2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 used buying checklist
What to check on a used 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 before you pay, based on what owners report, its recalls and the repairs the maker covers. Print it and take it to the test drive.
Test for the problems owners report most
The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.
- Check engine light142 owner complaints, usually around 40,000 miles, owners paid about $3,000
Start the engine cold and listen for knocking or ticking. Check for warning lights, oil leaks and a low oil level, and ask how often oil had to be topped up.
- Engine failure75 owner complaints, usually around 76,000 miles, owners paid about $7,000
Start the engine cold and listen for knocking or ticking. Check for warning lights, oil leaks and a low oil level, and ask how often oil had to be topped up.
- Sudden loss of power70 owner complaints, usually around 10,000 miles, owners paid about $6,180
Start the engine cold and listen for knocking or ticking. Check for warning lights, oil leaks and a low oil level, and ask how often oil had to be topped up.
Make sure these recalls were done
Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.
- Power trainRecall number 26V083000, Feb 12, 2026
- Power trainRecall number 24V797000, Oct 24, 2024
- TiresRecall number 21V985000, Dec 16, 2021
- TiresRecall number 21V115000, Feb 25, 2021
- Seat beltsRecall number 20V792000, Dec 17, 2020
- TiresRecall number 20V684000, Nov 5, 2020
- Power trainRecall number 20V650000, Oct 22, 2020
- Air bagsRecall number 20V446000, Jul 30, 2020
- Service brakes, hydraulicRecall number 20V116000, Feb 27, 2020
- Electrical systemRecall number 19V888000, Dec 12, 2019
- Fuel system, gasolineRecall number 19V837000, Nov 21, 2019
- Seat beltsRecall number 19V814000, Nov 14, 2019
Repairs the maker may still cover
Warranty extensions can cover a known problem beyond the normal warranty. Check whether this car is still within the time or mileage limit.
Service bulletins worth asking about
Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.
Before you pay
- Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
- Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
- Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
- Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
- Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.
See every 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 problem
VIN decoder
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Buying a used 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500?
Check the exact car before you pay: accidents, salvage or flood titles, odometer readings and previous owners.
Check its history