2003 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD Review and Specs

Summary

What Edmunds.com says

With its numerous powertrain and cab configurations and stout towing and hauling capacities, the Silverado HD is a hard truck to beat for those who need maximum functionality and capability.

Pros

Powerful engine lineup, multiple drivetrain configurations, capable brakes, substantial towing and hauling capacities.

Cons

Spotty build quality, mediocre interior materials.

What's New for 2003

The Silverado 2500HD now sports a new front fascia and revised side moldings and taillights. Top-of-the-line models also get power-folding heated mirrors with puddle lamps and turn signal indicators. On the inside, the Silverado offers numerous entertainment options including a Bose stereo system (with rear-seat controls on crew cab models), XM Satellite Radio and a rear-passenger DVD-based entertainment system (crew cab models only). The instrument panel and center console have been redesigned, and Chevrolet has added new seats, a more comprehensive driver information center and a dual-zone climate control system. On the hardware side, the standard 6.0-liter V8 gets electronic throttle control, as well as the ability to run exclusively on compressed natural gas (CNG) or a mix of CNG and gasoline.

Consumer Ratings & Reviews

Fuel Injector problems

Written by: Kurt & Cindy on 10/07/2009

Detailed Ratings

Overall Rating


Performance:	6	Fun-to-Drive:	7	Build Quality:	2
Comfort:	8	Interior Design:	9	Reliability:	2
Fuel Economy:	6	Exterior Design:	8

Vehicle

2003 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD 4dr Extended Cab LS 4WD LB (6.0L 8cyl 5M)

Review

Paid all cash and had hopes for many years of good use. At about 90K we had fuel injector problems which were repaired under warranty. 50K later at 140,000 we began to see smoke from the tail pipe. Took the car into Chevy service and was told that two or three injectors were beginning to fail, but that they still tested to be acceptable by GM standards. The car billowed smoke, a few weeks later we found fuel in our motor oil. Still no budge from GM to repair the injectors which were covered under a extended warranty but still tested within their standards. GM didn't care if we blew our motor as it wasn't covered. We're done with GM.

Favorite Features

Suggested Improvements

Pay attention to your customers. They are the ones who will keep you in business.

Report inappropriate post

One Nice Truck!

Written by: overhaul on 09/26/2009


Performance:	9	Fun-to-Drive:	10	Build Quality:	9
Comfort:	10	Interior Design:	8	Reliability:	10
Fuel Economy:	4	Exterior Design:	8

2003 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD 4dr Extended Cab LS Rwd SB (6.0L 8cyl 5M)

I just bought this truck about a month ago. Only problem was a bad serpentine belt. The power is very nice. I have the 6.0L and I can't feel any weight that I haul - It's like its not there. I used to have a 94 Chevy Cheyenne with a 305, and anytime that I put even just passengers in it, it felt lugged. I love the interior - feels like I am sitting in a recliner in a living room. I average about 10mpg when I am not towing, but hey, its an HD. Love the 3000lbs+ payload. It's very cozy on the highway.

Pulling Power, 4.10 with the locking differential, roomy interior, four doors, tonneau cover, turning radius isn't too bad, and quiet.

Fuel economy, needs bigger tires, and I certainly don't care for the electronic gas pedal.

Diesel long haul

Written by: True North on 02/10/2009


Performance:	7	Fun-to-Drive:	7	Build Quality:	8
Comfort:	9	Interior Design:	8	Reliability:	9
Fuel Economy:	10	Exterior Design:	8

I love my truck, it's got great power, fuel economy, looks good, does everything I need it to do with no fuss.The drivetrain on this truck is amazing. The Allison 5 speed is far superior to the Dodge/Ford trannys. Not the toughest 4wd truck though, and the power extendable tow mirrors never like to work properly. I also think it sits too low for a 4x4 3/4 ton in the front, not enough ground clearance like the Fords and Dodges have.

Duramax Diesel, intuitive allison transmission, Bose 6 disc 200W stereo.

Bigger tires. I can't stand the 29" tires GM equips 3/4 and 1 tons with. And ditch the IFS front end, I can't stand it. The tie-rods are far too weak, and it can't take an offroad beating like the Fords and Dodges can. Not impressive for a 3/4 ton truck. I miss the old Dana 60 solid front end.

Duramax

Written by: sam on 01/30/2009


Performance:	10	Fun-to-Drive:	9	Build Quality:	8
Comfort:	10	Interior Design:	9	Reliability:	9
Fuel Economy:	10	Exterior Design:	9

Get the diesel/Allison combo! I have experienced 23-27 mpg cruising at 70 mph, 16-17 city. Even factoring in the higher price of diesel, the cost per mile has been less, and with unlimited power and towing ability. Only annoyances have been rattling steering column and body squeaks and rattles. Otherwise truck has been very reliable. Comfortable and with very good brakes and handling.

Diesel engine/Allison transmission

Very good for first 53,000 miles

Written by: Michael on 08/27/2008


Performance:	8	Fun-to-Drive:	4	Build Quality:	9
Comfort:	8	Interior Design:	7	Reliability:	9
Fuel Economy:	6	Exterior Design:	7

2003 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD 4dr Extended Cab LT 4WD LB (6.0L 8cyl 4A)

I bought this truck to pull a 10,000 trailer part-time and eventually pull a much larger trailer. Never got the heavier trailer. New engine fuel milage was disappointing. Fuel mileage got better as engine broke in. 15/20 empty and 12 pulling. At 53k miles engine spun power steering pulley off the shaft. Replaced PS pump, pulley and serpentine belt. Next week blew ERG pump.

2003 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD Consumer Ratings & Reviews