Positioning:
The 2008 Chevrolet Silverado was a key player in the full-size pickup truck segment, known for its robust build and capability.
Competitors:
Competed directly with Ford F-150, Dodge Ram 1500, and Toyota Tundra.
Features:
Offered various body configurations (regular cab, extended cab, crew cab) and bed lengths. Known for its towing and hauling capacities.
Purpose:
To equip 2008 Silverado owners with the knowledge to safely operate, maintain, and enjoy their vehicle.
Primary Coverage:
Operation, safety, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting for the 2008 Chevrolet Silverado.
Secondary Coverage:
Includes information on vehicle features, controls, instrumentation, climate control, audio systems, and tire pressure monitoring.
Estimated Pages:
Approx. 350-450 pages (typical for this model year and vehicle type).
Format:
Printed Booklet (Original Equipment)
Powertrain:
Basic operation and care of engine and transmission, fluid checks, minor troubleshooting tips.
Chassis:
Braking system basics, steering, suspension system overview, tire care and pressure.
Electrical:
Lighting system operation, dashboard indicators, fuses, battery care, basic electrical component usage (wipers, horn).
Comfort Convenience:
Climate control, power windows, locks, mirrors, seat adjustments, interior lighting, audio system operation.
Safety Security:
Airbag system operation, seat belt usage, child restraint systems, anti-theft system, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
Routine Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid), tire inflation, wiper blade replacement, checking lights.
Basic Troubleshooting:
Interpreting dashboard warning lights, minor electrical issues (blown fuses), basic engine performance checks.
Emergency Procedures:
Jump starting the vehicle, changing a flat tire, safe towing procedures, breakdown assistance information.
Feature Operation:
Detailed instructions on using all factory-installed features and controls.
Depth:
Designed for the end-user. Covers owner-level maintenance, operation, and safety. Does not include in-depth diagnostic procedures or repair instructions for mechanics.
Format Detail:
While original is printed, digital versions are often PDF. Quality of PDF can vary, but original scans aim for high clarity.
Quality:
Original manuals typically feature clear black and white diagrams and text on durable paper.
Binding:
Staple-bound or saddle-stitched (typical for owner's manuals).
Paper:
Durable, matte-finish paper to withstand regular use.
Engine Options:
Available engines included: 4.3L V6, 4.8L V8, 5.3L V8 (FlexFuel capable), 6.0L V8, and 6.2L V8 (late availability/specific trims).
5.3L V8 Hp:
Approximately 315 hp @ 5200 rpm (varies slightly by application).
5.3L V8 Torque:
Approximately 338 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (varies slightly by application).
Fuel Type:
Gasoline, with certain engines supporting E85 (FlexFuel).
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI).
Transmission Options:
Most models came standard with a 4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., 4L60-E for smaller engines, 4L70-E for larger engines).
Manual Transmission:
Manual transmissions were available on some configurations, typically 5-speed or 6-speed for specific engine/trim combinations.
Tow Haul Mode:
Available on automatic transmissions to adjust shift points for towing and hauling.
Overall Length:
Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., ~237 inches for a standard bed crew cab).
Wheelbase:
Varies by configuration (e.g., ~143 inches for a crew cab short bed).
Bed Lengths:
Available in short (approx. 69.2 inches), standard (approx. 78.8 inches), and long (approx. 97.8 inches) bed lengths.
Curb Weight:
Typically ranges from 4,500 lbs to 5,500 lbs depending on configuration.
NHTSA Frontal Driver:
Five-Star (highest rating) in frontal crash tests for the driver.
NHTSA Frontal Passenger:
Five-Star (highest rating) in frontal crash tests for the passenger.
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good (highest rating) in frontal offset crash tests by IIHS.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS) on some models.
Stability Control:
Available StabiliTrak (Electronic Stability Control) on some models.
Airbags:
Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, available side-impact airbags (depending on trim/cab).
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners.
Tpms:
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) standard on most trims.
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM/CD player, with available satellite radio and premium audio systems.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on higher trim levels.
Parking Assist:
Available rear parking assist sensors.
Onstar:
Available OnStar system for safety, security, and concierge services.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, with synthetic oil. Owner's manual will specify based on driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 30,000-45,000 miles or as needed based on driving environment.
Transmission Fluid:
Recommended fluid change around 60,000-100,000 miles, depending on usage and fluid type.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 synthetic engine oil is recommended for most engines (refer to manual for specific viscosity and API service classification).
Coolant:
GM Dex-Cool (Orange) Long-Life Antifreeze/Coolant, a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid:
Dexron-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) for 4-speed automatic transmissions.
Afm Lifter Problems:
Some 5.3L V8 engines with Active Fuel Management (AFM) can experience lifter issues or oil consumption; manual offers basic checks but not repair solutions.
Fuel Pump Failures:
Some owners have reported fuel pump issues; manual provides operational information, not diagnostic fixes.
Oil Filter:
ACDelco PF46 or equivalent.
Chevrolet Trucks:
Chevrolet has a long history of producing reliable and capable pickup trucks dating back to the early 20th century.
Third Generation Silverado:
The 2008 model is part of the third generation of the Silverado (GMT900 platform), introduced in 2007, featuring updated styling and chassis.
Assembly Locations:
Produced at various GM assembly plants in North America, including Fort Wayne, Indiana, and Silao, Mexico.
Motor Trend Truck Of The Year:
Silverado was named MotorTrend's Truck of the Year in 2007, carrying that momentum into 2008.
Kbb Value:
Silverado models typically received good resale value ratings from Kelley Blue Book.
Emissions Compliance:
Meets all relevant EPA and California Air Resources Board (CARB) emissions standards for its model year.
