CarBrief

NHTSA has 1,186 owner complaints on file for the 2015 Silverado, and brakes are the biggest group[1][2]. The model year also has 18 recalls, so check every one against the exact truck before you buy[3].

1,186owner complaints[1]
18recalls[3]
17–20MPG combined (EPA)[4]
5★NHTSA overall rating[5]

Most reported problems

Owners filed 1,186 complaints with NHTSA for this model year[1]. Of those, 61 mention a crash, 16 a fire and 35 an injury, and 1 reports a death[1]. These are unverified owner reports. One complaint can name several components, and the counts are not adjusted for how many trucks were sold.

Component group Complaints Crashes Fires Injuries
Brakes[2] 382 26 0 6
Steering[6] 174 8 0 5
Electrical system[7] 173 4 12 3
Engine[8] 159 5 1 1
Power train[9] 149 3 0 2
Air bags[10] 72 24 1 25

Brakes lead the list. The median mileage at failure for brake complaints is 56,500[2]. Steering complaints have a median of 49,000 miles[6]. Electrical complaints have 12 fires, the most of any group in the table[7].

Air bags have far fewer complaints than brakes, yet 24 of those 72 mention a crash and 25 mention an injury[10].

We read a small sample of the complaint texts for four groups. These are only examples and do not show how common a problem is.

Recalls

NHTSA lists 18 recalls for the 2015 Silverado[3]. Many of them cover other GM trucks and SUVs too, but Many of them cover other GM trucks and SUVs too. The 2015 Silverado is named in each one, but some cover only certain engines, build dates or drive types, so check each against the exact truck. Newest first: Newest first:

Our data does not say which individual trucks are still unrepaired.

Fuel economy

EPA lists several configurations for this model year. The combined ratings run from 17 to 20 mpg[4][29].

Engine and drive City / highway / combined mpg EPA annual fuel cost
4.3L 6-cyl, 2WD[4] 18 / 24 / 20 $3,350
4.3L 6-cyl, 4WD[30] 17 / 22 / 19 $3,550
5.3L 8-cyl, 2WD[31] 16 / 23 / 19 $3,550
5.3L 8-cyl, 4WD[32] 16 / 22 / 18 $3,700
6.2L 8-cyl, 2WD[33] 15 / 21 / 17 $3,950
6.2L 8-cyl, 4WD[34] 15 / 21 / 17 $3,950

The cab chassis versions are rated lower, at 17 to 18 combined mpg[29][35][36]. The cost figures use EPA's current fuel price assumptions, not prices from when the truck was new. The 5.3L ratings are for both gasoline or E85 and regular gasoline[31][37].

Safety ratings

NHTSA's 5-Star ratings give 5 stars overall, 5 stars in frontal crash and 5 stars in side crash[5]. Rollover gets 4 stars[5]. The listed rollover risk is 17.4% for 4WD versions[5][38][39] and 17.9% for rear-wheel drive versions[40][41][42]. All six body and drive combinations listed have the same star ratings[5][38][39][40][41][42].

Ratings do not cover the recalls above. Check those separately.

Engine and size

The specifications below come from Transport Canada data, so they are Canadian-market numbers[43]. They cover the crew cab and double cab 1500 versions[43].

Version Length Width Height Wheelbase Curb weight
Crew cab, medium box, 2WD[43] 235 in 80 in 74 in 153 in 5,161 lb
Crew cab, medium box, 4x4[44] 235 in 80 in 74 in 153 in 5,359 lb
Crew cab, short box, 2WD[45] 226 in 80 in 74 in 144 in 5,073 lb
Crew cab, short box, 4x4[46] 226 in 80 in 74 in 144 in 5,278 lb
Double cab, medium box, 2WD[47] 226 in 80 in 74 in 144 in 5,002 lb
Double cab, medium box, 4x4[48] 226 in 80 in 74 in 144 in 5,216 lb

The 4x4 versions weigh about 198 to 214 lb more than the matching 2WD versions[43][44][45][46][47][48].

