general problems of the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 - part 1

Brakes lock up on vehicle while driving must turn vehicle off and restart several times to disengage brakes. This has happened twice in the last 8 weeks, very concerning as we cannot use our travel trailer as we do not trust this not reoccurring. Chevy dealership says there is a recall on this issue but not on my truck?. But they say it is that problem.

During an extreme cold event in interior alaska (–44°f), the vehicle experienced a sudden emissions?system failure that triggered an epa?mandated limp mode, limiting the vehicle to 5 mph on high?speed highways. This created an immediate life?safety hazard because it was impossible to maintain a safe speed or exit the roadway due to snow berms. Prior to the failure, the vehicle displayed “service emission system” warnings and multiple dtcs related to the reductant heaters and sensors. A dealership technician later confirmed a “burnt pin” at the reductant pump connector, consistent with thermal?electrical overload. This failure mode matches gm’s TSB 21?na?006, describing connector overheating in cold climates. After the repair, the vehicle continued to exhibit safety?critical symptoms, including harsh downshifts, delayed engagement, and jerking during deceleration, consistent with recall 26v083000 (rear?wheel lock?up risk). The vehicle also continues to emit an electrical burning odor in cold temperatures, consistent with recall n192206310 (block?heater fire risk). The only gm dealership in the region issued a “termination of business relationship,” preventing access to all recall and warranty repairs. This has created a 321?mile “service desert,” making it impossible to obtain federally mandated recall remedies. The vehicle remains unsafe to operate due to unresolved transmission, electrical, and propulsion issues.

There was a brake system failure and the brakes stopped working while going 50 mph.

Without warning (no warning lights or previous mechanical indications) the power steering failed making it extremely difficult to turn the steering wheel. Fortunately this happened while I was parking and not on the highway. The truck had approximately 48,000 miles on it at the time. (8/30/25) repairs required replacing the rack and pinion steering and a heavily corroded "grounding strap". Repair cost was appx $3500.

On August 17,2025 I was driving on the freeway when I heard a loud bang and I thought my tire blew but it also felt like I hit something, however I pulled over and tires were ok. I proceeded to go again and this time if can feel my rear tire lock up and then let go. I pulled into a parking lot and my tires had some strips on them as if they where dragged.

A few month ago this 2020 silverado check engine came on in the middle of driving. It stopped shifting and almost caused an accident because it wouldn’t stop. I took it to the dealer and they found nothing wrong. Today, it is doing the same thing with faulty shifting, especially during first and second gears and when I initially accelerate. It is jumpy and worried and accident will happen if the car stops shifting like before. The check engine light is on again.

I noticed that the carpet behind the seat was wet and moldy in the truck so I started looking and noticed the rear window was leaking in two areas. This has obviously been going on for a while as it explains why the kids have been complaining about the smell back there. Since florida is sub-tropical mold and mildew is a problem and a health issue. I investigated and found hundreds of complaints regarding this issue with failed sealant and cracks. I also discovered a service bulletin that describes the issue but gm refuses to fix it since they say it's not a safety or mechanical issue. Well, I happen to disagree with that since the leak causes the window to fog up and an unsafe environment for people to breath in mold spores in a small space. So, my visibility is impaired and I have to suffer with respiratory issues? this seems to be reason enough for them to perform a permanent repair at their expense, not mine and they can take it out of the designers pay, not mine. Can you help with this?.

Chevy silverado shakes at 20, 40,65 and 70 mph chevy shake.

I’m reporting a safety concern involving a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the 3. 0l duramax diesel engine. The vehicle went into limp mode and died on the side of the road. Aaa installed a new battery, which temporarily restored operation, though the “service charging system” warning remained. I drove it home, let it sit for several days, and then took it to a Chevrolet dealership. Although the warning light had cleared, I brought it in out of caution. The first dealer diagnosed a failed alternator and recommended replacement at a cost of $2,158. 75. I was also told the vehicle was not included in any active recalls related to this issue. Believing the price was high and wanting a second opinion, I went to another Chevrolet dealer. They ran the same diagnostic and found no issue with the alternator or generator, charging only a diagnostic fee. They also said if the alternator had needed replacement, the cost would have been around $1,300. I mentioned to both dealers that I had seen similar alternator/charging system failures recalled on other 2020 silverado models. Online forums and customer complaints suggest that many Silverado 1500 trucks with the 3. 0l duramax are experiencing similar problems, indicating a potentially broader issue. Given the inconsistency in diagnostics, the significant cost discrepancy, and the number of similar consumer reports, I believe this issue may be more widespread than current recalls reflect. I respectfully request that NHTSA investigate whether the existing recall should be expanded or if a new recall should be issued for 2020 Silverado 1500 models equipped with the 3. 0l duramax. This issue occurred shortly after a separate failure related to the nox sensor, which I am submitting under a separate complaint.

