Head-to-head reliability
BMW K 1300 GT vs Chevrolet Silverado
How the BMW K 1300 GT 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 1300 GT vs Chevrolet Silverado: The BMW has 11 complaints over 10 years (1.1/yr) with no crashes, while the Silverado has 5105 complaints (510.5/yr) and 117 crashes. BMW issues include stalling and switch failures; Silverado problems involve engine, transmission, and brakes. Source: NHTSA owner complaints.
The picture
Is the BMW K 1300 GT or Chevrolet Silverado more reliable?
A plain-English read on what the NHTSA record says about living with each vehicle.
BMW K 1300 GT
The BMW K 1300 GT is a sport-touring motorcycle that, based on owner complaints, tends to develop stalling issues, particularly during deceleration or in hot weather, which can be dangerous in traffic. Electrical problems with the left handlebar switch are also common, affecting controls like turn signals and windshield adjustment. With only 11 complaints over 10 years, it's a low-volume vehicle, but the issues reported are consistent and potentially safety-relevant.
Chevrolet Silverado
The Chevrolet Silverado is a full-size pickup with a high volume of complaints (5105 over 10 years), reflecting its popularity and widespread use. Owners report serious engine problems, including failures that cause sudden loss of power, as well as transmission issues that can lead to unexpected neutral engagement. Electrical and brake system failures are also frequent, sometimes resulting in crashes and injuries, making it a vehicle with significant reliability concerns.
The numbers
Side-by-side NHTSA record
Lower is better in every category. The highlighted cell is the stronger result.
| Category | BMW K 1300 GT | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| Total complaintsAll model years combined | 11 Better | 5,105 |
| Safety recallsFederal recall campaigns | 8 Better | 100 |
| Crash reportsCrash-related complaints | 0 Better | 117 |
| Complaints per yearAveraged across model years | 1.1 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 1300 GT
- 01ENGINE5
- 02FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM3
- 03ELECTRICAL SYSTEM2
- 04VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL1
- 05POWER TRAIN1
Owners report frequent stalling, especially when downshifting or in hot weather, with the engine losing power and sometimes failing to restart. This can be hazardous in traffic or on highways.
Stalling and power loss are also attributed to the fuel system, with episodes occurring during steady cruise in high temperatures, indicating potential fuel delivery or vapor lock issues.
The left handlebar multi-switch is a recurring problem, failing to operate turn signals, horn, and windshield adjustment. This is not only inconvenient but also illegal and dangerous on the road.
“I purchased this 2009 BMW K1300GT used from a dealer 3 weeks ago. He only let me do a short test drive around the block and it ran fine. I purchased it and began riding it daily to and from work, 48 miles round trip. There are 6 lights and 4 Stop sighs on my…”
“DOWNSHIFTING THE MOTORCYCLE STALLS FREQUENTLY UPON SLOWING AND PULLING IN THE CLUTCH. USUALLY THIS OCCURS AT DECELERATION IN SECOND OR FIRST GEAR. ONE CAN SEE THE RPM DIP BELOW THE NORMAL IDLE SPEED AND THEN THE BIKE STALLS. THIS IS QUITE DANGEROUS AS IT OCCU…”
Chevrolet Silverado
- 01ENGINE1,698
- 02POWER TRAIN1,453
- 03ELECTRICAL SYSTEM982
- 04SERVICE BRAKES691
- 05UNKNOWN OR OTHER542
Owners report severe engine failures, including sudden loss of power while driving, often accompanied by loud noises. Some engines have required major repairs or replacement, especially in newer models with the 6.2L or Duramax diesel engines.
Transmission problems are common, with vehicles suddenly shifting into neutral or experiencing harsh shifting, which can lead to loss of control, especially in parking garages or at speed.
Electrical issues can cause sudden loss of braking and steering, as well as engine stalling, as reported by owners. These failures are critical and have led to crashes.
