It has come to our attention that the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 could have some expensive engine problems to face. Reports of failing lifters on small block engines are emerging for 2019 – 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500 models, so let’s see if this is a big deal. 

Potential 2019 – 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500 engine problems 

Houston, we might have a problem! More and more reports are gathering about 2019 – 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500 models struggling against failing lifters. But what exactly does this mean? 

This issue isn’t exactly new. Failing lifters have been associated with General Motors V8 engines with active fuel management systems (AFM) along with problems with the dynamic fuel management system (DFM). 

The systems turn the cylinders off to conserve fuel while driving when all eight cylinders aren’t needed. They also open valves on the engine.

The General Motors lifter problem could involve 2019 – 2021 Chevy Silverado, GMC Sierra, Chevy Tahoe, Chevy Suburban, GMC Yukon, and Cadillac Escalade models. If the lifters fail, it can cost between $1,000 and $2,500 for repairs. 

Will the Chevy Silverado engine lifters be replaced by General Motors? 

Currently, there isn’t a recall for Chevy Silverado 1500 models or other General Motors vehicles due to failing engine lifters. But owners aren’t giving up. A class-action lawsuit was filed against GM due to engine-valve lifter allegations of premature failure. 

The plaintiffs allege that General Motors sold vehicles despite knowing that they have faulty fuel management lifters with defective valves that pose a dangerous risk to drivers. 

Also, GM allegedly replaced the defective parts with equally faulty equipment, resulting in lifter failure a second time. 

According to the plaintiffs, the defective valve-lifter problems could lead to random stalling and a sudden loss of power while driving, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries. 

Plus, the defective engine valve lifters can lead to substantial engine damage, making repairs even more expensive. 

According to My Lemon, General Motors issued a plan to address the defective valve lifters with the Power Component Coverage letter. It allows those who have had their vehicles repaired at least once for valve train or valve-lifter issues to be eligible for extended warranties. 

How to tell if your lifters are bad 

If your Chevy Silverado 1500 lifters are going bad, then you might be in for a headache. General Motors hasn’t released an effective solution for the issue. 

GM did release a service bulletin on how to inspect the valve lifters and how to replace them, though. The service bulletin includes how to check the engine for damage related to the problem. 

Vehicles from Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, or GMC with the 5.3-liter, 6.0-liter, or 6.2-liter V8 engines may produce a service engine light, misfire, shudder, or make strange sounds such as knocking, ticking, and banging. Also, the engine could completely fail and randomly shut down. 

We’re currently unaware of how many General Motors vehicles face this issue, but it’s starting to gain more steam. We will keep an eye on this Chevy Silverado 1500 problem to see how it develops. A recall could be on the way.