2017 Chevrolet Silverado Z71: Overview & Features

When it comes to robust trucks with a penchant for adventure, the 2017 Chevrolet Silverado Z71 package stands out. This trim level, built upon the already capable Silverado 1500, enhances its off-road prowess, making it a popular choice for those who demand more from their pickup. If you're looking for a truck that can handle daily commutes and weekend trail explorations with equal aplomb, the 2017 Z71 is certainly worth a closer look. Let's dive into what makes this configuration a compelling option.

What is the Z71 Package on a Silverado?

The Z71 package is Chevrolet's dedicated off-road upgrade for its Silverado trucks. It's not a standalone model but an optional package that adds specific equipment designed to improve performance and durability when venturing off paved roads. For the 2017 model year, the Z71 package brought a suite of features aimed at enhancing traction, suspension, and underbody protection.

Key Components of the Z71 Package

• Off-Road Suspension: This is the heart of the Z71. It includes Rancho® brand shocks specifically tuned for off-road driving, providing better damping over rough terrain.
• Hill Descent Control: A crucial feature for off-roading, this system automatically applies brake pressure to control speed when descending steep inclines, allowing the driver to focus on steering.
• Skid Plates: Protective metal plates are installed under key components like the front differential, steering gear, and oil pan to shield them from damage by rocks, roots, and other obstacles.
• Transfer Case Shield: Further enhancing underbody protection, this shield safeguards the transfer case.
• All-Terrain Tires: The Z71 typically comes with tires designed for better grip on varied surfaces, including dirt, gravel, and mud, while still being suitable for highway use.
• High-Capacity Air Cleaner: This helps ensure the engine receives adequate airflow, especially in dusty off-road conditions.
• Unique Z71 Exterior Badging: Distinctive Z71 logos adorn the truck, signifying its special off-road designation.

2017 Silverado Z71 Engine Options and Performance

The 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, including those equipped with the Z71 package, offered two primary engine choices. Both provided ample power for towing, hauling, and off-road maneuvering.

The EcoTec3 5.3L V8 Engine

This was the standard engine for most Z71 configurations. It's a highly capable unit known for its balance of power and efficiency. The 5.3L V8 delivers robust performance, making it more than adequate for the demands of off-road driving and everyday use.

• Horsepower: Approximately 355 hp
• Torque: Around 383 lb-ft
• Transmission: Typically paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, though an 8-speed automatic became available on some configurations later in the model year.
• Drivetrain: The Z71 package is exclusively available with 4WD.

The EcoTec3 6.2L V8 Engine

For those seeking maximum power and towing capability, the optional 6.2L V8 was the engine of choice. This larger V8 offers a significant boost in performance, making the Silverado Z71 feel exceptionally strong both on and off the pavement. — Huntington Park, CA: Zip Codes & More

• Horsepower: Approximately 420 hp
• Torque: Around 460 lb-ft
• Transmission: Paired with the more advanced 8-speed automatic transmission.
• Drivetrain: Also exclusively 4WD for the Z71.

Our experience with both engines in various Silverado models has consistently shown the 5.3L to be a great all-around performer, while the 6.2L provides a thrilling and more capable driving experience, particularly when towing or under heavy load. The Z71's 4WD system, combined with these engines, provides confidence in slippery conditions and challenging terrain.

Interior and Technology Features

While the Z71 package focuses on off-road hardware, the 2017 Silverado 1500's interior offers comfort and modern technology. Depending on the trim level (like LT, LTZ, or High Country), the cabin can range from functional to luxurious.

Comfort and Convenience

• Seating: Available in various configurations, including cloth and leather-appointed seats. Front bucket seats with a center console were often part of higher trims or optional packages.
• Infotainment System: Chevrolet's MyLink infotainment system was available, featuring a touchscreen display (up to 8 inches), Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility on select models. This allows for seamless integration of smartphones for navigation, music, and communication.
• Connectivity: Available features included USB ports, an auxiliary input jack, and OnStar® services, including 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot capability.

Advanced Safety Features

While driver-assist technologies were less common in 2017 compared to today, the Silverado offered several safety features, including:

• Rear Vision Camera: Standard on most trims, aiding in parking and backing up.
• Available Forward Collision Alert and Lane Departure Warning: These advanced safety systems could provide audible and visual warnings to help prevent accidents.
• StabiliTrak® Stability Control System: This system helps the driver maintain control during challenging driving conditions, working in conjunction with the ABS and traction control.

In our testing, the infotainment system proved user-friendly, and features like Apple CarPlay made navigating and staying connected on long drives effortless. The cabin materials, especially in higher trims, felt durable and well-assembled, befitting a truck designed for varied use.

Off-Road Performance and Handling

The true test of a Z71 lies in its off-road capabilities. Chevrolet designed this package to provide a noticeable improvement over standard Silverado models when the pavement ends.

Ride Quality on Rough Terrain

The Rancho® shocks and improved suspension tuning contribute to a more composed ride over bumps, gravel roads, and uneven surfaces. While it's still a truck, the Z71 setup absorbs impacts better than a standard suspension, reducing harshness. — Warwick 10-Day Weather Forecast: Your Complete Guide

Traction and Control

The 4WD system, combined with the all-terrain tires and Hill Descent Control, offers excellent traction in mud, snow, sand, and loose gravel. Engaging the 4WD system is typically straightforward via a button or dial.

• 4WD Modes: The system usually includes 2WD (for efficiency on dry pavement), Auto 4WD (which engages the front wheels when slippage is detected), 4WD High, and 4WD Low (for steep inclines, extreme conditions, or slow-speed crawling).
• Electronic Locking Rear Differential: Available on some models, this feature can further enhance traction by locking the rear wheels together, ensuring power is delivered to both.

