2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Chevrolet › Silverado 1500 › 2002
These records cover every 2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Owner complaints
509 complaints45 involved a crash5 involved a fire24 injuries1 deaths
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Power train
my truck won't pick up speed when trying to accelerate. I don't know what it is. I know it's a problem and it's a hazard and accident waiting to happen!!!! Please, fix. I have had nothing but, issues with this Chevy Silverado.
- Power train
I was driving today and my truck started making a strange noise(like something was loose). I stop the truck to see what was loose, I found nothing. I got back in the truck driving about 20 mph the truck started making the noise again and the truck started dragging( like it wouldn't go faster). I…
I was driving today and my truck started making a strange noise(like something was loose). I stop the truck to see what was loose, I found nothing. I got back in the truck driving about 20 mph the truck started making the noise again and the truck started dragging( like it wouldn't go faster). I then stop and pulled in a church parking lot where the truck was not drivable. I was told by a concern passerby( mechanic, which happen to be) it's has something to do with the rest axle. The truck gave me no warning whatever. I was told I could have had a major accident and I had NO!!! warning. Please, fix. I have nothing but, issues with this truck.
- Service brakes
The emergency brake does not work properly. It automatically comes on while I am driving almost causing me to have a accident. Please, fix!!!!
- Electrical system · Forward collision avoidance › Automatic emergency braking · Service brakes
ABS kicks in constantly at low speeds in dry conditions. This causes longer stopping distances. The ABS grinds or vibrates interfering with normal braking situations. Many near miss collisions at low speeds. The manufacturer should be responsible and replace all the ABS sensors. I purchased this truck brand new in 2002.
- Structure
The contact owns a 2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact heard a loud cracking sound coming from the vehicle. The contact noticed the loud cracking sound while driving over a pothole in the road. The vehicle was driven to the…
The contact owns a 2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact heard a loud cracking sound coming from the vehicle. The contact noticed the loud cracking sound while driving over a pothole in the road. The vehicle was driven to the residence. The contact completed a thorough inspection of the vehicle and noticed a fracture behind the cab of the vehicle. In addition, the contact noticed corrosion of the undercarriage of the vehicle. The contact stated that the corrosion extended from the front passenger’s side to the rear of the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 250,000.
- Air bags
Had a front end collision going 65 miles per hour. Air bag never deployed
- Unknown or other
ABS sensors I think are bad cuz my brake pedal fluctuates and hasn't done that in a long time it went away no dash lights for the ABS but it's definitely coming from the brake pedal?
- Structure › Body
rocker panels rusted out
- Fuel/propulsion system · Service brakes
The throttle cable makes contact and rub through the flexible pressurized fuel line creating a pinhole leak of natural gas. I smell gas inside cab. Causes check engine light to come on
- Air bags
The contact owns a 2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The contact stated while driving 5-10 MPH, the airbag warning light illuminated. The independent mechanic was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the dealer for diagnosis. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 143,725.
- Air bags · Seat belts
TL* the contact owns a 2002 chevrolet silverado 1500. The contact stated that another vehicle in front was making a left, the driver slammed on the brake pedal but the latch failed causing the passenger to go through the windshield during the impact. The driver proceeded to hit a third vehicle that…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 chevrolet silverado 1500. The contact stated that another vehicle in front was making a left, the driver slammed on the brake pedal but the latch failed causing the passenger to go through the windshield during the impact. The driver proceeded to hit a third vehicle that was at a stop sign. the other driver was found at fault by the police. The front passenger seat belt latch failed to restrain and caused the front passenger injuries at the face, arm, and left wrist. The front passenger air bag failed to fully deploy and caused the passengers head hit the windshield. The driver suffered injuries to the stomach. Medical attention was provided to both injured. The police department was present and a police report was filed. the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The contact also wanted to add that tsb seat 10-08-50-003b describes the seat belt failure. The vehicle was towed to the driver's residence. The failure mileage was not available.
- Service brakes, air › Antilock
TL* the contact owns a 2002 chevrolet silverado 1500. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 5 mph, the ABS system activated and the vehicle lost motive power. There was no warning lights illuminated. A dealer was not contacted. The failure recurred several times. The vehicle was…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 chevrolet silverado 1500. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 5 mph, the ABS system activated and the vehicle lost motive power. There was no warning lights illuminated. A dealer was not contacted. The failure recurred several times. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 82,000.
