Which Silverado Options Would You Recommend?

I'm thinking about buying a new Silverado, but I'm not sure of which options to get. I know I want a 4x4, ecsb, 5.3L, w/ electric windows, keyless entry, etc., but I'm not sure about the some of the others that are available. For example, engine block heater, transmission oil cooler, etc..

So my question is, what options do you have that you are glad you got and would recommend to anyone and which options do you think are probably not worth getting?

if you live in the far north you may want the heater, if you live in the south you won't ever use the heater. the tranny oil cooler is great if you ever plan to pull anything. just opt for the tow package, i believe it has the oil cooler included. i'm not sure of all the options or I would give more of my dumb ass ideas. lol.

It really just depends on what you are going to use the truck for...
What options are you referring to? in cab, drive train, etc..
I would get the 4:10 gears. I would not recommend leather seats (does not belong in a truck) LT comes standard with leather.. I think you would be safe with in LS with some LT addtiona options.. will save you about $2-4K

I recommend the power folding mirrors. Great for drive thru's, garages and idiots in parking lots.......

It really just depends on what you are going to use the truck for...
What options are you referring to? in cab, drive train, etc..
I would get the 4:10 gears. I would not recommend leather seats (does not belong in a truck) LT comes standard with leather.. I think you would be safe with in LS with some LT addtiona options.. will save you about $2-4K

Maybe it's just me but I disagree on the leather. We have only had one truck and one car that did not have leather seats. I would think that leather is easier to care for. We never have, but for those who eat or drink in their trucks, I would think that if you spill something it would clean up much easier.

Even if you keep the windows closed you still get dust in the truck. With our leather we just take a leather wipe and wipe the seats off when we clean the truck every week. I do not know if you can get seat heaters with cloth seats but the heat is nice in colder climates.

I do not know about anyone else but we we did have the cloth seats in '96 we had a static charge just about every time we got out of the truck.

That's just my opinion. I know our next truck will have leather.

Just picked mine up in January. Get the towing package, the tranny cooler does come with it. I would also recommend the power drivers seat (can be added to the LT1 package) and the rearview mirror with the temperature. Finally make sure you are getting the 5.3. Current fuel economy on mine is 15.5 in the city and 19.75 highway.

Taxman

Just picked mine up in January. Get the towing package, the tranny cooler does come with it. I would also recommend the power drivers seat (can be added to the LT1 package) and the rearview mirror with the temperature. Finally make sure you are getting the 5.3. Current fuel economy on mine is 15.5 in the city and 19.75 highway.

Taxman

that is about what my 2000 gets too. good to see it has not changed much.

i have an 06 LT1 with the z85, towing pkg., 5.3 in it. Don't let them try to talk you into the small V8. i think its like $1,000 diff or close to it. But its also the diff. between 10 hp and 30 tq. So I would go 5.3 I get good gas milage. 17 at the lowest in town and 20 at the lowest highway but never over 21. somethin. my last trip I pulled a 14 ft fiberglass boat on the whole tank of gas 3/4 highway rest city and i got 17 mpg.

Thanks for all of the suggestion so far.

It will mostly be used for normal driving/hauling, no pulling except for maybe the occasional small trailer, but nothing like a boat or fifth wheel.

I definitely want the power seats, but with cloth (never really liked leather). I never thought about the power folding mirrors, but it would help with parking in the garage. Probably will go for the engine heater since it gets pretty cold here (NE Ohio).

Thanks again and any other thoughts/ideas are more than welcome, I appreciate it!

Greetings JBent9610,

You are in NE Ohio - and I'm in Western WI - so our weather conditions may be similar (you're a bit warmer than us). I opted for a 2wd instead of 4wd - because it gave me the ability to get a VHO. Traction has been good - and handling even better - just a thought :)

But lets go with the 4x4 you mentioned. Under those conditions I'd definitely get the COMBO folding mirrors option that has the tilt mirror option when in reverse (its excellent). I'd also definitely get the towing option whether you tow or not - because it gives you the extra oil and tranny coolers as well as better radiator option. I'd get the 3.73 axle ratio - better mileage - good towing. Power driver seat. I chose the automatic heater/ac choice - its wonderful for seperate controls for myself and passenger (and it is completely automatic) - it really works very well.

