Shop for a used Chevrolet Silverado 1500, and you’re going to get a lot for your money. These full-size, light-duty used trucks offer everything from sturdy workhorse capabilities to rich interior luxury. And, with so many configurations and powertrain options available, there’s a used Silverado 1500 for just about every kind of truck driver.
Fourth Generation: 2019-Current Model
For the fourth generation, the Silverado 1500 introduced aluminum doors, hood, and tailgate to reduce overall weight and improve performance. These lighter trucks are not only easier to handle in a tight spot, but they’re also capable of towing and hauling bigger loads than ever before.
As for options, you’ll find plenty. The fourth-generation used Chevy Silverado 1500 is available as eight trim models: Work Truck (WT), Custom, Custom Trail Boss, LT, RST, LT Trail Boss, LTZ, and High Country. You’ll also find three cabin styles (regular, extended Double cab, and crew cab) and three bed options (5-feet-8-inches, 6.5-feet, and 8-feet).
If you’re looking for rugged performance, these used models deliver in a big way, especially the off-road-ready Custom Trail Boss and LT Trail Boss models. For more of a luxury truck, check out the LTZ and High Country models.
Powertrain options from this generation include:
- 4.3L V6 (285 horsepower, 305 pound-feet of torque)
- Turbocharged 2.7L four-cylinder engine (310 hp, 348 lb-ft)
- 5.3L V8 (355 hp, 383 lb-ft)
- Turbocharged 3.0L diesel six-cylinder engine (277 hp, 460 lb-ft)
The base V6 comes with a six-speed automatic transmission, and the turbocharged four-cylinder gets an eight-speed automatic. The V8 and diesel engine are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Here’s a quick look at how this generation has changed from year to year:
- 2021: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is now available with wireless connectivity. This Silverado also offers an upgraded trailer-towing camera system and a new multi-configurable tailgate.
- 2020: The Silverado rolls out a new turbodiesel engine to balance towing capacity with fuel efficiency. Adaptive cruise control also becomes an option. Shoppers can also add the new Advanced Trailering System, which supports up to 15 cameras.
Third Generation: 2014-2018
Compared to previous Silverado 1500 trucks, this generation offered increasingly fuel-efficient engines, improved cabin materials, and a quieter highway ride.
These Silverados offer the same three cabins and bed sizes that you’ll find in current models. However, there aren’t quite as many trim levels available. Choose from four trim models: WT, LT, LTZ, and High Country. The WT models are divided into two sub-trims, 1WT and 2WT.
This generation will impress you with its modern features, including Chevy’s MyLink touch-screen infotainment system. Safety options from this generation include forward collision alert and lane departure warning.
Third-generation used Chevy Silverado 1500 powertrains:
- 4.3L V6 (285 hp, 305 lb-ft)
- 5.3L V8 (355 hp, 383 lb-ft)
- 6.2L (420 hp, 460 lb-ft)
Here’s a look at how these models changed over the years:
- 2018: The rearview camera and tire fill alert system become standard equipment. The base WT trim gets a standard version of the MyLink infotainment system, with a smaller, 7-inch touch screen. The Custom trim now offers a crew cab body style, and LTZ models are now available with the eAssist mild hybrid system.
- 2017: New standard features include the Teen Driver system, which allows parents to create boundaries with geofencing and speed limitations. The capless fuel filler also becomes standard. The Enhanced Driver Alert package adds a forward emergency braking system that works at low speeds.
- 2016: The Silverado gets a mid-cycle refresh. New front-end styling offers new grille designs and new LED signature lighting. Upgraded infotainment touch screens are available, offering improved response times. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration become optional. The Enhanced Driver Alert package of safety aids adds lane departure mitigation.
- 2015: New eight-speed automatic transmission becomes available for the 6.2-liter V8 engine. The trim model formerly known as the 2WT becomes the LS.
Second Generation: 2007-2013
Second-generation used Silverado 1500 trucks are pretty old school. You won’t find as many luxury features on these trucks, but you can count on their reliable workhorse capabilities.
These models feature the same three cabin and bed sizes you’ll see in other models. However, they’re only available as three trim models: the basic Work, mid-range LT, and top-trim LTZ.
Powertrains available for this generation:
- 4.3L V6 (195 hp, 260 lb-ft)
- 5.3L V8 (315 hp, 338 lb-ft)
- 6.0L V8 (367 hp, 375 lb-ft)
- 6.2L V8 (403 hp, 417 lb-ft)
Changes that occurred from model year to model year:
- 2012: A new hard-drive-based navigation system becomes optional.
- 2011: A new version of OnStar features upgraded audio quality and speech recognition.
- 2010: The 5.3-liter and 6.2-liter V8 engines now come standard with the six-speed automatic transmission. The 5.3-liter and 4.8-liter V8 engines get variable valve timing.
- 2009: New 6.2-liter V8 is available with 403 horsepower. This model year also introduces a new six-speed automatic transmission. Tech options now include Bluetooth connectivity and XM traffic.
- 2008: An integrated trailer brake controller becomes available.