Head-to-head reliability
BMW Activehybrid 5 vs Chevrolet Silverado
How the BMW Activehybrid 5 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 Activehybrid 5 vs Chevrolet Silverado: The BMW has zero complaints over 6 years, while the Silverado has 5105 complaints over 10 years, including 117 crashes and 1 death. Silverado owners report engine and brake failures, whereas BMW has only two recalls. Source: NHTSA owner complaints.
The picture
Is the BMW Activehybrid 5 or Chevrolet Silverado more reliable?
A plain-English read on what the NHTSA record says about living with each vehicle.
BMW Activehybrid 5
The BMW Activehybrid 5 is a luxury hybrid sedan that, based on NHTSA data, has a remarkably clean reliability record with zero owner complaints over six years. This suggests that owners have not reported any specific mechanical or electrical issues, making it a low-risk choice in terms of known problems. However, the two recalls (airbag inflator and exterior lighting) indicate that even with no complaints, there are potential safety-related defects that have been addressed. Overall, it appears to be a dependable vehicle, but the lack of complaints also means less real-world data to gauge long-term reliability.
Chevrolet Silverado
The Chevrolet Silverado, in contrast, has a high volume of complaints (5105 over 10 years) and 100 recalls, indicating a much more problematic ownership experience. Owners report frequent issues with the engine, powertrain, electrical system, and brakes, often occurring at low mileage. These problems range from sudden loss of power and braking to diesel particulate filter clogging, which can be both inconvenient and dangerous. The high complaint rate and numerous recalls suggest that the Silverado has significant reliability and safety concerns that buyers should carefully consider.
The numbers
Side-by-side NHTSA record
Lower is better in every category. The highlighted cell is the stronger result.
| Category | BMW Activehybrid 5 | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| Total complaintsAll model years combined | 0 Better | 5,105 |
| Safety recallsFederal recall campaigns | 2 Better | 100 |
| Crash reportsCrash-related complaints | 0 Better | 117 |
| Complaints per yearAveraged across model years | 0.0 Better | 510.5 |
| Reported injuriesTied to owner complaints | 0 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 Activehybrid 5
No component data available.
The recall for the driver-side frontal airbag inflator module indicates a potential defect that could cause the airbag to deploy improperly or not at all in a crash. While no complaints are on record, this is a critical safety component that should be inspected and repaired if not already done.
The recall for exterior lighting suggests possible issues with headlights or taillights, which could reduce visibility and increase the risk of accidents. Owners should ensure that all lighting functions are working correctly and that any recall repairs have been performed.
Chevrolet Silverado
- 01ENGINE1,698
- 02POWER TRAIN1,453
- 03ELECTRICAL SYSTEM982
- 04SERVICE BRAKES691
- 05UNKNOWN OR OTHER542
Owners report severe engine problems, including sudden loss of motive power while driving, often accompanied by loud pinging sounds. Some engines, like the 6.2L, have failed within a few thousand miles, leaving families stranded far from home. Diesel models also experience frequent diesel particulate filter clogging, requiring dealer service.
Transmission issues are common, with reports of the vehicle suddenly shifting into neutral while driving, especially at low speeds or on inclines. This can be dangerous if it happens in traffic, as it may cause loss of control or unexpected movement.
Electrical failures are linked to serious safety incidents, including loss of braking and steering. Owners describe the brake pedal feeling firm but the vehicle not stopping, and in some cases, the entire system becomes inoperable, leading to a complete loss of control.
Brake-related complaints include sudden severe loss of braking effectiveness, often without warning. This is a critical safety issue that can lead to crashes, and it appears to be connected to electrical system failures in some instances.
“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 Activehybrid 5 — 2 recalls
The defect: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2013 528i, 528i xDrive, 535i, 535i xDrive, 550i, 550i xDrive, and ActiveHybrid 5 vehicles. The rear reflex reflectors may not reflect enough light. As such, the vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Saf…
The risk: The vehicle may be less visible to other vehicles, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear reflex reflectors, free of charge. The recall began July 28, 2017. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
The defect: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2015 6 Series Gran Coupe, 2014 5 Series Gran Turismo, 2014 5 Series Sedan, 2015 6 Series Convertible, 2015 6 Series Coupe, 2014 X5, 2013-2014 X3, 2014-2015 3 Series Sedan, 2014 4 Series Coupe, 2014 4 Series Convertible, 2014 3 Series Gran Turismo…
The risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, increasing the risk of injury or death.
The fix: The driver's front air bag will be replaced, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 6, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
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 Activehybrid 5 or Chevrolet Silverado: which should you buy?
Based on NHTSA data, the BMW Activehybrid 5 has far fewer issues per year (0 complaints per year) compared to the Chevrolet Silverado (510.5 complaints per year). This means that, on average, the BMW is much less likely to require repairs or experience safety-related failures. In practice, the Silverado's high complaint rate suggests a higher risk of breakdowns and dangerous incidents, making the BMW a more reliable choice for a used vehicle.
Key differences
- The BMW Activehybrid 5 has zero owner complaints, while the Silverado has over 5,000, indicating a stark contrast in reported reliability.
- Silverado owners report dangerous failures like sudden loss of power and braking, which are not mentioned for the BMW.
- The Silverado has 100 recalls, including for brakes and steering, whereas the BMW has only two recalls for airbags and lighting.
- Engine and powertrain issues dominate Silverado complaints, with many occurring at low mileage, suggesting potential manufacturing or design flaws.
- Check that both recalls (airbag inflator and exterior lighting) have been performed, as they are safety-related and could affect crash protection and visibility.
- Since there are no complaints, inspect the vehicle thoroughly for any signs of wear or prior damage, as the lack of data means you have less information about common issues.
- Ask for service records to see if the engine or transmission has been replaced or repaired, as many owners report failures within the first few thousand miles.
- Test the brakes carefully, especially at low speeds, to ensure there is no delay or loss of braking power, which is a common complaint.
Before you buy
- For the BMW, verify that all recall repairs are completed by checking the VIN on the NHTSA website.
- For the Silverado, obtain a vehicle history report to see if it has been in any accidents related to brake or electrical failures.
- Have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection, focusing on the engine, transmission, and electrical systems for the Silverado.
- Take both vehicles for an extended test drive, including highway speeds and stop-and-go traffic, to feel for any hesitation or unusual noises.
- Check online forums and owner communities for the specific model year you are considering to learn about any emerging issues not yet in the NHTSA data.
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 Activehybrid 5 | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 0 | 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 BMW Activehybrid 5 or Chevrolet Silverado in front of you — accident history, open recalls and title records.
Go deeper
Full reliability reports
- Comparison
- BMW Activehybrid 5 vs Chevrolet Silverado
- BMW Activehybrid 5 total complaints
- 0
- Chevrolet Silverado total complaints
- 5,105
- BMW Activehybrid 5 total recalls
- 2
- Chevrolet Silverado total recalls
- 100
- BMW Activehybrid 5 avg complaints/year
- 0.0
- Chevrolet Silverado avg complaints/year
- 510.5
- More reliable overall
- BMW Activehybrid 5
- Chevrolet Silverado top complaint area
- ENGINE