Segment:
Full-size pickup truck
Key Competitors:
Ford F-150, Ram 1500 (formerly Dodge Ram), Toyota Tundra
Vehicle Strengths:
Robust construction, versatile powertrain options, extensive towing and hauling capabilities, comfortable interior for its class
Benefits:
Cost savings on repairs, empowerment of DIY enthusiasts, access to factory-level diagnostic and repair procedures, efficient troubleshooting
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine controls, fuel system, exhaust system, transmission (automatic and manual), transfer case, driveline (front and rear axles, driveshafts)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (hydraulic, ABS, stability control), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Body control module (BCM), instrument panel, lighting, audio systems, HVAC controls, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), charging system, starting system, engine control wiring diagrams, chassis wiring diagrams, body wiring diagrams, diagnostic connectors
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, glass, bumpers, interior trim, exterior trim, seals, weatherstripping
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater system, climate control module, refrigerant, diagnostic procedures
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, battery service
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), circuit testing, component testing, flow charts
Repair:
Component removal and installation, sub-assembly repairs, major component overhauls, system recalibration
Alignment And Adjustment:
Wheel alignment procedures, suspension component adjustments, steering system adjustments
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Engine Option 1:
4.8L V8 (L20)
Displacement 1:
4807 cc (293.3 cu in)
Horsepower 1:
295 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque 1:
305 lb-ft @ 4600 rpm
Engine Option 2:
5.3L V8 (LC9 - FlexFuel)
Displacement 2:
5328 cc (325.1 cu in)
Horsepower 2:
315 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque 2:
338 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Engine Option 3:
6.0L V8 (L76)
Displacement 3:
5967 cc (364.1 cu in)
Horsepower 3:
367 hp @ 5400 rpm
Torque 3:
375 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm
Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (FlexFuel option for 5.3L)
Valve Train:
Overhead Valve (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder
Ignition System:
Distributorless Electronic Ignition (HEI-type)
Transmission Type:
4-speed automatic (4L60E) for 4.8L and 5.3L, 6-speed automatic (6L80E) for 6.0L and higher duty models
Transmission Type:
4-speed manual (NV3500) available on some configurations
Driver Selectable Modes:
Tow/Haul mode (on automatic transmissions)
Fluid Type:
Dexron VI (for 4L60E and 6L80E)
NHTSA Frontal Driver:
5 Stars
NHTSA Frontal Passenger:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Driver:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Passenger:
5 Stars
Traction Control:
Standard (StabiliTrak stability control available on some models)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, available side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners
Audio System:
Available AM/FM/CD player with MP3 capability, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, available Bose premium audio system
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system
Parking Assist:
Available rear parking assist sensors
Bluetooth:
Available Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (under normal driving conditions)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (for platinum-tipped plugs)
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 (API SN or newer)
Coolant:
GM P/N 12346290 (Orange, silicate-free, extended life)
Common Problems General:
Exhaust manifold leaks (cracked manifolds), AFM/DOD lifter issues (on some V8s), transmission shudder, fuel pump failures, minor electrical gremlins
Common Problems Specific:
Potential for water pump leaks, alternator failures, and brake wear beyond normal limits with heavy use
Manufacturer:
Chevrolet, a division of General Motors (GM)
Generation:
Second generation of the GMT900 platform Silverado (2007-2013)
Manufacturing Locations:
Fort Wayne, Indiana; Silao, Mexico; Oshawa, Ontario, Canada
Jdpowers Initial Quality:
Consistently ranked well in J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Studies within its segment for its generation.
Motortrend Truck Of The Year:
Silverado models have historically been recognized by automotive publications like MotorTrend, though not specifically for the 2008 model year as Truck of the Year.