Chevrolet Silverado III (2014-2019) How to Remove the Bumpers

Production Years and Model Code

The third-generation Chevrolet Silverado, known under the factory index K2XX, was produced from 2013 to 2018 for light-duty pickups (1500) and until 2019 for heavy-duty versions (2500HD and 3500HD). This platform replaced the previous GMT900 generation and marked a significant step forward in design, technology, and efficiency.

 

Model Description

The Silverado K2XX was offered in three main cab configurations:

  • Regular Cab (2 doors, 3 seats)
  • Double Cab (4 doors, compact rear doors, 5-6 seats)
  • Crew Cab (4 full-size doors, 5-6 seats)

Body options included Short Bed and Standard Bed. In 2016, the pickup underwent a facelift, receiving an updated grille, headlights, and minor interior changes.

 

Engines and Transmissions

The powertrain lineup included:

  • 4.3L EcoTec3 V6 (285 HP) – base option for the 1500 version.
  • 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 (355–380 HP) – the most popular engine with cylinder deactivation for fuel efficiency.
  • 6.2L EcoTec3 V8 (420 HP) – the top-tier naturally aspirated engine for maximum power.
  • Diesel 3.0L Duramax LM2 (in later models after 2019, but the K2XX used the older 6.6L Duramax in HD versions).

Transmissions included a 6-speed automatic (6L80/6L90), and after the facelift, an 8-speed (8L90) was introduced.

How to Remove the Front Bumper

  1. If fog lights are installed, disconnect the common power connector.
  2. Lift the hood.
  3. Under the hood, remove the plastic trim by releasing twelve clips.
  4. Unscrew two screws on each side, release the clips, and remove the upper plastic trim of the front bumper.
  5. Next, unscrew four bolts at the top and four at the bottom, then remove the radiator grille. For the lower bolts, use a 10mm socket and an extension.
  6. Behind the grille, unscrew four 21mm bolts that are screwed in from top to bottom.
  7. Unscrew one bolt on each side, which are screwed in from bottom to top and secure the sides to the brackets.
  8. With an assistant, remove the bumper by pulling it forward.

Chevrolet Silverado III Front Bumper Mounting Locations

Chevrolet Silverado III Front Bumper Mounting Diagram

How to Remove the Rear Bumper

⇒Useful tips on how to remove the bumper and not break anything.⇐

  1. Start by disconnecting the license plate light connectors (or simply remove the bulbs) and the trailer hitch socket connector. Also, remove the clips securing the wiring harness to the bumper.
  2. Unscrew two 13mm bolts that are screwed in from top to bottom and secure the bumper to the trailer hitch.
  3. On both sides, unscrew two 21mm bolts that are screwed in from bottom to top. Then, remove four 18mm nuts and two 15mm bolts that secure the bumper brackets to the frame rails.
  4. Once all fasteners are removed, pull the rear bumper toward you. With an assistant, hold the sides and wiggle it up and down while pulling it out.

Chevrolet Silverado III rear bumper mounting locations

Chevrolet Silverado III Rear Bumper Mounting Diagram

Interesting Facts

  • Aluminum Doors and Hood – For the first time, lightweight materials were used in the Silverado to reduce weight.
  • MyLink System – One of the first multimedia systems with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support (after 2016).
  • Hidden Bumper Compartment – Some versions had a secret tool compartment inside the rear bumper.
  • Military-Grade Labeling – A marketing tactic emphasizing the use of aluminum alloys used in defense industries.

 

Advantages

  • Engine Reliability – The EcoTec3 engines proved durable, especially the 5.3L V8.
  • Off-Road Capability – Good ground clearance and availability of the Z71 all-wheel-drive package with reinforced suspension.
  • Comfort – The Crew Cab offered a spacious interior comparable to an SUV.
  • Towing Capacity – Up to 5.8 tons for the 1500 and up to 9.5 tons for the 2500HD.

 

Disadvantages

  • Interior Material Quality – The plastic in base versions looked cheap, especially compared to the Ram 1500.
  • Stiff Suspension – Models without the comfort package had an overly harsh ride.
  • 8-Speed Transmission Issues – After the facelift, some owners reported jerky shifting.
  • Diesel Noise – The older 6.6L Duramax in HD versions was loud and less fuel-efficient than newer alternatives.

 

Conclusion
The Chevrolet Silverado K2XX is a balanced pickup that retained traditional reliability while adding modern technology. Despite some shortcomings in trim and handling, it remains popular on the used market due to its robust construction and powerful engines. The 2016 facelift improved multimedia features but couldn’t fully match competitors in luxury.

This generation was an important step in the Silverado’s evolution, paving the way for the more advanced T1XX platform introduced in 2019.