Automatic Stop-Start Removed In Some 2021 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra Pickups
Automatic Stop-Start Removed In Some 2021 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra Pickups
Pickup truck customers eager to ditch automatic engine stop-start will be happy to learn that General Motors is removing the feature from some 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500 and 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 models. The change stems from the ongoing global microchip shortage.
According to the automaker, most vehicles built on or after June 7th, 2021 with a V8 engine and 10-speed automatic transmission (RPO code MQB) will not be equipped with automatic engine stop-start. As such, RST, LT Trail Boss, LTZ, and High Country trim levels among 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500 models, as well as SLT, AT4, and Denali trim levels among 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 models are affected.
More specifically, the change affects 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500 RST, LTZ, and High Country trim levels equipped with the naturally aspirated 6.2L V8 L87, as well as LT Trail Boss models equipped with either the naturally aspirated 6.2L V8 L87 or the naturally aspirated 5.3L V8 L84.
With regard to 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 models, the change affects SLT trim levels equipped with the naturally aspirated 6.2L V8 L87, as well as SLT trims equipped with naturally aspirated 5.3L V8 L84 and 10-speed automatic transmission (requires SLT Premium Plus package or Texas Edition SLT Premium Plus Package). Affected Sierra trims also include AT4 models and Denali models equipped with either the 5.3L V8 or 6.2L V8.
To note, the naturally aspirated 6.2L V8 L87 produces 420 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 460 pound-feet of torque at 4,100 rpm, whereas the naturally aspirated 5.3L V8 L84 produces 355 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 383 pound-feet of torque at 4,100 rpm.
According to the Senior Manager, Product and Brand Communications for Chevrolet, Kevin M. Kelly, dealers recently received a notice about the change, summarized as:
“By taking this measure, it will enable us to continue production of our high-demand full-size SUV and pick-ups as the industry continues to rebound and strengthen. Most of the affected vehicles will experience a minor reduction in fuel economy and customers will receive a $50 (U.S.) credit on the MSRP for affected vehicles.”