I have custom cloth - more forgiving if you have a screwdriver in your back pocket etc.. I've had leather often in other vehicles - but VERY glad I got custom cloth for the truck. The engine block heater is $35 as an option - its a steal - you can't even buy the item for that much less install it in the future. I've got the split bench seat - I considered the buckets and console - glad I didn't get that - much more flexible this way. I like satellite radio - but thats personal preference. And the Southwest package was inexpensive and gives you better window tints and radio.

I couldn't get a sunroof - if I could have - I would have. They have them now - but not in 2004.

Greetings JBent9610,

I've got the split bench seat - I considered the buckets and console - glad I didn't get that - much more flexible this way.

And the Southwest package was inexpensive and gives you better window tints and radio.

I couldn't get a sunroof - if I could have - I would have. They have them now - but not in 2004.

I like pretty much all of your suggestions, but I was thinking about the bucket seats. What do you mean about the split bench being more flexible?

Also, what is the Southwest package? All of the places I looked at have LS and LT designations.

One more question and I feel kind of stupid for asking this, but can you order a 2006 Silverado with just the options you want or do you have to take what's on the lot and/or only packages and not individual option selections?

There's a dealer near me with the Greystone color I like, but it doesn't have all the options I want and it has some I don't want. I've never ordered a vehicle before, so I'm not sure if what all I want is possible or will I just have to get lucky to find a lot that has a truck with everything?

I was sent this email from a local dealership and wanted to get the forum's opinion on if this is a good deal or not.

"You requested a Price Quote on a 2006 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Extended
Cab 4WD LT. I have provided our Price Quote on a Silverado in stock. It is
graystone with a dark charcoal cloth interior.

The MSRP for this vehicle is $31,140.00, VIN #1GCEK19B96Z261528. Ewing
Chevrolet is pleased to offer you, a GM Internet customer, our Price
Quote of $28,915.10 on this vehicle. Less the current manufacturer rebate of
$2,000.00, your Net Purchase Price is $26,915.10 plus tax, title, & license fees."

According to Edmonds, there is also a $1,500 down payment assistance and a $750 bonus cash for 1999 or newer trade in.

So, if I got the final price down to $24,665, is that a good price for this vehicle?

Is it possible to find out online what options are on it based on the VIN number, or do I need to go there?

I like pretty much all of your suggestions, but I was thinking about the bucket seats. What do you mean about the split bench being more flexible? Also, what is the Southwest package? All of the places I looked at have LS and LT designations. One more question and I feel kind of stupid for asking this, but can you order a 2006 Silverado with just the options you want or do you have to take what's on the lot and/or only packages and not individual option selections?

The Bucket seats are nice - but limit you to a 5 passenger setup. With the split bench and fold down armrest - you can do 5 people or 6 people - or girlfriend/wife right next to you (not with the buckets). The split bench with arm rest in the custom cloth is very comfortable especially with power seat on driver's side option.

SouthWest package is the heavier window tints on all windows (good for Wiscosnin as well as other states. It also includes radio with cassette and CD instead of just CD. Option cost was a couple hundred dollars.

I have an "LS" by logo decal on my truck - however mine is a V.H.O. 2 w.d.. There is no such thing as a 4 w.d. VHO - so you don't get that choice - its either SS with AWD or VHO with 2WD. The VHO with 2wd works very well for me in Wisconsin winters and Midwest summers :)

Yes - you can order a truck with EXACTLY what you want. Chevy wants to sell every truck it can. But going to different dealers will give you a wide selection of various option packages and colors and may give you a cheaper price too. I looked in a 150 mile radius of my home (looked by internet first - then went to several places).

I have the 2001 Z71 SL package 5.3L

Extended cab, The Auto Trac transfer case is the cats` a$$

I have the 2001 Z71 SL package 5.3L

Extended cab, The Auto Trac transfer case is the cats` a$$

What the heck does that mean? you like it or not?

The Autotrac transfer case is a geat option, towing package for the hitch and remote tranny cooler, buckets with the console to get the BOSE sound system. These are my best bets.

