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2003 Chevrolet Silverado Review: An Affordable and Powerful Pickup, but the Twenty Year Old Truck's Maintenance Bill Adds Up Fast

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Based on 0 Owner Reviews
Eugene S | March 31, 2025
The 2003 Chevrolet Silverado is a full-size pickup truck that was part of the first generation of the redesigned Silverado launched in 1999. Available in regular, extended, and crew cab configurations with varying bed lengths, it offered a versatile range of options. Key trims included the base model, LS, and LT. Pricing ranged from around $18,000 to $35,000 when new. Its popularity stemmed from its robust build, strong engine options, and reputation for reliability, making it a workhorse for many owners.
The Good

The 2003 Silverado's key advantages included its strong performance from available V8 engines and its established reputation for reliability, appealing to practical buyers. Comfortable cabin options and a classic truck design catered to emotional appeal. It also offered good value for its capability and dependability.

The Bad

Known weaknesses of the 2003 Silverado include potential issues with the instrument cluster, particularly the gauges. Some owners reported problems with the transmission, especially with higher mileage. Rust, especially in northern climates, is also a concern to watch out for, especially around the wheel wells and rocker panels.

2003 Chevrolet Silverado: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options:
    • 4.3L V6: Around 200 horsepower, entry-level option.
    • 4.8L V8: Around 285 horsepower, a good balance of power and efficiency.
    • 5.3L V8: Around 295 horsepower, the most popular choice, offering strong performance.
    • 6.0L V8: Around 300-345 horsepower (depending on the variant), available in some models, offering maximum power.
  • Horsepower: Ranges from approximately 200 hp to 345 hp, depending on the engine.
  • Fuel Economy:
    • V6: Around 15-18 mpg city / 20-22 mpg highway.
    • V8s: Around 14-17 mpg city / 18-21 mpg highway.
  • 0-60 Times:
    • V6: Around 9-10 seconds.
    • V8s: Around 7-9 seconds, depending on the engine and configuration.
  • Towing Capacity: Ranging from approximately 4,500 lbs to over 8,000 lbs depending on the engine, cab configuration, and whether it's a 2WD or 4WD model.
  • Trim Level Features:
    • Base: Vinyl seating, basic AM/FM radio, manual windows and locks.
    • LS: Cloth seating, air conditioning, upgraded audio system, power windows and locks, chrome exterior trim.
    • LT: Leather seating, dual-zone climate control, premium audio system, alloy wheels, and other comfort and convenience features. Other options included OnStar, sunroof, and various appearance packages. The LT trim also offered more customization options like different cab configurations and bed lengths.

2003 Chevrolet Silverado Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2003
Make Chevrolet
Model Silverado
Trim -
Style -
Type Truck
Category Standard Pickup Truck
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City FLINT
Dimensions
Doors 2-Door
Curb Weight 5440 pounds
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 9200 pounds
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine LE8
Engine Size 6L
Engine Cylinders 8
Transmission -
Transmission Type Manual
Transmission Speeds -
Drivetrain Four-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $26,800
Invoice Price $23,450
Delivery Charges $815

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What Problems Does the 2003 Chevrolet Silverado Have?

Frequently reported problems for the 2003 Chevrolet Silverado include issues with the instrument cluster, where gauges may stop working or provide inaccurate readings. This is a common issue across several model years in this generation. Another concern is the transmission, with some owners experiencing slippage or failure, especially in vehicles with higher mileage or those used for heavy towing. Rust is also a significant long-term reliability concern, particularly in areas with harsh winters and road salt usage. The lower body panels, especially around the wheel wells, rocker panels, and bed are prone to rust.
Some recalls for this era Silverado included issues with the brake lights and potential for fuel leakage. It's important to check the vehicle's VIN with the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) to see if any recalls are outstanding. Oil consumption can also be an issue with the 5.3L V8 engine, so it's important to monitor oil levels regularly. Overall, the 2003 Silverado is generally considered reliable, but addressing these potential issues is crucial for long-term ownership.

How long will the 2003 Chevrolet Silverado last?