How 2015 compares with other years

1999: 2,247 complaints, 5 recalls19992000: 1,919 complaints, 8 recalls2001: 1,344 complaints, 4 recalls2002: 1,219 complaints, 4 recalls20022003: 1,500 complaints, 6 recalls2004: 1,420 complaints, 8 recalls2005: 844 complaints, 8 recalls20052006: 547 complaints, 4 recalls2007: 1,056 complaints, 3 recalls2008: 1,076 complaints, 4 recalls20082009: 520 complaints, 3 recalls2010: 425 complaints, 3 recalls2011: 638 complaints, 6 recalls20112012: 284 complaints, 4 recalls2013: 365 complaints, 5 recalls2014: 1,560 complaints, 19 recalls20142015: 1,186 complaints, 18 recalls1,18620152016: 802 complaints, 14 recalls2017: 839 complaints, 7 recalls20172018: 524 complaints, 7 recalls2019: 1,096 complaints, 10 recalls2020: 747 complaints, 12 recalls20202021: 847 complaints, 8 recalls2022: 650 complaints, 6 recalls2023: 388 complaints, 3 recalls20232024: 342 complaints, 6 recalls2025: 120 complaints, 1 recalls2026: 126 complaints, 6 recalls2026
Owner complaints filed with NHTSA for each Silverado model year. The 2015 is highlighted[3].
Show the numbers
Model yearComplaintsRecalls
19992,2475
20001,9198
20011,3444
20021,2194
20031,5006
20041,4208
20058448
20065474
20071,0563
20081,0764
20095203
20104253
20116386
20122844
20133655
20141,56019
20151,18618
201680214
20178397
20185247
20191,09610
202074712
20218478
20226506
20233883
20243426
20251201
20261266

NHTSA counts 1,186 complaints and 18 recalls for the 2015 model year[3]. The 2014 model year has 1,560 complaints and 19 recalls, the only year with more recalls[3]. Among model years 2005 to 2026, only 2014 has more complaints than 2015[3]. Several early years rank higher, with 2,247 complaints for 1999 and 1,919 for 2000[3].

Every later model year has fewer complaints and fewer recalls than 2015[3]. For example, 2016 has 802 complaints and 14 recalls, and 2019 has 1,096 complaints and 10 recalls[3].

Should you buy a used 2015 Silverado?

The record is heavy on recalls and complaints, and brakes, steering and electrical issues stand out[1][2][6][7]. Dealers do the repairs for free in most of the recalls above, but the roof-rail air bag recall 21V504 mentions a second owner notice when the remedy is available, and our data does not show its current status, so ask any seller whether it was done[11]. Run the VIN through NHTSA, and ask for proof that the brake, steering and seat belt recalls were done. On a test drive, pay attention to braking, steering feel at highway speed and any stalling. Complaints are unverified, and our data cannot tell you how any single truck has held up.

Frequently asked questions

What are the most common problems with the 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?
Brakes have the most NHTSA complaints at 382, ahead of steering at 174 and the electrical system at 173[2][6][7].
How many recalls does the 2015 Silverado have?
NHTSA lists 18 recalls for the 2015 model year[3]. The roof-rail air bag inflator recall 21V504 says owners get a second notice when the remedy is available, and our data does not show its current status[11].
What is the gas mileage of a 2015 Silverado?
EPA combined ratings run from 17 to 20 mpg[4][29]. The 4.3L 2WD is rated 20 mpg combined and the 6.2L versions 17[4][33][34].
Is the 2015 Silverado safe?
NHTSA gives it 5 stars overall and 4 stars for rollover[5]. The model year also has recalls for air bags, seat belts and brakes[11][15][21].
Is 2015 a bad year for the Silverado?
It has 1,186 complaints and 18 recalls[3]. Only 2014 has more recalls, and among 2005 to 2026 only 2014 has more complaints[3].

