Faults:

Automatic transmission leaked when I took delivery.

Gas gauge suddenly drops to "empty" when full, and back again.

Running lights have burned out three times in first 50,000 miles.

Console door broke off hinges.

Lumbar support knob stopped functioning.

Truck pulls to the right even after alignment.

On two occasions on hot days, the truck started, but failed to idle on its own; however it hasn't happened since.

General Comments:

The 327 engine is fast, gas mileage averages about 17 mpg. I think the best mileage I've managed was about 19 on the highway. Seats are pretty comfortable, and the ride is good. Overall, it is a very good and reliable truck. Previously I owned a 1989 Chevy Scottsdale sportside, and if I had it to over, I wouldn't have ordered the 2001 Silverado; I would have kept the '89. The '89 was a better looking truck, and I enjoyed owning it and driving it more, even though it had roll-up windows, and a six cylinder with a 5 speed.

Faults:

The fuel gage sensor went bad, causing the "Low Fuel" light to flicker on and off repeatedly.

The Temperature control ceased to function, and would stick on the hottest setting unless I restarted the truck.

The tailgate cables were severed all the way through with normal usage, leaving the tailgate to dangle dangerously.

The engine pings under loads unless it has 91 Octane or higher gas in the tank.

General Comments:

The truck has some get up and go, lots of torque and accelerator responsiveness.

The blind spots are large, especially with a topper of any sort, and changing lanes requires much care.

This is a serious tank, although quick, it handles like a big chunk of iron and the turning radius is appallingly large.

Parking the extended cab version is a nightmare, requiring a three point turn nearly every time.

The interior is amazingly quiet and is quite comfortable even on long (4 hour plus) trips.

The headlights do not illuminate the road very well.

Fuel mileage is decent for a truck of this size.

Faults:

PISTON SLAP! Engine rattles as undersized pistons rock in cylinders.

Tailgate support cable snapped (recalled)

Tailgate latches failed (drops while driving)

AC system failed (blows 100* air)

Alternator bearing worn out.

Rubber trim pieces falling out.

General Comments:

I traded my 99 Tahoe in on this 2001 Silverado (Ext cab, short bed, 2WD), and it was a huge mistake. I got it with 58000 miles, and have only driven it about 3000 over two years. Mostly because I can't stand to drive it. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE this truck, but my stomach turns just looking at it. I've been a hardcore GM fan my entire life (52 years), and this single vehicle has now turned me against them. I understand they have to cut costs, and I can live with the plastic interior and other cheap parts. But when the V8 heart of my truck is junk, that is unforgivable. I've built enough engines in my life to know what it takes to make a decent one, and they scrimped too much. My only wish is that they'd realize and ACCEPT their mistake, recall some engines, and try to regain our now lost trust in them. I'll be selling my $30,000 piece of garbage, and buying either a Titan, or Tundra.