Head-to-head reliability
BMW R 1200 RT vs Chevrolet Silverado
How the BMW R 1200 RT 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 RT vs Chevrolet Silverado: The BMW averages 2.6 complaints per year over a decade, while the Silverado averages 510.5. BMW owners report fuel leaks and driveshaft failures, while Silverado owners face engine and transmission issues. The BMW has zero crash-related complaints, but the Silverado has 117. Source: NHTSA owner complaints.
The picture
Is the BMW R 1200 RT or Chevrolet Silverado more reliable?
A plain-English read on what the NHTSA record says about living with each vehicle.
BMW R 1200 RT
The BMW R 1200 RT is a premium touring motorcycle that owners tend to keep for years and ride long distances. Over the past decade it has averaged just 2.6 complaints per year, a low figure for a vehicle of its complexity. The complaints that do exist cluster around fuel delivery, electrical gremlins, and driveline parts, with several owners describing failures that left them stranded or required costly repairs. Overall, it presents as a generally reliable machine, but one where certain known weak points can surface, especially as it ages.
Chevrolet Silverado
The Chevrolet Silverado is a full-size pickup truck, often used for work, towing, and daily family hauling. It has generated a much higher volume of complaints—over 5,000 in the same period—with the engine and powertrain being the most frequent trouble spots. Many complaints describe sudden loss of power, transmission issues, and brake problems, some occurring at low mileage. While the Silverado is a top seller, the data suggests a higher likelihood of encountering significant mechanical or electrical issues 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 R 1200 RT | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| Total complaintsAll model years combined | 26 Better | 5,105 |
| Safety recallsFederal recall campaigns | 4 Better | 100 |
| Crash reportsCrash-related complaints | 0 Better | 117 |
| Complaints per yearAveraged across model years | 2.6 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 R 1200 RT
- 01FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM6
- 02ELECTRICAL SYSTEM5
- 03SUSPENSION4
- 04POWER TRAIN4
- 05FUEL SYSTEM4
Owners report fuel leaks from a warped fuel tank, often attributed to ethanol in gasoline, requiring tank replacement. Others describe a sudden loss of power under acceleration due to broken plastic throttle body cams, which can be dangerous in traffic.
Some bikes fail to engage the starter motor even when the clutch is pulled, a safety concern. Software updates for features like Gear Shift Assistant Pro have also caused issues, leaving owners with malfunctioning electronics.
A stop-ride notice was issued for 2014 models with Dynamic ESA due to a suspension defect. Owners were left without a usable bike for months, and some pursued buybacks because replacement parts were unavailable.
The most alarming reports involve catastrophic driveshaft or U-joint failure at highway speeds, causing the rear wheel to lock up and the bike to fishtail. This is a critical safety issue that can lead to a crash.
“I have a 2014 R1200RT that is leaking fuel because of a warped fuel tank. VIN: [XXX] My dealer tells me that this was a problem on my years RT and that this can only be fixed by replacing the fuel tank. I was told that ethanol was probably the culprit in taki…”
“WHEN ACCELERATING FROM A STOP THE ENGINE STARTED RUNNING POORLY, HARDLY ANY POWER. I MOVED OVER 3 LANES IN HEAVY TRAFFIC TO THE RIGHT SHOULDER & TURNED THE ENGINE OFF. HAD IT TOWED TO DEALERSHIP WHERE I WAS INFORMED THE PLASTIC THROTTLE BODY CAMS HAD BROKEN.…”
Chevrolet Silverado
- 01ENGINE1,698
- 02POWER TRAIN1,453
- 03ELECTRICAL SYSTEM982
- 04SERVICE BRAKES691
- 05UNKNOWN OR OTHER542
Many owners report sudden engine failure or loss of power, often in the 6.2L V8, sometimes at low mileage. Diesel models have experienced repeated diesel particulate filter clogging, requiring dealer service and causing downtime.
Transmissions have been reported to suddenly shift into neutral while driving, especially at low speeds, which can be startling and dangerous. Some vehicles also experience harsh shifting or complete transmission failure.
Electrical issues often manifest as warning lights, loss of power to brakes and steering, or complete system failures. One owner described a loud pinging sound followed by loss of motive power and inoperable brakes and steering at 70 mph.
Brake problems include sudden loss of braking effectiveness, with a firm pedal but reduced stopping power. This is a critical safety concern, especially when it happens unexpectedly in traffic.
“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 RT — 4 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 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 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 model year 2014 R1200 RT motorcycles manufactured November 27, 2013, to May 5, 2014. The affected vehicles have a Dynamic Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA) rear shock absorber. The piston rod within the rear shock absorber can break without…
The risk: If the piston rod breaks it will cause loss of stability, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
The fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the Dynamic ESA shock absorber, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in July 2014. Owners may contact BMW Customer Relations at 1-800-525-7417. Note: Owners are advised not to rid…
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 RT or Chevrolet Silverado: which should you buy?
The BMW R 1200 RT has far fewer complaints per year (2.6) compared to the Chevrolet Silverado (510.5), indicating a lower rate of reported issues. However, the BMW's problems, such as driveshaft failures, can be severe, while the Silverado's higher volume reflects a broader range of issues, including engine and transmission problems. In practice, the BMW may offer a more trouble-free ownership experience, but both have potential for serious failures.
Key differences
- The BMW averages 2.6 complaints per year versus 510.5 for the Silverado, a dramatic difference in reported issue rates.
- BMW complaints often involve fuel system leaks and driveshaft failures, while Silverado complaints are dominated by engine and transmission problems.
- The Silverado has a higher number of crash-related complaints (117) and injuries (104) compared to the BMW's zero, though this may reflect higher usage and exposure.
- BMW owners report issues like throttle body cam breakage and suspension stop-ride notices, while Silverado owners report sudden neutral shifts and brake failures.
- Inspect the fuel tank for signs of warping or leaks, especially if the bike is a 2014 model, as this has been a known issue.
- Check the driveshaft and U-joint for any play or wear, and ask for service records related to driveshaft replacement or recall completion.
- Ask about any engine or transmission repairs, especially if the vehicle has a 6.2L V8 or Duramax diesel, as these have had reported failures.
- Test the brakes thoroughly, including sudden stops, and check for any warning lights related to brake fluid or ABS.
Before you buy
- For the BMW, verify that all recalls, especially the fuel pump and suspension recalls, have been performed.
- For the Silverado, check the vehicle's service history for any engine or transmission work, and look for signs of oil leaks or unusual noises.
- Take both vehicles for a test ride/drive, including highway speeds, to feel for any vibrations or abnormal behavior.
- Have a trusted mechanic inspect the driveshaft on the BMW and the brakes on the Silverado.
- Check the NHTSA website for any open recalls on the specific VINs you are considering.
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 RT | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 0 | 934 |
| 2020 | 0 | 0 |
| 2019 | 0 | 1992 |
| 2018 | 0 | 591 |
| 2017 | 0 | 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 RT or Chevrolet Silverado in front of you — accident history, open recalls and title records.
Go deeper
Full reliability reports
- Comparison
- BMW R 1200 RT vs Chevrolet Silverado
- BMW R 1200 RT total complaints
- 26
- Chevrolet Silverado total complaints
- 5,105
- BMW R 1200 RT total recalls
- 4
- Chevrolet Silverado total recalls
- 100
- BMW R 1200 RT avg complaints/year
- 2.6
- Chevrolet Silverado avg complaints/year
- 510.5
- More reliable overall
- BMW R 1200 RT
- BMW R 1200 RT top complaint area
- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Chevrolet Silverado top complaint area
- ENGINE