A well-maintained 2003 Chevrolet Silverado can easily reach 200,000 miles or more. Many owners report achieving 250,000 to 300,000 miles with regular servicing. The key to longevity lies in consistent maintenance, including timely oil changes, transmission fluid flushes, and cooling system maintenance.
However, weaknesses that emerge over time include rust, as mentioned previously, and wear and tear on suspension components, such as ball joints and shocks. Interior components, like seat upholstery and dashboard plastics, can also show signs of aging. Neglecting these issues can significantly shorten the lifespan of the vehicle.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2003 Chevrolet Silverado featured relatively basic tech and entertainment for its time. Standard features included an AM/FM radio, and higher trims offered a CD player. Optional features included a cassette player, and sometimes a Bose premium sound system. Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles, primarily consisting of antilock brakes (ABS) and available traction control.
Safety features included driver and passenger airbags. Side airbags were available as an option on some models.
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA vary depending on the cab configuration, but generally, the Silverado performed reasonably well for its class. Some configurations received four or five stars for frontal impact protection. Keep in mind that safety standards were less stringent in 2003 compared to today.
OnStar was offered as an option, providing services like emergency assistance and vehicle diagnostics. The focus of the 2003 Silverado was more on utility and capability than cutting-edge technology.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Onyx Black
Summit White
Victory Red
Dark Gray Metallic
Silver Birch Metallic
Indigo Blue Metallic
Light Pewter Metallic
Dark Carmine Red Metallic
Sand Beige Metallic
Interior Colors
Medium Charcoal Gray
Neutral
Dark Pewter

2003 Chevrolet Silverado Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2003 Chevrolet Silverado ranged from around $18,000 for a base model to $35,000+ for a fully-equipped crew cab with the 6.0L V8. Current used market prices vary widely depending on condition, mileage, and location, but expect to find them ranging from $5,000 to $15,000.
The Silverado has depreciated significantly over the years. Factors affecting resale value include: overall condition (rust-free examples command a premium), mileage, engine option (V8s are more desirable), and whether it's a 4WD model. Regular maintenance records also boost resale value. Low mileage examples in excellent condition with desirable options are increasingly sought after by enthusiasts, thus mitigating some depreciation.

2003 Chevrolet Silverado Cost of Ownership

Insurance costs for a 2003 Chevrolet Silverado are generally moderate, varying based on driving record and coverage options. Fuel costs can be significant, especially with V8 engines, making it not the most economical choice. Maintenance is relatively affordable, with readily available parts. However, potential repairs, such as transmission issues or rust remediation, can increase long-term ownership costs. Overall, the 2003 Silverado is not the cheapest vehicle to own, but its reliability and readily available parts make it a reasonably manageable option.

2003 Chevrolet Silverado Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 34 gallons
City Mileage 12 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage 15 miles/gallon

2003 Chevrolet Silverado Safety Rating

NHTSA
Side Driver Rating
Frontal Passenger Rating
Rollover Rating
Side Rear Passenger Rating
Frontal Driver Rating
Side Driver Rating
Frontal Passenger Rating
Rollover Rating
Side Rear Passenger Rating
Frontal Driver Rating
IIHS
Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraint Ratings Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test Results Not Tested
Side Impact Test Results Not Tested
Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraint Ratings Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test Results Not Tested
Side Impact Test Results Not Tested

