Positioning:
The 2007 Silverado was part of Chevrolet's robust lineup of full-size pickup trucks, known for their capability, towing prowess, and a wide range of configurations catering to work and personal use. It competed directly with Ford F-150, Ram 1500, and Toyota Tundra.
Competition:
Key competitors in 2007 included the Ford F-150 (which introduced an all-new aluminum-intensive platform), Dodge Ram, and Toyota Tundra. The Silverado's strengths often lay in its comfortable ride for a truck, refined interior (especially in higher trims), and powerful V8 engine options.
Features:
Offered in various cab styles (regular, extended, crew cab), bed lengths, and trim levels (WT, LT, LTZ). Known for its durable GMT900 platform, independent front suspension, and a variety of V8 engine choices.
Powertrain:
Engine operation, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, engine break-in procedures.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission operation, gear selection, towing considerations, transmission fluid checks.
Brakes:
Brake system operation, ABS warning lights, parking brake usage.
Steering Suspension:
Power steering, suspension components, tire pressure monitoring system (if equipped).
Electrical:
Lighting systems, battery care, fuse box locations, instrument panel indicators, wipers, horn, power outlets.
HVAC:
Climate control system operation, air conditioning, heating, ventilation, recirculation.
Infotainment Audio:
Radio operation, CD player, speaker placement, auxiliary inputs (if equipped).
Safety Features:
Seat belt usage, airbag system information, child restraint systems (LATCH), child safety locks.
Driver Controls:
Dashboard layout, steering wheel controls, ignition system, door locks, windows.
Towing Hauling:
Towing capacity, trailer wiring, weight distribution, hitch installation guidance.
Wheels Tires:
Tire rotation, wheel balancing, spare tire location and usage, lug nut torque specifications.
Operation:
Starting the engine, shifting gears, operating vehicle controls, proper driving techniques.
Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, wiper blade replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Understanding dashboard warning lights and indicators, basic troubleshooting for common issues.
Emergency Situations:
Jumper starting procedures, changing a flat tire, using hazard lights, towing information.
Cleaning Care:
Interior and exterior cleaning recommendations, upholstery care, glass cleaning.
Fueling:
Proper fuel type, fuel door operation, fuel cap usage.
Security:
Keyless entry operation, theft deterrent system explanation.
Depth:
Owner-level information focused on safe operation, basic maintenance, and understanding vehicle features. Does not cover in-depth mechanical or electrical diagnostics or repair procedures.
Engine Options:
Multiple V8 engine options, including: 4.8L V8 (LV3), 5.3L V8 (LMG/LC9 - Active Fuel Management), and 6.0L V8 (LQ4/LY6 - often in heavy-duty models or performance variants).
Horsepower Torque 5.3L:
Approx. 315 hp @ 5,200 rpm and 338 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm (Varies slightly by specific engine code and fuel type).
Horsepower Torque 4.8L:
Approx. 295 hp @ 5,600 rpm and 305 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm (Varies).
System:
Multi-port fuel injection (MPI).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline.
Oil Capacity 5.3L:
7.0 U.S. quarts (6.6 liters) with filter change.
Oil Specification:
API SN or higher, ILSAC GF-5 or higher. SAE 5W-30 recommended for most conditions (refer to manual for specific climate recommendations).
Standard Transmission:
4-speed automatic (4L60-E) for most light-duty models.
Optional Transmission:
4-speed heavy-duty automatic (4L70-E or 4L75-E) for higher payload/towing applications. 6-speed automatic available on some configurations/engine sizes in later production runs of this generation, but less common for early 2007.
Transmission Features:
Electronic control, driver-selectable modes (e.g., Tow/Haul mode).
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF).
Wheelbase Short Bed:
Approximately 133.0 inches (3378 mm).
Wheelbase Long Bed:
Approximately 143.5 inches (3645 mm).
Overall Length Std Cab Long Bed:
Approximately 237.8 inches (6040 mm).
