days later. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an indpendent mechanic or dealer. The failure reoccurred. The failure was persistent. The contact stated tht within a year, the vehicle was taken to the dealer for ellectrical , transmission and engine failures. The contact stated that the wiring harness, transmission and coolant pump were replaced. In addition, the coolant ump was repalced two times. The vehicle was . The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 97,000.

NHTSA ID
11741287
Incident
Jun 19, 2023
Mileage
97,000 mi
EngineFuel systemPowertrain (other)
Filed May 18, 2026

The defective manufacturer lifters on my 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 went on my truck damaging the lifters, camshaft, oil pump and I'm sure more than that. I know it's an ongoing investigation/lawsuit with General Motors, but they need to held accountable and should fix this issue free of charge. Not everyone has $5k-$10k+ to repair their engine due to their negligence. Thank you

NHTSA ID
11738647
Incident
May 13, 2026
Engine
Filed May 18, 2026

I was driving on I-35 in Norman, Oklahoma, shortly after 7 am, when my 2020 Chevy Trail Boss with the 6.2 engine stopped running. I was in moderate traffic and shifted the gear shifter to neutral, and the motor would not restart, leaving me in traffic. I was able to slowly get on teh shoulder to avoid a collision, and the engine would not restart. I had teh vehicle towed to Ammco in Norman, Oklahoma, where it was determined that a catastrophic engine failure occurred. This is teh same problems that are associated with recalls on the 2021 and up 6.2 GM engine. luckly i was able to get to a safe place and avoid a collision.

NHTSA ID
11738562
Incident
May 18, 2026
Engine
Filed May 14, 2026

While returning from a camping trip my engine lost power. luckily I was close to an exit and managed to get it off the expressway and to a parking lot. I was able to leave the camper in the lot and have the truck towed to a dealer 30 miles away. I was informed by the dealer that the engine had sustained major berring failure. I was over 500 miles from home and I had 2 options, wait 2 weeks for a new engine to be installed or trade it in for a new truck. I opted for the trade in because I didn't want to wait 2 weeks. I figure I lost $7000 in trade in value and had to spend $2000 to have my new truck fitted for a 5th wheel hitch.

NHTSA ID
11737952
Incident
May 4, 2026
Engine
Filed May 13, 2026

The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado. The contact stated that when her husband turned the vehicle on the vehicle stalled immediately. The vehicle was not able to restart. The vehicle was towed to a independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the engine had locked up. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle then towed to a dealer where it was diagnosed that there was an engine, cam shaft, and barring failure related to Manufacture Recall Number : N252494000, and the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 50,000.

NHTSA ID
11737547
Incident
Apr 15, 2026
Mileage
50,000 mi
Engine
Filed May 12, 2026

Chevrolet dealership diagnosed my truck and said the coolant control valve would have to be replaced.

NHTSA ID
11737323
Incident
May 11, 2026
Engine
Filed Apr 28, 2026

This was a 6.2L V8 that is actively under investigation and recall for model years 2021-2024. it is a part of the same GM generation of engines 4th Generation, GMT T1XX. I was not told about the active recall for other members of the generation by the dealership in which i purchased it at in august of 2025. I purchased this vehicle less than a year ago and the engine has now suffered a catastrophic failure consistent with known 6.2L issues.

NHTSA ID
11734288
Incident
Apr 22, 2026
Engine
Filed Apr 27, 2026

The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated that while driving 55 MPH, there was an abnormal sound coming from the engine compartment. The vehicle lost automotive power with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact stated that there was bluish-gray smoke coming from the rear of the vehicle. After releasing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle stalled. The contact restarted the vehicle, but the sound became louder. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed, and metal shavings were found in the engine oil. Additionally, there was a misfire in several cylinders, the camshaft not operating properly, and the engine needed to be repaired or replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 131,000.

