unknow getting gas in oil at 62532 miles on it which can cause the motor to grenade. a lot of the 5.3l on 2018 has this trouble from watching utube and using research, should be recalled and transmissions trouble as well.
2018 Chevrolet Silverado powertrain problems
moderate 150 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $2,500 · see powertrain across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
150
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
1crash
2injuries
When does it fail?
Of the 150 powertrain complaints filed for the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 0-25,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Owners have filed 150 powertrain complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
Powertrain accounts for 30% of all owner complaints filed against this vehicle, across 12 categories tracked.
The failure pattern owners describe
The 2018 Silverado powertrain complaints center on three recurring problem areas: engine, transmission, and drivetrain. Engine failures stem primarily from the AFM (Active Fuel Management) system, which switches between V8 and V4 operation and causes lifter collapse, bent push rods, and cracked blocks starting around 40,000 miles. Loss of power at highway speed is documented, along with tapping noises that dealerships initially dismiss. Owners report costs of $4,000–$20,000 for engine replacement; GM has declined Goodwill assistance.
Transmission issues are the largest complaint cluster: eight-speed and six-speed automatics overheat excessively (200–280°F), slip under load, and downshift harshly—sometimes locking up suddenly at highway speeds. Torque converter failures occur even after full transmission replacement, suggesting a cooling system design flaw. TSB #21-NA-199 exists for the thermostat bypass valve, but dealers often charge diagnostic and labor fees despite warranty claims. Hard downshifts during normal deceleration are so widespread that dealerships acknowledge them as "known design issues" with no factory fix.
Cold-start transmission stuttering, slipping when entering traffic, and debris in transmission fluid are common symptoms. One owner documented transmission failure at 127,000 miles preceded by 117,000 miles of documented symptoms ("still learning," dealers said).
The rear differential locked up during towing in one case, snapping the driveshaft. No warning lights precede most failures. Multiple owners have contacted GM corporate and filed complaints with state attorneys general, but have received no recalls or permanent solutions.
Same Chevrolet Silverado powertrain reports on nearby years: 2015 · 2016 · 2017 · 2020 · 2021
Failure modes owners describe
Lifter and Camshaft Failure
Engine develops loud tapping noise, rough idle, check engine light, and loss of power due to failed hydraulic valve lifters or associated camshaft wear. Owners report this is a known recurring issue on 2018 Silverados with the same engine; GM has not issued a recall despite acknowledging awareness.
When: 40,000–62,000 miles; can recur after warranty repair
Symptoms owners cite: Loud tapping noise from engine; Rough idle and shaking; Check engine light; Loss of power; Tone/pitch change in engine noise
Codes mentioned: P0016
Repairs/costs cited: Replacement of lifters and camshaft; warranty coverage for initial repair; out-of-warranty cost cited as $4,000–$8,000. One owner received engine replacement with used motor plus $1,158.93 out-of-pocket charge.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Acknowledged as known issue by service techs; no recall issued. Extended warranty or manufacturer warranty may cover initial repair but not recurrence.
Transmission Thermostat Bypass Valve Overheating
Transmission overheats to 200°F or higher due to faulty original 198°F thermostat bypass valve. TSB #21-NA-199 recommends replacement with 158°F bypass valve. Dealers have charged diagnostic and labor fees despite TSB guidance and warranty coverage disputes.
When: 50,000–57,000 miles; continuous issue
Symptoms owners cite: Transmission temperature excessively high (200°F+); Transmission fluid discolored, metal shavings, debris; Torque converter clutch failure; Slipping under load; Overheating warning messages
Repairs/costs cited: Thermostat bypass valve replacement; cited costs: $200 diagnostic fee, $167 for part, $258 labor ($625 total reported). Some dealers argue TSB repairs fall outside drivetrain warranty coverage.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: TSB #21-NA-199 exists but dealers claim it is not covered under 6-year/60,000-mile drivetrain warranty. Dealerships charge customers despite warranty coverage.
