Head-to-head reliability
BMW M340i vs Chevrolet Silverado
How the BMW M340i 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 M340i vs Chevrolet Silverado: The BMW has 68 complaints over 7 years (9.7/yr) with a critical engine oil pump issue, while the Silverado has 5,105 complaints over 10 years (510.5/yr) including brake failures and 117 crashes. The BMW's lower complaint rate is offset by a potential catastrophic engine failure. Source: NHTSA owner complaints.
The picture
Is the BMW M340i or Chevrolet Silverado more reliable?
A plain-English read on what the NHTSA record says about living with each vehicle.
BMW M340i
The BMW M340i, a performance sedan, shows a concentrated reliability concern centered on its engine, with 44 of 68 complaints over seven years pointing to lubrication-system failures. Owners describe a risk of catastrophic engine failure due to a plastic oil pump in early models (2019-2020), which can lead to sudden loss of power. While the car has no crash or injury reports, the engine issue is a serious financial and safety consideration for any buyer.
Chevrolet Silverado
The Chevrolet Silverado, a full-size pickup, has a much higher complaint volume, averaging over 500 per year, with significant issues across engine, powertrain, brakes, and electrical systems. Owners report sudden loss of power, brake failures, and drivetrain problems, some leading to crashes and injuries. The sheer frequency and variety of failures suggest a less predictable ownership experience compared to the BMW.
The numbers
Side-by-side NHTSA record
Lower is better in every category. The highlighted cell is the stronger result.
| Category | BMW M340i | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| Total complaintsAll model years combined | 68 Better | 5,105 |
| Safety recallsFederal recall campaigns | 18 Better | 100 |
| Crash reportsCrash-related complaints | 0 Better | 117 |
| Complaints per yearAveraged across model years | 9.7 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 M340i
- 01ENGINE44
- 02UNKNOWN OR OTHER10
- 03ELECTRICAL SYSTEM9
- 04POWER TRAIN6
- 05FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM4
Owners report a potential defect in the engine lubrication system, specifically a plastic oil pump in the B58 engine (2019-2021) that can fail, leading to catastrophic engine failure. This is a critical concern as it can cause sudden loss of power while driving.
Complaints include a recall (24V576000) for electrical and engine cooling that failed to fix the issue, and general electrical problems that contribute to the car being described as 'most problematic.' These issues can lead to warning lights and potential stalling.
The xDrive front differential can develop a persistent whining noise starting around 38,000 miles, indicating premature wear. This could lead to costly repairs and affects the driving experience.
“I am submitting this complaint regarding a potential safety defect involving the engine lubrication system on my 2020 BMW M340i with the B58 engine. The vehicle was purchased used from a single owner with low mileage and comprehensive maintenance records, wit…”
“I am reporting a safety concern involving BMW vehicles equipped with the B58 Technical Update (B58TU) engine, commonly found in model years 2019–2021. These vehicles utilize a variable-displacement engine oil pump containing an internal thermoplastic adjustin…”
Chevrolet Silverado
- 01ENGINE1,698
- 02POWER TRAIN1,453
- 03ELECTRICAL SYSTEM982
- 04SERVICE BRAKES691
- 05UNKNOWN OR OTHER542
Owners report severe engine issues, including a 6.2L motor failing shortly after purchase, and diesel particulate filter clogging in the Duramax diesel, requiring frequent dealer visits. These problems can cause loss of power and are expensive to fix.
Sudden transmission issues, such as the vehicle unexpectedly shifting into neutral while driving uphill, are reported. This can be dangerous, especially in traffic, and indicates potential transmission control problems.
There are reports of sudden, severe loss of braking effectiveness, where the pedal is firm but the vehicle does not stop. This is a critical safety issue that has led to crashes and injuries.
Electrical failures can cause a cascade of problems, including loss of motive power, inoperable brakes and steering, as described in one complaint. This suggests a systemic electrical vulnerability that can compromise vehicle control.
“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 M340i — 18 recalls
The defect: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2023 330i, 330i xDrive, M340i, M340i xDrive, M3, 330e, 330e xDrive, 430i Convertible, 430i xDrive, M440i, 2022-2023 430i, 430i xDrive, M440i xDrive, i4 eDrive40, and i4 M50 vehicles. During a service visit, a replacement electronic control unit (…
The risk: Doors that do not lock as intended while the vehicle is in motion may open during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
The fix: Dealers will update the ECU software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 10, 2023. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
The defect: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019-2022 330i, 330i xDrive, M340i, 2022 430i Coupe, 2021-2022 430i, M440i Convertible, and 2020-2022 228i xDrive Gran Coupe vehicles. The receiver audio module control unit software may fail to properly generate audible seat belt warnings to the…
The risk: An audible chime that does not properly alert the driver to fasten their seat belt increases the risk of injury in a crash.
