Which parts fail
Components named in complaints (service brakes, ABS, rotors and pads, parking brake).
Mileage when the problem started
Owner reports
Selected complaints filed with NHTSA by 1997 Chevrolet Silverado owners, lightly cleaned up (personal details are redacted by NHTSA).
The issue that has just caused the 800,000 vehicle recall for GM, the issue with the anti-lock brakes, is on vehicles older than the 1999. I have a 1997 Silverado and was having the problem of the anti-lock brakes engaging at low speeds, it started happening in 1999 and got worse over time. We took the vehicle in for repairs and they replaced the sensor that triggers the anti- lock brakes, at a cost of several hundred dollars. They said this sensor gets dirty and then fails. I am concerned as to why the recall is only going back to the 1999 models when in fact the problem is occurring in older models as well, as I said mine is a 1997 Silverado.
The rear brake line (steel) on my 1997 Chevrolet Silverado fractured while driving on the roadway resulting in loss of brake fluid and diminished braking ability. The brake line, which was located on the driver's side frame rail alongside the fuel tank, was replaced at a Chevrolet dealership and is now in my possession. I was informed that there were two (2) instances recently at the same dealer where the same brake line on 1997 Chevrolet pickups failed due to rust. I noted that my failed brake line appeared to have been rusted in the area of the failure.
This vehicle has been a nightmare. The brakes have failed, the steering column has gone out, I had to replace all the tires and get a front end alignment, the alternater went out, and the transmission has never worked correctly. It clanks loudly when shifting gears, doesn't idle correctly, and shuts off. I have had it rebuilt on three separate occasions. On one occasion it even caught on fire. The transmission is back in the shop now.( dot number: tire size: 16 inch )
Brake line rusted into on left rear wheel was repaired, every since this happened brake pedal is very spongy stopping power is not what it used to be or should be. I have also replaced front calipers,rotors,pads,master cylinder,powerbrake booster,rear drums, shoes,cylinders,emergency brake cable .cannot get the air out of brake system very annoying situation and dangerous because I cannot stop truck very quickly due to spongy brakes.
While backing into their driving way, going approx. 5 MPH or less, vehicle continued to back through garage door while foot was still applying brakes. Two injuries waere received by passenger in back and head. Can NHTSA help in this matter; unable to take vehicle to dealer shop not knowing if somthing else May happen. Agin your help in this matter are needed.
ABS brake failure; when applying the brakes truck slowed down a little, but did not come to a complete stop, causing driver to rearend another vehicle. This happened on dry pavement, no inclement weather. Driver had plenty of braking distance. The air bags did not deploy when this happened. The truck was towed to the dealer with major bumper damage.
Dt*: the contact stated the ABS engaged while stopping at speeds of 10mph or less. There is a NHTSA recall, # 05V379000, regarding the antilock brakes. The vehicle has the same problems as indicated in the recall; however it is not included in the recall due to the VIN. Although the problem persisted, the vehicle was not seen by a dealer.
When applying brakes (ABS) have to use both hands to control steering wheel; steering locks up when foot on brakes; w/foot off brakes, able to steer or turn. Took to dealer & informed it's the new steering system in place. Told manufacturer nothing was wrong.
When going 10 MPH or less, applying the brakes either produces a very hard pedal or anti-locks kick in. This has happened on dry roads with light to moderate pedal pressure. Was instructed that only 1999 and newer silverados are included in a campaign.
Dt: while going at a slow speed the anti lock brakes activate and the brakes don't work. Had a mechanic look at it and do a computer code check, but nothing showed up because the car was not moving. Had to deactivate the anti lock brakes.
Brake complaints in other Silverado years
Frequently asked questions
How common are brake problems on the 1997 Chevrolet Silverado?
NHTSA has 62 complaints about the brakes of the 1997 Chevrolet Silverado, 23% of the model year's 272 complaints. The component named most often is antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip (37 mentions).
Is there a recall for 1997 Chevrolet Silverado brake problems?
No. NHTSA lists no brakes recall for the 1997 Chevrolet Silverado. If the problem is widespread, a repair may still be covered by an extended warranty or a manufacturer service bulletin — ask a dealer.
At what mileage do 1997 Chevrolet Silverado brake problems start?
Half of the complaints with a recorded mileage happened before about 71,000 miles.
Is it dangerous?
Owners linked 8 crashes, 2 fires and 9 injuries to brakes problems on this model year. If you notice symptoms, have the car checked before driving further.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.