I have a 06 LT3, Z71 option 4 door short box, bed cover, bed liner, running lights power seats, 6 pack CD player, step bars and bed rails, mirror covers, grill inserts, engine heater, heated seats, steering wheel controls and tow package Just about all the crap I could get (I know I am forgetting a ton of crap) . Yea I did have them remove the cd from the head rest, for almost 2 grand I already have one with dual screens for the rug rats. As for cloth over leather I guess the guys who have cloth do not have kids. I will never go back to cloth and my kids range from 2 to 26. Just my 2 cents.

Cat`s a$$ is a yes vote for the Autotrac.

I have a 06 LT3, Z71 option 4 door short box, bed cover, bed liner, running lights power seats, 6 pack CD player, step bars and bed rails, mirror covers, grill inserts, engine heater, heated seats, steering wheel controls and tow package Just about all the crap I could get (I know I am forgetting a ton of crap) . Yea I did have them remove the cd from the head rest, for almost 2 grand I already have one with dual screens for the rug rats. As for cloth over leather I guess the guys who have cloth do not have kids. I will never go back to cloth and my kids range from 2 to 26. Just my 2 cents.

Well I do have kids and there is no way I would get leather.. My ex-wife got leather in her Grandam.. the leather got all scratched up and has got holes in it because of shoes and toys and all that crap they take with them.. I got the cloth and it still looks new.. Cloth all the way!!!! Leather is nice if you are single and have the time to clean it all the time..

Well sorry I have leather in a 97 burban and a 2006 Silverado Z71 LT3 package. I also have 6 kids (age 2 up to 26 with 2 grandchildren and a new one on the way) and will disagree, As for the grandam, my last one had pleather (plastic leather) and I have cloth in my 2000 Grandam because there so called leather does not hold up as good as my suburban does. I would rather clean gummi bears, crackers and juice box overflows off of leather then try and keep the cloth clean and dry. That being said the question is what we like on and in our trucks.

ok, are you buying the truck to use it and take your family places or are you buying it to sit in the driveway and look pretty?

Leather or cloth, pick one and have fun with the truck. It will only be new until something happens. I personally like cloth because leather tends to be cold in the winter and hot and sticky in the summer.

Back on topic, I have the base LS model and am happy with the basics (p/w,p/l, single cd, etc). Most every one else has posted some good ideas for add-ons. Towing package, tranny cooler/engine oil cooler would be the big ones I'd recommend. They will help your drivetrain last longer. Everything else is just what you like for comfort and are happy with. I personally dont need mirrors that tilt when put in reverse (I didnt even know they could do that). I just move them as needed. Personal opinion is all. As for exterior, there are all sorts of aftermarket parts you can add later as you see what others have and like. Lots of times, parts are cheaper than the dealer also. Good luck.

Thanks for all of the suggestion so far.

It will mostly be used for normal driving/hauling, no pulling except for maybe the occasional small trailer, but nothing like a boat or fifth wheel.

I definitely want the power seats, but with cloth (never really liked leather). I never thought about the power folding mirrors, but it would help with parking in the garage. Probably will go for the engine heater since it gets pretty cold here (NE Ohio).

Thanks again and any other thoughts/ideas are more than welcome, I appreciate it!

If most (or all) of your driving will be normal driving/hauling then WTF do you want with 4wd? You looking to burn more gas and have ANOTHER mechanical problem in the future?

If you're not worried about paying for a loaded truck, I will never drive another truck without the leather heated seats!!! Man, they are NICE on a cold morning.
Go for broke on the engine. Agree that no one on this post can claim better economy for a smaller engine. Mine - 2000 5.3 4x4 with the 3.73 axle. Great go and good towing for the occasional project.

If most (or all) of your driving will be then WTF do you want with 4wd? You looking to burn more gas and have ANOTHER mechanical problem in the future?

I used to drive a 76 Chevy truck without 4 wheel drive and that thing was horrible in the winter as far as traction goes. You don't think getting 4wd is worth it for the winter months (remember, I don't live in a warm climate state, snow/ice season can run from Nov-Apr)? Who do you think should get 4wd then? Do the 4wd models have a lot of mechanical problems? If so, then why do people get the 4wd option?

