NHTSA Owner Complaint Log
This page lists owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2016 Chevrolet Silverado. Complaints are unverified consumer reports submitted to NHTSA and do not by themselves prove a defect or defect rate.
Data synced from NHTSA on May 4, 2026
The failing system is the hydraulic brake system. The brakes are failing in my vehicle causing it hard to stop, and having to press extremely hard on the brake for extended periods of time in order to properly stop. As I first push on the brakes I hear a squeak. Yes my vehicle is available for inspection any time. My safety as well as my four daughters safety has been at risk of a crash due to the hardness of trying to break or the vehicle not coming to a stop in time. Yes the problem has been confirmed by a local mechanic. There have no been any inspections in regards to manufacture, police officers, etc. My warning light and another light have previously came on and will later go off, it does not stay on continuously.
While driving my truck I was in line picking up my kids from school when pulling up close to the car infront of me my brakes got extremely hard and the truck kept slowly moving forward so I pressed harder to make sure I wouldn't accidentally hit the car. I just now saw a recall on the vacuum pump which in assuming is my issue with the harding of the brakes. I have not took it any where to be investigated yet
I attempted to fasten my driver side seatbelt & the cable holding the seatbelt to the vehicle frame on my left side broke completely off, I have it temporarily attached until I can have it restored to its expected level of performance & have shown it to a Chevrolet service department & they informed me my cost to have them repair it would be 750, This incident never before or after the seatbelt break, Activate any warning lights on the vehicle, Could just as easily snapped in a crash, Being a retired state trooper myself I am deeply concerned about operating a vehicle with defective seatbelts & was appalled at the dealerships lack of motivation to address this dangerous situation
At 89,000 miles my transmission started to make a clunking noise took it in to a shop and transmission needed to be replace
I have had to replace the transmission in this vehicle 3 times within a year and half time frame. Initially experienced harsh shifting, significant hesitation in shifting and the transmission overheated whilst driving on the highway to the point where smoke was clearly visible. Each of the 3 failures stemmed from the torque converter. There were no warning lamps or messages present prior to the failures.
Powertrain failed and vehicle would no longer move. Engine would rev up, but truck would not move in any direction, almost like the transmission had gone into neutral. Powered the vehicle off, then back on, and it violently jerked, but was enough for me to get to the shoulder. Afterwards, got the vehicle checked out with a scanner, there were no check engine codes coming up, nor were there any lights on the dash. When they checked the transmission oil, there was a lot of metal flakes, which will require a transmission change. Eletric seats also do not allow any movement, making it very difficult when others try to drive the truck.
My 2016 Silverado automatic vehicle has approximately 88,000 miles and the transmission needs replaced. It will not shift gears. This transmission should not need replaced after only 88,000 miles.
low RPM braking failure. Power assistance fails at low RPM (around 500 - 600) requiring me to apply full body weight to brake pedal to get vehicle to slow and stop. This is a well known and documented problem, but NHTSA won't extend a recall for this issue even when issuing recalls for same problem on other GM trucks, why?
Due to multiple electrical issues causes my stabilitrac, lane assist and power steering assist to cut out. After reading multiple forums and speaking to other owners many of these trucks have the same issue and Chevy isn’t addressing at all.
Truck does not stop have to apply hard brakes and even then truck won’t come to a complete stop
ok the problem is with the brakes, there were four incidents when the brake pedal gets hard and its hard to stop the truck. all four incidents happened backing into my driveway after stepping on the brake pedal 4 to 5 times it would hard. and it would be difficult to stop. The problem is with the brake booster vacuum pump. There was a recall for that exact problem on 2014-2018 silverados. I called the dealership, they told me my VIN # was not one of the listed ones for the recall. the vehicle is available for inspection if requested. the vehicle has not been inspected or confirmed by a dealer. there were no warnings lamps or messagesl. Im certain its the brake booster vacuun pump.
I was turning at low speeds and my power steering kept going out temporarily causing my steering wheel to jerk abruptly. While this was happening the dash lights and radio all went blank, turning on and off. Huge safety concern.
The contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated while driving 15 MPH, the steering wheel became firm intermittently making it difficult to maneuver the vehicle. The power steering warning light was illuminated. The vehicle had not been diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and stated that the VIN was not included in a recall. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000. The VIN provided was invalid.
