What updates did the 2021 Chevy Silverado receive?

The 2021 Silverado received a bolder front fascia, updated tailgate, and added the 2.7L turbocharged 4-cylinder as the new base engine (replacing the 4.3L V6). The 3.0L Duramax diesel continued from its 2020 introduction with broader availability. The large 13.4-inch touchscreen was introduced for the 2022 model year — not 2021. The 2021 Silverado's largest available infotainment screen was 8 inches.

Does the 2021 Silverado still have DFM lifter problems?

Yes. The 2021 Silverado continues with the same 5.3L and 6.2L V8 engines using DFM cylinder deactivation. Lifter failure reports are emerging on 2021 models as they accumulate 50,000–70,000 miles. The failure pattern mirrors AFM and DFM failures in earlier Silverado generations.

Is the 2021 Silverado factory warranty still active?

The 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper expired by 2024 for most 2021 Silverados. The 5-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty is still active for many owners. Owners approaching 75,000+ miles should consider extended warranty coverage now.

Does the 2021 Silverado have infotainment issues?

The 2021 Silverado's Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system (with up to an 8-inch screen) has generated complaints related to Bluetooth connectivity dropouts, CarPlay/Android Auto pairing failures, and occasional system freezes. Module replacement costs $600–$1,800. The larger 13.4-inch screen was introduced for the 2022 model year.

2021 Chevy Silverado Extended Warranty: What 2021 Owners Need to Know

2021 Chevrolet Silverado Extended Warranty: Coverage Options and Common Issues

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado receives a mid-cycle refresh with updated exterior styling, an all-new interior with a standard 13.4-inch infotainment screen on higher trims, and a new 2.7L turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The ongoing DFM lifter concern on V8 models and 10-speed transmission issues remain relevant for 2021 Silverado buyers.

Written and maintained by Athena Auto Protection Editorial Team — extended warranty specialists with expertise in vehicle service contracts, automotive repair, and consumer protection. Founded 2022.

Key Takeaways

1. Major refresh for 2021: new interior, redesigned face, and larger infotainment option
2. New 2.7L turbo-four: turbocharged but less complex than V8 AFM/DFM systems
3. DFM lifter collapse: V8 models still carry this risk ($3,000–$5,500 repair)
4. Large infotainment screen: more software complexity, potential infotainment issues
5. 10-speed automatic: refined but still associated with occasional shudder complaints
6. Factory warranty: bumper-to-bumper expiring on early 2021 builds

Frequently Asked Questions

What is new on the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado?

The 2021 Silverado received the most significant interior overhaul since the generation launched in 2019, including a standard 13.4-inch infotainment screen on higher trims, a new gauge cluster, and improved material quality. A new 2.7L turbocharged four-cylinder engine was added.

Does the 2.7L turbo on the 2021 Silverado have reliability issues?

The 2.7L turbo is generally reliable but is a high-stress turbocharged engine. At higher mileage, turbocharger actuator faults and oil consumption are the primary concerns. Repair costs are lower than V8 engine work.

Does Athena cover the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado?

Yes. Eligible 2021 Silverados can be enrolled in Athena plans. Deluxe Coverage covers engine, transmission, A/C, electrical, steering, and brakes — all with a $100 deductible per repair visit.

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More Resources

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 received a mid-cycle refresh that modernized its appearance and interior technology while retaining the T1XX platform's proven chassis. By 2026, most 2021 Silverados have 55,000–75,000 miles — factory bumper-to-bumper coverage has expired, and DFM lifter failure reports are emerging as these trucks approach 70,000 miles.

Quick Answer

The 2021 Silverado introduced the 2.7L turbo 4-cylinder as the new base engine, but the DFM lifter failure ($3,000–$5,000) risk is emerging at 55,000–75,000 miles on V8 models. Factory bumper-to-bumper expired in 2024. Athena covers DFM lifters and infotainment modules with a $100 deductible.

Key Takeaways

1The 2021 Silverado added the 2.7L turbo 4-cylinder as base engine, replacing the 4.3L V6.
2DFM lifter failure is emerging on 2021 V8 models at 55,000–75,000 miles.
3Factory bumper-to-bumper expired in 2024 — powertrain warranty still active for many owners.
4Infotainment 3 system (up to 8") has Bluetooth and CarPlay connectivity complaints.
58-speed transmission shudder complaints continue from earlier T1XX years.

