Head-to-head reliability
ALFA Romeo Stelvio vs Chevrolet Silverado
How the ALFA Romeo Stelvio and Chevrolet Silverado compare on NHTSA complaints, recalls and crash reports — and which is the lower-risk used buy.
Based on NHTSA owner-complaint & recall records
ALFA Romeo Stelvio vs Chevrolet Silverado: The Stelvio averages 19.9 complaints per year, while the Silverado averages 510.5. Stelvio owners report engine hesitation and electrical failures; Silverado owners face severe brake and powertrain issues. Source: NHTSA owner complaints.
The picture
Is the ALFA Romeo Stelvio or Chevrolet Silverado more reliable?
A plain-English read on what the NHTSA record says about living with each vehicle.
ALFA Romeo Stelvio
The Alfa Romeo Stelvio is a compact luxury SUV that, in ownership terms, demands attention. Its complaint record is dominated by engine and electrical issues, with owners reporting hesitation, stalling, and failures that leave them stranded. The frequency of problems, about 20 per year, suggests a vehicle that may spend more time in the shop than owners would like, especially given the severity of some failures.
Chevrolet Silverado
The Chevrolet Silverado is a full-size pickup with a high volume of complaints, averaging over 500 per year. The pattern points to serious engine and powertrain problems, including sudden loss of power and transmission failures, as well as brake system concerns. While the sheer number reflects its popularity, the nature of the issues—some occurring at highway speeds—raises significant reliability and safety questions for a workhorse vehicle.
The numbers
Side-by-side NHTSA record
Lower is better in every category. The highlighted cell is the stronger result.
| Category | ALFA Romeo Stelvio | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| Total complaintsAll model years combined | 179 Better | 5,105 |
| Safety recallsFederal recall campaigns | 43 Better | 100 |
| Crash reportsCrash-related complaints | 6 Better | 117 |
| Complaints per yearAveraged across model years | 19.9 Better | 510.5 |
| Reported injuriesTied to owner complaints | 5 Better | 104 |
| Reported deathsTied to owner complaints | 0 Better | 1 |
Source: NHTSA owner complaints & recall records.
What actually goes wrong
The problems owners report
The most-complained-about systems on each vehicle — what fails, and what owners say in their own words.
ALFA Romeo Stelvio
- 01ENGINE58
- 02ELECTRICAL SYSTEM53
- 03FUEL SYSTEM42
- 04GASOLINE42
- 05FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM33
Owners report hesitation on acceleration, failure to drive forward, and check engine lights. Some were diagnosed with failed oil solenoids and battery issues, leading to towing and repairs.
Corroded transmission ground straps can cause high cranking currents to flow through unintended paths, potentially damaging electronics. Rearview camera failures and false proximity alerts are also reported.
Fuel system problems often manifest as hesitation and stalling, with the check engine light illuminating. These issues can be intermittent, making them hard to diagnose and frustrating for owners.
“The contact owns a 2019 Alfa Romeo Stelvio. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle would hesitate upon depression of the accelerator pedal, and the check engine warning light would illuminate. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, w…”
“The contact owns a 2019 Alfa Romeo Stelvio. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to drive forward. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where the vehicle was diagnosed with a failed oil solenoid and battery failure. The contact was informed that the oil…”
Chevrolet Silverado
- 01ENGINE1,698
- 02POWER TRAIN1,453
- 03ELECTRICAL SYSTEM982
- 04SERVICE BRAKES691
- 05UNKNOWN OR OTHER542
Serious engine failures include sudden loss of power, loud pinging noises, and in some cases, complete engine failure. Diesel models have experienced repeated diesel particulate filter clogging, requiring dealer intervention.
Transmission problems are common, with vehicles suddenly shifting into neutral or failing to engage, especially during low-speed maneuvers like parking garage climbs. This can be dangerous if it occurs in traffic.
Electrical issues can lead to loss of braking assistance and steering control, as reported in one incident at 70 mph. These failures are critical and demand immediate attention.
Owners report sudden, severe loss of braking effectiveness, with the pedal remaining firm but the vehicle not stopping. This is a safety-critical failure that has led to crashes.
“I purchased the 2026 Chevrolet Silverado with a 6.2L motor "new" from the dealer with 5700 miles on XXX. Roughly a month and 2500 miles later, my family and I were in the vehicle, 750 miles from home, returning from a vacation to [XXX] from the [XXX]/[XXX] ar…”
“My 2026 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 with the 6.6L Duramax diesel has experienced three separate P2463 Diesel Particulate Filter excessive soot accumulation events at approximately 4,300, 5,500, and 10,280 miles. Each event required a Chevrolet dealer to perform…”
Official recalls
Safety recalls on record
Federal recall campaigns — the defect, the risk, and the fix. Confirm any open recall was completed before you buy.
ALFA Romeo Stelvio — 43 recalls
The defect: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Alfa Romeo Stelvio, and Alfa Romeo Giulia vehicles. The fuel line sensor housing may crack and leak fuel.
The risk: A fuel leak may cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash. A fuel leak also increases the risk of fire in the presence of an ignition source.
The fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the fuel line sensor housing, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on January 11, 2022. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's numbe…
The defect: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Alfa Romeo Stelvio and 2020-2021 Alfa Romeo Giulia vehicles. Hard braking may cause the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Hydraulic Control Unit (HCU) rotor shaft to separate, a reduction of braking assist, and a loss of ABS.
The risk: The loss of braking assistance and ABS functionality can reduce overall braking performance, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: Dealers will replace the ABS HCU, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 29, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403.