Hard Downshifts and Harsh Transmission Shifting
Transmission downshifts abruptly with severe clunking, jerking, or shaking. Occurs especially when slowing to stops or during normal deceleration. Multiple owners report dealer responses dismissing the symptom as normal operation despite customer concerns about safety.
When: 4,000–44,000 miles; continuous throughout ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Hard, abrupt downshifts; Clunking or banging noise during shifts; Jerking or lurching sensation; Shaking or shuddering; Problem worse on hills, less pronounced on flat roads
Repairs/costs cited: Some owners report third-party driveshaft modifications (angle spacers, single-piece driveshaft) purchased out-of-pocket to reduce harshness. Tow mode reduces symptoms but raises transmission temperature. No manufacturer repair issued.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealerships and GM have stated this is a known design issue with no factory fix available. Dealers told customers shifting behavior is normal or suggested workarounds.
Transmission Slipping, Shifting Confusion, and Hesitation
Transmission slips, hesitates, or fails to engage proper gear during acceleration or normal driving. Vehicle jerks, stalls, or stumbles when attempting to shift or accelerate. Symptoms often accompanied by check engine or traction control lights.
When: 11,500–92,000 miles; can occur early and persist
Symptoms owners cite: Transmission slipping under light to normal acceleration; Hesitation during acceleration; Vehicle jerks or stumbles; Confusion about gear selection (wrong gear engagement); Stalling during acceleration or traffic entry; Check engine or traction control light; Vehicle shaking or vibrating
Repairs/costs cited: Valve body replacement reported; transmission fluid flush with synthetic Dexron VI fluid recommended per bulletins; some owners report rebuilds or complete transmission replacement necessary. One owner paid $1,158.93 out-of-pocket for engine replacement not covered by extended warranty.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealerships advised fluid changes and synthetic fluid upgrade as remedy; some owners informed transmission behavior is normal and told to allow transmission to 'learn.' No recalls issued despite class-action lawsuits filed.
Transmission Overheating and Torque Converter Failure
Transmission temperature climbs to 270°F+ without triggering warning lights or limp mode in many cases. Torque converter clutch fails, metal shavings and debris accumulate in fluid. Complete transmission and torque converter replacement may not resolve the issue, suggesting systemic cooling design flaw.
When: 50,000–130,000 miles; can recur after transmission replacement
Symptoms owners cite: Transmission temperature 200–280°F without adequate warning; Overheating warning light or message; Harsh downshifts; Slipping, especially under load or towing; Delayed engagement from park to drive; RPM surging; Poor throttle response; Loss of power during acceleration or highway driving
Repairs/costs cited: Transmission flushing, bypass valve replacement, torque converter replacement, and full transmission replacement reported. One owner cited $7,000 repair for torque converter failure. Repairs have not resolved issue in several cases even after complete transmission replacement.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealers replace transmission and bypass valve under warranty when applicable; GM case numbers opened; some owners referred to Attorney General and NHTSA but no permanent fix provided.
Sudden Downshift to Low Gear and Transmission Lock-Up
Transmission suddenly downshifts to lowest gear without driver input, or locks up completely, preventing acceleration and manual shifting. Occurs at highway speeds, creating immediate safety hazard. Water pump failure or driveline disconnection may accompany event.
When: Throughout ownership, various mileages (27,000–141,000 miles)
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden downshift to low gear at highway speed (40–60 mph); Transmission locks up, prevents shifting; Loss of acceleration ability; Water pump blowout (one case); Driveline disconnection; Loud grinding or clunking noise; Speedometer erratic behavior; Unable to shift manually after lock-up until vehicle restarted
Repairs/costs cited: Multiple transmission replacements required in some cases; driveshaft or transfer case replacement suggested but not diagnosed. One owner reported vehicle stranded on highway and three transmission replacements that did not resolve the underlying issue.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealerships initially dismissed complaints as normal behavior or could not duplicate on test drive. Warranty coverage declined in some cases; no diagnosis provided for root cause.
Engine Loss of Power and Stalling
Engine suddenly loses power during highway driving or acceleration, forcing immediate pull-over. Vehicle stalls or becomes unresponsive to throttle input despite electrical systems remaining active. Check engine light may not illuminate until after failure. Some cases involve fuel injection fouling or suspected crankshaft/internal engine issues.