- Service brakes
ABS system will activate when applying brakes without cause such as a wet surface
- Service brakes
Hard break lines are fully corroded and need full replacement after a break line failure. Low mileage vehicle, currently 65K, vehicle has been in mild climate of nc and sc since 2002 where snow and salt IS infrequent. Never driven in coastal area. Only recently driven across country, where failure occurred. Thankfully at slow speeds.
- Electrical system
Using the key the ignition turns on and truck starts as it should, anytime the key then could be taken out of the ignition at anytime. Ignition can be clicked back to accessory and the key can fall out when driving. Note changing from run to accessory it easily done.
- Air bags · Electrical system
TL* the contact owned a 2002 chevrolet silverado 1500. The contact stated that the ignition switch was loose. there were no warning lights illuminated. the contact stated that while her daughter was driving approximately 65 mph, she ran off the road and crashed into a tree. The vehicle caught…
TL* the contact owned a 2002 chevrolet silverado 1500. The contact stated that the ignition switch was loose. there were no warning lights illuminated. the contact stated that while her daughter was driving approximately 65 mph, she ran off the road and crashed into a tree. The vehicle caught fire. the driver sustained burns and injuries to her ribs, sternum, and pelvic. The injuries were fatal. A police report was filed. The air bags did not deploy. the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where the vehicle was deemed destroyed. A dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown. *tr *bf*jb*dt medical record xxxxxxxxxxxx certification of title no xxxxxxxxxxxx ('parts of this document have been redacted to protect personally identifiable information pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(B)(6).'*jb
- Service brakes
Brake lines started leaking brake fluid out of nowhere. Because of this, the brake petal suddenly stopped working and could have resulted in death. I was driving at about 30 mph on a city street when I discovered this issue. Had I have been driving at a higher speed I may not be here to complain. Rusted brake lines IS the problem with this issue.
- Service brakes
ABS kicks in at low speed
- Power train · Service brakes
When we bought truck I checked vin and only the tailgate recall came up but listed my truck being a chevy 800 model, well couple weeks ago our truck wouldn't brake while parking making a left into a restaurant and the truck wouldn't stop and hit the restaurant window!!! When I checked just our exact vehicle 15 plus recalls came up with this particular defect listed, please help advise. Thank the parkerd
- Service brakes
While slowing down coming to a stop - no brakes. checked everything. suspect power booster. this started slowly about three weeks ago. today it actually would not stop and I almost hit the fire hydrant.
- Service brakes
Brake lines rusted through to point of failure
- Service brakes
My brake lines on my silverado have been replaced 5 different lines in 4 years the truck has 90,000 miles on it and in the last month 3 times ive lost brakes the guy who fixes my brake lines tells me the lines are rusted out each time this happens, he told me he cant tell by sight when they will…
My brake lines on my silverado have been replaced 5 different lines in 4 years the truck has 90,000 miles on it and in the last month 3 times ive lost brakes the guy who fixes my brake lines tells me the lines are rusted out each time this happens, he told me he cant tell by sight when they will fail cause they look ok but that's not the case, I've read this IS a issue with these vehicle's ive been lucky so far (knock on wood) but the cost and the stress of having your brakes fail IS unacceptable seeing the lines are not up to normal standards, someone should be held responsible for this issue
- Seat belts
Seatbelts does not catch and will not recoil. Started out as loose now it will not retract. Started when I applied the brakes when a dog ran in front of me and seatbelts did not catch and my chest hit the steering wheel. The seatbelts did not retract after it pull out. I was traveling 55 mph when the dog crossed the highway.
- Service brakes
In july of 2018, my 2002 chevrolet silverado had major brake failure as I was driving about 35 mph approaching a red light. I pressed on the brakes, it went totally to the floor and I was unable to stop, blowing right through red light. my mechanic told me the my brake line rusted through, and all…
In july of 2018, my 2002 chevrolet silverado had major brake failure as I was driving about 35 mph approaching a red light. I pressed on the brakes, it went totally to the floor and I was unable to stop, blowing right through red light. my mechanic told me the my brake line rusted through, and all the brakes lines, as well as the fuel line IS totally rusted. I was told that this IS very common in this chevrolet / gm model era. he said if all he were to do IS replace brake lines in this 1999 to 2006 era, it was enough to keep his business booming. What shocking struck me IS that he told me they all fail under the drivers side door, along the frame, before the ABS module. this IS definitely a safety hazard that should be addressed. Myself, as well as others could of been killed when I was unable to stop at the red light. john d. norristown, pa.
