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2021 Chevrolet Silverado Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson

Overall Score

6.8/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Excellent reliability with no reported recalls or consumer complaints.
  • The 5.3L V8 engine and 4WD system offer robust capability.
  • Combined fuel economy is 14 MPG, leading to potentially high fuel costs.
  • NHTSA safety ratings are not available for this model year.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2021 Chevrolet Silverado

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado, a full-size pickup truck, offers a compelling package for used-car shoppers prioritizing dependability. Its 5.3-liter V8 engine, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and 4-wheel drive, provides capable performance for work and recreation. With an impressive reliability score and a clean slate regarding safety recalls and consumer complaints, this Silverado stands out as a solid choice in the used truck market. Fuel economy is rated at a combined 14 MPG, reflecting its V8 power.

Critical Failure Risk

Excellent reliability with no reported recalls or consumer complaints.

Early detection can reduce the odds of major repair bills.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
14
MPG
City
13
MPG
Highway
17
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.5/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers seeking a dependable full-size truck for towing, hauling, or daily driving.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Shoppers prioritizing cutting-edge technology or advanced driver-assistance features.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2021 Chevrolet Silverado Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado.

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

Limited reliability records are available for this model year.

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Transmission
Automatic 6-spd
Drivetrain
4-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Pickup
EPA Combined MPG
14

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

Most Common Issues

No complaint hotspot data available yet.

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 - Inspect Brakes - Inspect Wiper Blades

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 (7 service intervals)
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
Final buyer verdict: should you buy?
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado is 9.5/10. Reliability score is 9.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2021 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 2021 Chevrolet Silverado?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado is 6.8/10. Overall score is 6.8/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 9.3/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Chevrolet Silverado?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes - Inspect Wiper Blades at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $200 - $400.

What engine is in the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado?▾

Engine specs list 8 • 5.3.

What transmission does the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado, transmission is Automatic 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is 4-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado?▾

EPA combined estimate is 14 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado?▾

6 standard and 7 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

What body style is the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado, body style is pickup.

What drivetrain does the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado, drivetrain is 4-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 6-spd.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2021 Ford F-150 and 2021 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

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