Head-to-head reliability
BMW K 1200 S vs Chevrolet Silverado
How the BMW K 1200 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 K 1200 S vs Chevrolet Silverado: The BMW has 5 complaints over 9 years (0.6/yr) with no crashes, while the Silverado has 5105 complaints over 10 years (510.5/yr) with 117 crashes and 1 death. BMW issues include brake and engine failures; Silverado issues include engine and transmission problems. Source: NHTSA owner complaints.
The picture
Is the BMW K 1200 S or Chevrolet Silverado more reliable?
A plain-English read on what the NHTSA record says about living with each vehicle.
BMW K 1200 S
The BMW K 1200 S is a low-volume, high-performance motorcycle that, in ownership terms, is a niche vehicle with a small but vocal owner community. Over nine years, it has generated only five complaints, averaging less than one per year, which suggests that most owners do not report major issues. However, the complaints that do exist point to serious, potentially safety-critical problems, particularly with the braking system and engine. Living with this bike means being aware that certain components, like the ABS module, may fail unexpectedly and require costly repairs.
Chevrolet Silverado
The Chevrolet Silverado is a mass-market full-size pickup with a high ownership base, reflected in over 5,000 complaints in ten years, averaging over 500 per year. This high volume indicates that while many trucks are trouble-free, a significant number of owners encounter issues, especially with the engine, transmission, and electrical systems. The complaint pattern shows a mix of minor annoyances and serious failures, including loss of motive power and braking, which can affect safety. For a buyer, this means the Silverado has a higher likelihood of needing repairs compared to the BMW, but the large sample size also means that many trucks are reliable.
The numbers
Side-by-side NHTSA record
Lower is better in every category. The highlighted cell is the stronger result.
| Category | BMW K 1200 S | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| Total complaintsAll model years combined | 5 Better | 5,105 |
| Safety recallsFederal recall campaigns | 8 Better | 100 |
| Crash reportsCrash-related complaints | 0 Better | 117 |
| Complaints per yearAveraged across model years | 0.6 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 K 1200 S
- 01SERVICE BRAKES3
- 02SUSPENSION1
- 03ELECTRICAL SYSTEM1
- 04ENGINE1
- 05POWER TRAIN1
Owners report ABS pump module failures that cause a 'residual braking' default, reducing braking power to about 20% of normal, making it hard to stop. Another issue is a faulty seal on the ABS computer housing that lets water in, leading to ABS and speedometer failure.
The same water intrusion into the ABS computer housing can cause electronic suspension failure, as reported by owners. This means the bike's adjustable suspension may stop working, affecting ride quality and handling.
Water entering the ABS computer housing also causes electrical failures, including speedometer malfunction. This is a recurring theme in complaints, indicating a design flaw that can lead to multiple system failures.
A serious engine failure was reported where the rightmost cylinder broke through the upper crankcase at highway speed, causing an engine fire and sudden deceleration. This is a rare but catastrophic event that could lead to injury.
“I-ABS PUMP MODULE FAILURE ON VERY LOW MILEAGE VEHICLE, MAINTAINED PER MANUFACTURER SPECIFICATIONS. ABS PUMP FAILURE CAUSES "RESIDUAL BRAKING" DEFAULT, WHICH IS ABOUT 20% OF NORMAL BRAKE PERFORMANCE AND SIGNIFICANTLY LESS THAN NEEDED TO REASONABLY STOP AND CON…”
“ABS computer housing has faulty seal allowing water to enter ,causing abs and speedometer failure,and electronic suspension failure. Its apparently happened to quite a few people in the forums.”
Chevrolet Silverado
- 01ENGINE1,698
- 02POWER TRAIN1,453
- 03ELECTRICAL SYSTEM982
- 04SERVICE BRAKES691
- 05UNKNOWN OR OTHER542
Many complaints involve engine issues, such as excessive soot accumulation in diesel particulate filters requiring dealer service, and sudden loss of motive power with loud pinging sounds. These can leave drivers stranded or cause unsafe situations.
Transmission problems are common, including sudden shifts into neutral while driving, which can be dangerous, especially in traffic. Owners also report engine and transmission failures that occur at low mileage, sometimes within the first few thousand miles.
Electrical failures often accompany other issues, such as loss of braking and steering, as seen in one complaint where the vehicle lost motive power and the brakes and steering became inoperable. This suggests potential systemic electrical problems.
Brake failures are reported, including sudden severe loss of braking effectiveness with a firm pedal, which can lead to crashes. This is a critical safety concern that requires immediate attention.
