Head-to-head reliability
Buick Century vs Chevrolet Silverado
How the Buick Century 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
Buick Century vs Chevrolet Silverado: The Century averages 121 complaints per year over 6 years, while the Silverado averages 510 per year over 10 years. The Century's top issues are headlight failures and brake line corrosion, whereas the Silverado suffers from engine and transmission failures. Source: NHTSA owner complaints.
The picture
Is the Buick Century or Chevrolet Silverado more reliable?
A plain-English read on what the NHTSA record says about living with each vehicle.
Buick Century
The Buick Century, a midsize sedan from the early 2000s, shows a reliability pattern centered on lighting, brakes, and electrical gremlins. Owners report headlights that cut out or dim due to heat damage, brake lines that corrode and fail, and electrical issues that affect windows and other accessories. While not as heavily complained about as some trucks, the consistent nature of these problems suggests a car that needs attentive maintenance, especially in rust-prone areas.
Chevrolet Silverado
The Chevrolet Silverado, a full-size pickup, has a much higher complaint volume, reflecting its popularity and the severity of issues reported. Engine problems dominate, with owners describing sudden power loss, excessive soot in diesel models, and transmission failures that leave them stranded. Electrical and brake issues also appear, sometimes in conjunction with engine failures, indicating a vehicle that can have serious, safety-related breakdowns, particularly in newer models.
The numbers
Side-by-side NHTSA record
Lower is better in every category. The highlighted cell is the stronger result.
| Category | Buick Century | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| Total complaintsAll model years combined | 726 Better | 5,105 |
| Safety recallsFederal recall campaigns | 20 Better | 100 |
| Crash reportsCrash-related complaints | 38 Better | 117 |
| Complaints per yearAveraged across model years | 121.0 Better | 510.5 |
| Reported injuriesTied to owner complaints | 36 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.
Buick Century
- 01EXTERIOR LIGHTING109
- 02SERVICE BRAKES103
- 03ELECTRICAL SYSTEM100
- 04ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING92
- 05POWER TRAIN86
Headlights are a major sore point: bulbs sit too close to the plastic lens, causing fogging and reduced visibility. Some owners report headlights turning off completely while driving, a serious safety hazard at night.
Brake lines are prone to rust and corrosion, leading to sudden loss of braking power. One owner described the pedal going to the floor after a line burst, which is a critical failure that demands immediate inspection.
Electrical issues often tie into the lighting problems, but also include inoperative window switches and other accessories. These can be intermittent and frustrating, pointing to wiring or switch defects.
Some owners report sudden loss of acceleration while driving, which can be alarming. This may be related to fuel or ignition issues, but the exact cause varies; it's a symptom that needs professional diagnosis.
“WE HAVE HAD OUR 2005 BUICK LACROSSE FOR ABOUT SIX MONTHS NOW AND WANT TO REPORT THIS LIGHTING SAFETY CONCERN. THIS HEADLIGHT INCIDENT WITH OUR BUICK HAS ACTUALLY HAPPENED TO US, THREE TIMES SINCE MID APRIL. THE FIRST TIME IT HAPPENED, WE WERE DRIVING ONE EVEN…”
“A FEW TIMES IN THE LAST 2 YEARS THE HEADLIGHTS HAVE TURNED OFF WHILE DRIVING FOR NO REASON. ONCE WHILE I WAS IN THE CAR WITH A FRIEND WHO ALSO OWNS A BUICK THE ISSUE OCCURRED AND HE TOLD ME HIS CAR HAD BEEN RECALLED FOR THE SAME ISSUE. I CONTACTED BUICK, WHO…”
Chevrolet Silverado
- 01ENGINE1,698
- 02POWER TRAIN1,453
- 03ELECTRICAL SYSTEM982
- 04SERVICE BRAKES691
- 05UNKNOWN OR OTHER542
Engine failures are the most common complaint, with owners describing sudden loss of motive power at highway speeds, often accompanied by loud noises. Diesel models also suffer from excessive soot accumulation in the particulate filter, requiring frequent dealer visits.
Transmission problems are frequent, including sudden shifts into neutral while driving, which can leave you stranded. This is a major safety concern, especially in traffic or on hills.
Electrical issues can be severe, sometimes causing a cascade of failures: one owner reported loss of engine power, brakes, and steering simultaneously, with warning messages appearing. This suggests a central electrical or computer problem.
Brake failures are reported, including a sudden loss of normal braking with a firm pedal, which is unusual and points to a possible electronic or hydraulic issue. This is a critical safety defect that needs 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.