- Service brakes
There IS a major safety design flaw in the 1999-2002 brake system. The front tires through the salt and grime from the roads onto the brake lines where chevrolet has located them in the design. This causes the brake lines to corrode and burst during driving. Mine have now burst for the second time…
There IS a major safety design flaw in the 1999-2002 brake system. The front tires through the salt and grime from the roads onto the brake lines where chevrolet has located them in the design. This causes the brake lines to corrode and burst during driving. Mine have now burst for the second time in the last 5 years. the first time in 2013 I was driving at about 35-40 mph when I went to make a rh turn and the brakes went to the floor. This time I had went to a local gas station and was on the way home when I stopped to talk to a neighbor and once again the brake pedal went to the floor. I drive the truck very little so I have only put just over 17,000 miles on the new set of brake lines that I had installed by a chevrolet dealer in 2013. I live in southern indiana, just north of louisville, ky so our winters are not that harsh, so the amount of salt from roads IS pretty limited. I have talked with other chevrolet silverado, yukon and suburban owners and they all share having the same issues with their brake lines. I have went to youtube to see how to make the repairs myself and have seen countless videos on individuals repairing their brakes because of the corrosion and the brake lines bursting. come on nhtsb what are you waiting on before you issue a recall, someone to die or be permanently disabled! Do the right thing and issue a recall to fix the brakes with stainless steel lines, rotors, calipers and brake pads that will not rust after a few years!
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Parking brake failure
In a letter dated april 20, 2005, gm notified nhtsa that it had decided that defects that relate to motor vehicle safety exist in certain model year (my) 1999-2002 c/k 1500 series (pbr parking brake system) and my 2001-2005 c/k 2500 and 3500 series (trw parking brake system) pickups with manual transmissions.according…
In a letter dated april 20, 2005, gm notified nhtsa that it had decided that defects that relate to motor vehicle safety exist in certain model year (my) 1999-2002 c/k 1500 series (pbr parking brake system) and my 2001-2005 c/k 2500 and 3500 series (trw parking brake system) pickups with manual transmissions.according to gm, some of these vehicles may have conditions that cause the friction linings to wear to an extent where the parking brake can become ineffective in immobilizing a parked vehicle.gm's action covers an estimated total of 142,585 vehicles.dealers will install a low-force spring clip retainer for vehicles equipped with the pbr parking brake system and install a redesigned parking brake cable assembly on vehicles equipped with the trw parking brake system. A total of 58 non-duplicative complaints were received by odi and gm concerning the approximately 59,000 my 1999-2002 c/k 1500 series pickup trucks with the pbr parking brake system.these included 22 alleged rollaway incidents, resulting in a rate of 38.5 rollaway incidents per 100,000 vehicles.odi IS aware of 24 complaints regarding the my 2001-2005 c/k 2500 and 3500 series manual transmission trucks recalled by gm, including 5 alleging rollaway incidents.though the conditions described in gm's letter are also present in the c/k trucks with automatic transmissions, the rollaway rate in those vehicles was similar to those observed in peer vehicles studied by odi in this investigation.this engineering analysis IS closed. For additional information, see the attached closing report.
- Parking brake failure
Odi opened pe03-057 to assess parking brake ineffectiveness in the subject vehicles.these vehicles are equipped with four wheel disc brakes that incorporate a single-shoe drum-in-hat parking brake independent of the service brakes.complaint and warranty data indicate that the parking brake linings tend to wear out…
Odi opened pe03-057 to assess parking brake ineffectiveness in the subject vehicles.these vehicles are equipped with four wheel disc brakes that incorporate a single-shoe drum-in-hat parking brake independent of the service brakes.complaint and warranty data indicate that the parking brake linings tend to wear out early in the life of the vehicle (at an average of 24 months in service), reducing the parking brake system's torque below that needed to immobilize the vehicle.gm has attributed this accelerated wear to foreign material intrusion and a failure of the brake shoe to properly self-center within its brake drum.effective with the start of my 2003 production, a newer reduced force hold-down clip was introduced to facilitate brake shoe disengagement from the drum surface.this part IS also available at the service level for the my 1999-2002 vehicles.gm has indicated that the paking brake IS intended to operate in conjunction with the transmission to immobilze parked vehicles, and that in many cases, accelerated parking brake lining wear IS caused by rough use, vehicle modifications, and driving with the parking engaged. Odi has upgraded the preliminary evaluation to an engineering analysis to gather further information concerning parking brake usage factors and the circumstances surrounding the seventeen reported vehicle crashes.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 11010544This service bulletin explains how to measure for oil consumption and possible reasons for loss of oil.