The defect: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Alfa Romeo Stelvio vehicles. An improperly crimped clamp may allow the side curtain air bag cushion and inflator to separate, causing an incomplete deployment or preventing the deployment of the air bag.
The risk: An incomplete deployment or non-deployment of the side curtain air bag increases the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
The fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the side air bag inflatable curtain assembly, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin May 19, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's…
The defect: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Alfa Romeo Giulia and Alfa Romeo Stelvio vehicles. The printed circuit board and software for the rearview camera may contain defects that cause the rearview camera image not to display properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the r…
The risk: A rearview image that does not display properly reduces the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the radio, as necessary. In addition, dealers will update the rearview camera software, as necessary. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 25, 2025.…
Chevrolet Silverado — 100 recalls
The defect: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, 3500, GMC Sierra 2500 and 3500 vehicles equipped with power-unlatching tailgates. The tailgate's electronic gate-release switch may short circuit due to water intrusion, which can result in the tailgate inadvertently…
The risk: An unlatched tailgate may open while driving and result in a loss of unsecured cargo, creating a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: Owners are advised to check that the tailgate is closed and latched before driving. Dealers will replace the exterior touchpad switch assemblies, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 17, 2024. Owners may contact Chevr…
The defect: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, 3500, and GMC Sierra 2500, 3500 vehicles. The steering gear shaft may fracture and disconnect from the steering arm.
The risk: A steering arm that disconnects may result in a total loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the steering gear, if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 22, 2023. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-800-4…
The defect: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2024 Chevrolet Silverado HD 2500, 3500, and GMC Sierra HD 2500, 3500 vehicles equipped with power-unlatching tailgates. The tailgate's electronic gate-release switch may short circuit due to water intrusion, which can result in the tailgate inadvertentl…
The risk: An unlatched tailgate may open and result in a loss of unsecured cargo, creating a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: Owners are advised to check that the tailgate is closed and latched before driving. Dealers will replace the exterior touchpad switch assemblies, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 17, 2024. Owners may contact…
The defect: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2023-2024 GMC Hummer EV pick up, 2024 GMC Hummer EV SUV, and 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV vehicles. The left or right front seat belt buckle attachment bolts may not be tightened properly.
The risk: An improperly tightened seat belt buckle may not restrain an occupant as intended, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
The fix: Dealers will tighten the left and right front seat belt buckle attachment bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 21, 2023. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-833-EVCHEVY (1-833-382-4389) (TTY 711 /…
Buyer analysis
ALFA Romeo Stelvio or Chevrolet Silverado: which should you buy?
The Alfa Romeo Stelvio has far fewer complaints per year (about 20) compared to the Chevrolet Silverado (over 500). While the Stelvio's issues are serious, the Silverado's higher frequency and the severity of its brake and powertrain failures suggest a higher risk in everyday use.
Key differences
- The Stelvio's complaints center on engine hesitation and electrical gremlins, while the Silverado has more reports of sudden power loss and brake failures.
- The Silverado's brake issues are safety-critical, with reports of the vehicle not stopping despite a firm pedal, whereas the Stelvio's brake complaints are less prominent.
- The Stelvio's fuel system problems often overlap with engine issues, causing drivability concerns, while the Silverado's diesel models face repeated DPF clogging.
- The Silverado's transmission failures can occur at low speeds, such as in parking garages, posing a risk of unexpected neutral shifts.
- Inspect the engine for hesitation or stalling, and check for any check engine light codes related to oil solenoids or fuel system.
- Examine the electrical system, especially the transmission ground strap for corrosion, and test the rearview camera and proximity sensors.
- Test the brakes thoroughly, including a hard stop from speed, and check for any warning lights or brake fluid issues.
- Listen for unusual engine noises and check for any loss of power, especially in the 6.2L or Duramax diesel engines. Also, verify the transmission shifts smoothly in all situations.
Before you buy
- Get a pre-purchase inspection from a mechanic familiar with each brand, focusing on the specific problem areas mentioned.
- Check the vehicle's recall status and ensure all outstanding recalls have been addressed.
- Review the maintenance history, especially for oil changes and any previous repairs related to engine or transmission.
- Take a thorough test drive that includes city, highway, and hill driving to feel for hesitation, shifting issues, or brake problems.
- Consider purchasing an extended warranty or service contract to cover potential costly repairs.
Year by year
Which model years to avoid
Complaints per model year for both vehicles — lower is better. The spikes are the years to scrutinize.
| Year | ALFA Romeo Stelvio | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 0 | 98 |
| 2025 | 0 | 150 |
| 2024 | 0 | 0 |
| 2023 | 0 | 0 |
| 2022 | 4 | 1340 |
| 2021 | 4 | 934 |
| 2020 | 7 | 0 |
| 2019 | 36 | 1992 |
| 2018 | 128 | 591 |
Check the actual car
Comparing models is smart. Checking the VIN is essential.
Brand averages tell you the trend. A VIN check tells you what's wrong with the specific ALFA Romeo Stelvio or Chevrolet Silverado in front of you — accident history, open recalls and title records.
Go deeper
Full reliability reports
- Comparison
- ALFA Romeo Stelvio vs Chevrolet Silverado
- ALFA Romeo Stelvio total complaints
- 179
- Chevrolet Silverado total complaints
- 5,105
- ALFA Romeo Stelvio total recalls
- 43
- Chevrolet Silverado total recalls
- 100
- ALFA Romeo Stelvio avg complaints/year
- 19.9
- Chevrolet Silverado avg complaints/year
- 510.5
- More reliable overall
- ALFA Romeo Stelvio
- ALFA Romeo Stelvio top complaint area
- ENGINE
- Chevrolet Silverado top complaint area
- ENGINE