2019 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD Has A Check Engine Light

Resolve Check Engine Light Issues in 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
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 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD has a check engine light?

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.

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.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

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 steps to diagnose the check engine light on a 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD?

To effectively diagnose the check engine light on your 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD, start with a thorough visual inspection of the vehicle. Begin by checking the gas cap; ensure it is securely tightened and free from damage, as a faulty gas cap is a common trigger for the check engine light. Next, utilize an OBD-II scanner to connect to your vehicle's onboard diagnostic system. This tool will allow you to retrieve error codes that indicate specific issues. Once you have the codes, take the time to research their meanings, either through the vehicle's manual or reputable online resources. This will help you understand the underlying problems. Additionally, inspect essential components such as the battery, spark plugs, and wiring for any visible signs of wear or damage, as these can also contribute to the check engine light being activated. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently narrow down the potential causes of the warning light and take appropriate action to resolve the issue.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD?

When the check engine light illuminates in a 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD, it signals the need for immediate attention to various potential issues that could compromise the vehicle's performance. One of the most frequent causes is a loose gas cap, which can allow fuel vapors to escape and trigger the warning light. Another common issue is a faulty oxygen sensor, which can adversely affect fuel efficiency and emissions, necessitating prompt replacement. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter, such as inefficiency or failure, can also activate the check engine light, indicating a need for repair. Other potential culprits include a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor that disrupts the air-fuel mixture, as well as faulty spark plugs or ignition coils that may lead to engine misfires. An engine misfire itself can arise from various ignition or fuel system problems, further contributing to the warning light's activation. Moreover, issues with the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve can result in rough idling and reduced fuel economy, while a malfunctioning thermostat may cause the engine to overheat or operate at incorrect temperatures. Timely diagnosis and resolution of these common problems are crucial for maintaining optimal vehicle performance and preventing more severe damage down the line.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning light is not merely a nuisance; it signals potential issues within the engine or emissions system that could escalate into more severe problems if left unaddressed. Ignoring the check engine light can lead to significant damage, resulting in costly repairs and compromising the vehicle's performance and fuel efficiency. Moreover, some underlying issues may also affect the vehicle's emissions, which can have environmental implications. Fortunately, modern vehicles are equipped with advanced onboard diagnostics that can help identify the specific problem, making it easier for DIY enthusiasts to troubleshoot. However, it is crucial to act swiftly and consider consulting a qualified mechanic to ensure that any underlying issues are diagnosed and resolved effectively, safeguarding both your vehicle's health and your investment.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.

2019 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD Check Engine Light Causes