Engine owner reports: Chevrolet Silverado 1500 years in the records

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“Dear Sir or Madam, I am submitting this complaint to request that the Federal Trade Commission investigate General Motors (Chevrolet) regarding what appears to be a known engine defect affecting the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado and the company's handling of this issue. I own a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado. In September 2025, when my truck had only 45,494 miles, I experienced an engine misfire consistent with a defect that has been widely reported by other owners. Through my research, I discovered that General Motors was aware of this issue and, rather than correcting the underlying mechanical defect, reportedly issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) instructing dealerships to reprogram the Engine Control Module (ECM) to reduce or mask the symptoms instead of permanently repairing the root cause. Now, less than one year later, my truck is experiencing the same engine problems again. Although my vehicle has relatively low mileage, it is no longer covered under the factory warranty because of its age rather than its mileage. When I contacted Chevrolet Customer Assistance, I was advised to work with my local dealership to determine whether I might qualify for a "goodwill" repair. I do not believe it is fair for consumers to rely on discretionary goodwill assistance when the manufacturer was allegedly aware of a design defect before or during the time these vehicles were sold. Based on my research, properly repairing the underlying cause of this engine failure can cost as much as $15,000. Consumers should not be expected to bear the financial burden of repairing a defect that the manufacturer allegedly knew existed but failed to adequately correct. I respectfully request that the FTC investigate whether General Motors engaged in unfair or deceptive business practices by: Continuing to market and sell vehicles with a known engine defect. Addressing customer complaints with software reprogramming rather than permanently correcting the underlying mechanical issue. Failing”

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“While driving my 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 equipped with the 5.3L V8 engine and Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM), the engine developed an internal valvetrain failure resulting in misfires, rough running, and reduced engine performance. The vehicle was diagnosed by a Chevrolet dealership as having failed lifters associated with the DFM system, requiring major engine repairs and replacement of internal engine components. The failure occurred at approximately 81,000 miles and resulted in the vehicle entering a reduced performance condition, creating a potential safety concern when merging, accelerating, or operating in traffic due to the inability to maintain normal vehicle speed and power. The vehicle was inspected and repaired by an authorized Chevrolet dealer. Research shows numerous similar reports from owners of GM 5.3L and 6.2L engines equipped with Active Fuel Management (AFM) and Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM) systems involving lifter and valvetrain failures.”

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“while driving pulling a trailer with my kid in the car engine began knocking and lost power. upon investigation it was a failed lifter causing bent pushrod”

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“I am filing this complaint regarding a major engine failure in my 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 equipped with the 5.3L V8 engine. At approximately 56,000 miles, my vehicle experienced a failed valve lifter, resulting in loud engine ticking, a check engine light, loss of power, and unsafe driving conditions. The vehicle was no longer operating properly and required immediate repair. Although the vehicle had been regularly maintained and had relatively low mileage for such a significant engine issue, I was informed that the failed lifter damaged the camshaft and related engine components, requiring extensive repairs. The total cost of the repair was $6,180, which I paid out of pocket. My Silverado was just outside Chevrolet's 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty period by time, despite having only 56,000 miles. A major internal engine failure should not occur on a well-maintained vehicle with such low mileage. After researching this issue, I discovered that lifter failures involving the Active Fuel Management (AFM) and Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM) systems in GM's 5.3L engines have been widely reported by other Chevrolet Silverado owners. This indicates a potential design or manufacturing defect rather than normal wear and tear. I am requesting that General Motors provide reimbursement or goodwill assistance for all or a substantial portion of the $6,180 repair cost. I believe customers should not be responsible for paying thousands of dollars to repair a known issue on a low-mileage vehicle. I respectfully request that this matter be reviewed and resolved promptly.”

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“Engine light came on and off and June 10, 2026 The truck just stole and no power to go”

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated that while driving at 25 MPH, the vehicle suddenly made knocking sounds. The Check Engine warning light illuminated. Additionally, the vehicle experienced rough idling and a decrease in motive power. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined the lifters had collapsed and bent the push rod. The push rod was replaced, but the newly installed part instantly bent. The mechanic informed the contact that the cam needed to be replaced. The local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 107,800.”