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The Chevy Silverado has seen mixed reviews over the years yet continues to be an American favorite. And despite its iffy reliability, owner satisfaction remains high. Let’s delve into what sparked the stark contrast in scoring.

The 2020 Chevy Silverado’s dismal reliability

While an improvement on past model years, most notably the 2017 Silverado, the 2020 Chevy Silverado 1500 is still plagued by problems. According to My Lemon, the most notable issue involving the 2020 model year are engine malfunctions, including rough idles, trouble starting, and excess noise. The most common causes of these engine issues are faulty piston rings, broken sensors, and carbon buildup.

Additional problems with the 2020 Silverado 1500 include electrical and brake problems. Complaints regarding electrical issues are related to a faulty battery cable that can stall engine starts and cause a risk of fires. As for the brake problem, the NHTSA has reported widespread failure, and a recall has been ordered.

The 2020 Chevy Silverado’s contradiction in owner satisfaction

A red 2020 Chevy Silverado 1500 full-size pickup truck model with a diesel powertrain driving past a forest
2020 Chevy Silverado 1500 | Chevrolet

What do owners say about their experiences with the 2020 Chevy Silverado 1500? According to Cars.com testimonials, 87% of owners recommended the model, with the most favored category being the truck’s exterior styling.

Most other sites with user reviews come to a similar figure. J.D. Power data shows that roughly 90% of Silverado 1500 owners are male, and their top concerns when choosing a vehicle are fuel economy and maintenance costs. Owners’ favorite things about the 2020 model year are its exterior styling, driving dynamics, and engine performance, while their least favorite things are the model’s amount of storage space, climate control features, and infotainment system.

The 2020 Silverado 1500 is a pretty nice pickup

Despite its poor reliability score from some sites, the Chevy Silverado 1500 is viewed as a pretty solid truck by others. RepairPal, a site that collects vehicle repair data, doesn’t show any issues for 2020, 2019, or 2018 Silverado models. As for the 2020 Silverado 1500, reviews have been generally positive. 

Edmunds also points out that after a redesign in the 2019 model, the 2020 Silverado 1500 comes with a host of upgrades. Several powertrain options can handle various towing and hauling jobs. Engines include a turbocharged four-cylinder, a V6, two V8 versions, and a new turbodiesel. 

Additionally, the long-cab configuration offers a significant upgrade in rear legroom. The in-cabin display is easy to use and attractive. And with eight available trim levels to choose from, this pickup is easily customizable.

Some reliability ratings for the 2020 Silverado 1500 may not look good. However, that doesn’t mean your Silverado won’t be reliable or you’ll be dissatisfied with your purchase. It may make a Chevy truck enthusiast out of you along the way.

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Contributing Writer

Desiree Homer

Desiree Homer began contributing content to MotorBiscuit in 2018. She is a veteran in all things sales and marketing and at writing results-oriented sales copy. Her professional credentials include: 15+ years in direct Sales (local, regional and national industries), 5+ years in Television Advertising, 5+ years in Staffing and Business Development, and 3+ Years in Automotive Sales.

She began contributing to Endgame360 in 2018. She is a Jeep enthusiast at heart and spent more than three years selling cars for GM and Ford dealerships. Desiree has sold everything from high-end Cadillac models to farm-reliable pickups. She has also written for Bob Vila.