The fix: Dealers will update the receiver audio module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 12, 2023. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
The defect: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021 2 Series (230i, 230i xDrive, M240i, M240i xDrive), 330e, 330e Xdrive, 4 Series Coupe (430i, 430i xDrive, M440i xDrive) M4 Coupe, M4 Competition Coupe, BMW 4 Series Convertible (430i, M440i), BMW X1 sDrive28i, xDrive28i, 2 Series Gran Coupe (…
The risk: During a crash, a seat belt retractor that does not function as intended increases the risk of injury.
The fix: Dealers will inspect the seat belt retractors (including the seat belts) and, if necessary, replace the retractors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 3, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-8…
The defect: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021 M340i xDrive, M440i xDrive Coupe, 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, 740Li, 740Li xDrive, 840i Gran Coupe, 840i xDrive Gran Coupe, X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i, X6 sDrive40i, X6 xDrive40i, and X7 xDrive40i vehicles. The connection between t…
The risk: Increased electrical resistance can increase the risk of a fire.
The fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the connection between the 48-Volt battery and the starter-generator assembly, replacing it if necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin April 12, 2021. Owners may contact B…
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 M340i or Chevrolet Silverado: which should you buy?
The BMW M340i has far fewer complaints per year (9.7) compared to the Chevrolet Silverado (510.5), indicating a lower frequency of reported issues. However, the BMW's engine problem is severe and could lead to catastrophic failure, while the Silverado's issues are more varied and include safety-critical brake failures. In practice, the BMW may offer a more reliable day-to-day experience, but both have significant risks.
Key differences
- BMW M340i: 68 complaints over 7 years vs Silverado: 5,105 over 10 years, a dramatic difference in frequency.
- BMW's main issue is engine lubrication (plastic oil pump) leading to catastrophic failure, while Silverado has multiple high-risk areas including brakes and transmission.
- Silverado has 117 crash-related complaints and 104 injuries, whereas BMW has none, indicating a higher safety risk in the Silverado.
- BMW's complaints are concentrated in engine (44), while Silverado's are spread across engine (1,698), powertrain (1,453), electrical (982), and brakes (691).
- Check if the oil pump recall (NHTSA 24V576000) has been performed and if the plastic oil pump has been replaced with a metal one, especially for 2019-2020 models.
- Listen for whining noises from the front differential during a test drive, which could indicate premature wear.
- Test the brakes at various speeds to ensure they respond normally, and check for any warning lights related to brake fluid or ABS.
- Inspect the transmission for smooth shifting, especially when going uphill, and ask about any history of sudden neutral shifts.
Before you buy
- For the BMW M340i, verify the oil pump recall status and get written confirmation from a dealer.
- For the Silverado, have a mechanic inspect the brake system, including fluid levels and sensors, and check for any pending recalls.
- Request the vehicle's service history and look for repeated visits for the same issue.
- Take both vehicles for an extended test drive, including highway speeds and stop-and-go traffic, to feel for any drivetrain or brake anomalies.
- Check NHTSA recall databases for both vehicles and ensure all recalls have been addressed.
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 M340i | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 0 | 98 |
| 2025 | 0 | 150 |
| 2024 | 0 | 0 |
| 2023 | 0 | 0 |
| 2022 | 6 | 1340 |
| 2021 | 11 | 934 |
| 2020 | 51 | 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 M340i or Chevrolet Silverado in front of you — accident history, open recalls and title records.
Go deeper
Full reliability reports
- Comparison
- BMW M340i vs Chevrolet Silverado
- BMW M340i total complaints
- 68
- Chevrolet Silverado total complaints
- 5,105
- BMW M340i total recalls
- 18
- Chevrolet Silverado total recalls
- 100
- BMW M340i avg complaints/year
- 9.7
- Chevrolet Silverado avg complaints/year
- 510.5
- More reliable overall
- BMW M340i
- BMW M340i top complaint area
- ENGINE
- Chevrolet Silverado top complaint area
- ENGINE