- 11009156This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and Vehicle Data Recorder tools, giving website address and step by step instructions to complete the update.
- 11007744This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures, outside temperature, humidity, and vent temperature.
- 11007743This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures, outside temperature, humidity, and vent temperature.
- 11006621Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions). The updating of modules is completed in parallel instead of the technician needing to update one module at a time. This allows a more streamlined approach for dealers and customers.
- 11006421GM is receiving damaged (cracked or broken) transmission cores returned to the reman facilities. The damage is being caused either in the removal process by the technician, or inadequate packaging or shipping. This bulletin advises the dealers to be more careful not to damage the transmissions during removal and to package the core properly for return.
- 11004761This service bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
- 11004557This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
- 11002312This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Service Programming System (SPS) Error Codes E4398, E4399, E4401, E4403, M4404, M4413, M6954, M6955, E4414, E4423, E4491, E4492, or E6961 and resolution information.
- 10252735This bulletin provides information for electrical ground repairs using new General Motors replacement fasteners with conductive finish.
- 10252163XM Audio Traffic And Travel Link Availability And Operation.
- 10251890This technical bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
- 10251887This bulletin advises the technician of possible location of an internal coolant leak from a specific cylinder head and location.
- 10250775This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
- 1025004605500 ignition distributor system corrosion inspect / replace
- 10249980This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vibration complaints that are one of the most challenging complaints to accurately diagnose and repair. Technician will need to use Pico Oscilloscope Diagnostic Kit to effectively diagnosis vehicles. Technician should drive the vehicle will using the Pico Oscilloscope to record data. After the data is recorded it should be reviewed to determine the root cause of the concern. If a repair attempt made the concern better but not eliminated or had no affect at all, and are requesting assistance from General Motors Technical Assistance Center record another Pico file and save it to the computer. After the new Pico Oscilloscope data has been saved email the data to General Motors Technical Assistance Center in the subject line include ?Vibration? ?Business Associate Code? and the last 8 of the Vehicle Identification Number.
- 10249590This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
- 10249579This PI bulletin advises the technician on the proper way to install the pistons in an engine.
- 10249011This informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Headlamp, Tail Lamp, License Lamp or Fog/Driving Lamp Damage.
- 10248444Vehicle Recalls
- 10247780This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures, outside temperature, humidity, and vent temperature.
- 10247681Information On Requests To Add OnStar Bluetooth Option.
- 10247552This service bulletin provides information on Concerns or Questions Regarding Installation of Dealer Installed Accessories.
- 10246952Programming And Activation Of Replacement OnStar Modules.
- 10246951Programming And Activation Of Replacement OnStar Modules.
- 10246647Pre-Formed and Pre-Flared Hydraulic Brake Pipe Kits Now Available for Service
- 10246646Pre-Formed and Pre-Flared Hydraulic Brake Pipe Kits Now Available for Service
- 10246645Pre-Formed and Pre-Flared Hydraulic Brake Pipe Kits Now Available for Service
- 10246631Expanded Availability for Remanufacture and Return (R&R) Electronic Control Modules
- 10246624Car and Truck Fix it Right the First Time Issues
- 10245951Canadian Customers Unable To Place Calls And Turn By Turn Inoperative In The United States.
- 10245950Canadian Customers Unable To Place Calls In The United States
- 10244274This service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.
- 10244201This service bulletin provides information for dealers on how to submit a product information report (PIR) (Canada Only).
- 10242843The service bulletin advises the tech of a normal transmission shift condition and the delay in throttle response when the throttle plate is opened rapidly and advises the customer that it is normal for the delay.
- 10242298This Preliminary information communicates information that will need to be provided to TAC to aid in diagnosing if a vehicle comes in with misfire and DTC Codes P0300 - P0308 and/or P050D
- 10242262This service bulletin provides graphics, information and guidelines for engine component wear to assist service personnel as a guideline to perform necessary engine repairs and prevent unnecessary engine replacement.
- 10240793This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have an unusual noise and is difficult to identify, isolate or pinpoint. Technician should get record a sound clip or take a video of the noise for assessment by engineering. Technician will need to call General Motors Technical Assistance Center for further assistance.
- 10240344This service bulletin explains how to measure for oil consumption and possible reasons for loss of oil.
- 10237671This Preliminary Information communication advises the technician that the Hydro-Boost is not serviceable and will need to be replaced if the brake pedal moves or applies on its own at a full turn.
Every Chevrolet Silverado 1500 model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.