2003 Chevrolet Silverado Recalls & Defects

Equipment
Recall date 2004-03-23
Recall no. 04e022000
Source NHTSA
Summary Aftermarket Pickup Truck Over-The-Rail Bedliners Manufactured FOR Installation ON 1999-2004 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra Pickup Trucks. THE Toggle Wing Assembly Used TO Attach THE Bedliner TO THE Truck Bed IS NOT Engaging Fully IN THE Stake Pocket OF THE Pickup Truck.
Consequence THE Bedliner CAN Become Detached From THE Pickup While IT IS Motion, Possibly Endangering Following Motorists or Pedestrians.
Remedy Durakon Will Issue A Press Release IN Attempt TO Notify Customers That Could Have Purchased THE Defective Bedliner. IF YOU Purchased Either A Durakon Allstar OF Patriot Overrail Bedliner Since August 1, 2003, FOR 1999 TO 2004 Chevrolet Silverado or GMC Sierra Trucks, or Purchased ONE OF These Pickup Trucks With Either Brand Bedliner Already Installed, YOU Should Return TO AN Authorized Durakon Dealer SO That THE Bedliner CAN BE Inspected And, IF Necessary, Repaired With A Newly Designed Toggle Wing Fastening System, or IF Required, Replaced With A NEW Bedliner Free OF Charge. Please Call THE Durakon Hotline AT 1-800-933-4200 TO Find THE Nearest Authorized Durakon Dealer.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Overrail Bedliners and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra Pickup Trucks BY General Motors.customers CAN Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Exterior Lighting
Recall date 2006-07-17
Recall no. 06e064000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Tradesonic Combination Lamps Sold AS Replacement Lamps FOR USE ON THE Above Listed Passenger Vehicles. Combination Lamps NOT Equipped With Amber Side Reflectors Fail TO Conform With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.
Consequence Lack OF Amber Side Reflectors IN THE Lamps Will Decrease Lighting Visibility TO Other Drivers and MAY Possibly Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Tradesonic Will Notify Owners and Replace THE Lamps Free OF Charge. THE Recall IS Expected TO Begin During July 2006. Owners MAY Contact Tradesonic AT 626-934-8884.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Tradesonic Aftermarket Lamps and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Listed Passenger Vehicles.for More Information ON THE Lamp Model Numbers, Click ON Document Search and View Document Titled "lamp Model Numbers."customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Structure:body:tailgate:hinge and Attachments
Recall date 2004-03-17
Recall no. 04v129000
Source NHTSA
Summary ON Certain Pickup Trucks and Sport Utility Vehicles, THE Galvanized Steel Tailgate Support Cables That Retain THE Tailgate IN THE Full Open (Horizontal) Position MAY Corrode, Weaken, and Eventually Fracture. IF Both Cables Fractured, THE Tailgate Would Suddenly Drop and Strike THE Top Surface OF THE Rear Bumper.
Consequence Anyone Sitting or Standing ON THE Horizontal Surface OF THE Tailgate When Both Cables Fractured Could BE Injured BY Falling From THE Tailgate. ON Vehicles That Have HAD THE Bumper Removed, THE Tailgate MAY Drop Even Lower. Additionally, IF There IS Cargo ON THE Tailgate THE Cargo MAY Fall OFF IF THE Support Cables Fracture.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Cables. Interim Owner Notification Began ON April 7, 20004. THE Recall Began ON September 24, 2004, When Replacement Parts Were Available, and Will Continue Through October 29, 2004. Owners Should Contact Cadillac AT 1-866-982-2339, Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438 or GMC AT 1-866-996-9463, or Visit Www.mygmlink.com, and Enter Your Vehicle Identification Number.
Notes GM Recall NO. 04007.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Seat Belts:front:anchorage
Recall date 2004-05-11
Recall no. 04v225000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Extended and Regular Cab Pickup Trucks and Cargo Vans Converted TO Compressed Natural GAS (Cng) Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 225, 'child Restraint Anchorage Systems.' These Vehicles Have ONE Seating Position, THE Center Rear Seat, Equipped With Child Restraint Lower Anchorages.
Consequence THE Standard Requires Child Seat Lower Anchorages IN Two Seating Positions FOR Vehicles With Three Rear Seating Positions. THE Standard Cab and Cargo Van Vehicles, Which Only Have Front Seating Positions, Have AN AIR BAG OFF Switch TO Disable THE Front Passenger AIR BAG and DO NOT Have Child Restraint Lower Anchorages IN THE Passenger Seat. THE Standard Requires Passenger Seat Child Seat Lower Anchorages IN Vehicles With AN AIR BAG OFF Switch. However, THE Standard Does NOT Require Vehicles With Only Front Seating Positions TO Have Lower Anchorage Provisions IF THE Vehicle IS NOT Equipped With AN AIR BAG OFF Switch.
Remedy TO Bring THE Standard Cab and Cargo Van Vehicles Into Compliance, Dealers Will Inject Epoxy Into THE AIR BAG OFF Switch TO Prevent AIR BAG Activation, Relocate THE Switch Behind THE Instrument Panel and Then Install A Cover Over THE Resulting Opening. THE SUN Visor Label and Owner's Manual Will Also BE Changed. THE Correction FOR THE Extended Cab Vehicle Will Consist OF Changing THE Front Passenger Seat TO A Seat That HAS Child Restraint Lower Anchorages. THE Recall Began ON September 9, 2004. Owners Should Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438 or GMC AT 1-866-996-9463.
Notes GM Recall NO. 04038.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Recall date 2004-02-04
Recall no. 04v045000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Sport Utility Vehicles, Pickup Trucks, and Passenger Vans Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 135, ?passenger Car Brake Systems.? Some OF These Vehicles Were Produced With AN Out-Of-Specification Brake Hydro-boost Housing Relief Valve Bore.
Consequence Consequently, THE Valve O-Ring Seal MAY Fracture. Steering Efforts MAY BE Slightly Increased While Braking or Parking. Under Certain Driving Conditions, A Fractured Seal MAY Require A Slight Increase IN THE Applied Brake Pedal Effort TO Achieve THE Same Vehicle Deceleration Rate AS Prior TO THE Seat Fracture.
Remedy Dealers ARE TO Replace THE Hydro-Boost Relief Valve. THE Recall Began ON June 18, 2004. Owners Should Contact Cadillac AT 1-866-982-2339; Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438; GMC AT 1-866-996-9463; or Hummer AT 1-866-486-6376.
Notes GM Recall NO. 04004.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Exterior Lighting
Recall date 2006-06-29
Recall no. 06e060000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain AAI Motorsports Combination Lamps Sold AS Replacement Lamps FOR USE ON THE Above List Passenger Vehicles. Combination Lamps NOT Equipped With Amber Side Reflectors Fail TO Conform With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence Lack OF Amber Side Reflectors IN THE Lamps Will Decrease Lighting Visibility TO Other Drivers and MAY Possibly Result IN A Vehicle Crash
