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Chevrolet Silverado 2007-2013: General Info and Maintenance Schedule

Whether you count on your Chevrolet Silverado 1500 for work, pleasure, or both, it's important to know the basics, such as proper maintenance. Keep your Silverado running properly and it'll never let you down.

By Kate Halse - June 3, 2015

This article applies to the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (2007-2013).

There's more to maintaining a car than getting an oil change and rotating the tires every few thousand miles. While oil changes and rotations are important, so are the various filters, hoses, belts, and other components. As the miles add up and the years go by, most vehicles require a bit more maintenance. Whether your Chevrolet Silverado is relatively new or several years old, maintaining it properly will help extend its life. If you frequently tow with the truck, your maintenance needs may be slightly different than the owner who doesn't tow. Here's a look at general info and suggested maintenance schedules for the Chevrolet Silverado.

Vehicle Maintenance

Oil Life

The Silverado's engine oil life system keeps close track of the oil life based on vehicle use. On most trucks, the Driver Information Center (DIC) will signal when an oil and filter change is needed. Many Silverado owners find that an oil change every 5,000 - 7,000 miles is appropriate.

Figure 1. The Silverado requires oil changes roughly every 5,000 to 7,000 miles.

Tires

Chevrolet recommends rotating the tires approximately every 7,500 miles. However, this number will vary based on specific driving conditions. For example, tire rotations may be recommended sooner than every 7,500 miles for those who tow a lot. The tires should be inspected for signs of wear and tear at routine intervals. Owners should also check tire inflation pressures routinely.

Figure 2. Check tires routinely for signs of wear and tear.

Transmission Fluid

The transmission fluid should be changed at the 45,000, 90,000, and 135,000 mile intervals under normal driving circumstances. However, those who use their truck a lot for towing will need to change the transmission fluid more frequently.

Figure 3. Change the transmission fluid at routine intervals.

Filters

The passenger compartment air filter removes pollen, dust, dirt, and other debris from the air. The filter should be checked every 22,500 miles or 2 years, whichever comes first, and replaced if necessary. The filter may require more frequent replacement if the vehicle is often driven in areas with heavy traffic, poor air quality, or high dust levels.

Figure 4. Check and replace air filter as needed.

Common Questions

What's the difference between the 5.3L and the 5.7L V8 engines?

The 5.3L engine has a coil-on-plug ignition system as opposed to the distributor that the 5.7L V8 engine has.

Common Issues

Slight knocking sound on startup

Higher mileage Silverado's with the 5.3L engine may be prone to slight engine knocking when first starting up. The sound typically resolves in a few minutes and doesn't require further attention.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSB)

  • 09-01-14 Engine and Engine Cooling - Engines with EGR system may leak from EGR cooler
  • 07-01-14 Fuel Rail - Leak at bottom of flywheel housing

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