Facts and sources

  1. NHTSA has 1,186 owner complaints on file for the 2015 Chevrolet Silverado (61 mention a crash, 16 a fire, 35 injuries, 1 deaths reported). NHTSA vehicle records
  2. 382 complaints name the brakes component group (26 crashes, 0 fires, 6 injuries, median mileage at failure 56,500). NHTSA vehicle records
  3. Owner complaints and recalls for every Chevrolet Silverado model year (chart above). NHTSA recall database
  4. EPA rating for Silverado C15 2WD, 4.3L 6-cyl, Automatic 6-spd, Gasoline or E85, Rear-Wheel Drive: 18 city / 24 highway / 20 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,350. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  5. NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, PU/CC 4WD: overall 5 stars, frontal 5 stars, side 5 stars, rollover 4 stars; rollover risk 17.4%. NHTSA vehicle records
  6. 174 complaints name the steering component group (8 crashes, 0 fires, 5 injuries, median mileage at failure 49,000). NHTSA vehicle records
  7. 173 complaints name the electrical system component group (4 crashes, 12 fires, 3 injuries, median mileage at failure 50,000). NHTSA vehicle records
  8. 159 complaints name the engine component group (5 crashes, 1 fires, 1 injuries, median mileage at failure 58,000). NHTSA vehicle records
  9. 149 complaints name the power train component group (3 crashes, 0 fires, 2 injuries, median mileage at failure 38,000). NHTSA vehicle records
  10. 72 complaints name the air bags component group (24 crashes, 1 fires, 25 injuries, median mileage at failure 40,400). NHTSA vehicle records
  11. Recall 21V504, filed July 1, 2021: Air Bags › Side / Window › Curtain › Inflator. NHTSA recall database
  12. Recall 21V245, filed April 8, 2021: Seat Belts › Front. NHTSA recall database
  13. Recall 20V736, filed November 25, 2020: Air Bags › Side / Window › Curtain › Inflator. NHTSA recall database
  14. Recall 19V761, filed October 24, 2019: Service Brakes. NHTSA recall database
  15. Recall 19V645, filed September 6, 2019: Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Power Assist › Vacuum. NHTSA recall database
  16. Recall 18V586, filed September 7, 2018: Steering › Electric Power Assist System. NHTSA recall database
  17. Recall 18V578, filed August 30, 2018: Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Pedals And Linkages. NHTSA recall database
  18. Recall 18V291, filed May 3, 2018: Seat Belts › Front. NHTSA recall database
  19. Recall 17V437, filed July 10, 2017: Seat Belts › Pretensioner. NHTSA recall database
  20. Recall 16V651, filed September 8, 2016: Seat Belts › Pretensioner. NHTSA recall database
  21. Recall 16V209, filed April 12, 2016: Seat Belts. NHTSA recall database
  22. Recall 16V069, filed February 5, 2016: Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Pedals And Linkages. NHTSA recall database
  23. Recall 15V640, filed October 9, 2015: Electrical System › Ignition. NHTSA recall database
  24. Recall 14V819, filed December 24, 2014: Power Train › Axle Assembly › Axle Shaft. NHTSA recall database
  25. Recall 14V719, filed November 10, 2014: Steering › Electric Power Assist System. NHTSA recall database
  26. Recall 14V446, filed July 23, 2014: Seats. NHTSA recall database
  27. Recall 14V374, filed June 27, 2014: Power Train › Transfer Case (4-Wheel Drive). NHTSA recall database
  28. Recall 14V007, filed January 13, 2014: Engine And Engine Cooling › Exhaust System. NHTSA recall database
  29. EPA rating for Silverado C15 Cab Chassis 2WD, 5.3L 8-cyl, Automatic 6-spd, Gasoline or E85, Rear-Wheel Drive: 15 city / 20 highway / 17 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,950. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  30. EPA rating for Silverado K15 4WD, 4.3L 6-cyl, Automatic 6-spd, Gasoline or E85, 4-Wheel Drive: 17 city / 22 highway / 19 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,550. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  31. EPA rating for Silverado C15 2WD, 5.3L 8-cyl, Automatic 6-spd, Gasoline or E85, Rear-Wheel Drive: 16 city / 23 highway / 19 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,550. