2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Engine Is Stalling

Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
30% chance it's the
Fuel System
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15% chance it's the
Air Intake System
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55% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 engine is stalling are the fuel system, the air intake system, or the ignition system.
  • Fuel System: A clogged fuel filter or failing fuel pump can restrict fuel flow, resulting in poor engine performance and starting issues.
  • Air Intake System: A dirty or damaged air filter or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can restrict airflow, leading to reduced engine performance and efficiency.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 engine is stalling?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

If the MAF sensor sends an erroneous signal, a few things happen. The engine's computer will trigger the check engine light, and the on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes will reflect the airflow discrepancy noted by the MAF sensor. Depending on the reported volume of air, the engine may try to compensate for these conditions, causing the engine to burn excessive amounts of fuel and emit black smoke from the exhaust. In this case, the OBD trouble codes would also reference faults recognized by the exhaust oxygen sensors. The engine may also have issues with idling roughly, failing to start, stalling, hesitation, power loss, misfires, and fuel consumption.

»MORE: Signs of a failing mass airflow sensor

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

The most likely symptom of a faulty fuel temperature sensor is a check engine light. When the sensor goes bad, the Engine Control Module signals the driver that there is a problem by turning on the dash light. Poor fuel economy might also be noticed. In some cases, a failing fuel temperature sensor could lead to hard starting of the engine or an engine misfire and poor performance.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take when a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 engine is stalling?

When faced with a stalling engine in a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to effectively identify the root cause. Start by checking for any technical service bulletins (TSBs) that may address known issues with engine stalling specific to your model. Pay attention to the symptoms; noting when the stalling occurs—such as at certain speeds or under load—can provide critical insights. Next, conduct a visual inspection of the engine for any obvious signs of damage, such as leaks or loose connections. Utilizing an onboard diagnostic scanner to check for error codes can reveal underlying problems that may not be immediately visible. Additionally, assess the fuel system components, including the fuel pump and filter, to ensure they are delivering fuel efficiently. Don’t overlook the ignition system; inspecting spark plugs and ignition coils is vital for confirming that the engine is receiving the necessary spark for combustion. Finally, examine the air intake system for blockages and verify the battery and charging system's condition to ensure that all electrical components are functioning correctly. By following this structured approach, you can gather the necessary information to diagnose and potentially resolve the stalling issue effectively.

What are the common causes of engine stalling in a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500?

When diagnosing engine stalling in a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, it's crucial to explore several prevalent issues that may be contributing to the problem. A primary factor often lies within the fuel system; for instance, a clogged fuel filter or a failing fuel pump can disrupt the necessary fuel flow to the engine, resulting in stalling. Additionally, electrical problems, such as a malfunctioning ignition system or faulty sensors, can hinder the engine's ability to receive essential signals for smooth operation. Airflow obstructions, frequently caused by a dirty air filter or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor, can also impede engine performance by affecting the air-fuel mixture. Moreover, engine overheating, which may stem from cooling system failures or insufficient coolant levels, can lead to stalling as engine components become excessively hot. Lastly, issues within the exhaust system, like a clogged catalytic converter, can significantly affect engine performance. By recognizing these common causes, DIY enthusiasts can effectively troubleshoot and resolve stalling issues, ensuring their Silverado remains reliable on the road.

How urgent is it to address the engine stalling issue in a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500?

When it comes to the engine stalling issue in a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, the urgency to address this problem cannot be overstated. Engine stalling can lead to a sudden loss of power, which poses significant safety risks, especially in high-traffic situations where quick acceleration or maneuvering is essential. Ignoring this symptom may result in the vehicle becoming inoperable at critical moments, such as during highway driving, increasing the likelihood of accidents or breakdowns. Moreover, stalling can indicate deeper issues within the vehicle, such as fuel system malfunctions, electrical problems, or sensor failures, which can exacerbate over time if left unchecked. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs are vital for ensuring the vehicle's reliability and performance, making it crucial for DIY enthusiasts to recognize the importance of timely intervention. If you encounter engine stalling, it is advisable to conduct a thorough inspection or consult a qualified mechanic to diagnose and resolve the underlying issues before they escalate into more serious problems.

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2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Engine Stalling | RepairPal