Overall Width:
Approximately 79.5 inches (2019 mm).
Bed Length Standard:
Approximately 78.8 inches (1999 mm) - Fleetside Short Bed.
Bed Length Long:
Approximately 97.8 inches (2484 mm) - Fleetside Long Bed.
Curb Weight Approx:
Starting around 4,600 lbs (2087 kg) and increasing significantly with configuration, engine, and drivetrain.
Max Gvw:
Varies by configuration, typically between 7,000 lbs (3175 kg) and 8,600 lbs (3901 kg) for light-duty models.
NHTSA Frontal Driver:
5-Star (for 2007 Silverado 1500 models tested).
NHTSA Frontal Passenger:
5-Star (for 2007 Silverado 1500 models tested).
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good (for models tested).
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS).
Airbags:
Frontal airbags for driver and front passenger. Available side-impact airbags (often in higher trims or optional packages).
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts for all occupants. Pretensioners for front seats.
Child Restraint Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player. Optional Bose premium audio system, SiriusXM satellite radio, in-dash 6-disc CD changer. Auxiliary audio input jack available on some models.
Navigation:
Factory navigation system available as an option on higher trim levels (often integrated into the infotainment display).
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control, often with steering wheel mounted buttons.
Parking Assist:
Rear parking assist sensors available as an option on some models.
Remote Keyless Entry:
Standard remote keyless entry on most trims.
Bluetooth:
Bluetooth hands-free connectivity was an emerging technology in 2007 and was typically an optional feature or part of an upgraded infotainment package on higher trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Severe driving conditions may require more frequent changes.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Recommended every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or with every oil change.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 7,500 miles (12,000 km), replace as needed (typically every 30,000-50,000 miles depending on conditions).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Typically around 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for normal service, but inspection is recommended more frequently. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.
Coolant Type:
GM P/N 12346793 (Dex-Cool Extended Life) or equivalent HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically orange in color. 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron VI ATF or GM P/N 88863668.
Windshield Washer Fluid:
Automotive windshield washer fluid. Do not use plain water.
Common Problems:
Some common issues reported for this generation include: AFM lifter issues (active fuel management system), dashboard cracks, exhaust manifold leaks, fuel pump failures, and transmission torque converter shudder. The manual provides guidance on recognizing some of these symptoms.
Oil Filter Example:
ACDelco PF46 or equivalent (e.g., Wix 57060, Fram PH10151).
Engine Air Filter Example:
ACDelco A3100C or equivalent (e.g., WIX 49359).
Heritage:
Chevrolet has a long-standing history in the pickup truck market, dating back to the 1910s with models like the Chevrolet Series 490. The Silverado nameplate, introduced in 1999, became the flagship full-size truck, evolving from the C/K series.
Generation Info:
The 2007 Silverado is part of the GMT900 platform generation (introduced for the 2007 model year), representing a significant redesign over the previous GMT800 platform. This generation featured a more aerodynamic and refined exterior, improved interior comfort, and enhanced chassis dynamics.
Production Years:
GMT900 platform Silverado trucks were produced from approximately late 2006 through the 2013 model year. This specific manual covers the 2007 model year, the first year of this generation.
Manufacturing:
Assembly plants for the 2007 Silverado included locations such as Fort Wayne, Indiana; Oshawa, Ontario, Canada; and Silao, Mexico.
Truck Of The Year Awards:
While the 2007 model was a new generation, Chevrolet Silverado trucks have historically received numerous accolades. For instance, the 2007 Silverado was a finalist for the North American Truck of the Year award. Specific awards for the 2007 model vary by publication and testing agency.
Kbb Consumer Ratings:
General consumer satisfaction with the 2007 Silverado was typically positive, praised for its comfort, V8 power, and capability. Specific ratings would be found in contemporary reviews and owner feedback compilations.
Epa Fuel Economy 5.3L 4X2:
EPA estimated: 15 MPG city / 20 MPG highway (actual mileage varies).