Hello. I am looking to buy a Silverado 1500
I decided to buy an older model. They are hard to find without too many miles on them.
I found a z71 that had lower miles on it (150,000) with a new transmission in Excellent condition. I will not be doing any off roading. This truck being in excellent condition for its age has drawn me to it. Does it really matter if I get a z71 and don’t use the features? Does it make more sense to keep looking for another model?
Any buying advice appreciated!

 

Are there service records available for the truck? If it was well maintained with regular oil and filter changes then it could be a good buy depending on the asking price. Take it to a good mechanic to have it thoroughly checked before you buy.

 

I think it is perfectly fine to have a Z71 4WD and use it on-road. You can run in 2WD most of the time, but if you ever deal with ice or snow or slick roads, the 4WD option is nice to have.

I own a 1996 C1500 with 201,000 miles, and a 2006 Silverado 1500 (2WD) with 134,000 miles, and both are still going strong on the original engine and transmission. In fact, I am currently fixing up the 2006 with plans to sell it to finance continued restoration of the 1996, as I prefer the old body style, and the 1996 is also an old step side with the 4x6.5 cargo box - something you just don't see anymore.

If the truck has been maintained reasonably well, that 2001 should have a LOT of miles left in it.