When: 27,000–62,000 miles; can occur after previous repairs
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden loss of engine power; Vehicle unable to accelerate above 40 mph; Engine stalls while driving; Check engine light comes on after loss of power; Vehicle rolls backward on hills after power loss; Limited power on hills; Engine hesitation before full failure
Repairs/costs cited: Engine replacement with used motor; one owner charged $1,158.93 out-of-pocket; another owner cited GM estimate for engine failure but vehicle not repaired. Fuel injection cleaning attempted in one case without resolution.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Extended warranty or manufacturer warranty may cover engine replacement; some coverage denied or owner charged partial costs. No recall issued.
5.3L Engine Cracking and Tapping Noise
Engine develops ticking or tapping noise indicating internal damage, often caused by failed lifter/AFM (Active Fuel Management) system. Bent push rods or cracked engine block discovered upon inspection. Issue acknowledged as common for 2018–2021 models but no recall issued.
When: 40,000–110,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Ticking or tapping noise from engine block; Check engine light; Loss of power; Bent push rod visible on inspection; Cracked engine block
Repairs/costs cited: Independent mechanic diagnosed bent push rod; push rod and lifter replacement needed. Owner avoided dealership diagnostic fee ($179 minimum). One shop reports 7,500–11,000 cases of this issue on 2018–2021 models.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM denied Goodwill assistance; customer informed they must take vehicle to licensed dealer for diagnosis (additional cost). No recall issued despite widespread reports.
AFM (Active Fuel Management) Lifter Failure Causing Engine Damage
AFM system causes premature hydraulic lifter failure, resulting in dropped lifters, bent push rods, and catastrophic engine damage. Engine loses power, brakes and steering may be affected by power loss. Issue well-documented across 2018–2021 Silverados but not recalled.
When: 70,000 miles; can occur earlier
Symptoms owners cite: Dropped lifters inside engine; Loss of engine power, including power brakes and power steering; Unsafe driving condition at highway speed; Tapping or grinding noise preceding failure; Transmission vibration/shuddering secondary symptom
Repairs/costs cited: Engine repairs cost over $5,000; transmission also requires repair afterward in some cases. AFM design identified as faulty by owners but no factory redesign offered.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recall issued. GM acknowledges AFM design issue is common but refuses to issue Goodwill repair programs.
Transmission Cold-Start Stuttering and Shift Delay
Eight-speed transmission stutters, hesitates, or shifts erratically during cold start and warming period (until transmission reaches ~180°F). Problem occurs every time after vehicle sits overnight or for a few hours. Resolves after full warm-up but reoccurs on next cold start.
When: Early in vehicle life; up to 10,000 miles reported
Symptoms owners cite: Stuttering or shuddering during cold acceleration; Transmission hesitation—does not know what gear to select; Apparent on light to normal acceleration; Resolves after transmission warms to ~180°F; Continuous and repeatable after overnight sits; Noticeable to passengers
Repairs/costs cited: No repairs provided; dealers and GM claim behavior is normal and transmission 'learning curve.' No TSB or software update offered.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealership technician confirmed duplication of problem but stated it is normal for eight-speed transmission. GM investigated and also stated it is normal.
Engine Fuel Injection and Spark Plug Issues Leading to Rough Running
Engine runs rough, with fuel injection fouling or failure requiring cleaning or replacement. Spark plugs fail prematurely. Issues occur early in vehicle life and can escalate to engine failure or severe vibration.
When: 40,000–70,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Engine running rough; Check engine light; Bad fuel injector code; Loss of power; Excessive vibration after injector service; Black oil from excessive oil consumption due to AFM
Repairs/costs cited: Fuel injection cleaning attempted; spark plug and coil replacement ($660 cost cited). Issues may escalate to engine block cracking if underlying AFM problem not addressed.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recalls or TSBs for fuel injection or spark plug issues in these narratives.
