What is the Best Year Chevy Silverado to Buy Used?

October 13th, 2026 by

Used Chevy Silverado 1500 pickup trucks available at Boucher Chevrolet Waukesha

Which model year gets you the most truck for your money? At Boucher Chevrolet Waukesha, it’s one of the first questions used-truck shoppers ask, and the answer depends on your budget and how you’ll use the truck. Here’s a practical look at the best used Chevy Silverado years to shop, plus how CarBravo adds peace of mind.

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What Are the Best Chevy Silverado Years to Buy Used?

There isn’t one perfect year for everyone, but three ranges stand out: 2016–2018 for value, 2019–2021 for a modern truck at a used price, and 2022 or newer for the latest tech.

Key Takeaways

  • 2016–2018 Silverado 1500 models are a strong value pick, since much of their depreciation has already happened.
  • 2019–2021 models put you in the current generation, with a redesigned truck and more modern powertrain options.
  • 2022 and newer models add a refreshed interior and newer technology on many trims.
  • Eligible CarBravo vehicles under 10 model years old and 100,000 miles come with a 12-month/12,000-mile Bumper-to-Bumper Limited Warranty with no deductible.
  • In Wisconsin, an underbody rust check and a clean service history matter as much as the model year.

2016–2018: The Value Sweet Spot

These are the final years of the third-generation Silverado, which ran from 2014 through 2018. They’ve absorbed most of their depreciation, so your budget stretches further. The 2016 update brought refreshed styling and smartphone integration on equipped trims.

2019–2021: A Fresh Generation

Front view of a fourth-generation Chevy Silverado 1500 from the 2019 to 2021 model years

The fourth-generation Silverado 1500 arrived in 2019 with a redesigned body, a larger bed, and weight savings of up to 450 pounds, depending on the configuration. Engine choices expanded too, including a 2.7L turbo four-cylinder and an available 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel, alongside the familiar 5.3L and 6.2L V8s.

2022 and Newer: The Latest Tech

The 2022 refresh modernized the cabin. Many trims gained a redesigned interior with an available 13.4-inch touchscreen, and the off-road-focused ZR2 joined the lineup. They cost more but leave more ownership years ahead.

Refreshed 2022 Chevy Silverado 1500 dashboard with the available 13.4-inch touchscreen

Here’s how these model-year ranges compare:

Model Years
Best For
Keep in Mind

2016–2018
Shoppers who want the most truck for the money
Older tech; check mileage and service records closely

2019–2021
A modern platform at a used-truck price
Features vary widely by trim and engine

2022 and newer
Drivers who want the newest interior and tech
Higher prices, but more ownership years ahead

Compare used Silverado model years side by side on our lot.

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Why Does the Silverado Make Such a Great Used Truck?

The Silverado is a body-on-frame, full-size pickup offered in a huge range of cab, bed, engine, and drivetrain combinations. That variety makes it easy to find one that fits your needs.

Chevy service technician from Boucher Chevrolet of Waukesha

That flexibility matters around Waukesha. One driver needs a comfortable crew cab for the I-94 commute. Another wants four-wheel drive for Wisconsin winters, or towing muscle for a boat headed to Lake Country. With so many Silverados on the road, there’s plenty of used inventory to compare when narrowing down the best years for Chevy Silverado shopping.

Condition still matters. Road salt is tough on any truck, so have the frame and brake lines inspected, ask for service records, and check the VIN for open recalls. A well-maintained 2017 can be a smarter buy than a neglected 2020.

What Are the Benefits of Buying a CarBravo Silverado?

CarBravo is GM’s used-vehicle program, and every eligible CarBravo vehicle includes a Standard Limited Warranty. The coverage you get depends on the vehicle’s age and mileage.

Bumper-to-Bumper Limited Warranty: 12 months/12,000 miles with no deductible for CarBravo vehicles less than 10 model years old and under 100,000 miles.

BravoBudget Powertrain Limited Warranty: 30 days/1,000 miles for CarBravo vehicles more than 10 and less than 15 model years old and/or between 100,000 and 150,000 miles.

  • No extra charge: Warranty repairs include parts, labor, and towing to the nearest CarBravo dealership if needed.
  • Nationwide convenience: Repairs can be handled at any CarBravo dealership.
  • Roadside Assistance and Courtesy Transportation: Both are included during your warranty period.

Optional BravoCare plans, including Pre-Paid Maintenance and Tire & Wheel Protection, can extend that coverage.

View CarBravo-Eligible Silverados

So, Which Used Silverado Year Is Right for You?

The right used Silverado comes down to balancing price, features, and condition. Value shoppers often land on 2016–2018, while 2019 and newer trucks bring a more modern design. Either way, Boucher Chevrolet Waukesha can help you find a Silverado that fits how you work and drive in Waukesha. Knowing the best Chevy Silverado years is a great start. Seeing the trucks in person is the next step.

Browse used Silverado inventory at Boucher Chevrolet Waukesha, ask about CarBravo-eligible trucks, and schedule a test drive. Our team is happy to walk you through model years, trims, and coverage.

FAQ

When did the current Silverado generation start?

The fourth-generation Silverado 1500 debuted for the 2019 model year and received a significant refresh for the 2022 model year.

Is a high-mileage Silverado worth buying?

It can be, if it has a documented maintenance history and passes a thorough inspection. CarBravo trucks with 100,000–150,000 miles may qualify for BravoBudget coverage.

Can CarBravo warranty repairs be done at a different dealership?

Yes. Warranty repairs can be completed at any CarBravo dealership nationwide.

What should I check before buying a used Silverado in Wisconsin?

Look closely for underbody rust, review the service records, and check the VIN for any open recalls.

What is the best year Chevy Silverado to buy used?

It depends on your budget and how you’ll use the truck. 2016–2018 models are the value pick, 2019–2021 models give you a modern truck at a used price, and 2022 or newer models bring the latest tech.

What engines were offered in the 2019 to 2021 Silverado 1500?

The fourth-generation Silverado 1500 offered a 2.7L turbo four-cylinder and an available 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel, alongside the 5.3L and 6.2L V8s.

What changed on the 2022 Chevy Silverado?

The 2022 refresh modernized the cabin. Many trims gained a redesigned interior with an available 13.4-inch touchscreen, and the off-road-focused ZR2 joined the lineup.

What warranty comes with a used CarBravo Silverado?

Eligible CarBravo vehicles less than 10 model years old and under 100,000 miles get a 12-month/12,000-mile Bumper-to-Bumper Limited Warranty with no deductible. CarBravo vehicles more than 10 and less than 15 model years old and/or between 100,000 and 150,000 miles get a 30-day/1,000-mile BravoBudget Powertrain Limited Warranty.

Chevy Silverado 1500 pickup at Boucher Chevrolet Waukesha