Thanks to everyone else for their suggestions. I've narrowed it down to:
Silver Birch for color (used to want Graystone)
5.3L, Ext Cab, SB LT2 4wd (unless BW convinces me it's not worth it)
Silverado Limited (trailering, 3.73 rear end, steering wheel radio controls, 20" wheels but a 17" inch spare??)
Power folding mirrors
The LT2 comes with cloth bucket seats. You guys made good points about the leather, but I don't have kids and I hate burning my legs in the summer.

My only problem is that I want a 2006, since there are $3,500 in incentives, but I can no longer order one the way I want. So I may not be able to find the exact options or color I want.

Make them look for you...... They want your business they have to work for it:evillol:

I used to drive a 76 Chevy truck without 4 wheel drive and that thing was horrible in the winter as far as traction goes. You don't think getting 4wd is worth it for the winter months (remember, I don't live in a warm climate state, snow/ice season can run from Nov-Apr)? Who do you think should get 4wd then? Do the 4wd models have a lot of mechanical problems? If so, then why do people get the 4wd option?

Thanks to everyone else for their suggestions. I've narrowed it down to:
Silver Birch for color (used to want Graystone)
5.3L, Ext Cab, SB LT2 4wd (unless BW convinces me it's not worth it)
Silverado Limited (trailering, 3.73 rear end, steering wheel radio controls, 20" wheels but a 17" inch spare??)
Power folding mirrors
The LT2 comes with cloth bucket seats. You guys made good points about the leather, but I don't have kids and I hate burning my legs in the summer.

My only problem is that I want a 2006, since there are $3,500 in incentives, but I can no longer order one the way I want. So I may not be able to find the exact options or color I want.

No, I don't think it is worth it for the winter months. Ask White Lightening, and he will tell you the same as I am about to GET A LOCKING DIFF.

And yes, do some research 4wd models have more mechanical problems than 2wd models. It's a no brainer - more mechanical parts = more mechanical parts to break

No, I don't think it is worth it for the winter months. Ask White Lightening, and he will tell you the same as I am about to GET A LOCKING DIFF.

And yes, do some research 4wd models have more mechanical problems than 2wd models. It's a no brainer - more mechanical parts = more mechanical parts to break

You bring up a good point. I did some searches (although it won't search terms like 4x4, 4wd, etc) and I do remember White Lightning's reply about 2wd doing well in Wisconsin's winter (and I'm sure his are as bad, if not worse, than mine). I still want to do some more searches, if I can figure out some other terms to use, just to make sure, but I think I am going to go with the 2wd with the locking differential (G80?).


Thanks for the suggestion, it will save me a couple thousand on the price and quite a bit on gas. Sorry I didn't listen to you when you said it White Lightning.

Yes, G80 is the locking diff. And GT4 is the 3.73. That's what I have.

Also, I agree - the dealer will work for it for the business. My dad wanted bench seats in his Toyota Avalon (he's old, doesn't understand bucket seats :p) and two salesmen drove to a dealership 50 miles away to get him one.

You bring up a good point. I did some searches (although it won't search terms like 4x4, 4wd, etc) and I do remember White Lightning's reply about 2wd doing well in Wisconsin's winter (and I'm sure his are as bad, if not worse, than mine). I still want to do some more searches, if I can figure out some other terms to use, just to make sure, but I think I am going to go with the 2wd with the locking differential (G80?).
Thanks for the suggestion, it will save me a couple thousand on the price and quite a bit on gas. Sorry I didn't listen to you when you said it White Lightning.

Greetings JBent,

There are actually a number of benefits to having 2wd - if you are so inclined.

A 2wd (rear wheel drive) truck will not only give you better mileage/fuel economy - but its some of the reasons you get better economy that are just as important. My particular 2004 truck is identical to an SS in every way except I'm 2wd instead of awd. Because of that - I'm 250 pounds lighter in truck weight - meaning my engine works less hard to get the truck going - and meaning whether its dragstrip, highway, lumber carrying, or pleasure driving - less weight to move and carry with me. Then if you look at what comprises that 250 pounds - its mechancial linkages and drive components that can wear out, need adjustment, or become loose/out of alighnment/sloppy as times goes along. Chevy's engine concept for years has been - to keep it simple and it stays reliable. I think that is the same for transmissions and power transfer systems. So to me 2WD is not only simpler - but more reliable. And another benefit for me - 4wd and awd trucks sit higher and in some cases are not as quiet (because of more moving parts/components.

