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Chevrolet Silverado 1999-2006: Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins

Technical Service Bulletins and recalls alert you to potential safety concerns involving your Chevy Silverado. Read more to learn what steps, if any, you will need to take to ensure the safety of your vehicle.

By Charlie Gaston - June 2, 2015

This article applies to the Chevrolet Silverado (1999-2006).

If you're like most vehicle owners, you rely on your Chevrolet Silverado to be dependable and to not break the bank every time you head to the pump. You may have had a few minor repairs here and there, but no major overhauls of the engine. In fact, if you're like most Silverado owners, the majority of your attention has probably been spent keeping up with your regular maintenance schedule, with a little extra care added, as needed, when hauling heavier loads or gearing up for an especially long or rugged trip. Several recalls and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) have been issued for this top-selling truck in recent years. But, don't worry; this article provides the safety information you need to know and explains how to respond if your model year is involved in a recall or TSB.

Recalls

Instrument Panel Cluster

GM announced a Special Coverage Adjustment Service Bulletin for the gauge cluster needle. If you believe your 2003-2004 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 has a faulty needle, temperature gauge, speedometer, or the like, contact your local GM dealer to have your vehicle inspected and/or repaired at no cost to you. Reimbursement options are also available, if you choose to have your truck repaired at a private garage.

Figure 1. Gauge panel repair.

Loss of Power Steering Assist

If you are experiencing sudden loss of power steering assist, contact your GM dealer to have your power steering motor assist kit replaced. If your vehicle is part of the GM recall that was announced on December 24, 2014 for this very issue, you will not be responsible for the cost of the repair work. Subsequent recalls and TSBs have been issued for Silverado trucks that have a leaky power steering pump and/or signs of a failing power assist system.

Figure 2. Replacing power steering pump.

Brake Pedal Won't Depress

Replace your wheel bearings and speed sensors to fix this problem. You may want to also run your VIN in a GM recall database system. In 2005, GM issued a recall for Silverado trucks containing a faulty anti-lock brake system (ABS), which could limit brake applications. There are serious performance concerns for vehicles that might be involved in the recall, so seek professional assistance right away if you notice that your truck is not stopping as usual.

Figure 3. ABS light illuminated.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)

This data can also be found on the NHTSA's website.

  • 09/01/2014 - Service Brakes, Master Cylinder
  • 09/01/2014 - Faulty Hose, Lies/Piping, Fittings
  • 05/01/2008 - Suspension Vibration
  • 02/01/2008 - Faulty Rear Suspension
  • 02/01/2007 - Defective Steering Shaft: Clunking noises in steering wheel
  • 01/01/2007 - Tire and Wheel Size Inspection
  • 12/01/2006 - Rear Drive Axle Whine Noise
  • 09/23/2006 - Faulty Left Front Axle Shaft
  • 03/01/2006 - Upper Arm Control Replacement

Scheduled Maintenance

To prolong the health of your Silverado 1500, rotate your tires every 5,000 miles and replace your engine oil and filter every 7,000 miles. Other maintenance includes replacing your drive belts, plugs and wires, cleaning your fuel injectors, flushing your fluids, and replacing your PCV valve every 100,000 miles.

Common Questions

How will I know if my Silverado 1500 is involved in a recall?

GM is required by law to contact you in writing after a recall announcement. You can also search for information using your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Visit the official GM website for the most up-to-date recall information.

If I received a notice by mail, does that mean there is a possibility my vehicle has been recalled?

Yes! Recalls are based on your VIN, not your vehicle's model year. Therefore, if you have received written notice that your vehicle needs to be inspected and/or repaired as part of a recall campaign, contact your local GM dealer to set up a service appointment.

How do I contact GM directly?

For a Chevrolet Customer Service Representative, dial 800-222-1020.

Where can I find the latest recall announcements?

Visit the GM website. Included in the Related Discussions section below is a direct link to the manufacturer's recall news page.

Related Discussions and Sites