Remedy AAI Motorsports Will Notify Owners and Replace THE Lamps Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON August 1, 2006. Owners MAY Contact AAI Motorsports AT 909-923-9188.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO AAI Motorsports Aftermarket Lamps and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Listed Passenger Vehicles.for More Information ON THE Lamp Model Numbers, Click ON Document Search and View Document Titled "lamp Model Numbers."customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Parking Brake
Recall date 2005-04-22
Recall no. 05v161000
Source NHTSA
Summary ON Certain Pickup Trucks Equipped With Manual Transmissions and Built With Either PBR Parking Brake Systems or TRW Parking Brake Systems, THE Parking Brake Friction Linings MAY Wear TO AN Extent Where THE Parking Brake CAN Become Ineffective IN Immobilizing A Parked Vehicle.
Consequence IF THE Parking Brake Does NOT Hold, Unintended Vehicle Movement Could Occur, Which Could Result IN A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Install A Low-Force Spring Clip Retainer FOR Vehicles Equipped With A PBR Parking Brake System. ON Vehicles Equipped With THE TRW Parking Brake System, Dealers Will Install A Redesigned Parking Brake Cable Assembly. THE Recall Began ON July 29, 2005. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438 or GMC AT 1-866-996-9463.
Notes GM Recall NO. 05042.customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Seat Belts:rear/Other
Recall date 2005-04-22
Recall no. 05v163000
Source NHTSA
Summary ON Certain Crew Cab Pickup Trucks and Sport Utility Vehicles, THE 2ND ROW Center Occupant Seat Belt Routing MAY Make IT Difficult TO Position THE LAP Portion OF THE Safety Belt Low Around THE Hips OF Occupants, Especially Smaller Occupants, Seated IN This Position. Appropriate USE OF A Child Seat or Booster Seat, AS Recommended FOR Small Children, Does Improve THE FIT Condition FOR This User Group. IN Addition TO Instructions ON Proper Infant and Young Child Restraint (With Child Seats or Boosters), Special Verbiage FOR Restraining Older Child IS Included IN THE Owner's Manual. Also, THE Suggested Seat Belt Fit/Routing FOR Adults, Irrespective OF Seating Position, IS Described IN THE Owner's Manual Text.
Consequence A LAP Portion OF THE Seat Belt Routing That IS NOT Low and Snug ON THE Hips CAN Allow THE LAP Belt TO Ride UP ON AN Occupant's Abdomen Instead OF Fitting Low Around Their Hipbones, and Therefore, CAN Expose Them TO More Risk OF Abdominal and Internal Organ Injury.
Remedy Dealers Will CUT Open THE Guide Loop, Remove A Portion OF THE Loop, and Then THE Remaining Two Sides Should BE Folded Over and Secured With A Retainer Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON July 21, 2005. Owners MAY Contact Cadillac AT 1-866-982-2339, Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438, GMC AT 1-866-996-9463, or Hummer AT 1-800-732-5493.
Notes GM Recall NO. 05037.customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Visibility:windshield
Recall date 2003-01-23
Recall no. 03v018000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Pickup Trucks Fail TO Conform TO Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 212, "windshield Mounting." Some OF These Vehicles Lack A Continuous Urethane Bonding Bead Between THE Body Surface and THE Windshield.
Consequence IN Vehicles With This Condition, THE Windshield MAY NOT BE Retained IN Accordance With THE Safety Standard During A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Remove, Reseal, and Reinstall THE Windshield. Owner Notification Began ON January 28, 2003. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-222-1020 or GMC AT 1-800-462-8782.
Notes GM Recall NO. 03001. Customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date 2006-03-13
Recall no. 06e023000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Anzo Combination Headlamp Assemblies Sold AS Replacement Lamps FOR USE ON Certain Passenger Vehicles. Some Combination Lamps ARE NOT Equipped With Amber Side Reflectors Which Fail TO Conform TO Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence Without THE Amber Reflectors, THE Vehicle Will BE Poorly Illuminated, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Anzo Will Notify Owners and Replace THE Headlamps Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began MAY 9, 2006. Owners MAY Contact Anzo USA AT 909-468-3688.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Headlamp Assemblies Manufactured BY Anzo and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Listed Passenger Vehicles.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Equipment:electrical
Recall date 2007-08-28
Recall no. 07e066000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Cequent 90 Degree 7-Way Right Angle Adaptors Sold BY Distributors IN TOW Packages FOR Aftermarket Sales TO TOW 5TH Wheel RV Travel Trailers. DUE TO Incorrect Wiring OF THE Harness, THE Trailer Lights MAY NOT Operate Properly.
Consequence IF THE Trailer Lights ARE NOT Working Properly, A Vehicle Crash CAN Occur.
Remedy All OF THE Defective TOW Packages ARE Still AT THE Distributor Level and Have NOT Been Sold TO ANY Consumers.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Cequent TOW Packages and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Daimlerchrysler, Gmc, or Ford Vehicles.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Wheels:hub
Recall date 2007-12-17
Recall no. 07e106000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Federal-Mogul Replacement Wheel HUB Assemblies With THE Brand Names: National, Carquest P/Nos. 515020, 515021, 515025, 515053, 515054, 515059, and 515060, Shipped Between January 23, 2006, and December 20, 2007, Sold FOR Light Duty and Medium Duty Trucks. THE Inboard Retention NUT Used TO Maintain HUB Bearing Assembly CAN Loosen Resulting IN AN ABS Light Indication, Noise, And/Or Wheel Separation.
Consequence Wheel Separation CAN Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Federal-Mogul Will Notify Customers and Will Replace THE HUB Assembly Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON February 7, 2008. Owners CAN Contact Federal-Mogul Toll-free AT 877-489-6659.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Replacement National, Carquest Wheel HUB Assemblies and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Manufactured BY General Motors or Ford.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date 2008-08-11
Recall no. 08e050000
Source NHTSA
Summary K2 Motor IS Recalling 1,921 Aftermarket Headlamps OF Various Models Sold FOR USE ON THE Above Listed Vehicles. These Headlamps ARE Missing THE Amber Side Reflex Reflector Which Fails TO Conform With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence Without THE Amber Side Reflex Reflectors, THE Lighting Visibility MAY BE Affected, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy K2 Motor Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund. THE Recall Began ON Decemeber 17, 2008. Owners MAY Contact K2 Motor AT 1-909-839-2992.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Manufactured BY Honda, Ford, or Chrysler Llc. Customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.

