The Good
The 2006 Silverado 1500 offers a blend of strong performance and relative reliability. Its comfortable ride quality and classic truck design appeal emotionally. Practically, it provides capable towing, a range of engine options for varying needs, and decent value on the used market. However, fuel efficiency is typical for its class and age.
The Bad
Known weaknesses of the 2006 Silverado 1500 include potential issues with the instrument cluster, specifically gauge failures. Transmission problems and brake issues, particularly with the ABS system, have also been reported. Rust can be a problem in certain climates. Oil consumption can be higher than expected with some engines.
2006 Chevrolet Silverado 1500: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
The 2006 Silverado 1500 offers a range of engine options:- 4.3L V6: Provides a base-level engine for work truck models.
- 4.8L V8: Offers a balance of power and efficiency.
- 5.3L V8: The most popular choice, offering a good blend of power and towing capability.
- 6.0L V8: Available on certain models, delivers the most power and towing capacity.
- Horsepower:
- 4.3L V6: Approximately 200 hp.
- 4.8L V8: Approximately 295 hp.
- 5.3L V8: Approximately 310 hp.
- 6.0L V8: Approximately 345 hp.
- Fuel Economy:
(Estimates vary based on configuration and driving conditions)- 4.3L V6: 15-19 mpg city / 20-25 mpg highway.
- 4.8L V8: 14-18 mpg city / 19-23 mpg highway.
- 5.3L V8: 14-17 mpg city / 18-22 mpg highway.
- 6.0L V8: 12-16 mpg city / 16-20 mpg highway.
- 0-60 Times:
(Estimates vary based on engine and configuration)- Range from approximately 7-9 seconds, depending on the engine. The 6.0L V8 will have the quickest acceleration.
- Towing Capacity:
(Varies greatly depending on engine, cab configuration, and drivetrain)- Ranges from approximately 4,000 lbs to over 9,000 lbs when properly equipped. The 6.0L V8 with a tow package offers the highest towing capacity.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Work Truck: Basic features, vinyl seats, and minimal options.
- LS: Cloth seats, air conditioning, and basic audio system.
- LT: Upgraded cloth or leather seats, power windows and locks, and enhanced audio system.
- LTZ: Leather seats, dual-zone climate control, premium audio system, and other luxury features.
2006 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2006 |
| Make | Chevrolet |
| Model | Silverado 1500 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Crew Cab 2WD |
| Type | Pickup Truck |
| Category | Standard Pickup Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Canada |
| Manufacturing City | OSHAWA TRUCK |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 5471 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 8600 pounds |
| Overall Height | 77.00 inches |
| Overall Length | 237.30 inches |
| Overall Width | 79.70 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 153.00 inches |
| Standard Seating | 6 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 6.0-L V-8 OHV 16V |
| Engine Size | 6L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Recirculating |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $29,245 |
| Invoice Price | $26,759 |
| Delivery Charges | $875 |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2006 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Have?
Recalls for the 2006 Silverado 1500 have addressed issues such as potential fuel leakage due to a faulty fuel tank valve, which could increase the risk of fire. Other recalls involved issues with the brake system. Long-term reliability concerns often revolve around the aforementioned issues with the transmission and instrument cluster, as well as general wear and tear on suspension components and the electrical system. Pre-purchase inspection is crucial to identify and address these potential problems before buying a used 2006 Silverado 1500. Some owners reported that the door handles can break easily.
How long will the 2006 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Safety features include standard front airbags. Side-impact airbags were optional on some models. Crash-test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) vary depending on the cab configuration. Generally, the Silverado 1500 received good ratings for frontal crash protection, but side-impact protection was less impressive, particularly for models without side airbags. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also conducted crash tests, providing further insights into the truck's safety performance. Keep in mind that safety technology has advanced significantly since 2006, so compared to modern vehicles, the Silverado's safety features are limited. The availability of features like electronic stability control (ESC) was not widespread on this generation of Silverado.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2006 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Prices and Market Value
2006 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Cost of Ownership
2006 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Fuel Efficiency
2006 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2006 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2006 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Compare to Other Pickup Truck?
Reliability is a mixed bag; while the Silverado can be reliable with proper care, issues like transmission problems and instrument cluster failures are more common compared to the Toyota Tundra, which is generally considered more reliable. However, the Tundra can command a higher price on the used market. The Ford F-150's reliability is similar to the Silverado. In terms of price, the Silverado typically offers a good value, often being priced competitively or slightly lower than the F-150 and Tundra.