Wisconsin winters are icy, snowy, and lots of wind and freeze thaw cycles. We often have 25 below zero temps for week/weeks at a time. But we have far more 36 to 20 degree swings which make for more hazardous continuing cycles of traction. My 2wd with locking differential and 200 pounds of flat patio blocks in the back is still lighter than an SS - and more controlable to steer out of slides if one should come. My Goodyear 20's are not snow tires - but I've had little problem with them in winter - and have even done better than some 4wd trucks of friends.

Over the last 7 months I've been involved with building a new home - and if I were doing this as a continous activity (this is a one time only thing for me :licka:) - I'd consider 4wd or different tires instead. Backing up a long inclined driveway made of clay and sand is challenging during wet soggy icy conditions. But the important thing - is I've been able to back trailers up this long turning driveway with a trailer - in the harshest conditions possible - each time.

Some like the taller stance of 4 wd. Some haul big huge trailers or houseboats or large RV campers. Some pull massive weight. Some are in near off road conditions for work or play. Some have good reasons for 4WD. But I will point out - that if sheer pulling/hauling on streets and highways is an issue - most farmers and haulers use 2wd.

Its all up to your desires and needs. Recently I was highway driving going in both east and west directions (so no wind benefit). I AVERAGED 23.3 mpg with my 6 liter full sized pickup. Just a thought :licka:

OK, just another question or two and I swear I'll let this thread go away. However, I really do appreciate all the help as I'm close to getting the truck I want.

The only downside to the one I found is that it doesn't have power folding mirrors. It does have the power/heated mirrors and the steering wheel controls/information center. I know it's probably stupid to ponder over one option, but we have a single car garage and the power folding would come in very handy. While I will most likely get this truck, I would still like to know:

Will I be able to get power folding mirrors installed later on if I decide I just can't live without them?

Has anyone had power folding mirrors installed after buying their truck? If so, can you give an approximate cost?

You can add them to the '03 and up. I had the power folding from the factory and had the dealer install the folding mirrors, control button and reprogram the BCM for $100 when I bought the truck.

Look at that Beautiful Stock Truck of White Lightenings and then look what I did to mine...... Sad isn't it. My Mom asked me, "WHY?"

OK, just another question or two and I swear I'll let this thread go away. However, I really do appreciate all the help as I'm close to getting the truck I want.

The only downside to the one I found is that it doesn't have power folding mirrors. It does have the power/heated mirrors and the steering wheel controls/information center. I know it's probably stupid to ponder over one option, but we have a single car garage and the power folding would come in very handy. While I will most likely get this truck, I would still like to know:

Will I be able to get power folding mirrors installed later on if I decide I just can't live without them?

Has anyone had power folding mirrors installed after buying their truck? If so, can you give an approximate cost?

Yes - I had the dealership do it when I bought my new truck.

I finally got my 2006 Silverado today!!! I didn't want to start a new thread because I live in the stoneage and still don't own a digital camera, and I know how worthless threads are without pics.

Anyway, it's a Dark Metallic Blue (wanted Silver Birch) Ext Cab, 6.5ft bed, LT2 options, 2wd. The only options it came with were the steering wheel radio controls (a must have) and a spare tire lock. I got it for 21,500 out the door, so I was happy.

First mods will be a line-x liner and an Advance K-cover tonneau cover (thanks to WL for the many posts about this cover). After that, bug deflector, nerf bars, vent visors, K&N intake, Nelson tune...hope my wife doesn't see this post.

My only complaint is the stereo. Mine came with the Bose system and I think it sounds very plain. I turned the bass all the way up and can hardly tell a difference. The 01 Grand Prix I traded in had a great factory radio and the bass was excellent (for a factory radio!). I'm not sure what I'm going to do about it as I don't want anything expensive, but I would like to really hear the sound of some double bass drumming.