Brake failures are reported, where the pedal remains firm but braking is ineffective, or the system loses power assist, increasing stopping distances and 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 K 1300 GT — 8 recalls
The defect: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2009-2011 K1300 (S, GT), 2010-2011 S1000 RR, 2005-2011 R1200 (GS, GS Adventure, R, RT, S, ST), 2006-2010 HP2 (Enduro, Megamoto, Sport), 2005-2008 K1200 (R, R Sport, S, GT), and 2012 K1600 (GT, GTL) motorcycles that were repaired under recall 13V-…
The risk: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
The fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump(s) with an improved version, free of charge. The recall began January 18, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
The defect: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2009-2011 K1300 (S, GT), 2010-2011 S1000 RR, 2005-2011 R1200 (GS, GS Adventure, R, RT, S, ST), 2006-2010 HP2 (Enduro, Megamoto, Sport), 2005-2008 K1200 (R, R Sport, S, GT), and 2012 K1600 (GT, GTL) motorcycles that were repaired under recall 13V-…
The risk: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
The fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump(s) with an improved version, free of charge. The recall began January 18, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
The defect: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2009-2011 K1300 (S, GT), 2010-2011 S1000 RR, 2005-2011 R1200 (GS, GS Adventure, R, RT, S, ST), 2006-2010 HP2 (Enduro, Megamoto, Sport), 2005-2008 K1200 (R, R Sport, S, GT), and 2012 K1600 (GT, GTL) motorcycles that were repaired under recall 13V-…
The risk: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
The fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump(s) with an improved version, free of charge. The recall began January 18, 2021. 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 1300 GT or Chevrolet Silverado: which should you buy?
The BMW K 1300 GT has far fewer complaints per year (1.1) compared to the Chevrolet Silverado (510.5), indicating a lower rate of reported issues. However, the Silverado's problems are more severe and frequent, affecting safety-critical systems. In practice, the BMW may have fewer headaches, but its stalling and switch issues are still concerning.
Key differences
- The Silverado has a much higher complaint volume and includes crash and injury reports, while the BMW has none.
- BMW owners report stalling and electrical switch failures, whereas Silverado owners face engine failures, transmission issues, and brake loss.
- The Silverado's recalls cover tailgate latches, steering, seat belts, and brake fluid sensors, while BMW recalls focus on fuel pumps and wheel lugs.
- The BMW's problems are more annoying than catastrophic, but the Silverado's can lead to sudden loss of control.
- Test the bike thoroughly for stalling, especially when downshifting or in hot weather, and check if the fuel pump has been replaced under recall.
- Operate the left handlebar switch to ensure all functions (horn, turn signals, windshield) work; be aware it may fail again.
- Listen for abnormal engine noises and check for any warning lights; have a mechanic inspect the engine and transmission for potential failures.
- Test the brakes at low speed to ensure they respond properly, and check for any recalls related to brake fluid sensors or tailgate latches.
Before you buy
- For the BMW: verify all recalls are performed, especially fuel pump and wheel lug recalls.
- For the BMW: take a long test ride including stop-and-go traffic and highway speeds to check for stalling.
- For the Silverado: obtain a vehicle history report and check for open recalls, especially steering and brake-related.
- For the Silverado: have a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic focusing on engine, transmission, and electrical systems.
- For both: ask for maintenance records and consider a warranty for major repairs.
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 1300 GT or Chevrolet Silverado in front of you — accident history, open recalls and title records.
Go deeper
Full reliability reports
- Comparison
- BMW K 1300 GT vs Chevrolet Silverado
- BMW K 1300 GT total complaints
- 11
- Chevrolet Silverado total complaints
- 5,105
- BMW K 1300 GT total recalls
- 8
- Chevrolet Silverado total recalls
- 100
- BMW K 1300 GT avg complaints/year
- 1.1
- Chevrolet Silverado avg complaints/year
- 510.5
- More reliable overall
- BMW K 1300 GT
- BMW K 1300 GT top complaint area
- ENGINE
- Chevrolet Silverado top complaint area
- ENGINE