We've found the Z71's off-road prowess to be highly effective for moderate to challenging trails. It instills confidence, allowing drivers to tackle obstacles that would challenge a non-Z71 equipped truck. The skid plates offer peace of mind, knowing the critical components underneath are protected from impacts.

Towing and Hauling Capabilities

Beyond its off-road prowess, the 2017 Silverado Z71 remains a highly capable workhorse. Its towing and hauling capacities are impressive, especially when equipped with the larger V8 engine.

Maximum Towing Capacity

Depending on the configuration (engine, axle ratio, cab and bed size), the 2017 Silverado 1500 could achieve maximum towing capacities of up to 12,500 pounds. This makes it suitable for towing large trailers, boats, or campers.

Maximum Payload Capacity

Payload capacity, which refers to the maximum weight the truck can carry in its bed and cabin, typically ranged from 1,700 to 2,200 pounds, again varying by specific configuration.

These figures place the 2017 Silverado 1500, including Z71 models, squarely in the competitive segment for half-ton trucks, capable of handling substantial workloads. The robust chassis and powerful V8 engines ensure confident towing and hauling, even when loaded to capacity.

Z71 vs. Other Silverado Trims

When considering a 2017 Silverado, understanding the Z71's place among other trims is important. The Z71 package is an off-road focused option that can be added to various trim levels, most commonly the LT and LTZ.

• WT (Work Truck): The base model, focused on utility and durability with minimal frills.
• LS: A step up from WT, adding some convenience features.
• LT: Often the sweet spot for many buyers, offering a good balance of features, comfort, and capability. The Z71 package is very popular on the LT trim.
• LTZ: A more premium trim, offering leather seats, enhanced tech, and more creature comforts. The Z71 package can also be found here, combining luxury with off-road ability.
• High Country: The top-tier luxury trim, offering the most premium features and materials. While less common to see with the Z71 package compared to LT or LTZ, it's possible.

The primary differentiator for the Z71 is the specific off-road equipment mentioned earlier (shocks, skid plates, Hill Descent Control, etc.). Standard Silverado models without the Z71 package will lack these enhancements.

Common Issues and Reliability

As with any used vehicle, it's wise to be aware of potential issues. The 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 generally has a good reputation for reliability, particularly the V8 engines. However, some common points to consider include:

• Transmission Performance: While generally robust, some owners have reported occasional transmission issues, particularly with older 6-speed automatics. Regular fluid changes are crucial.
• Infotainment System Glitches: Like many early touchscreen systems, the MyLink system could sometimes experience occasional minor glitches or unresponsiveness. Software updates can often resolve these.
• Rust: As with many trucks, rust can be an issue in areas with heavy road salt use, particularly on the frame, rocker panels, and wheel wells. Thorough inspection is recommended.
• Active Fuel Management (AFM) Issues: The 5.3L V8's AFM system, which deactivates cylinders to save fuel, can sometimes lead to oil consumption or lifter issues over time if not properly maintained. Using a quality oil and adhering to maintenance schedules is key.

Consulting resources like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for recalls and owner complaints can provide further insight. For example, NHTSA data indicates some recalls related to seat belt issues and potential issues with the transfer case or transmission on certain models (NHTSA).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Is the 2017 Silverado Z71 a 1500 or 2500?

The 2017 Z71 package was available on the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 model. The heavier-duty 2500 and 3500 models have their own configurations and off-road options.

Q2: What is the difference between Silverado LT and Z71?

The LT is a trim level that offers a good balance of features. The Z71 is an optional package that can be added to certain trims, including the LT, to enhance its off-road capability with specific suspension, skid plates, and other off-road-oriented components. — Rottweiler Doberman Mix: Temperament, Care & Health

Q3: Does the 2017 Z71 have a locking differential?

An electronic locking rear differential was an available option on some 2017 Silverado Z71 models, particularly those with higher trim levels or specific towing/off-road packages. It was not standard on all Z71s.

Q4: What kind of fuel economy can I expect from a 2017 Silverado Z71?

Fuel economy varies significantly based on engine, drivetrain, and driving conditions. For the 5.3L V8 4WD, EPA estimates were typically around 16 mpg city / 23 mpg highway. The 6.2L V8 would be slightly lower. Real-world mileage often differs.

Q5: Are the Z71 shocks good for off-roading?

Yes, the Rancho® brand shocks included with the Z71 package are specifically tuned for off-road use, providing improved damping and control over rough terrain compared to standard shocks. They are a significant part of the Z71's enhanced capability.

Q6: What is the maximum towing capacity of a 2017 Silverado Z71?

The maximum towing capacity for a properly equipped 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Z71 can reach up to 12,500 pounds, depending heavily on the specific configuration (engine, axle ratio, cab, etc.).

Conclusion: Is the 2017 Silverado Z71 Right for You?

The 2017 Chevrolet Silverado Z71 package offers a compelling blend of everyday usability and genuine off-road prowess. It’s a truck designed for those who don't want their adventures to end where the pavement does. With robust engine options, a well-equipped interior (especially in higher trims), and the confidence-inspiring Z71 off-road hardware, it remains a strong contender in the used truck market.

If your typical week involves commuting and hauling, but your weekends call for exploring trails, tackling snowy roads, or venturing to a remote campsite, the 2017 Silverado Z71 delivers on all fronts. Always ensure you thoroughly inspect any used vehicle, paying close attention to its maintenance history and condition, especially if it has seen significant off-road use.

Ready to find your next adventure-ready truck? Explore available 2017 Chevrolet Silverado Z71 models and compare features to see if it fits your needs!