The truck has had its major service to replace all fluids at 70,000 miles. One of the services was a notable vibration and shaking through the steering wheel and on the brakes. Higher the speed the more the vibration. When brakes are applied the vibration gets worse. The vehicles brakes and rotors were checked and good. The mechanic said that the brake pump was slightly loose and it was tightened. It did slightly ease the vibration, but less that a few days later it is back to the same vibrating. The brake power feels weak and when I need to brake I feel like the vehicle is not stopping. I have owner a 2014 Silverado before this and did not have this issue. I took it back to the dealer and they did an alignment which did not help.
I brought my truck into the dealership for a routine oil change. They notified me that my radiator is leaking and needs to be replaced. They stated that there is a small leak in the lower right corner of the radiator. I did not notice and fluids leaking from the radiator prior or did not smell any coolant from the engine. The leak did not trigger any warning lights inside of the vehicle. I did notice on a few occasions that the coolant levels looked low and added more to the system. My truck only has 60k miles on it. After researching this issue I've learned that this is a fairly common problem for 2014-2018 Silverados and that Chevy will only fix the 2014's.
At 143,000 miles my transmission stopped transmitting engine power to the wheels
The ignition switch is defective the truck will not turn on all the time I have to play with the shift lever and key to get it started
Tire size 285/45R22 114H . While driving on the interstate at 70 mph had a large vibration that started occurring. When I was pulling over to figure out what was going on I heard a loud bang and suddenly lost air pressure to the Drivers side front tire. Once pulled over I could see the tire was flat. Upon removal of the tire I found the inner sidewall had blown. The tread was also separating in the area where the damage was. The tires are only 2.5 years old and have only 22.5k miles. They have been rejuvenate rotated with the last rotation just 3k miles prior. The company refused to honor their warranty stating it looked like the damage was caused by a pothole (which never occurred).
The contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission experienced rough shifting from first to second gear. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 125,000.
The contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact noticed that the gear shifter was inoperable. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic. The vehicle was diagnosed with a failed transmission temperature sensor and transmission control module. The contact was informed that the transmission wiring harness needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to report the failure to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 52,000.
The contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated that while shifting from reverse to drive, there were four hard bumps. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who informed the contact that the failure was due to the computer. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 96,000.
I [XXX] purchased a vehicle by trade-in from Augusta Mitsubishi on Tuesday 6/20/2023. Upon further review of the contract, I noticed some things that were not right. 1. They had the vehicle I traded as a Chrysler 200 but I gave them a 2001 GMC Sierra. 2. On the retail purchase agreement, the color of the truck I purchased is gray but it is black. 3. It seems as if the numbers were manipulated to suit the deal. I also had the truck diagnosed and they found a number of issues such as the brakes and rotors were worn. The biggest issue was that the lug studs had been cut which is a major safety issue. In light of everything in this letter, I feel that the dealership should be held accountable, which is why I'm asking that they pay off the truck and send me the title, refund my down payment, and pay for the repair cost. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
While driving on the highway on ramp, the transmission came out of gear. The engine would accelerate but the transmission would not stay engaged. at this time the check engine light came on. Upon having it towed to a dealership and having the vehicle inspected. It was determined that "the Torque Converter came apart causing metal in the pan when hot vehicle would stop pulling". The transmission has been replaced at considerable expense. Dealer had stated to me that they have seen multiple vehicles with this same issue from 2015 to 2020 models. While we were at the dealership two vehicles were checked in with similar issues. This torque converter issue poses a risk while accelerating/passing other vehicles.
My truck started shuddering and having shifting issues. Took to Chevrolet dealership and was told that this has become a common issue with this type of transmission. We ended up having to replace the transmission.
