Silverado 1500

It is difficult to justify buying a nearly-new, full-size Chevrolet truck, when GMAC is offering 0% down, 0% financing for 60 months AND cash rebates. The new 2004 trucks are being closed out now and dealers are selling them at invoice price. Besides that, a new truck comes with

0 miles and a full factory warranty with the option of buying a GM extended warranty. If you finance your used truck, a 2003 model could actually cost you more than a new 2004. The only reason that you would even consider buying a 2002 or 2003 used truck is if you have bad credit.

Even if you can afford to pay cash for the truck, you should take the GM

0% down, 0% offer. Whenever someone offers you an interest free loan, borrow as much as you can for as long as you can. Plus, GMAC will finance 125% of your purchase and this will allow you to add additional equipment (tires, wheels, sound system, camper shell, etc.) to the 0% payment schedule. For example, if you buy a $30K truck, you can add on $7500 worth of options and services with a dealer due bill and roll the whole thing into the 0% down, 0% contract.

If you purchase a 2003 C-1500, you will have the new sheet metal styling and I have been told by my local Chevrolet dealer that there will be no changes in the look of the 2005 models.

According to the April 2004 Consumer Reports, the only problem years for full-size Chevrolet C-1500 trucks are the 1996-1998 models, which had cooling system, brake and electrical problems. The 2000 and 2001 trucks are rated as "better than average" and the 2002 and 2003 trucks are also off to a very good start.

In many respects, 2003 was the year that GM moved toward better features with a more simplified overall design:

"Underneath the sheet metal, both trucks eliminate many wires and connection junctions via an updated wiring harness for improved quality and reliability. About 40 wires went into the door on the outgoing model; it's down to 15 for '03. The trucks get dual-zone heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems plus lots of new stereo options, including XM Satellite radio."

"Hidden beneath are considerable changes. Chevrolet Silverado boasts more than 40 major changes for 2003. Some you'll notice, such as the interior refinements. New audio and climate controls are easier to use and more sophisticated, the latter available with well-designed digital controls. Other changes are harder to discern, but are important from reliability and engineering standpoints, such as the all-new electrical system that eliminates thick bundles of wires and hundreds of connections. V8 engines offer improved throttle response and reliability and reduced emissions, while V6 engines deliver better performance and reduced emissions. (Some of these changes were actually made mid-cycle to the 2002 models.)"

I have had nothing but trouble with my 2002 Silverado. The 5.3 sounds like a Singer sewing machine. According to GM piston slap and valve train noise are normal .BS!! Stay away!!!

And my 2002 silverado ext cab 5.3 has been trouble free.

Bought a 2004 1500 4.8 auto

Wish I had bought a Toyota.

GM has poor build quality.

First American-made vehicle owned since my first car in 1972.

Wanted to do the "patriot thing" and buy American.

No more.

My 2004 Crew Cab has no issues yet. I actually planned on buying the Nissan Titan till I drove the GMC.

Go to this site and see how many trucks are affected by this piston slp problem.