2018 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD Engine Is Stalling

Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD 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 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD 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 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD engine is stalling?

When your 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD experiences engine stalling, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach to identify the root cause effectively. Start by checking for error codes using an OBD-II scanner, as these codes can reveal specific issues within the vehicle's systems. Next, inspect the fuel system, including the fuel pump, filter, and injectors, to ensure that fuel is being delivered adequately to the engine. Following this, examine the ignition system components such as spark plugs and ignition coils to confirm they are functioning correctly and providing the necessary spark. Additionally, evaluate the air intake system for any blockages or leaks that could hinder airflow, as well as inspect engine sensors like the throttle position and crankshaft position sensors for accurate data transmission. Lastly, check for any vacuum leaks that might disrupt the air-fuel mixture. By systematically addressing these areas, you can effectively troubleshoot the stalling issue and guide your repair efforts.

What are the common problems that could cause the engine to stall in a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD?

When diagnosing engine stalling in a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is the fuel system, where issues such as a clogged fuel filter or a malfunctioning fuel pump can disrupt the flow of fuel to the engine, leading to stalling. Additionally, the ignition system plays a critical role; failing components like ignition coils or worn spark plugs can prevent the engine from firing properly. Sensor failures, particularly with the mass airflow or crankshaft position sensors, can also cause the engine to stall by providing incorrect data to the engine control unit. Electrical problems, including a weak battery or a faulty alternator, can further exacerbate stalling issues by failing to supply adequate power. Moreover, vacuum leaks can disturb the air-fuel mixture, while a dirty or malfunctioning throttle body can hinder airflow, both of which can lead to engine performance problems. By systematically checking these areas, DIYers can effectively troubleshoot and address the root causes of engine stalling in their Silverado.

How urgent is it to address the engine stalling issue in a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD?

Addressing the engine stalling issue in a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD is of utmost urgency due to the significant safety risks it poses. When an engine stalls unexpectedly, it can lead to a sudden loss of power, making it difficult to control the vehicle, especially in critical driving situations. This unpredictability not only endangers the driver and passengers but also other road users. Furthermore, neglecting this issue can result in more severe damage to the engine and related components, leading to costly repairs that could have been avoided with timely intervention. Regular maintenance is essential for the vehicle's performance and longevity, and addressing stalling issues promptly ensures that the Silverado remains reliable and safe on the road. Therefore, it is crucial for DIY enthusiasts to prioritize diagnosing and resolving engine stalling problems to maintain both safety and vehicle integrity.

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2018 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD Engine Stalling Solutions