Two problems related to automatic transmission have been reported for the 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 based on all problems reported for the 2003 Silverado 1500.
2003 thru 2007 gm full size trucks and vans. The automatic transmission shift lock control (formerly known as the brake transmission interlock (bsti)) does not operate with the key in the accessories position. Called gm and was told to take it in and have it diagnosed. Gm dealer checked it out and gave me a gm bulletin that says"the shift lock mechanism is only active when the ignition is in the run or on position. " I know that the years prior to 2003 and years after 2007 that is not possible to shift the transmission out of park with out the brake pedal applied with the key turned to the accessories position. If it was not a problem from 2003 to 2007 why did they change it and why wasn't it that way before? I think that this is a safety issue that could create serious injuries or worse.
I was heading down interstate running around 70 mph. Next thing I knew I was red line on my rpm and was slowing down. Had to call a tow truck cause transmission was tore slap out. I mostly drive about 70 miles round trip 5 days a week to my job other than it sets in the drive way. After a big tow bill to home I have to pay again to have it towed to the shop and find out it will be a $1800 repair. I have been a chevy owner all my life. Had a 98 model truck just like it went till I rolled 250,000 on it with only minor problems. And this one doesn't even make 85,000.