2017 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD

The 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its robust capabilities and towing prowess. It was offered with three engine options: a 6.0L Vortec V8 gasoline engine (360 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque), a 6.6L Duramax V8 turbodiesel engine (445 hp and 910 lb-ft of torque), and a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) 6.0L V8. The gasoline engine was paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, while the diesel was paired with an Allison 1000 6-speed automatic transmission. The CNG engine was paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners appreciate the Silverado 3500 HD for its strong towing capacity, comfortable ride for a heavy-duty truck, and available technology. Common dislikes include a relatively plain interior compared to competitors, some reported issues with the infotainment system, and fuel economy (particularly with the gasoline engine).

Body

• Frame Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Frame is susceptible to rust in northern states. It is most commonly seen around the rear leaf spring mounts and rear cross members.
  • Solution: Prevention with undercoating before rust is prevalent. If rust is present, it can be repaired with welding new metal on or coating to prevent it from getting worse.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$2000+ depending on the severity of the rust.
  • Recalls: None Found

Engine

6.6L Duramax V8 Turbodiesel

• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The Bosch CP4 high-pressure fuel pump, used in the 6.6L Duramax diesel, is known for its susceptibility to failure when contaminated with water or debris in the fuel. Symptoms include hard starting, reduced power, and engine stalling. The debris from the pump contaminates the entire fuel system
  • Solution: Replacement of the high-pressure fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel rails, fuel lines, and fuel tank cleaning. A CP3 conversion kit is an aftermarket option that replaces the CP4 pump with the older CP3 pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $8,000 - $12,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Cooler Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking in the EGR cooler can cause coolant leaks. Symptoms include loss of coolant, white smoke from the exhaust, and potential engine overheating.
  • Solution: EGR cooler replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500
  • Recalls: None Found

6.0L Vortec V8 (Gasoline and CNG)

• Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: AFM lifters can fail, causing a noticeable ticking or knocking sound from the engine, rough running, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the failed lifters and potentially the camshaft. An AFM delete kit is also an option to prevent future failures.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Allison 1000 6-Speed Automatic (Paired with 6.6L Duramax)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, particularly under load, can indicate torque converter failure.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, harsh shifts, or slipping between gears can be caused by valve body issues.
  • Solution: Valve body replacement or rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic (Paired with 6.0L Vortec V8 Gasoline and CNG)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, particularly under load, can indicate torque converter failure.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, harsh shifts, or slipping between gears can be caused by valve body issues.
  • Solution: Valve body replacement or rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The MyLink infotainment system can experience freezing, crashing, and unresponsive touchscreen.
  • Solution: Software updates, system reset, or replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update) - $1,500+ (Head Unit Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain can occur due to a parasitic draw from various electrical components.
  • Solution: Identification and repair of the source of the parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the source of the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Level Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The fuel level sensor will commonly fail and cause the fuel level gauge to be inaccurate.
  • Solution: Replacement of the fuel level sensor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Heater Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters may stop working due to broken heating elements or faulty wiring.
  • Solution: Replacement of the heating element or repair of the wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per seat.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD is a capable truck, but potential buyers should be aware of common issues. The most serious and expensive concerns revolve around the 6.6L Duramax diesel engine, particularly the Bosch CP4 fuel pump failures, which can lead to significant repair costs. The 6.0L Vortec V8 engines are subject to AFM lifter issues. Transmission issues and electrical glitches, while less catastrophic, can still be a source of frustration and expense. Buyers should thoroughly inspect any potential purchase, paying close attention to engine sounds, transmission performance, and the functionality of the infotainment system, and be aware of potential rust issues with the frame.