My 2020 Silverado Wouldn't Shut off, After Dealer Fixed It The Truck Has a Slight Skip In The Motor, And Now The Dealer Says "Live With It"

When you buy a truck like the 2020 Chevy Silverado, you expect a reliable powerhouse capable of handling anything life throws at it. But what happens when that trust is tested? That’s precisely the situation Steve Tenore, a Silverado owner, finds himself in. His truck isn’t just giving him minor headaches—it’s presenting real challenges, from killing two batteries to a rough idle that wasn’t there before.

In a post shared in the 2019–2025 Chevy Silverado & GMC Sierra Owners group on Facebook, Steve writes:

“I have a 2020 5.3 engine and 8-speed Chevy Silverado. It has 20,000 miles. The truck would not shut off with the on/off button on the dash. It continues to run even after all the electricity on the dash is turned off and the steering wheel and shifter are locked. It already killed two batteries also. The dealer replaced the fuel pump control module and fixed the on/off problem. The truck has a slight skip in the motor since. The dealer says no check engine or code, you have to live with it. But it used to run so smoothly you could not tell it was running. Any ideas on what could cause the rough idle/ride? Any help would be appreciated.”

This is a frustrating experience for any truck owner. A truck that was once a smooth performer has now developed a persistent rough idle, and the dealership’s response seems dismissive, claiming that no error codes mean no actionable problem. For Steve, and many Silverado owners facing similar issues, it’s not just about the inconvenience—it’s about maintaining the reliability of a significant investment.

What Might Be Happening with Steve’s Truck?

Steve’s issue is likely tied to his fuel delivery system or engine management software, given that the dealership replaced the fuel pump control module. However, the rough idle could point to lingering issues, such as:

1. Misfiring Cylinders – Even without a check engine light, a slight misfire could cause the motor to feel less smooth than usual.
2. Fuel Injector Problems – A clogged or malfunctioning injector could be disrupting the precise fuel-air mixture.
3. Faulty Sensors – Sensors like the mass airflow (MAF) or throttle position sensor could be delivering inaccurate data to the ECU, causing uneven performance.
4. Torque Converter Problems – Since the 8-speed transmission has a history of complaints, the torque converter might be adding to the uneven ride.

But diagnosing the root cause isn’t Steve’s job. GM and its authorized service network need to step up.

Proposed Solutions for Steve and Other Silverado Owners Facing Similar Problems

1. Take It to Another Dealership
   Not all dealerships are created equal. Sometimes a fresh set of eyes can make all the difference. A more thorough diagnostic technician might uncover an issue that the previous dealer missed. It’s worth finding a dealership with a reputation for solving complex issues.
2. Contact GM Customer Service
   GM’s customer service team exists to resolve problems like this. Steve should document all his visits, repairs, and ongoing concerns and escalate the issue directly with GM. Often, manufacturers will take a closer look at lingering issues when customers push for resolution.
3. Check for Warranty Coverage
   Steve’s Silverado may still fall under GM’s 5-year/60,000-mile Powertrain Warranty, which could cover the rough idle if it’s related to a powertrain issue, such as the engine or transmission. If not, Steve could also inquire about goodwill repairs, which manufacturers sometimes offer for recurring issues on vehicles just out of warranty.
4. Search for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)
   GM often issues Technical Service Bulletins for known issues that aren’t serious enough for recalls but still require repairs. Steve or his dealership could investigate whether there’s a TSB related to the fuel system or transmission for his model year.
5. Get a Second Opinion from an Independent Mechanic
   If dealership service departments keep coming up short, Steve might benefit from an independent mechanic specializing in GM vehicles. Independent mechanics often have the experience and tools to diagnose issues dealerships overlook.
6. Online Communities and Forums
   Owners' groups and forums, like the one Steve posted in, are treasure troves of collective wisdom. Other Silverado owners might have experienced and resolved similar problems. Steve’s proactive post is a great first step toward crowd-sourcing a solution.

Could stop-start system quirks or malfunctions be part of Steve’s issue? Learn whether disabling your vehicle's stop-start system is legal or worth the risk in this in-depth analysis: Disabling Your Vehicle’s Stop-Start System: Legal or Illegal?

Why This Matters for All Silverado Owners

Steve’s experience highlights two broader concerns for Silverado owners:

1. The increasing complexity of modern vehicles means that issues often don’t trigger error codes, making diagnosis tricky.
2. Dismissive service departments can leave owners frustrated and feeling abandoned by the brand.

By sharing his story, Steve has opened the door for an important discussion. Owners rely on their trucks for work, family, and recreation, and they deserve better than a “you’ll have to live with it” response.

Frustrated with traditional Silverado models? Chevy’s future may hold the answer. The 2025 Silverado EV promises more trim and range options, offering a fresh take on reliability and innovation. Explore the details here: 2025 Chevrolet Silverado EV Offers More Trim and Range Options.

If you think Steve’s 2020 Silverado story is frustrating, wait until you hear about one owner’s grueling 594-mile trek back to the dealership—and why his truck will never be the same. Read the full story here: 594 Miles in My 2024 Silverado Back to the Dealership: This Truck Will Never Be the Same, and I Can Care Less About It.

What’s Your Experience? Let’s Talk About It

Steve’s story isn’t the only frustrating dealership experience Silverado owners are facing. One 2023 Silverado owner shares how their valve body repair turned into a waiting game—and what the dealership had to say about it. Read their full experience here: I Got a Call Today: Dealership Repaired My 2023 Chevy Silverado’s Valve Body.

Have you experienced similar issues with your Chevy Silverado or GMC Sierra? What steps did you take to resolve them?

Here are two questions to spark the conversation:

1. Have you ever faced a rough idle or unresolved mechanical issue in your truck? How did you handle it?
2. Do you think automakers like GM are doing enough to address recurring issues in their vehicles, or do dealerships need to be held more accountable?

Let’s hear your thoughts! Share your experiences or advice in the comments below—your insights could be exactly what another Silverado owner needs to hear.

Armen Hareyan is the founder and the Editor in Chief of Torque News. He founded TorqueNews.com in 2010, which since then has been publishing expert news and analysis about the automotive industry. He can be reached at Torque News Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin, and Youtube. He has more than a decade of expertise in the automotive industry with a special interest in Tesla and electric vehicles.