2003 Chevrolet Silverado Insurance

Insurance for a 2003 Chevrolet Silverado is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Truck with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2003 Chevrolet Silverado Compare to Other Truck?

The 2003 Chevrolet Silverado's key rivals included the Ford F-150, Dodge Ram 1500, and Toyota Tundra. In terms of performance, the Silverado offered comparable engine options to the F-150 and Ram, though some argue the Ram offered a slightly more comfortable ride. The Tundra, while newer to the full-size market, offered Toyota's renowned reliability. Feature-wise, the Silverado was generally competitive, although the F-150 had slightly more advanced options at the time. Reliability is subjective, but the Silverado was generally considered on par with the F-150, while the Tundra had a stronger reputation for long-term reliability. The Ram often lagged behind in reliability ratings.
Price-wise, the Silverado was generally similar to the F-150 and Ram, with the Tundra sometimes being slightly more expensive.
Alternatives to the 2003 Silverado depend on priorities. If reliability is paramount, the Toyota Tundra is worth considering, even though it may come at a slightly higher price. If you prioritize ride comfort, a Dodge Ram could be considered. However, the Silverado offers a good balance of performance, features, and price, making it a solid choice in its class.

Final Verdict: Is the 2003 Chevrolet Silverado a Good Truck?

The 2003 Chevrolet Silverado is ideal for someone seeking a capable and relatively affordable used truck for work or occasional hauling. It's worth buying if you find a well-maintained example with reasonable mileage and minimal rust. Given their age, buying new is not an option.
Look for LS or LT trims, as they offer more features than the base model. A V8 engine is recommended for better performance and towing capability. A thorough inspection is essential to identify potential issues like rust, transmission problems, or instrument cluster failures. If these issues are addressed or priced accordingly, a 2003 Silverado can still provide years of reliable service.

2003 Chevrolet Silverado Owner Reviews

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Eugene S

Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.