If reliability is a top priority and budget isn't a major concern, a Toyota Tundra of similar vintage might be a better alternative. If ride comfort and slightly better fuel economy are desired, the Ford F-150 is a comparable option. The Dodge Ram offers a different aesthetic but may not be as reliable as the other two.
Ranks #252 Truck
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Tundra | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2022 Honda Ridgeline | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Ford E-Transit Chassis | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Cab Chassis | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD | (0.0★) |
| 6 | 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz | (5.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Nissan Frontier | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Ram 4500 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2022 Jeep Gladiator | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2012 Suzuki Equator | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2009 Mitsubishi Raider | (5.0★) |
| 252 | 2006 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2006 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 a Good Pickup Truck?
N on October 25, 2024
Just got mine today for a great price.Just got mine today for a great price. 120k miles for $4250. Coming from an 03 ranger with a 4.0. So much roomier and more powerful
Sharon on September 11, 2024
I love my Silverado!I love my Silverado! I’m 60 years old and bought my 2006 just 3 years ago with a blown engine for a dirt cheap price, had a crate engine dropped in it (5.3 liter) by a mechanic. It’s the best riding and handling vehicle I’ve ever driven. The odometer reads over 289k on the truck itself. I haven’t had any problems with it since. Love my truck!!!
Kevin on January 10, 2023
Dependable? I can rely it to break anytimeBought it October 2007. 33,800. In 2009 with 36,450 on it. Transmission failed. 2010 replaced the whole front suspension at 37,200. 39,000 replaced the rear differential. At 38.900 replaced the steering box and upper and lower shafts. 43,200 replaced the steering column. 45,289 replaced the power steering unit. I’ve got over $19,000 in repairs on this non reliable truck. I’ve replaced or repaired so much on it. I can’t afford to get rid of it. It’s like a new truck almost. I will never buy another Chevrolet ever again. I will get a Tundra or an F-250. I’ve got more money in this Silverado than all my previous vehicles I’ve had the last 50 years. The only item I’ve had no problem with is the 5.3 motor. I’ve replaced or repaired everything else. I’m done with Chevrolets forever. It has 59,687 miles on it now
Charlotte"Web" on May 31, 2021
Exactly what we wantedThis truck meets all our needs.. It runs @ drives like a new one. It also looks new inside @ out. Not sure about mpg but seems like 15 around town.Haven't taken a trip yet but will be soon.... I would recommend a Chev. Silverado to anyone looking for a truck@ We've had a lot of trucks in our 48 yrs. if marriage.. This is my favorite of all we've had
Ejk on September 26, 2020
Best truck ever275,000 on original engine. No major repairs. Dependable. Smooth ride. Used for everything. Towing boats and trailers. Developed intermittent lifter knock @ 250,000. Still running good.
BKB on May 31, 2020
Love ItI bought a 2006 Silverado with 77,000 miles on it 3 months ago . Great truck for daily driving , no problems so far . It has a 262 v6 engine under the hood . Not a power horse but is great for pulling cart with riding mower and also has enough power to keep up driving on highway with no problems . Hope to get 5 years out of it .
Scott on May 24, 2020
Found what I wantedTruck had what I was looking for, Reg. Cab, 2 wheel drive , 8 ft bed. Drives great , good mileage , glad I found it.
Chia & Bob on May 14, 2020
One of the most reliable vehicles I have ownedthis brand new p/u was on special pricing, all of the luxuries of an LT + extras including extended cab, Bose system, moon roof & more but couldnt sell because it was too luxurious! I purchased it for less than a 2006 1500 Work Truck. It now has 300,000+ miles & the only "major" work has been to replace the water pump and one front wheel bearing assembly! Good highway mileage: 18-20 mpg.
Roofing contractor on May 2, 2020
06 flex fuel Silverado crew cab 1500 5.3 ltThe 06 crew cab silverado lt flex fuel is the best and most reliable vehicle I have ever owned. I've had it since 2007, purchase brand new. In 2011 I started using it as a work truck pulling 5000lb trailers everyday and now in May 2020 it has 406000 miles and still going strong. Best purchase ever made.
Matt on February 8, 2020
Beat it up for 120k and didn't leave me oncePut hard miles on it and it never let me down.. well if you dont count a battery, which I dont. Beat the crap out of it constantly on the gas but never am issue.. sure it was low on power with th 5.3... not great on gas cause it was the z71 with 4.10s.. but it sounded like a new truck everyday..
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.