2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500: Is it reliable?Problems, recalls & buyer verdict
The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 has 500 NHTSA complaints and 8 recalls, with engine problems dominating owner reports. Current data includes 500 complaints, with Engine Problems as the top reported area.
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- Accident & damage history
- Title brands & odometer rollback
- Open recalls, theft & lien records
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2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Safety Ratings
NHTSA 5-Star Program6 variants tested — showing 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 PU/CC 4WDOfficial crash test results from the NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings program. Stars reflect government-conducted tests; higher is safer.
Overall
19.8% rollover risk
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
19.8% probability
Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings. Ratings are based on government crash tests and may not reflect all trim levels.
CHEVROLET SILVERADO 1500 2021 has 500 NHTSA complaints, with 281 engine and 157 transmission issues, plus 8 recalls. Buyers should inspect these systems and check recall completion. Source: NHTSA owner complaints and recall records.
- Make
- Chevrolet
- Model
- Silverado 1500
- Model year
- 2021
- NHTSA owner complaints
- 500
- Crash-related complaints
- 9
- Safety recall campaigns
- 8
- Top reported component
- Engine Problems
- Reliability signal
- Notable Issues
- NHTSA overall safety rating
- 4/5 stars
- NHTSA frontal crash rating
- 4/5 stars
- NHTSA side crash rating
- 5/5 stars
- NHTSA rollover rating
- 4/5 stars
- Electronic stability control
- Standard
Common problems
Most common 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 problems
Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.
Engine Problems
Transmission / Drivetrain
Electrical Faults
Complaint patterns center on Engine Problems, Transmission / Drivetrain, Electrical Faults. Use these as a pre-purchase inspection guide, then verify recall and damage history on the specific VIN.
Buyer verdict
Should you buy a used 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500?
The 2021 Silverado 1500 has a high complaint count, especially for engine and transmission problems. It may be worth considering only if a thorough inspection and recall check are performed, and if the price reflects the risk.
Engine and transmission issues can lead to costly repairs and safety concerns. With 500 complaints in one model year, these patterns suggest potential reliability problems.
May Suit
This year may suit buyers who are comfortable with higher risk and plan to have a mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase.
May Want to Avoid
Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience or who cannot perform extensive pre-purchase checks should avoid this year.
Pre-purchase
What to check before buying a used 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Inspection Focus
- Engine: check for unusual noises, stalling, or warning lights.
- Transmission: test for rough shifting, slipping, or delayed engagement.
- Electrical system: verify all lights, infotainment, and sensors function.
Before You Close the Deal
- Inspect engine for signs of problems (noises, leaks, stalling).
- Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Request service records for engine and transmission repairs.
- Have a mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection.
Check the exact car
Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.
Before buying a used 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, theft checks, and open recalls for the exact vehicle.
AI verdict
What the complaint data suggests
Editorial interpretation of NHTSA public complaint data. Source: nhtsa.gov. Complaints are owner-submitted and do not confirm a defect. Methodology
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 shows a high volume of engine-related complaints (281) and transmission issues (157), along with 8 recalls. Buyers should prioritize inspecting these systems and verifying recall completion. Source: NHTSA owner complaints and recall records.
Year context: Compared to other model years, 2021 has a notably high complaint count, but data for adjacent years is not provided.
Recall context: With 8 recalls, buyers must verify all recall repairs are completed before purchase.
- Engine problems account for 281 of 500 total complaints.
- Transmission/drivetrain issues total 157 complaints.
- There are 9 crash-related complaints and 8 recalls.
- Engine Problems (281 complaints)
- Transmission / Drivetrain (157 complaints)
- Electrical Faults (54 complaints)
Full breakdown
All 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 complaints by category
Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Avg Mileage | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Problems | 281 | 1 | — | — | |
| Transmission / Drivetrain | 157 | 1 | — | — | |
| Electrical Faults | 54 | 1 | 1 | — | |
| Uncategorized Issues | 41 | — | — | — | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 17 | — | — | — | |
| Steering Defects | 17 | — | — | — | |
| Brake System | 15 | 2 | — | — | |
| Airbag Malfunctions | 10 | 7 | 1 | — | |
| Door Lock Issues | 10 | — | — | — | |
| Structural Problems | 9 | — | — | — | |
| Forward Collision Avoidance: AEB | 8 | 1 | — | — | |
| Unintended Acceleration | 7 | — | — | — | |
| Suspension Failures | 6 | 1 | — | — | |
| Visibility/Wiper | 4 | — | — | — | |
| Wheel Issues | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Seat Belt Issues | 3 | 1 | 1 | — | |
| Headlight/Taillight Failures | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Electronic Stability Control (Esc) | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Hydraulic | 2 | 1 | — | — | |
| Equipment | 1 | — | 1 | — | |
| Traction Control System | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Parking-Brake Issues | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Fuel System | 1 | — | 1 | — | |
| Diesel | 1 | — | 1 | — | |
| Tire Issues | 1 | — | — | — |
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Complaint counts may exceed total complaints because one report can span multiple categories.
In their words
Real owner complaints
Read what owners actually reported to NHTSA for the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. Type a keyword (e.g. “transmission”, “stalling”, “brakes”) to filter.
When i first purchased the vehicle off the lot a few years back (its a 21, so probably in 22?) Brand new off the lot minimal miles. Within the first few months we started having issues with the power wanting to shift down. We took it in, the dealership found nothing wrong with it…
On June 3, 2026, my 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT Trail Boss, which has a 6.2L L87 V8 engine, stalled and shut off unexpectedly while I was stopped at a traffic light on a public highway. The engine died without warning, leaving me stranded in traffic and creating a serious sa…
Loud ticking noise and power loss. Transmission shift slips from 2ed to 3rd .Recall to factory for check up. Said no problem? Changed oil. They say it was good. It is not.
