CARFOCALvehicle research
Research CarsCompareRankingsArticles
  1. Home›
  2. Manufacturers›
  3. Chevrolet›
  4. Silverado›
  5. 2013

2013 Chevrolet Silverado Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller·2 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

6.4/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Significant safety concerns exist regarding steering system failures, including potential lock-up and loss of power assist, often reported at low mileage.
  • The power train is another area of concern, with complaints including transmission slippage and unexpected shifting, raising questions about long-term durability.
  • Air bag system malfunctions, such as warning lights and non-deployment, are also prevalent and pose a safety risk.
  • With 87 complaints and 4 recalls, this model warrants careful inspection, especially for steering and transmission components.
See the 5 checks before you buyFree • Takes 20s • Saves Thousands $
OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2013 Chevrolet Silverado

The 2013 Chevrolet Silverado, a full-size pickup truck, offers robust capability but comes with notable ownership risks. While it boasts a powerful 6.2L V8 engine and rear-wheel drive, its reliability is a significant concern. With 87 complaints and 4 recalls, issues with the power train, air bags, and steering are frequently reported. The high TSB count of 255 suggests widespread underlying issues that may not be covered by recalls. Potential buyers must be aware of these documented weaknesses and factor them into their purchase decision.

Critical Failure Risk

Complaints include transmission slippage, unexpected shifting, and potential rollaway events. These issues can arise at low mileages, suggesting potential design or manufacturing defects.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$4,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls4
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

87
Power Train11
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
14
MPG
City
13
MPG
Highway
18
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.0/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing capability and towing over long-term reliability.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2013 Chevrolet Silverado Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2013 Chevrolet Silverado.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Gasoline or E85
Transmission
Automatic 6-spd
Drivetrain
Rear-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Van
EPA Combined MPG
14

CarFocal account required

See the full 2013 Chevrolet Silverado buyer report before you decide

Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Powertrain

Most reported

Usage: 11 reports

2. Airbags

Usage: 10 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Check (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering)

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
4 recall campaign details & remedy notes
Create free account

Free • Takes 20 seconds • Saves Thousands $

Already have an account? Log in

FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2013 Chevrolet Silverado reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2013 Chevrolet Silverado is 9.0/10. Reliability score is 9.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 4. Owner complaints: 87.

How practical is the 2013 Chevrolet Silverado for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 14 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2013 Chevrolet Silverado?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2013 Chevrolet Silverado is 6.4/10. Overall score is 6.4/10 (Mixed). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 7.9/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2013 Chevrolet Silverado?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Check (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Transmission (typical at 90,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,500 • Max: $4,000).

What engine is in the 2013 Chevrolet Silverado?▾

Engine specs list 8 • 6.2.

What transmission does the 2013 Chevrolet Silverado use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Chevrolet Silverado, transmission is Automatic 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2013 Silverado require Gasoline or E85 gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Gasoline or E85.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2013 Chevrolet Silverado?▾

EPA combined estimate is 14 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2013 Chevrolet Silverado?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2013 Chevrolet Silverado?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Chevrolet Silverado, body style is van.

What drivetrain does the 2013 Chevrolet Silverado use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Chevrolet Silverado, drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 6-spd.

What are the most common power train problems on the 2013 Chevrolet Silverado?▾

Top complaint category: power train (11 reports, 12.6% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2013 Chevrolet Silverado?▾

This model year has 4 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2013 Chevrolet Silverado?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2013 Ford F-150 and 2013 Ram 1500.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

We may earn a commission if you buy parts through our links. Learn more.