Transmission (6L80/E) started slipping at around 100,000 miles and needed completely replaced/rebuilt. This is replicated on multiple trucks with this transmission from 2016-2018. Evidence was slipping while shifting between 2-3rd gears. Dealership advised transmission needed completely replaced. Cost associated was ~$4000
1. What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Response: Slowing down to make a left turn, Steering locked up, Electrical devices flashing, Service Stabilitrak Indicator, Chimming, Engine shut off then turned back on 2. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Response: YES truck shut off when turning across traffic 3. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Response: Has the problem been reproduced -Yes Response: confirmed by a dealer or independent service center -No 4. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? Response: No 5: Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? Response: Yes, chimming, then Service Stabilitrak indicator, then steering wheel lock up, engine cut out
The engine light displayed "Engine Power Is Reduced". This has occurred three times, twice in 2023 and again recently in 2024. We have taken the vehicle to a qualified shop on each occasion. The second time we took the truck to the shop, after keeping it for almost two weeks, it was returned to us, and according to the mechanic, the engine light would not come on with test driving and he stated there was not a problem. Although the engine runs roughly, we are able to drive it at low speeds. Currently, the engine light comes on intermittently. This past few weeks, it happened again while traveling 65 mph on a busy freeway. The engine slowed down and I was able to get it up to a max of 30 mph until I could get to a frontage road. We made it back to our destination at 30 - 40mph using flashers at some points because the engine felt as if it was going to stall. This issue could result in a rear end collision and serious injury. Although the engine runs roughly, we are able to drive it at low speeds. Currently, the engine light comes on intermittently. We will be returning the truck for service. However, we are not confident that the problem will be resolved.
Transmission bumping or shuddering in 1st-4th gear
My vehicle just randomly shuts off, mainly when making a turn. I took it in to the dealership and had several repairs made but none of them fixed the problem. It’s definitely dangerous I almost had a accident at least 3 times. I feel it’s electrical due to the fact everything shuts off, the dash usually flashes before it shuts off. All electronics shut down and the vehicle turns completely off with no control of steering. I’ve come to the conclusion it’s electrical so I’m searching for a solution.
Torque converter got stuck off
I was driving the other day and slowed to an upcoming vehicle, when I tapped the brakes the stabilitrak light flashed and all my dash lights and radio flickered, then when I used my turn signal the same things happened plus the windshield wipers came on, then when I went to merge back into my lane the pickup completely stalled out jerking us forward into our seat belts and then kept going. Later that day I went thru a drive thru and when I was turning the steering wheel jerked and wasn't able to continue turning and the pickup died. I had to lock the steering wheel in order to get it started again. This isn't the only time the first issues have happened or the steering wheel being jerked and stalling out, but this is the first time it completely stalled out in the highway and that is not okay. That is a complete safety issue and I'm not the only one who has had this issue, however when I have talked to a mechanic about it they couldn't find anything wrong and had no answer for me. There are several recalls on the years before the 2016 chevy silverado but nothing for them, and this is a big safety concern.
Backing up truck to put a boat in the water and no brakes had put push really hard to stop the truck from going in to the lake. When moving slowly there is hardly any brakes on the truck
The contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated while driving approximately 25-30 MPH, the power steering became inoperable. The steering wheel was difficult to turn. The power steering fault message was displayed. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer and the contact was informed that the part to repair the vehicle was on backorder. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 104,000.
Grounding issue when turning causing the steering wheel to yank the to a random direction and lock up. Multiple Silverado owners have experienced the same issue and I nearly died. Chevy dealer did not identify the issue/ Cannot figure it out.
Transmission drops out of gear with no warning. No forward or reverse. This is a potential hazard that if it had occurred on an Interstate, whether it be causing an accident or getting hit by other vehicles trying to get to side of road. Vehicle is with a transmission repair shop currently. No repair records yet or actual cause. Mechanic informed me today that transmission needs to replaced due to economics that a rebuilt or re manufactured would be better option. Will save records if when I get all receipts for the repair.
2021 the driver side seatbelt broke which resulted in a recall. Same thing has happened again; the thick metal coil within the plastic cover snapped. We have a scheduled appointment today with the dealer to have it again replaced. They said it's our responsibility to pay even though the first time we were eventually reimbursed. This is a defective part; no seat belt should break again in two years! Another recall needs to be activated.
Transmission temperature sensor failure exactly as described in special coverage N192291660 occurred on my vehicle.