I have fighting this issue since January and have not gotten any help or relief from Chevrolet. This issue caused a significant safety risk and has cost me $12,000. I am writing to formally report a serious safety issue involving my 2021 Chevrolet Silverado that resulted in a su…
Was on way to trade truck in onb6/6/26 and got a cylinder #7 misfire. Replaced spark plug and wire and moved coil packs around to trace and stayed on #7. Just had recall completed on 9/25/25 and stated that I've heard a rattling noise in engine area. They performed recall and cha…
After putting our Silverado in park it will not turn to the off position or release the key from the ignition immediately. We have to wait 1-3 minutes without attempting to turn it in the off position and then the key will release from ignition. No warning lamps. No error codes …
Air bag light was on , took to dealership because this was absolutely a safety hazard! The left front crash sensor is defective.
1. An electrical failure from a component of the main wiring harness causes the ECM to respond with Service ESC, Reduced Engine Power, Service parking brake, service traction control. 2. Interstate driving requires maintaining rate of speed to avoid collision. The vehicle is muc…
1. An electrical failure from a component of the main wiring harness causes the ECM to respond with Service ESC, Reduced Engine Power, Service parking brake, service traction control. 2. Interstate driving requires maintaining rate of speed to avoid collision. The vehicle is much…
Truck started ticking/clicking a few months back and the ESC or ECS light came on took it to the dealer Carl Black Chevrolet in Orlando, where the was supposed to to fix the problem under the previous owner, my boss who gave me the truck and 30 days after receiving the title the…
2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Custom 2.7 L Turbo 4 cylinder with 34,000 miles When Truck cranks and put in gear begins moving at low speed between 1-2 gear (low speed 5-10 mph forward and also in put into reverse) hard jolted severely injuring passenger. Felt like being rear-ende…
25 to 30 MPH front end collision with no air bag deployment. During repair it showed airbags deployed although none were out.
I have a 2021 Silverado LT trailboss. Catastrophic engine failure. Camshaft bearing and lifter failure. First lifter replacement @ 16,000 miles. Second at 104,000 miles. Was told by GM the 6.2L L87 I have is not affected due to a Canadian VIN. The sticker on the truck says Assemb…
I was driving and all of a sudden engine and transmission failed many lights appeared on the dashboard brakes were not braking, the truck started to lose power and making weird noises.
Sudden loss of power steering, usually upon initial start. May return, may not return during drive. Began around 1 week ago. Sudden loss of power steering when turning either right or left has occurred causing a dangerous situation. Upon loss of power steering, 2 warnings a…
The engine was burning oil, so did a consumption test. The dealer took apart the engine and found the rings for the pistons were leaking and scaring was resulting. This caused me to buy part of a new engine because it was 6days past warranty with only 44,000mi on it. Also, at 18,…
While driving my 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Trail Boss, multiple warning lights and messages suddenly appeared related to the ABS and brake system. The brake pedal became extremely difficult to press and the truck became unsafe to drive. The issue happened unexpectedly while t…
The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Silverado. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, a flashing check engine warning light appeared on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where the received fault code PO300 which was a general code for a misfi…
The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Silverado LD Crew. The contact stated that while reversing the vehicle, the rear end locked up. Also, when accelerated, the vehicle jerked forward and stalled. When the vehicle is shutdown and restarted the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagno…
My 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the 3.0 diesel is experiencing constant high running engine fan, engine power reduced notification on the dash, fluctuating temperature and is showing a P1098 code indicating the coolant control valve needs replaced. GM has issued a special c…
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500.
Safety recalls
2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 recalls
8 campaignsNHTSA recall campaigns for the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. With 8 recalls, buyers must verify all recall repairs are completed before purchase. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.
SEAT BELTS
SEAT BELTS
TIRES
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
TIRES:TEMPORARY/EMERGENCY SPARE TIRE
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE
Questions
2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 buying FAQ
Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.
Is the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 reliable?▾
Notable Issues. NHTSA currently shows 500 owner complaints, 9 crash-related complaints, and 8 recall campaigns for this model year. The 2021 Silverado 1500 has a high complaint count, especially for engine and transmission problems. It may be worth considering only if a thorough inspection and recall check are performed, and if the price reflects the risk. Treat this as a model-year signal, then verify the exact vehicle's condition and history before purchase.
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500?▾
#1: Engine Problems (281 complaints). #2: Transmission / Drivetrain (157 complaints). #3: Electrical Faults (54 complaints)
At what mileage do problems start on the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500?▾
Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.
How safe is the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500?▾
Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, NHTSA complaints include 9 crash-related reports and 3 fire reports out of 500 total complaints. 8 injury reports are also on file. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Does the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 have any recalls?▾
Yes. 8 NHTSA recall campaigns affect the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. A major recall area is SEAT BELTS. With 8 recalls, buyers must verify all recall repairs are completed before purchase. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.
Should I buy a 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500?▾
The 2021 Silverado 1500 has a high complaint count, especially for engine and transmission problems. It may be worth considering only if a thorough inspection and recall check are performed, and if the price reflects the risk. Engine and transmission issues can lead to costly repairs and safety concerns. With 500 complaints in one model year, these patterns suggest potential reliability problems. Pay extra attention to Engine Problems during inspection. Before committing, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, and recall completion for the exact car.
Source: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) complaint and recall databases, aggregated by VinSpector AI.
Wider context: See the full Chevrolet Silverado 1500 reliability report with year-by-year comparison.
Owner Reliability Rating
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Ratings are based on owner experience and are separate from NHTSA data shown above.
Before you buy
Check the exact vehicle history before you buy
Model-year complaints and recalls reveal patterns. A VIN report confirms whether the exact car has accident history, title brands, mileage issues, or open recalls.