NHTSA ID
11734032
Incident
Jan 10, 2026
Mileage
131,000 mi
EnginePowertrain (other)
Filed Apr 27, 2026

The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated that while driving 35 MPH, the vehicle shuddered and lost automotive power. The check engine, ABS, and several other unknown warning lights were displayed before an engine misfire. The vehicle regained automotive power before hesitated while depressing the accelerator pedal. Additionally, there was an abnormal humming sound coming from the engine. The vehicle was eventually driven to the dealer where a diagnostic test was performed. The dealer determined there was a lifter failure in cylinder #2, and there was debris in both the engine and transmission, which caused engine and transmission failures. The dealer agreed to a goodwill repair, to cover part of the cost of the repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and transferred the contact to the NHTSA to report the failure. The vehicle was not repaired and remained with the dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.

NHTSA ID
11733957
Incident
Mar 22, 2026
Mileage
70,000 mi
Engine
Filed Apr 20, 2026

-My 2020 Trail-boss 6.2 Engine broke and stopped producing power and shut off, it is available for inspection and has been inspected by my local Chevy Dealer Tom Gibbs Chevrolet. -My son was crossing a railroad track and it shut off as he topped the tracks it shutoff at the tracks and he was able to coast down out of the way. If it shut off a second earlier he would have been stuck on the tracks and there is a list of what if's. My grandson in the car seat, my son gets out breaks his ankle and can't get my grandson out there is so many things that could have happened. -The dealer stated the 6.2 engine is known to have mechanical failures -The local dealer stated valve cover was removed and no movement in valve train needs new engine at a cost of $21,343.24 They realized that the original $250 rubber serpentine belt outlasted the engine with 123K miles on it -No warning lights, no rough running, no sounds just shut off no power.

NHTSA ID
11732571
Incident
Apr 12, 2026
Engine
Filed Apr 20, 2026

September 2020 received new vehicle ( purchased platinum extended warranty at time of sale that expires 9/22/2027)-December 2022 heard loud ticking & misfires & check engine light on took to dealer who found #2 cylinder intake lifter collapsed at that time was under warranty (9924 miles) and dealer replaced not only damaged lifter but all lifters and guides (I have this repair invoice from 12/2022) On March 31 2026 (19,000 miles)ticking came back took silverado to dealer to be checked 4/3/26 they kept truck and had to take top of engine apart where they found that the #2 cylinder lifter has collapsed again the technician went ahead & replaced lifter before getting authorization from warranty company, GM or us to do repair dealer told us that they can put old damaged lifter back in truck & we can take truck back if we want- we are waiting for the inspector that warranty company wants to send to inspect the truck they still have truck 2 1/2 weeks later the warranty company wanted to see all receipts & log for all 7 oil changes which i gave to dealer 4/13/26 was passed to warranty company who accepted all & they want to send an independent inspector to see truck on 4/20/26 we are waiting to hear if he came This is a serious safety issue as this engine 6.2 (L87) Z71 has been prone to lifter failures since 2019, we only found this out now when the same lifter collapsed a second time & that this engine has been known to shut engine down while driving & severely damaging it & even possibly causing an accident If we get no satisfaction from dealer or warranty company as a next step we will be asking for a GM regional representative to come inspect the truck see the repeat lifter failure, open a case with a corporate representative & look into the Lemon Law as this is a recurring issue-- it also affects the value & resale value of our Silverado

NHTSA ID
11732514
Incident
Mar 31, 2026
Engine
Filed Apr 13, 2026

* same part gone bad as other recalled vehicles. "Coolant control flow valve bad". Engine fan is staying on high blast, message displaying " engine power is reduced" truck will not drive at full power because the truck thinks its overheating because of bad part. If i remember correctly, it is code p1098. Bad part is intermittent. It Will happen randomly driving down the road. It comes and goes. I believe this is a safety factor . There is a special warranty or recall regarding this part with my year truck, but not my vin? Why not? Same part going bad with same codes and same problem ? Please consider looking into this concern and expanding the recall or concern for this reduced engine power safety concern. Thank you for looking into this.

NHTSA ID
11730764
Incident
Apr 6, 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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