I. Essential Maintenance (Regardless of Engine):
* Oil Change: Use the correct weight and type of oil specified in your owner's manual. Change it at the recommended intervals (usually every 3,000-5,000 miles, or more frequently if you tow or drive in harsh conditions). Also replace the oil filter.
* Air Filter Replacement: A clogged air filter restricts airflow, reducing performance and fuel economy. Replace it every 12,000-15,000 miles or as needed.
* Fuel Filter Replacement: The fuel filter cleans contaminants from your fuel. Replace it every 30,000-60,000 miles, or sooner if you notice performance issues. The location varies depending on the engine.
* Spark Plugs (Gas Engines): Spark plugs ignite the air-fuel mixture. Replace them every 30,000-100,000 miles, depending on the type of plugs and your driving habits. Use the correct type and gap specified in your owner's manual.
* PCV Valve: This valve helps vent crankcase pressure. A faulty PCV valve can lead to increased oil consumption and reduced performance. Inspect and replace if necessary.
* Transmission Fluid (Automatic): Have the transmission fluid and filter changed at the recommended intervals (usually every 30,000-60,000 miles).
* Coolant Flush: Flush and refill the cooling system every 30,000-60,000 miles or as recommended.
* Brake Inspection: Inspect brake pads, rotors, and calipers. Replace as needed.
* Tire Rotation and Balancing: Rotate your tires every 5,000-7,500 miles to ensure even wear. Have them balanced to improve handling and reduce vibration.
* Battery Inspection/Replacement: Have your battery tested regularly. Replace it if it's weak or failing.
II. Engine-Specific Considerations:
* Ignition System (Gas Engines): This might include the ignition coil(s), distributor (if equipped), and ignition wires. If you're experiencing misfires, poor starting, or rough idling, inspect these components.
* Throttle Body Cleaning (Gas Engines): A dirty throttle body can affect performance and fuel economy. Cleaning it can improve throttle response.
* Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF) Cleaning (Gas Engines): A dirty MAF sensor can lead to poor performance and fuel economy. Clean it carefully with a MAF sensor cleaner.
* Fuel Injectors (Gas Engines): Cleaning or replacing fuel injectors can improve performance, especially if you notice poor fuel economy or rough running. This is often a more involved process.
* Diesel Engines: Diesel tune-ups involve additional components like fuel injectors, glow plugs, and fuel filters (multiple filters are often present). Diesel maintenance is more complex and should often be performed by a qualified mechanic familiar with diesel engines.
III. Beyond Basic Maintenance (Performance Enhancements):
These are optional and can increase performance but may void your warranty if done before it expires:
* Performance Air Intake: Replacing the factory air intake with a performance intake can increase airflow.
* Performance Exhaust: A performance exhaust system can reduce backpressure, improving engine breathing.
* Tuning: A professional engine tuner can adjust the engine's computer (PCM) settings to optimize performance. This is the most advanced option and should only be done by someone with experience.
Important Note: Before undertaking any major repair or modification, consult your owner's manual. If you're not comfortable performing these tasks yourself, it's best to take your Silverado to a qualified mechanic. Ignoring maintenance can lead to costly repairs down the road.