I was enjoying my day off with my family while driving torch highway when I try to pick up my speed to merge in, but my truck was not responding, when stepping on gas, I certainly did not saw any of them gears change I had to put to the for our safety and had to call a tow truck.

Had a check engine code and the dealership diagnosed the problem as being the coolant control valve. However being still under warranty they said that part is no longer covered under powertrain warranty as of Feb 1st. They now want me to pay 4400 for a part that fails often. Is there anything I can do?.

6l80 transmission shift flared when shifting from 2nd to 3rd gear and shuddered when driving at 45 - 50 mph and about 1400 rpm’s. The torque converter clutch was spasming out causing the the torque converter to shudder which caused the torque converter to overheat at 250 degrees therefore exploding the torque converter that shot metal inside of the transmission blowing it up.

I am reporting an issue with a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 equipped with the 3. 0l duramax diesel engine. The vehicle experienced a failure of the nox sensor position 2, which significantly impacted performance and emissions compliance. Gm previously issued emission recall n212351211 (March 7, 2023) for other diesel silverado models regarding improper ecm detection of nox sensor faults. The issue in my vehicle appears functionally identical, yet this engine and model were not included in that recall. The sensor was replaced and reprogrammed at a Chevrolet dealership at the owner’s expense. After contacting Chevrolet, a customer retention check was provided, covering roughly half of the total cost. While appreciated, the remaining cost burden remains significant. If this model is eventually included in the recall, it may allow for full reimbursement and support for other affected owners. Online forums show that many 3. 0l duramax owners are experiencing similar failures, suggesting this may be a widespread and systemic defect. Due to the strong similarities with the recalled condition in other models, I respectfully request that NHTSA investigate whether this recall should be expanded to cover additional affected vehicles. This issue presents both reliability and emissions compliance concerns. In addition, the vehicle developed a separate mechanical/electrical problem shortly after the nox sensor failure. Because it involves different systems, I will file a separate complaint regarding that issue.

I am reporting an issue with a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 equipped with the 3. 0l duramax diesel engine. The vehicle experienced a failure of the nox sensor position 2, which significantly impacted performance and emissions compliance. Gm previously issued emission recall n212351211 (March 7, 2023) for other diesel silverado models regarding improper ecm detection of nox sensor faults. The issue in my vehicle appears functionally identical, yet this engine and model were not included in that recall. The sensor was replaced and reprogrammed at a Chevrolet dealership at the owner's expense. After contacting Chevrolet, a customer retention check was provided, covering roughly half of the total cost. While appreciated, the remaining cost burden remains significant. If this model is eventually included in the recall, it may allow for full reimbursement and support for other affected owners. Online forums show that many 3. 0l duramax owners are experiencing similar failures, suggesting this may be a widespread and systemic defect. Due to the strong similarities with the recalled condition in other models, I respectfully request that NHTSA investigate whether this recall should be expanded to cover additional affected vehicles. This issue presents both reliability and emissions compliance concerns. In addition, the vehicle developed a separate mechanical/electrical problem shortly after the nox sensor failure. Because it involves different systems, I will file a separate complaint regarding that issue.

Rear sliding window is leaking from unknown area.

The engine blew a rod through the engine block and dealership replaced engine June 2023. January 2025 engine abruptly stopped while on the highway at 70 mph and now waiting on diagnostic test from dealership but after reading all the incidents regarding this engine I feel it’s another l87 engine failure from gm.

Dealership attempting to sell a vehicle with an open recall was more than prepared to let me drive and potentially sell a vehicle with a recall open causing the rear tires to randomly lock up. Made problem known to salesman and said they'd take it off the market. Now, they lowered the price by $2600 as it was previously listed at $25,571, now listed at $22,971. Listing still not down.

While driving, the vehicle began experiencing hard shifting. When I attempted to accelerate to pull over, the vehicle failed to respond and instead sounded as though it was in neutral. Additionally, when I tried to bring the vehicle to a stop, it took longer than usual, as if the wheels were locked.

Rear window leaks water into the cab during rain, snow, car wash, etc. Gm refuses to abide by comprehensive warranty to fix the issue, and my dealership wants to charge around $1,000 just to apply sealant. Water goes into and behind the rear seat (where my child sits) and goes to unknown area. Water can cause rust, mold, electrical problems, or any other number of issues. I noticed it around November of 2024 but I don’t know how long it has actually been occurring for. When researching this issue, appears to be relatively commonplace for my year and style of vehicle. Even the gm techs at my dealership acknowledged it is a recurring issue that may require multiple visits before getting a permanent solution (replacing the entire window).

My 2020 chevy truck falls under the recall out right now. I drive my family around in it and feel a bit unsafe. How long does general motors have a remedy for this recall? and what are the next steps if a remedy isn’t made in the timeframe allowed? I’ve contacted general motors and cannot get an answer. Thanks.

Engine start to make noise while driving took my truck to a auto shop mechanic said that it is a fabric defective engine.

While driving on the freeway the right control arm broke.