Buick Century — 20 recalls
The defect: DORMAN IS RECALLING 979 STEERING KNUCKLES, DORMAN P/NOS. 697-902 AND 697-903, SOLD UNDER DORMAN'S "OE SOLUTIONS<SUP>TM</SUP>" BRAND NAME, AND NAPA P/NOS. 7-8502 AND 7-8503 WHICH WERE SOLD FOR REPLACEMENT USE ON THE VARIOUS VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. A POTENTIAL MATERIAL OR DESIGN DEFECT COULD RESULT IN…
The risk: A BROKEN STEERING KNUCKLE COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL AND A POSSIBLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
The fix: DORMAN WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE STEERING KNUCKLES FREE OF CHARGE AND REIMBURSE THE REPAIR FACILITY OR OWNER FOR LABOR. THE RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 23, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DORMAN'S TOLL-FREE HOTLINE AT 1-800-523-24…
The defect: CERTAIN DELPHI FUEL PRESSURE REGULATORS, P/NOS. FP10020-11B1, FP10026-11B1, AND FP10027-11B1, SOLD AFTER JANUARY 9, 2007, AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE UNIVERSAL PRESSURE REGULATORS (UPR) WERE PRODUCED WITHOUT AN O'RING AND RETAINER.
The risk: FUEL MAY LEAK, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A FIRE.
The fix: DELPHI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE UPR FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 23, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT DELPHI AT 877-411-8770.
The defect: DORMAN IS RECALLING 979 STEERING KNUCKLES, DORMAN P/NOS. 697-902 AND 697-903, SOLD UNDER DORMAN'S "OE SOLUTIONS<SUP>TM</SUP>" BRAND NAME, AND NAPA P/NOS. 7-8502 AND 7-8503 WHICH WERE SOLD FOR REPLACEMENT USE ON THE VARIOUS VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. A POTENTIAL MATERIAL OR DESIGN DEFECT COULD RESULT IN…
The risk: A BROKEN STEERING KNUCKLE COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL AND A POSSIBLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
The fix: DORMAN WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE STEERING KNUCKLES FREE OF CHARGE AND REIMBURSE THE REPAIR FACILITY OR OWNER FOR LABOR. THE RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 23, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DORMAN'S TOLL-FREE HOTLINE AT 1-800-523-24…
The defect: CERTAIN DELPHI FUEL PRESSURE REGULATORS, P/NOS. FP10020-11B1, FP10026-11B1, AND FP10027-11B1, SOLD AFTER JANUARY 9, 2007, AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE UNIVERSAL PRESSURE REGULATORS (UPR) WERE PRODUCED WITHOUT AN O'RING AND RETAINER.
The risk: FUEL MAY LEAK, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A FIRE.
The fix: DELPHI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE UPR FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 23, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT DELPHI AT 877-411-8770.
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
Buick Century or Chevrolet Silverado: which should you buy?
The Buick Century has far fewer complaints per year (121 vs 510) and fewer recalls (20 vs 100), indicating a lower rate of reported problems. However, the Silverado's issues are often more severe, involving sudden loss of power or braking, which can be life-threatening. In practice, the Century may be less troublesome, but both require careful inspection of their known weak points.
Key differences
- The Silverado has a much higher rate of engine and transmission failures, with owners reporting sudden loss of power and neutral drops, while the Century's issues are more about lighting and brake corrosion.
- The Century's headlight problem is a known design flaw causing fogging and intermittent outages, whereas the Silverado's electrical issues can lead to simultaneous loss of brakes and steering.
- Brake failures on the Century are often due to rusted lines, a fixable but critical issue, while Silverado brake problems may be electronic and harder to diagnose.
- The Silverado has a higher number of recalls (100 vs 20), suggesting more widespread safety defects that have been officially recognized.
- Inspect the headlight lenses for fogging or discoloration, and test the headlights for intermittent operation, as this is a common failure.
- Check the brake lines for rust or corrosion, especially in areas where salt is used on roads, as a burst line can cause total brake loss.
- Listen for abnormal engine noises and check for any warning lights, as sudden power loss is a known issue. Also, ask about any history of transmission problems, such as slipping or unexpected neutral shifts.
- Test the brakes thoroughly, including at low speeds, and be alert for any unusual pedal feel or warning messages, as electrical issues can affect braking.
Before you buy
- Have a mechanic inspect the brake lines on the Buick Century for rust and replace if necessary.
- Check the headlight operation on the Century, including high beams, and look for signs of lens fogging.
- For the Silverado, ask for service records related to engine or transmission repairs, and check for open recalls.
- Test drive the Silverado at highway speeds to ensure no loss of power or unusual noises occur.
- On both vehicles, verify that all electrical accessories work, including windows, locks, and lights.
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 Buick Century or Chevrolet Silverado in front of you — accident history, open recalls and title records.
Go deeper
Full reliability reports
- Comparison
- Buick Century vs Chevrolet Silverado
- Buick Century total complaints
- 726
- Chevrolet Silverado total complaints
- 5,105
- Buick Century total recalls
- 20
- Chevrolet Silverado total recalls
- 100
- Buick Century avg complaints/year
- 121.0
- Chevrolet Silverado avg complaints/year
- 510.5
- More reliable overall
- Buick Century
- Buick Century top complaint area
- EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Chevrolet Silverado top complaint area
- ENGINE