How to Troubleshoot Chevy Truck Problems

Check Recall Announcements: Faulty parts may be the cause of your problem. All trucks, regardless of manufacturer or model, have had parts recalled. Some recalls are more critical than others for keeping the truck in service. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is the official U.S. government office in charge of recalling trucks and issuing technical service bulletins. Check the model Chevy truck from the free NHTSA service available at nhtsa.dot.gov. Investigate the "Defect Investigations" section, since a recall may soon be issued. Read additional details regarding the recall at AutoRecalls.us (see links in Resources).

Note Engine Lights: Chevrolet trucks are constructed with a quick diagnostic system that runs when the engine is started. If lights come on (or do not go out after the start up), note the shape of the light or the code that is shown. The most common problems indicated by the lights and translations for the codes are listed in the Chevrolet owner's manual. If manual is missing, check online by searching under "Chevrolet Truck" and "Error Code (and the number)." If nothing comes from this search, the problem is most likely something a mechanic will need to repair.

Pay Attention to Engine Noises: Turn the engine off and restart the engine to determine if the sound is a regular feature or just a one-time event. If the sound is still there, open the hood and listen to see what part of the engine is making the noise. Sounds from belts are easy to hear and locate. Radiator noise is also obvious. If you are not familiar with the engine structure, use the engine schematic chart located in the back of the truck owner's manual.

Isolate the Specific Problem: A few of the most common problems include: 1. Truck Won't Start: Check the gas gauge to make sure there is fuel. Check the instrument panel to see if gauges register. If these are flat, the problem is in the electrical system or the battery. The problem may also be in the fuel system. Look also at the truck distributor and clean off the spark plugs and wires. 2. Shudder or Hesitation When Accelerating: Avoid inexpensive fuel in extremely cold weather since the octane rating isn't high enough for the truck to function properly in freezing temperatures. Allow time for the engine to warm up before quick acceleration. The shudder may also be caused by obstructions in the fuel line. Try changing the fuel filter to correct this problem. Also, confirm that the problem is not with the catalytic converter. Many states require checks every year or two, but if the truck is new or over four years old, this unit may be the cause of this problem. 3. Acceleration Surge While Driving or with Starting: Pull over to the side of the road and examine the accelerator. Check the floor mat to make sure it hasn't moved up under the accelerator pedal. Some trucks have been recalled as a result of acceleration surge problems; confirm the truck is not in this group by checking the website listed in Step 1 of the first section of this article. 4. Problems in Manual Shifting between Gears: If this problem happens when the engine is warm, install a new filter and change the transmission fluid. For shifting issues while starting, avoid driving the truck as regular transportation but take it in for a diagnostic test. 5. Misfiring: Change the spark plugs and wires. Check the sensors to make sure the data sent is correct.