Summary: while driving, the transmission intermittently fails to shift and the truck has locked up and screeched to a complete halt approximately four times, creating a sudden stop/near rear?end?collision risk. Details & timeline: first symptoms were around 55,010 miles. On 10/13/2024 the Chevrolet dealer performed “service transmission gm” (fluid & filter), but the condition continued. In April 2025, a shop documented dtc p0700 & p2727 (pressure?control solenoid), burnt transmission fluid, and clutch material in the pan, and recommended replacing the transmission, transmission cooler, and cooler lines. Earlier, the transmission control module was reprogrammed, and oil cooler lines were replaced, but the truck still intermittently fails to shift while driving. The check engine light has illuminated during some events. Engine safety concern: during the same period the engine oil was found very low/“no oil on dipstick” with no external leaks; an oil?consumption test was recommended, raising concern about internal engine damage and possible contamination from the transmission failure. Safety impact: the lock?up / abrupt stop events occurred while the vehicle was in motion at approximately [~speed and road type, e. G. , 35–55 mph on city/secondary roads], forcing hard braking by vehicles behind me. This presents a risk of sudden loss of propulsion and crash. Frequency: about four lock?up events so far; shifting failures are intermittent and ongoing. Current status: vehicle at ~73,000 miles. A Chevrolet dealer is being asked to perform a factory diagnosis and to submit a manufacturer goodwill/warranty review.

Bad shuttering, slow acceleration, clunking noise, check engine light flashing all started while driving home. Took it to a transmission shop and they said it was the tc and transmission. I then called the dealership to see if there was a recall, and looked up any recalls. Since I have had fluid flushed and changed, and still have the problems. This has been an on going problem for a couple of years now. It was just out of warranty for dealership to fix. It started while I was on a highway and had very poor acceleration control.

There is a known issue with known leaks at the rear spoiler/ 3rd. Brake light. Due to this leak, there is an odor in the vehicle caused by mold or mildew which is creating breathing and alergy issues. I recently had open heart surgury and this is starting to effect me to the point I can not be in my vehicle without the windows rolled all the way down. And I go into sneezing fits wich is a safety concern.

I began having difficulties with my transmission at around 75,000 miles. The transmission began to stutter and slip. The transmission felt like I was driving on rumble strips. Transmission was replaced after waiting approx. 4 months. The transmission was replaced with a new gm transmission at the dealership.

Our 2020 chevy 1500 trail boss was waiting for an ordered instrument cluster at service department. The surveillance camera, film the vehicle catch on fire after being parked for 2 days. The smoke started from the inside, and the vehicle engulfed in flames until the fire department came. After the fire was extinguished very little was left of the vehicle. Basically a frame and engine was the only thing left. The vehicle had a little over 70k miles.

The back window is leaking water into the cab. Water enters the cab any time it rains or when washing the truck. This water is creating a damp environment by soaking into the back of the seat, the carpet, and the headliner, creating the potential for black mold. Immediately after purchasing the truck, the dealership had me bring it back in so they could fix it. Ever since the repair from the dealership, the window has continued to leak at the same rate that it did before the fix.

The 10 speed transmission suddenly downshifts when slowing down. It goes from like 8th to like 3rd suddenly and the rpm’s shoot way up. The wheels do not skid on pavement but will be an issue when the roads get slick here in west virginia. This is a serious safety concern. This has happened many times since I purchased the truck. The dealer in the past has told me the transmission needs flushed. But now I’m seeing that there is a recall for new transmission software. I would like to have this update please before the roads get slick from snow and ice.

Unknown.

The rear third brake light spoiler leaks causing damage to my headliner and vehicle. I have researched this and it appears to be a known issue to gm. However, gm is saying that my vehicle is not affected as of yet. I had an estimate completed on the vehicle by a local body shop. They believe the issue involves the spoiler assembly nuts not being properly tightened and sealed by the manufacturer. A repair will cost approximately $593. 63.

Water leak above the rear sliding window has soaked into carpet & upper roof inner lining panel.

Rear window leaks.

The def system tank and heater tube/wiring assembly need to be replaced due to the wiring melting. There should be larger wires or a fuse to prevent this. The system is tied to the emission controls system in the vehicle. When this happened I was warned on my dash display I had only 165 miles remaining at 65mph, and presumably slower thereafter. I live in alaska, we travel long distances, sometimes in extreme cold temperatures and always far from help; even cell service if away from urban centers. I find it unacceptable my truck can decide to strand myself and/or family (3 children under 5) based on emissions, not run-ability. The temperatures in alaska have been severely cold a couple weeks ago when this issue came up. The issue is confirmed by the dealership and is a known issue in the diesel community. Apparently it is a known issue for diesels in cold weather. Diesel is common in cold weather so the issue is perplexing at best. The vehicle has never been inspected by any one other than myself, a mechanic and the dealer. There were no warning lamps, only the dash warning the emission system needed service.

Rear window leaking.