Anyway, thanks again to everyone for their thoughts on the options. It really helped me to realize what it was that I HAD to have and which options would just be nice (and more money) to have. Hopefully I'll have pics if it every stops raining here and I can borrow a digital camera.

[quote=JBent9610]I finally got my 2006 Silverado today!!!

Anyway, it's a Dark Metallic Blue (wanted Silver Birch) Ext Cab, 6.5ft bed, LT2 options, 2wd. The only options it came with were the steering wheel radio controls (a must have) and a spare tire lock. I got it for 21,500 out the door, so I was happy.

My only complaint is the stereo. Mine came with the Bose system and I think it sounds very plain.


Greetings JBent9610,

I got a little confused and kept part of your post above as the parts that were confusing. To get the Bose stereo - you typically have quite a number of other options - like automatic climate control - custom seats with bucket - power seats etc. etc.. Generally its been my experience that the Bose system is one of the "higher" level options. As many things as my truck has on it - it didn't have the Bose system. But looked like you got a pretty good price :licka:

Happy trails.

Hi WL,

The Bose must be standard with the LT2 package as the spec sheet only showed additional dollar amounts next to the redundant radio controls and the spare tire lock. I wish I could take this stereo back to the dealer and swap it out for the factory one I had in the 01 Grand Prix I traded in. That stereo had pretty good bass for a factory radio.

Maybe someday I'll buy different stereo system for it, but right now I'm using my money for other accessories. So far I have the Line-X liner and I ordered the Advance 4 panel tonneau cover.

I'm thinking about getting some nerf bars as my wife (5'3") has a little harder of a time getting in. Not sure which ones I'll get as I haven't reasearched them much, but I kind of like the ones BlenderWizard has in his sig photo.

I'm looking at bug deflectors/hood protectors now and am not sure which to go with. I've been doing searches and it seems some cause wind noise or mirror vibration. The wind noise can be fixed with some 3M tape, but I want to see if I can find a shield that doesn't require it. So far, it looks like either the GM factory or the AVS bugflector II. Then I read the GM shield doesn't come all the way to the top since the 06 hoods are actually like the 05 HD hoods.

Decisions, decisions....

Hi WL,

The Bose must be standard with the LT2 package as the spec sheet only showed additional dollar amounts next to the redundant radio controls and the spare tire lock. I wish I could take this stereo back to the dealer and swap it out for the factory one I had in the 01 Grand Prix I traded in. That stereo had pretty good bass for a factory radio.
Maybe someday I'll buy different stereo system for it, but right now I'm using my money for other accessories. So far I have the Line-X liner and I ordered the Advance 4 panel tonneau cover.
I'm thinking about getting some nerf bars as my wife (5'3") has a little harder of a time getting in. Not sure which ones I'll get as I haven't reasearched them much, but I kind of like the ones BlenderWizard has in his sig photo.
I'm looking at bug deflectors/hood protectors now and am not sure which to go with. I've been doing searches and it seems some cause wind noise or mirror vibration. The wind noise can be fixed with some 3M tape, but I want to see if I can find a shield that doesn't require it. So far, it looks like either the GM factory or the AVS bugflector II. Then I read the GM shield doesn't come all the way to the top since the 06 hoods are actually like the 05 HD hoods.
Decisions, decisions....
Greetings JBent,

I would not have guessed it - but I sure like the satellite radio option that came with my truck. The quality of the digital sound is at the level of CDs and I don't think I've played a CD in the truck in nearly a year.

I put a carbon fiber deflector on my truck - and I like the look against the white paint. But unfortunately - at about 60 or 65 - you do get wind noise "rattle" - not from the deflector - but from the plastic cover by the windshield wipers because of turbulence. Another accessory choice I really liked - is a special window/rain deflectors that I found. They are larger than typical - but almost clear in color (very light tint). Many rain deflectors are dark - and obscure vision which these don't. The deflectors really deflect any wind noise or water very well and are window channel mounted instead of surface mounted.

Everybody likes their own thing - myself - I never liked nerf bars or any round type of bars - too slippery for colder or winter weather or during rain. I plan to get fiberglas running boards for my truck in the near future that are color matched. Alas, costs of everything have kept it from happening as yet - just like the Nelson tune plans :licka:

White Lightening