Rear Differential Lockup and Driveshaft Failure
Rear differential suddenly locks up during normal driving or when releasing throttle while towing, causing driveshaft to snap off the pinion yoke. Creates dangerous loss of control with trailer attached; vehicle immobilized in traffic.
When: Unspecified mileage; during towing operation
Symptoms owners cite: Low growl/vibration from rear area; Sudden complete rear differential lockup; Driveshaft snaps at pinion yoke; Vehicle becomes immobilized across traffic lanes; No warning lights prior to failure
Repairs/costs cited: Complete driveshaft replacement required; vehicle stranded in roadway for 2 hours; tow truck needed.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No information provided in narrative.
Excessive Oil Consumption and Engine Damage from AFM System
AFM electronic fuel management system causes excessive oil consumption, turning oil black quickly. System switches engine from V8 to 4-cylinder mode to save fuel, forcing rocker arms and pistons to work harder and fail prematurely. Engine damage accelerates.
When: Throughout ownership; documented from August 2024 onward in one narrative
Symptoms owners cite: Excessive oil consumption; Oil turns black quickly; Engine switches from V8 to 4-cylinder mode (AFM); Rocker arm and piston failure; Engine failure risk increases
Repairs/costs cited: Dealership estimates $20,000 for engine replacement; ongoing service attempts during warranty period failed to fix root cause; costs continue to accumulate after warranty expires.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealership continued repairs during warranty period without permanently fixing the underlying AFM design flaw.
Unintended Acceleration and Braking Failure
Vehicle experiences unintended acceleration while brake master cylinder malfunctions, making brake pedal difficult to depress. Steering also fails (power steering), creating multiple safety system failures simultaneously.
When: 52,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Unintended acceleration; Brake pedal becomes difficult to depress; Power steering failure
Repairs/costs cited: Brake master cylinder replaced; power steering rack replaced; repairs completed at dealer.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer was not yet notified per narrative.
Motor Mount Failure with Clunking Noise
Loud clanking sound occurs when driving over bumps, traced to failed motor mount. Motor mount replacement resolves issue.
When: Unknown mileage
Symptoms owners cite: Loud clanking sound underneath vehicle while driving over bumps
Repairs/costs cited: Motor mount replaced and repaired.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No information in narrative.
Synthesized from 150 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 6 most recent
Torque converter failed which led to premature transmission failure at 115,000. Known common issue with 6L80 and TSB advising this. No recall
Coolant water keeps spilling from water pump. As I was driving on the freeway, the pump blew and spilled all the coolant and had to pull over to the side. Had to get it replaced paid $150 for the part and than labor another $150. Truck has less than 30k miles and the water pump already breaking down. New vehicles are now designed to break on you easily so us customers spend more on parts and…
Transmission slips, transmission downshifts hard, transmission will have a loud thud when reengaging after taking foot off gas pedal in stop and go traffic, especially on the expressway. Thud can be felt in the cab of the truck. Electronic 4 wheel drive grinds when engaged in motion. 4 wheel drive grinds when turning even the slightest bit. Upon first starting vehicle transmission hesitates…
Purchased this vehicle from a used car dealership 2 months ago. Now the transmission seems to be going out with 132,000 miles on it and funny noise from the transfer case. I have researched and found numerous complaints about the drive train on this vehicle and as a disabled veteran I don't have the funds to have it fixed. How can I get a recall in place for this issue?
I purchased this truck new in november of 2018. It had 4 miles on it. My previous truck I owned for 10 years. A 2000 GMC sierra, which I maintained meticulously. I sold it 452k miles on the original engine. Since I purchase the truck the transmission has shifted hard especially at low speeds. I won't write a review exactly like all the other transmission reviews, but they are same problems I am…
Had powertrain trouble with your 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the powertrain problem on the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 150 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $2,500 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the powertrain typically fail?
Across the 46 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most powertrain failures cluster between 13,000 and 85,377 miles, with the median around 46,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 13,000; a quarter make it past 85,377. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $2,500 for powertrain repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to powertrain?
No active recalls currently cover powertrain issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2018/Chevrolet/Silverado.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.