Head-to-head reliability
BMW 5 Series vs Chevrolet Silverado
How the BMW 5 Series 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
BMW 5 Series vs Chevrolet Silverado: The BMW averages 19.4 complaints per year, while the Silverado averages 510.5. BMW has 1 recall, Silverado has 100. Owners report engine and brake failures in the Silverado, and air bag and electrical issues in the BMW. Source: NHTSA owner complaints.
The picture
Is the BMW 5 Series or Chevrolet Silverado more reliable?
A plain-English read on what the NHTSA record says about living with each vehicle.
BMW 5 Series
The BMW 5 Series, as a used luxury sedan, shows a moderate complaint rate of about 19 per year over the last decade. Owners report issues that can affect daily driving, such as air bag cover defects, electrical glitches causing smoke, and engine problems like a failing oil pump. While not overwhelming, these issues suggest that maintenance and repairs could be costly and inconvenient.
Chevrolet Silverado
The Chevrolet Silverado, a popular full-size pickup, has a much higher complaint volume, averaging over 500 per year, reflecting its widespread use and possibly more serious problems. Owners frequently report engine failures, transmission issues, and brake problems, some occurring at low mileage. This pattern indicates that the Silverado may have significant reliability concerns that could lead to frequent visits to the shop.
The numbers
Side-by-side NHTSA record
Lower is better in every category. The highlighted cell is the stronger result.
| Category | BMW 5 Series | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| Total complaintsAll model years combined | 194 Better | 5,105 |
| Safety recallsFederal recall campaigns | 1 Better | 100 |
| Crash reportsCrash-related complaints | 23 Better | 117 |
| Complaints per yearAveraged across model years | 19.4 Better | 510.5 |
| Reported injuriesTied to owner complaints | 23 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.
BMW 5 Series
- 01AIR BAGS46
- 02ELECTRICAL SYSTEM42
- 03ENGINE33
- 04SEAT BELTS29
- 05UNKNOWN OR OTHER24
Owners report the air bag cover leather folding or splitting, and in some cases, the air bag system warning light illuminates. This could indicate a potential issue with the air bag deploying properly in a crash.
There are reports of heavy white smoke coming from the vehicle, possibly due to an electrical fault. Additionally, the remote starter may fail, and recall repairs for electrical issues may be delayed due to part availability.
The engine may produce a loud high-pitched noise when the HVAC is on, pointing to a failing air conditioning compressor. More seriously, the oil pump in the B58 engine has a plastic ring that can fracture, leading to sudden loss of power or engine seizure.
Seat belts may fail to detach after being connected, requiring force to release. Also, a passenger restraint failure code appears, and fixing it can cost around $2700, which is a safety concern.
“The contact owns a 2020 BMW 530I. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that while driving from a complete stop, and while driving at various speeds, the vehicle hesitated while depressing the accelerator p…”
“The contact owns a 2021 BMW 530I. The contact stated that the edge of the air bag leather cover was folding in, which enlarged the split between the air bag cover and the steering wheel. The vehicle was taken to an unknown dealer, where it was inspected, and…”
Chevrolet Silverado
- 01ENGINE1,698
- 02POWER TRAIN1,453
- 03ELECTRICAL SYSTEM982
- 04SERVICE BRAKES691
- 05UNKNOWN OR OTHER542
The 6.2L engine can experience catastrophic failure, leaving owners stranded far from home. Diesel models have issues with diesel particulate filter clogging, requiring dealer service multiple times.
Transmission problems include sudden shifting into neutral while driving, which can be dangerous, especially on inclines. This can happen with very low mileage.
Electrical issues can lead to a sudden loss of braking ability, with the brake pedal firm but ineffective. Also, a loud pinging sound from the engine may accompany loss of motive power and inoperable brakes and steering.
Brake failure is reported, where the vehicle does not stop normally, even with a firm pedal. This is a critical safety issue that can occur without warning.
“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.
BMW 5 Series — 1 recall
The defect: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2023 Toyota GR Supra, 3 Series Sedan (330i xDrive, M340i xDrive, M3), 5 Series Sedan (530i, 530i xDrive, M5), 4 Series Gran Coupe (430i, 430i xDrive), 4 Series Coupe (430i, 430i xDrive, M440i xDrive), 4 Series Convertible (430i, 430i xDrive, M440…
The risk: Transmission oil that leaks into the control unit can lead to a seizure of the transmission gears, causing a sudden loss of drive power and increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: Dealers will replace the transmission mechatronics module and the automatic transmission fluid, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 26, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-741…
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
BMW 5 Series or Chevrolet Silverado: which should you buy?
The BMW 5 Series has far fewer complaints per year (19.4) compared to the Chevrolet Silverado (510.5), indicating a lower frequency of reported issues. However, the Silverado's problems are more severe, including engine and brake failures, which could pose greater safety risks.
Key differences
- The Silverado has a much higher complaint rate, with engine and powertrain issues dominating, while the BMW's complaints are more evenly spread across air bags, electrical, and engine.
- Silverado owners report sudden loss of power and brake failure, which are immediate safety hazards, whereas BMW issues like oil pump failure also lead to loss of power but are less frequent.
- The BMW has only 1 recall, while the Silverado has 100, indicating more widespread factory defects in the truck.
- The Silverado's problems often occur at very low mileage (under 300 miles), suggesting potential quality control issues, while BMW issues may appear later.
- Check the air bag cover for any folding or splitting, and ensure no warning lights are on.
- Listen for unusual noises from the engine or HVAC, and verify the oil pump has been inspected or replaced if it's a B58 engine.
- Test the brakes thoroughly, especially for any loss of braking power, and check for any warning messages.
- Inspect the transmission for smooth shifting, and be wary of any sudden neutral shifts during a test drive.
Before you buy
- Obtain a vehicle history report and check for open recalls on both models.
- Have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection, focusing on the engine, transmission, and brakes.
- For the BMW, ask about the oil pump and any related service; for the Silverado, ask about the DPF and any engine replacements.
- Test drive at various speeds and inclines to check for hesitation, loss of power, or brake issues.
- Check the seat belt operation on the BMW and the tailgate latch on the Silverado.
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 | BMW 5 Series | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 1 | 98 |
| 2025 | 2 | 150 |
| 2024 | 0 | 0 |
| 2023 | 18 | 0 |
| 2022 | 16 | 1340 |
| 2021 | 26 | 934 |
| 2020 | 15 | 0 |
| 2019 | 38 | 1992 |
| 2018 | 78 | 591 |
| 2017 | 0 | 0 |
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 BMW 5 Series or Chevrolet Silverado in front of you — accident history, open recalls and title records.
Go deeper
Full reliability reports
- Comparison
- BMW 5 Series vs Chevrolet Silverado
- BMW 5 Series total complaints
- 194
- Chevrolet Silverado total complaints
- 5,105
- BMW 5 Series total recalls
- 1
- Chevrolet Silverado total recalls
- 100
- BMW 5 Series avg complaints/year
- 19.4
- Chevrolet Silverado avg complaints/year
- 510.5
- More reliable overall
- BMW 5 Series
- BMW 5 Series top complaint area
- AIR BAGS
- Chevrolet Silverado top complaint area
- ENGINE