Head-to-head reliability
BMW F 800 S vs Chevrolet Silverado
How the BMW F 800 S 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 F 800 S vs Chevrolet Silverado: The F 800 S has only 2 complaints over 10 years (0.2/yr) and 3 recalls, while the Silverado has 5,105 complaints (510.5/yr) and 100 recalls. The F 800 S's main issue is fuel pump leaks, whereas the Silverado faces engine, transmission, and brake problems. Source: NHTSA owner complaints.
The picture
Is the BMW F 800 S or Chevrolet Silverado more reliable?
A plain-English read on what the NHTSA record says about living with each vehicle.
BMW F 800 S
The BMW F 800 S is a niche sport-touring motorcycle with a very low complaint rate over the past decade, averaging just 0.2 complaints per year. The few issues reported center on the fuel system, specifically fuel leaking from the fuel pump assembly, which can soak the electronic module and lead to catastrophic failure and a potential fire hazard. This is a serious but isolated pattern, suggesting that while the bike is generally reliable, fuel system integrity should be a key inspection point.
Chevrolet Silverado
The Chevrolet Silverado is a high-volume full-size pickup with a much higher complaint rate, averaging over 500 complaints per year. Owners report a wide range of issues, with the most frequent being engine problems (like DPF clogging and loss of power), transmission failures (sudden neutral), and electrical system glitches that can affect braking and steering. With over 100 recalls and reports of crashes and injuries, the Silverado shows a pattern of more frequent and varied reliability concerns that could impact safety and ownership experience.
The numbers
Side-by-side NHTSA record
Lower is better in every category. The highlighted cell is the stronger result.
| Category | BMW F 800 S | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| Total complaintsAll model years combined | 2 Better | 5,105 |
| Safety recallsFederal recall campaigns | 3 Better | 100 |
| Crash reportsCrash-related complaints | 0 Better | 117 |
| Complaints per yearAveraged across model years | 0.2 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 F 800 S
- 01FUEL SYSTEM1
- 02GASOLINE1
- 03FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM1
Owners report fuel leaking from the fuel pump assembly, which can soak the electronic fuel pump module and cause catastrophic failure, posing a fire hazard. This is a critical issue to check for on any used F 800 S.
The fuel leak issue is often categorized under gasoline, as the leak involves the fuel itself. This highlights the potential for fuel odor and fire risk, making it a top safety concern.
The fuel pump assembly failure is also listed under this component, emphasizing that the problem can lead to a complete loss of propulsion if the pump fails, leaving the rider stranded.
“The contact owns a 2007 BMW F 800 S. The contact stated that while inspecting the motorcycle in the driveway, the contact became aware that fuel was leaking from the fuel pump. The motorcycle was not taken to a dealer or an independent mechanic to be diagnose…”
Chevrolet Silverado
- 01ENGINE1,698
- 02POWER TRAIN1,453
- 03ELECTRICAL SYSTEM982
- 04SERVICE BRAKES691
- 05UNKNOWN OR OTHER542
Owners report serious engine issues such as DPF clogging in diesel models (causing frequent dealer visits) and sudden loss of motive power with loud pinging sounds, which can be alarming and dangerous on the highway.
Transmission problems include the vehicle suddenly shifting into neutral while driving, especially at low speeds, which can lead to loss of control. This is a major safety concern for a pickup truck.
Electrical failures can cause a sudden loss of braking effectiveness and steering control, as reported by owners. These issues are particularly dangerous as they occur without warning and can lead to crashes.
Brake-related complaints include severe loss of normal braking, where the pedal remains firm but braking is ineffective. This can happen shortly after starting the vehicle, posing a high risk of collision.
“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 F 800 S — 3 recalls
The defect: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2007-2009 F 800 S and F 800 ST motorcycles manufactured August 2006 through January 2009. Due to incorrect tolerances, the rear wheel drive bearing and rear axle may wear.
The risk: Bearing and axle wear may affect handling and control of the motorcycle, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the wheel bearing, and if necessary, replace the bearing and rear axle, at no charge. The recall began on January 10, 2014. Owners may call BMW at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at CustomerRela…
The defect: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2007-2009 F 800 S and F 800 ST motorcycles manufactured August 2006 through January 2009. Due to incorrect tolerances, the rear wheel drive bearing and rear axle may wear.
The risk: Bearing and axle wear may affect handling and control of the motorcycle, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the wheel bearing, and if necessary, replace the bearing and rear axle, at no charge. The recall began on January 10, 2014. Owners may call BMW at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at CustomerRela…
The defect: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2007-2009 F 800 S and F 800 ST motorcycles manufactured August 2006 through January 2009. Due to incorrect tolerances, the rear wheel drive bearing and rear axle may wear.
The risk: Bearing and axle wear may affect handling and control of the motorcycle, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the wheel bearing, and if necessary, replace the bearing and rear axle, at no charge. The recall began on January 10, 2014. Owners may call BMW at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at CustomerRela…
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 F 800 S or Chevrolet Silverado: which should you buy?
The BMW F 800 S has far fewer complaints per year (0.2) compared to the Chevrolet Silverado (510.5), indicating a much lower rate of reported issues. In practice, this means the motorcycle is likely to be more reliable and less troublesome, but the fuel leak issue is a serious safety concern that must be addressed. The Silverado, while more common, shows a higher frequency of varied and potentially dangerous problems.
Key differences
- The BMW F 800 S has a single recurring issue: fuel pump leaks that can cause fire hazards, while the Silverado has multiple problem areas including engine, transmission, and electrical failures.
- The Silverado's complaints are more frequent and include reports of crashes and injuries, whereas the F 800 S has no crash-related complaints.
- The Silverado has 100 recalls, indicating a higher likelihood of needing dealer fixes, while the F 800 S has only 3 recalls, all related to wheels.
- The F 800 S is a motorcycle with lower annual complaint rates, but the Silverado's issues are more likely to affect safety and daily usability.
- Inspect the fuel pump area for any signs of fuel leakage or wetness, as this is the most reported issue and can lead to fire.
- Check for any recall notices related to wheels, as the F 800 S has had three recalls in that area.
- Listen for unusual engine noises like pinging and watch for warning lights, as engine and electrical issues are common.
- Test the brakes thoroughly, especially at low speeds, to ensure there is no sudden loss of braking power.
Before you buy
- For the BMW F 800 S, have a mechanic inspect the fuel pump and fuel lines for leaks, and verify that all recalls have been performed.
- For the Chevrolet Silverado, check the vehicle's recall status and ensure all outstanding recalls are addressed.
- Take the Silverado for a test drive that includes stop-and-go traffic and highway speeds to check for transmission and brake issues.
- Ask for maintenance records for both vehicles to see if any major repairs have been done.
- Consider a pre-purchase inspection by a certified mechanic for either vehicle, focusing on the specific problem areas mentioned.
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 F 800 S or Chevrolet Silverado in front of you — accident history, open recalls and title records.
Go deeper
Full reliability reports
- Comparison
- BMW F 800 S vs Chevrolet Silverado
- BMW F 800 S total complaints
- 2
- Chevrolet Silverado total complaints
- 5,105
- BMW F 800 S total recalls
- 3
- Chevrolet Silverado total recalls
- 100
- BMW F 800 S avg complaints/year
- 0.2
- Chevrolet Silverado avg complaints/year
- 510.5
- More reliable overall
- BMW F 800 S
- BMW F 800 S top complaint area
- FUEL SYSTEM
- Chevrolet Silverado top complaint area
- ENGINE