| Last updated Oct, 2026
A used Chevy Silverado 1500 is one of the best full-size trucks you can buy, with strong V8 and turbo engines, a huge range of cabs and trims, and parts and service everywhere. For most buyers, a 2019 or newer model offers the best mix of capability, efficiency, and modern tech, and a 2022 or newer truck adds the upgraded interior. The RST trim is a popular sweet spot: sporty, body-color styling with the features most drivers want.
With so many engine, cab, and trim combinations, the right used Silverado depends on how you'll use it. Here's how the generations, engines, and trims compare, and what to check on a used one before you buy.
Is a used Silverado 1500 a good truck?
Yes. The Silverado has a comfortable ride, a roomy Crew Cab, and engine choices from an efficient turbo four to a powerful 6.2L V8 and a frugal diesel. It's a strong rival to the Ford F-150, and used prices are often competitive. The main things to watch are engine and transmission history on certain years, which we cover below.
Which Silverado years are best?
| Generation | Years | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| 4th gen, refreshed | 2022 to present | Upgraded interior with a large touchscreen and digital gauges, more tech, and the off-road ZR2. Note: some 2022 trucks were sold as the older-style "LTD." |
| 4th gen | 2019 to 2021 | Lighter, roomier truck with more engine choices, including the 2.7L turbo and 3.0L Duramax diesel. A strong value. |
| 3rd gen | 2014 to 2018 | Lower prices and proven V8s. Older interior tech; check transmission behavior carefully. |
Silverado engines explained
- 2.7L turbo four (2019+): surprisingly strong torque and good for daily driving and light towing.
- 5.3L V8: the most common choice and a great all-around engine.
- 6.2L V8: the most power, for heavy towing and performance.
- 3.0L Duramax diesel (2020+): excellent highway fuel economy and towing torque.
- 4.3L V6 (through 2021): a basic engine found mostly on work trucks.
Silverado trims explained, including the RST
- WT and Custom: work-focused and value trims.
- LT: the mainstream choice with comfort and convenience features.
- RST: a sport-styled trim with body-color bumpers and grille, larger wheels, and features similar to the LT. One of the most popular used Silverados.
- Trail Boss and ZR2: off-road packages with lifted suspension and all-terrain tires; the ZR2 (2022+) is the most capable.
- LTZ and High Country: the luxury trims with leather, premium tech, and upscale styling.
Cab and bed choices
- Regular Cab: two doors, one row. Mostly work trucks.
- Double Cab: four smaller doors and a smaller back seat.
- Crew Cab: four full-size doors and a roomy back seat. The most popular choice for families.
- Beds: short (about 5 feet 10 inches), standard (about 6 feet 7 inches), and long (8 feet).
What to check on a used Silverado 1500
- V8 lifters and cylinder deactivation: some owners of 5.3L and 6.2L V8s report lifter problems tied to the fuel-saving cylinder deactivation system. Listen for ticking and check for a misfire or check engine light.
- 6.2L V8 recall: certain 2021 to 2024 trucks with the 6.2L V8 were part of an engine recall [VERIFY: confirm recall details and remedy]. Run the VIN and confirm the work was done.
- Transmission shudder: some 2015 to 2019 trucks with the 8-speed automatic developed a shudder that a fluid service often fixes. Test drive at steady highway speeds.
- Towing wear: inspect the hitch, wiring, brakes, and transmission fluid condition.
- Rust: check the frame, rocker panels, and brake lines, especially on older trucks.
- Open recalls: run the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup.
Silverado vs. F-150
Choosing between the two best-selling pickups? Read Ford F-150 vs. Chevy Silverado and our used Ford F-150 buyer's guide. Not sure you need a truck? See truck vs. SUV.
Shop used Silverado 1500s at CarVision
When customers ask us about a used Silverado, we start with how they'll use it. For towing, we point them to the 5.3L or 6.2L V8 with full service records. For daily driving, a Crew Cab LT or RST with the 2.7L turbo or 5.3L is the sweet spot. On any 6.2L truck from 2021 to 2024, we confirm the recall status before anything else.
Test drive a Silverado at CarVision
See our used Silverado 1500s in person at either CarVision showroom. We will help you match the right engine, cab, and trim to how you use your truck.
Join the combined 13,800+ drivers who have reviewed CarVision on Google.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best years for a used Silverado 1500?
For most buyers, 2019 and newer Silverados offer the best mix of capability, efficiency, and tech. 2022 and newer models add the upgraded interior with a larger touchscreen.
What is the Silverado 1500 RST?
The RST is a sport-styled Silverado trim with body-color bumpers and grille, larger wheels, and features similar to the LT. It is one of the most popular used Silverado trims.
Which Silverado engine is best?
The 5.3L V8 is the best all-around choice for most buyers. The 6.2L V8 offers the most power, the 2.7L turbo four is efficient for daily driving, and the 3.0L Duramax diesel delivers excellent highway mileage.
What problems should I check on a used Silverado?
Listen for V8 lifter ticking, test for transmission shudder on 2015 to 2019 trucks, check towing wear and rust, and run the VIN for open recalls, including the 6.2L V8 engine recall on certain 2021 to 2024 trucks.
Is the Silverado better than the F-150?
Both are excellent. The Silverado offers a comfortable ride and strong V8s, while the F-150 offers more engine variety including a hybrid. Compare specific trucks by condition, price, and features.
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