Head-to-head reliability
BMW R 1200 GS vs Chevrolet Silverado
How the BMW R 1200 GS 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 R 1200 GS vs Chevrolet Silverado: The BMW has 29 complaints over 10 years (2.9/yr) with 5 recalls, while the Silverado has 5,105 complaints (510.5/yr) and 100 recalls. Owners report fuel leaks and power loss on the BMW, and engine and transmission failures on the Silverado. Source: NHTSA owner complaints.
The picture
Is the BMW R 1200 GS or Chevrolet Silverado more reliable?
A plain-English read on what the NHTSA record says about living with each vehicle.
BMW R 1200 GS
The BMW R 1200 GS is a premium adventure motorcycle that, based on owner complaints, can suffer from serious reliability issues, particularly with its fuel system and drivetrain. Owners report sudden power loss, fuel leaks, and brake problems that can be dangerous, especially when riding in traffic. While the complaint count is relatively low, the nature of the failures—such as complete engine shutdown and fuel leaks—raises concerns about safety and dependability for a bike often used for long-distance travel.
Chevrolet Silverado
The Chevrolet Silverado is a popular full-size pickup truck that, according to NHTSA data, has a high volume of complaints, with engine and powertrain issues being the most common. Owners frequently report sudden loss of power, transmission problems, and electrical failures that can affect braking and steering. With over 5,000 complaints and 100 recalls in a decade, the Silverado shows a pattern of significant reliability concerns that could lead to costly repairs and potential safety hazards.
The numbers
Side-by-side NHTSA record
Lower is better in every category. The highlighted cell is the stronger result.
| Category | BMW R 1200 GS | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| Total complaintsAll model years combined | 29 Better | 5,105 |
| Safety recallsFederal recall campaigns | 5 Better | 100 |
| Crash reportsCrash-related complaints | 1 Better | 117 |
| Complaints per yearAveraged across model years | 2.9 Better | 510.5 |
| Reported injuriesTied to owner complaints | 2 Better | 104 |
| Reported deathsTied to owner complaints | 1 | 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 R 1200 GS
- 01POWER TRAIN8
- 02FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM6
- 03SERVICE BRAKES5
- 04FUEL SYSTEM3
- 05GASOLINE3
Owners report sudden and complete loss of engine power while riding, sometimes at highway speeds, making it impossible to restart the bike. This can be extremely dangerous in traffic and suggests potential issues with the engine control unit or fuel delivery.
Fuel pump failures and fuel tank leaks are common complaints. Riders have noticed puddles of gasoline under the bike or smelled fuel while riding, indicating a risk of fire and a clear safety hazard.
Brake issues, particularly with the rear brake, are reported. Owners describe the brake pedal going to the floor or requiring excessive force, with the problem sometimes traced to the master cylinder or ABS module, leading to reduced braking performance.
“BMW MOTORRAD USA CUSTOMER RELATIONS AND SERVICES PO BOX 1227 WESTWOOD, NJ 07675-1227 DEAR SIR: I HAVE RECENTLY HAD A VERY SERIOUS ISSUE WITH MY NEW 2012 R1200GS ADVENTURE. I BROUGHT MY MOTORCYCLE TO MY DEALER FOR THE 600 MILE BREAK-IN SERVICE AND MENTIONED TO…”
“I WAS TRAVELLING SAFELY IN THE MIDDLE LANE AT SPEED LIMIT IN HEAVY INTERSTATE TRAFFIC. I CHANGED LANES INTO THE FAST LANE UNDER SLIGHT ACCELERATION AND THE ENGINE LOST POWER COMPLETELY. I COULD NOT RESTART THE BIKE AND SO TRIED TO GET INTO THE SLOW LANE AS TH…”
Chevrolet Silverado
- 01ENGINE1,698
- 02POWER TRAIN1,453
- 03ELECTRICAL SYSTEM982
- 04SERVICE BRAKES691
- 05UNKNOWN OR OTHER542
Engine failures are frequently reported, including sudden loss of power, abnormal noises, and in some cases, complete engine shutdown. Some owners with diesel engines have experienced repeated diesel particulate filter clogging, requiring dealer intervention.
Transmission problems are common, with vehicles suddenly shifting into neutral or experiencing harsh shifts. This can be dangerous, especially when climbing hills or merging into traffic, as it leaves the driver without power.
Electrical issues can lead to a cascade of failures, including loss of braking assistance and steering control. Owners report warning lights and messages, and in some cases, the vehicle becomes inoperable while driving.