Trailer brake system warning has been flashing non stop for 2 weeks. I do not use or tow anything with this vehicle. Usually it locks up the steering wheel while parking my truck and shuts down the engine. Yesterday I was going 55 on the highway and the warning came on and it shut down the truck tried to put the vehicle in park and rapidly applied the breaks then the truck electrical system came back too and the truck was rolling I pull off to the shoulder to shut the truck off and turn it back on. At the time I had both my sons in the vehicle 4 years old and 9 months. Again usually it always happens when parking my truck (under 5mph) it will lock the steering wheel and totally shut down the trucks engine. Huge safety concern.
I was driving down the road when the transmission would no longer change gears. There were no warning lamps or anything to indicate that this was going to happen.
Son was driving truck in a straight line when it lost all power. Although we have experienced issues during turns that I have noted before here, this is the first incident while driving in a straight line.
I was involved in a head on collision. The other vehicle struck me doing between 35-40mph. My vehicle airbags did not deploy.
Myself, My wife, and my oldest son have all three experienced a loss of complete power in the truck during turns. All power on the dash, steering, and stereo goes out. The last incident required my wife to put the vehicle in park and turn the truck off and back on to get it to start.
Transmission would shudder when driving. Sometimes loud bang when shifting from first to second gear. Torque converter ultimately failed while crossing traffic. Truck would not move. No gears. Only 58,000 miles on transmission. Never used for hauling. Torque converter had broken metal parts that caused the fluid to become blocked so it could not drive. A rebuilt transmission needed to be installed at my cost.
AFM/DOD leafters collapse
Driving down our road and the truck instantly lost power steering. Got home turned off the truck. Turned it backon and it worked. Each time I turn the vehicle off and turn it on the power steering works for a very brief time and then stops.
Transmission died. Tried to merge highway traffic and wouldn’t accelerate. Push down gas pedal and mph didn’t change but rpm went to 6rpm. Finally engaged. Continued to shudder and hesitate but eventually smoothed out. Had to stop at a traffic light and it did the same thing. Next time I had to stop I completely lost forward motion. Pushed gas pedal and rpm at 6rpm and wouldn’t move. Transmission light came on and had to have it towed. Transmission is being replaced.
I just bought the vehicle in the summer of 2022 and the truck started to shudder so I took it to see if the tired were out of balance and they told me it sounded like a transmission issue. I took it to Lynchburg Transmission and they said after they ran their diagnostics test the transmission is shot and I need a new one. The vehicle only has 103,000 miles and should not need a new transmission on it. I have read online there are tons of 2016 chevy 1500s that have had transmission issues around the same mileage. This should be an issue that Chevy should be addressing and recall.
My 2016 Chevy Silverado hit 100,000 and the transmission started to get clunky and finally went out a couple of days later. When the transmission went out we were stranded, had to call toe service. We had it toed to the closest service center and they said "this isn't the first one of these that they have seen, the transmissions should last way longer than 100k". Had them put a new transmission in the truck and that was about 8k that I wasn't ready to spend. There were not warning lights or anything on the dash stating there was anything wrong. I can't even tell you how disappointed I am, and I have owned chevy trucks my whole life.
The family was driving down a busy highway and we felt a strong rapid jerk and heard a loud pop sound. The 2016 Chevy Silverado felt very forced and would not go past 20 miles per hour and the RPM's were between 2 and 3. This problem placed our family at risk because the speed was reduced significantly and could have been hit from behind or could no safely exit the highway. An independent mechanic has checked the truck and confirmed the transmission needs to be replaced as he reproduced the issue on a test drive. No warning signs came on prior to the issue but only after we exited the highway did the "check engine" light came on when we parked. *** Please note we had already replaced the original transmission in Nov. 2021, the exact same issue occurred at that time and it was replaced by a Chevy dealership in Pleasanton, Tx due to the pan was full of metal shavings***
THE TRUCK HAS BEEN HAVING PROBLEMS SINCE A MONTH AFTER WE GOT IT TOOK IT TO THE DEALERS THEY ALWAYS SAID NOTHING WRONG WITH TIME IT HAS GOTTEN WORSE IT FEELS LIKE SOMEONE IS PUSHING IT AND THEN STOPS FOR A BIT AND IT MAKES A LOUD SOUND FEELS LIKE TRAMSMITTION