Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer, however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.

Automatic transmission: The front wheels slip while in 4WD requiring replacement of the clutch plates as well as the use of synthetic gear oil. (1999-2001)

Manual transmission: Manual transmissions tend to pop out of first gear because the transmissions were built without a detent ball and spring. These parts will be installed under warranty. (1999-2000)

Vehicle shake: Extended-cab, long-box models shudder when accelerating from a stop requiring replacement of the two-piece driveshaft with a one-piece driveshaft. (1999-2001)

This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership to be slightly higher.

1999-02 Silverado: In environmentally corrosive areas of specified "salt belt" states, unwanted antilock braking activation may occur, causing increased stopping distance during low-speed brake application.

1999-04 Silverado: The tailgate support cables may corrode, resulting in the sudden loss of the tailgate. Dealers will inspect and replace affected parts.

1999-05 Silverado w/manual transmission and PBR or TRW parking brake system: Friction linings may wear enough to make parking brake ineffective.

1999-2000 Silverado: Clearance between front right-hand brake pipe and body cross sill could decrease to the point of allowing contact, which could result in damage and loss of brake fluid and pressure.

2000 Silverado w/4-wheel disc brakes: Out-of-spec spring clip in antilock brake system could allow motor bearing to become misaligned; eventually, ABS would be nonfunctional and Dynamic Rear-Proportioning system would become inoperative.

2002 Silverado: During extreme steering maneuvers, power steering hose might fracture and leak fluid, leading to loss of steering assist and increase in steering effort; could also affect operation of the hydro-boost power brakes.

2003-04 Silverado: Certain vehicles may have been produced with an out-of-specification brake relief valve, making steering difficult when braking. Dealers will inspect and replace affected parts.

2003-04 Silverado: Trucks converted to CNG operation may have only one child restraint lower anchorage, in center rear, rather than the required two anchorages; standard-cab models may also fail to meet standard.

2004 Silverado w/aftermarket leather seats: Testing has indicated that the aftermarket leather seat covers can cause the passenger sensing system to malfunction. If the passenger sensing system malfunctions, the front air bag on the passenger side may be disabled when it should be enabled, or enabled when it should be disabled. GM will purchase these vehicles for the full price paid for it (not exceeding the fair market value at the time it was bought), including taxes and fees, if the vehicle is returned to GM's possession by January 31, 2007. Through January 31, 2007, GM will also pay for the removal of any aftermarket accessories that may have been installed and return them to the customer.

2004-05 Silverado w/Bosch Hydro-Boost brake assembly: Hydraulic brake booster pressure accumulator may crack and separate during normal operating conditions, possibly issuing fragments and allowing fluid leakage.

2005 Silverado: Bolt that attaches intermediate steering shaft may fracture, resulting in loss of steering.

2005 Silverado: Seatbelt routing for second-row center occupant may make it difficult to position the lap portion of the belt low around the occupant's hips.

2005 Silverado: Under certain vehicle-starting conditions, shift-lever position indicator in instrument panel may not illuminate.

2005 Silverado w/5.3-liter V8: Engine fuel rail crossover tube retainer screw could break, allowing fuel leakage and possible engine stalling; engine-compartment fire could occur if ignition source were present.

2006 Silverado: Some vehicles may have a power steering hose that could crack and leak fluid. Dealer will inspect and replace the power steering hose.