2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500: Mid-Cycle Refresh

For 2021, the Silverado received a bolder front fascia, a redesigned tailgate, and the most important powertrain update in the T1XX generation: the 2.7L turbocharged 4-cylinder became the new base engine, replacing the naturally aspirated 4.3L V6 that had carried over from the previous generation. The 3.0L Duramax diesel — which had joined the lineup as a 2020 option — continued for 2021 with improved availability. The large 13.4-inch touchscreen was introduced for the 2022 model year; the 2021 Silverado offered the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system with up to an 8-inch screen.

The DFM-equipped 5.3L and 6.2L V8s — the engines responsible for lifter failure concerns in the T1XX generation — continued into 2021 unchanged. This means the DFM lifter reliability concern that began appearing in 2019 models carries directly into the 2021 model year.

Known Issues for 2021 Silverado 1500s

DFM Lifter Failure (Emerging)

As 2021 Silverados accumulate 55,000–75,000 miles, DFM lifter failure reports are increasing. The failure mechanism is identical to AFM lifters in K2XX trucks: collapsible lifter oil control failure, leading to partial cylinder deactivation at inappropriate times. Symptoms include cold-start engine tick, rough idle, and misfires.

Repair cost: all 16 lifters replaced: $3,000 to $5,000. With camshaft damage: $5,000 to $8,000+.

GM expanded the powertrain warranty on select 2021 Silverado models to 5 years/100,000 miles in response to documented DFM concerns. Owners should verify their specific VIN's coverage status with GM. Coverage from the manufacturer does not eliminate the need for extended warranty planning as these trucks age beyond the factory warranty period.

Infotainment System (Chevrolet Infotainment 3)

The 2021 Silverado uses the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system with up to an 8-inch touchscreen. Common complaints include Bluetooth audio dropouts, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto pairing failures, and intermittent system freezes requiring a restart. Software updates resolve some issues, but persistent module failures require hardware replacement. Infotainment module: $600 to $1,800.

8-Speed Transmission (8L80/8L90)

The 8-speed automatic continues to generate torque converter shudder complaints, particularly on 5.3L V8 models. Rebuild or replacement: $3,800 to $6,500.

Trail Boss Suspension Components

The Trail Boss package's factory-lifted suspension uses specialized Rancho shocks and a spacer lift. At 55,000–75,000 miles, the front Rancho shocks may require replacement (these are covered under Deluxe and New Car Coverage). Shock replacement: $600 to $1,200.

The 2021 Silverado introduced the 2.7L turbocharged 4-cylinder as the new base engine, replacing the naturally aspirated 4.3L V6. Unlike the V8s, the 2.7T does not use DFM — it is a traditionally operated turbocharged engine without cylinder deactivation. The 2.7T offers competitive low-RPM torque, but long-term reliability data is still accumulating. Owners who chose the 2.7T should note that turbocharger replacement and intercooler failure are potential high-mileage cost considerations not present in naturally aspirated V8 ownership.

Factory Warranty Status for 2021 Silverado

3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper — expired by 2024
5-year/100,000-mile powertrain — active for most owners; expires by 2026

Typical Repair Costs for a 2021 Silverado at Current Mileage

DFM lifter replacement: $3,000–$5,000
8L80/8L90 transmission rebuild: $3,800–$6,500
Infotainment module (Infotainment 3, up to 8"): $600–$1,800
Trail Boss shocks: $600–$1,200
A/C compressor: $1,000–$1,800
Transfer case actuator: $400–$900

Recommended Coverage for 2021 Silverado

Deluxe Coverage — Covers engine internals (including DFM lifters), transmission, A/C, electrical, steering, and suspension. Best for most 2021 Silverado owners.
New Car Coverage — Near-complete protection including infotainment electronics and advanced driver assistance sensors. Recommended for well-equipped 2021 Silverados with maximum technology content.

Links to Full Guides

See the full Chevy Silverado Extended Warranty guide and the Silverado vehicle page.

Sources & Methodology

Last Updated: April 2026

RepairPal: Chevrolet Silverado 2021 repair cost estimates and reliability data

NHTSA: Chevrolet Silverado 2021 DFM and infotainment complaint records

GM Authority: 2021 Silverado mid-cycle refresh details and DFM warranty coverage updates

About the Article Author

Steven Telle

Chief Operating Officer

Steven oversees daily operations, claims processing, and the concierge support teams at Athena. He brings deep experience in warranty administration and service contract compliance, ensuring every customer interaction meets the highest standard of transparency and speed.