Brake failures are a serious concern, with reports of sudden loss of braking effectiveness even though the pedal feels firm. This can be caused by electrical problems affecting the brake system, leading to increased stopping distances and potential crashes.
“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 R 1200 GS — 5 recalls
The defect: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2011-2014 S 1000 RR/R/ HP4, R 1200 GS/GS Adventure/R/RT, K 1300 S, K 1600 GT/GTL/GTL Exclusive and 2014 R nine T motorcycles. The fuel pump, and auxiliary fuel pump in certain models, may crack and leak fuel during vehicle operation.
The risk: A fuel leak, in the presence of an ignition source, may result in a fire.
The fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. The recall began March 17, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
The defect: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain accessory turn signals manufactured for 2006-2017 R1200GS, 2007-2008 and 2010-2017 R1200GS Adventure, 2017 F700GS and F800GS, 2013-2017 F800GT, 2015-2016 F800R, 2014-2017 F800GS Adventure, 2014-2016 S1000R, 2015-2017 R1200R, 2016-2017 R1200RS, an…
The risk: If other drivers cannot easily see the turn signals, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
The fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the turn signals, free of charge. The recall began October 25, 2017. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
The defect: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2013 R 1200 GS motorcycles manufactured November 2012 through August 2013. Pressure inside the transmission may cause the transmission output seal to be pushed out of place.
The risk: If the output seal ring is pushed out of its proper position, oil may leak from the transmission onto the rear tire, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will fit a bracket to prevent the transmission seal from being pushed out of position, free of charge. The recall began on June 17, 2014. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
The defect: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2011-2014 S 1000 RR/R/ HP4, R 1200 GS/GS Adventure/R/RT, K 1300 S, K 1600 GT/GTL/GTL Exclusive and 2014 R nine T motorcycles. The fuel pump, and auxiliary fuel pump in certain models, may crack and leak fuel during vehicle operation.
The risk: A fuel leak, in the presence of an ignition source, may result in a fire.
The fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. The recall began March 17, 2021. 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 R 1200 GS or Chevrolet Silverado: which should you buy?
The BMW R 1200 GS has far fewer complaints per year (2.9) compared to the Chevrolet Silverado (510.5), indicating a lower frequency of reported issues. However, the nature of the BMW's problems—such as sudden power loss and fuel leaks—can be just as serious. In practice, the Silverado's higher complaint volume suggests a greater likelihood of encountering problems, but both vehicles have safety-critical failures that require attention.
Key differences
- The BMW has a much lower complaint rate (2.9/yr) than the Silverado (510.5/yr), but both have safety-related failures.
- BMW owners report fuel leaks and sudden power loss, while Silverado owners report engine failures and transmission issues.
- The Silverado has a higher number of recalls (100) compared to the BMW (5), indicating more widespread issues.
- Brake problems are reported in both, but the Silverado's are often linked to electrical failures, while the BMW's are more mechanical.
- Inspect the fuel pump and fuel tank for any signs of leaks or previous repairs, as fuel system failures are common.
- Check the rear brake system, including the master cylinder and ABS module, for any signs of malfunction or unusual pedal feel.
- Look for any engine warning lights or history of engine stalling, as engine failures are frequent.
- Test the transmission for smooth shifting and ensure it doesn't slip out of gear, as transmission problems are common.
Before you buy
- For the BMW, ask for service records related to fuel pump and brake recalls.
- For the Silverado, check for open recalls and get a pre-purchase inspection focusing on engine and transmission.
- Test drive both vehicles at highway speeds to check for any loss of power or unusual noises.
- Check the brake performance in a safe area, including hard stops, to ensure no loss of braking.
- Research the specific model year for known issues and ensure any 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 R 1200 GS | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 0 | 934 |
| 2020 | 0 | 0 |
| 2019 | 0 | 1992 |
| 2018 | 0 | 591 |
| 2017 | 4 | 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 R 1200 GS or Chevrolet Silverado in front of you — accident history, open recalls and title records.
Go deeper
Full reliability reports
- Comparison
- BMW R 1200 GS vs Chevrolet Silverado
- BMW R 1200 GS total complaints
- 29
- Chevrolet Silverado total complaints
- 5,105
- BMW R 1200 GS total recalls
- 5
- Chevrolet Silverado total recalls
- 100
- BMW R 1200 GS avg complaints/year
- 2.9
- Chevrolet Silverado avg complaints/year
- 510.5
- More reliable overall
- BMW R 1200 GS
- BMW R 1200 GS top complaint area
- POWER TRAIN
- Chevrolet Silverado top complaint area
- ENGINE