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Chevrolet Silverado: Why is My Frame Making Noise?

Nothing could be worse than undesired noises generated by poor fitting parts. Find out what components you can check to find the source.

By Jerry Perez - June 4, 2015

This article applies to the Chevrolet Silverado GMT800, GMT900, and K2XX (1999-Present).

Any kind of unwanted noise can become annoying extremely quick, and whether it's a squeal, grind, or pop, they all have a source. But identifying that source can usually prove to be extremely tedious business. Sometimes, frame sounds can originate due to poor lubrication, poor torquing of bolts, third party accessories, or just poor craftsmanship. Locating frame noises is best attempted by eliminating one source after another. Here you will read the most common reasons for noises.

Materials Needed

  • WD-40 or similar lube
  • Grease
  • Grease gun (optional)

Step 1 – Check bed frame joints

They could be lacking lubrication.

The Silverado's frame is made up thousands of rivets and spot weld that give it strength as well as rigidity. But there are tabs and joints where the frame attaches to the body, and that's where a lot of squeaks and pops could originate. It is recommended to locate the noise coming from the front or back, and once isolated, check the different frame joints for that area of the vehicle. You can use WD-40, or, even better, a heavy duty grease.

  • Figure 1. Joints where the frame meets the body could be the cause for squeaks.
  • Figure 2. Joints such as this one could cause noise.

Step 2 – Check aftermarket accessories

They could be fitted improperly.

The Chevy Silverado boasts a huge number of aftermarket accessories, but the downside of that is that some of those accessories don't fit as they should sometimes. Many members of ChevroletForum.com have reported issues with certain brands of running boards, brush guards, and even rear fender steps. These could sometimes have hardware that flexes and squeaks while driving. Replace hardware, grease it, or remove the faulty accessories to fix noise.

  • Figure 3. Running boards are a common source of unwanted noises.
  • Figure 4. Aftermarket bumpers and fenders could cause noises if they are rubbing.

Step 3 – Check the suspension

It could be a suspension component that is worn out.

Your Silverado's suspension components get put through an enormous stress load day in and day out every time you drive. Therefore, parts like shocks, struts, springs, joints and even control arms could cause noises if not properly maintained. While most suspension components could be fixed with a little grease, some like shocks and struts have to be repaired once they've fulfilled their productive lifecycle.

  • Figure 5. Suspension components of Silverado.
  • Figure 6. Properly greasing components could fix most squeaks.

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