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  32. EPA rating for Silverado K15 4WD, 5.3L 8-cyl, Automatic 6-spd, Gasoline or E85, 4-Wheel Drive: 16 city / 22 highway / 18 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,700. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  33. EPA rating for Silverado C15 2WD, 6.2L 8-cyl, Automatic 8-spd, Regular, Rear-Wheel Drive: 15 city / 21 highway / 17 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,950. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  34. EPA rating for Silverado K15 4WD, 6.2L 8-cyl, Automatic 8-spd, Regular, 4-Wheel Drive: 15 city / 21 highway / 17 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,950. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  35. EPA rating for Silverado C15 Cab Chassis 2WD, 4.3L 6-cyl, Automatic 6-spd, Gasoline or E85, Rear-Wheel Drive: 16 city / 21 highway / 18 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,700. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  36. EPA rating for Silverado K15 Cab Chassis 4WD, 5.3L 8-cyl, Automatic 6-spd, Gasoline or E85, 4-Wheel Drive: 15 city / 19 highway / 17 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,950. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  37. EPA rating for Silverado C15 2WD, 5.3L 8-cyl, Automatic 6-spd, Regular, Rear-Wheel Drive: 16 city / 23 highway / 19 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,550. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  38. NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, PU/RC 4WD: overall 5 stars, frontal 5 stars, side 5 stars, rollover 4 stars; rollover risk 17.4%. NHTSA vehicle records
  39. NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, PU/EC 4WD: overall 5 stars, frontal 5 stars, side 5 stars, rollover 4 stars; rollover risk 17.4%. NHTSA vehicle records
  40. NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, PU/CC RWD: overall 5 stars, frontal 5 stars, side 5 stars, rollover 4 stars; rollover risk 17.9%. NHTSA vehicle records
  41. NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, PU/EC RWD: overall 5 stars, frontal 5 stars, side 5 stars, rollover 4 stars; rollover risk 17.9%. NHTSA vehicle records
  42. NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, PU/RC RWD: overall 5 stars, frontal 5 stars, side 5 stars, rollover 4 stars; rollover risk 17.9%. NHTSA vehicle records
  43. Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, SILVERADO 1500 CREW CAB M/BOX 2WD: length 235 in, width 80 in, height 74 in, wheelbase 153 in, curb weight 5,161 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov
  44. Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, SILVERADO 1500 CREW CAB M/BOX 4X4: length 235 in, width 80 in, height 74 in, wheelbase 153 in, curb weight 5,359 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov
  45. Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, SILVERADO 1500 CREW CAB S/BOX 2WD: length 226 in, width 80 in, height 74 in, wheelbase 144 in, curb weight 5,073 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov
  46. Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, SILVERADO 1500 CREW CAB S/BOX 4X4: length 226 in, width 80 in, height 74 in, wheelbase 144 in, curb weight 5,278 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov
  47. Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, SILVERADO 1500 DOUBLE CAB M/BOX 2WD: length 226 in, width 80 in, height 74 in, wheelbase 144 in, curb weight 5,002 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov
  48. Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, SILVERADO 1500 DOUBLE CAB M/BOX 4X4: length 226 in, width 80 in, height 74 in, wheelbase 144 in, curb weight 5,216 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov

Complaints submitted to NHTSA by owners; unverified reports, one complaint can name several components. Complaint counts are not normalized by sales; compare years of the same model, not different models. EPA annual fuel cost uses EPA's current fuel price assumptions, not the price when the car was new. Horsepower is the rating listed for EPA test vehicles. Dimensions are Canadian-market specifications and can differ slightly from US models.