“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 K 1200 S — 8 recalls
The defect: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2005-2010 R1200GS and R1200RT, 2006-2010 R1200GS Adventure, 2007-2010 R1200R, 2007 R1200S and K1200R Sport, 2005-2007 R1200ST, 2008-2009 HP2 Megamoto, 2006 HP2 Enduro, 2008-2010 HP2 Sport, 2005-2008 K1200S, 2006-2008 K1200R, K1200GT, 2…
The risk: If the rear wheel mounting flange cracks, the mounting bolts may loosen and the rear wheel may not remain secured to the motorcycle, causing a loss of stability and increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the existing aluminum rear wheel flange with a steel one, free of charge. The recall began on May 7, 2015. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
The defect: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2005-2010 R1200GS and R1200RT, 2006-2010 R1200GS Adventure, 2007-2010 R1200R, 2007 R1200S and K1200R Sport, 2005-2007 R1200ST, 2008-2009 HP2 Megamoto, 2006 HP2 Enduro, 2008-2010 HP2 Sport, 2005-2008 K1200S, 2006-2008 K1200R, K1200GT, 2…
The risk: If the rear wheel mounting flange cracks, the mounting bolts may loosen and the rear wheel may not remain secured to the motorcycle, causing a loss of stability and increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the existing aluminum rear wheel flange with a steel one, free of charge. The recall began on May 7, 2015. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
The defect: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2005-2010 R1200GS and R1200RT, 2006-2010 R1200GS Adventure, 2007-2010 R1200R, 2007 R1200S and K1200R Sport, 2005-2007 R1200ST, 2008-2009 HP2 Megamoto, 2006 HP2 Enduro, 2008-2010 HP2 Sport, 2005-2008 K1200S, 2006-2008 K1200R, K1200GT, 2…
The risk: If the rear wheel mounting flange cracks, the mounting bolts may loosen and the rear wheel may not remain secured to the motorcycle, causing a loss of stability and increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the existing aluminum rear wheel flange with a steel one, free of charge. The recall began on May 7, 2015. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
The defect: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2005-2010 R1200GS and R1200RT, 2006-2010 R1200GS Adventure, 2007-2010 R1200R, 2007 R1200S and K1200R Sport, 2005-2007 R1200ST, 2008-2009 HP2 Megamoto, 2006 HP2 Enduro, 2008-2010 HP2 Sport, 2005-2008 K1200S, 2006-2008 K1200R, K1200GT, 2…
The risk: If the rear wheel mounting flange cracks, the mounting bolts may loosen and the rear wheel may not remain secured to the motorcycle, causing a loss of stability and increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the existing aluminum rear wheel flange with a steel one, free of charge. The recall began on May 7, 2015. 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 K 1200 S or Chevrolet Silverado: which should you buy?
The BMW K 1200 S has far fewer complaints per year (0.6) compared to the Chevrolet Silverado (510.5), indicating a lower rate of reported issues. However, the BMW's complaints are often severe, such as engine fires and brake failures, while the Silverado's high volume includes many minor issues but also serious safety problems. In practice, the BMW may be more reliable in terms of frequency, but the severity of its failures could be more dangerous.
Key differences
- The BMW has only 5 complaints over 9 years, while the Silverado has 5105 over 10 years, a massive difference in reported issues.
- BMW complaints focus on brake and electrical failures, often due to water intrusion, while Silverado complaints are dominated by engine and transmission problems.
- The Silverado has 117 crash-related complaints and 1 death, whereas the BMW has none, indicating a higher safety risk in the Silverado based on reported incidents.
- The BMW's engine failure can cause a fire, but it's rare; the Silverado's engine issues are more frequent but less catastrophic on average.
- Inspect the ABS module and its housing for signs of water damage or corrosion, as this is a common failure point.
- Check for any engine oil leaks or unusual noises, especially around the cylinders, given the reported crankcase failure.
- Test the brakes thoroughly, including sudden stops, to ensure no loss of braking power, as reported by owners.
- Check for any warning lights or transmission issues, such as slipping or unexpected neutral shifts, during a test drive.
Before you buy
- For the BMW, have a mechanic inspect the ABS system and check for any previous water intrusion repairs.
- For the Silverado, review the vehicle's service history for any engine or transmission work, especially if it has a diesel engine.
- Check for open recalls on both vehicles using the VIN and ensure they have been addressed.
- Take both vehicles for a test drive that includes highway speeds and stop-and-go traffic to feel for any issues.
- Consider a pre-purchase inspection by a certified mechanic familiar with each brand.
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 K 1200 S or Chevrolet Silverado in front of you — accident history, open recalls and title records.
Go deeper
Full reliability reports
- Comparison
- BMW K 1200 S vs Chevrolet Silverado
- BMW K 1200 S total complaints
- 5
- Chevrolet Silverado total complaints
- 5,105
- BMW K 1200 S total recalls
- 8
- Chevrolet Silverado total recalls
- 100
- BMW K 1200 S avg complaints/year
- 0.6
- Chevrolet Silverado avg complaints/year
- 510.5
- More reliable overall
- BMW K 1200 S
- BMW K 1200 S top complaint area
- SERVICE BRAKES
- Chevrolet Silverado top complaint area
- ENGINE