Head-to-head reliability
Cadillac Deville vs Chevrolet Silverado
How the Cadillac Deville 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
Cadillac Deville vs Chevrolet Silverado: The Deville averaged 174 complaints per year over 6 years, while the Silverado averaged 510 per year over 10 years. Both have serious safety complaints, including ignition switch failures in the Deville and engine power loss in the Silverado. Source: NHTSA owner complaints.
The picture
Is the Cadillac Deville or Chevrolet Silverado more reliable?
A plain-English read on what the NHTSA record says about living with each vehicle.
Cadillac Deville
The Cadillac Deville is a full-size luxury sedan that, based on owner complaints, can become a headache as it ages. Over six years, it averaged 174 complaints per year, with electrical, steering, and air bag issues topping the list. Owners report serious safety-related failures like ignition switches shutting off and power steering seizing, which can happen without warning. While it may offer comfort, the frequency of these problems means a thorough pre-purchase inspection is critical.
Chevrolet Silverado
The Chevrolet Silverado is a full-size pickup that, according to NHTSA data, generates a high volume of complaints—averaging 510 per year over ten years. The most common trouble spots are the engine, power train, and electrical system, with owners describing sudden loss of power, transmission problems, and brake failures. Recalls are frequent, covering items like tailgate latches and brake fluid sensors. This truck can be capable, but the sheer number of complaints suggests potential reliability concerns that buyers should investigate.
The numbers
Side-by-side NHTSA record
Lower is better in every category. The highlighted cell is the stronger result.
| Category | Cadillac Deville | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| Total complaintsAll model years combined | 1,046 Better | 5,105 |
| Safety recallsFederal recall campaigns | 20 Better | 100 |
| Crash reportsCrash-related complaints | 108 Better | 117 |
| Complaints per yearAveraged across model years | 174.3 Better | 510.5 |
| Reported injuriesTied to owner complaints | 117 | 104 Better |
| Reported deathsTied to owner complaints | 14 | 1 Better |
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.
Cadillac Deville
- 01ELECTRICAL SYSTEM289
- 02STEERING143
- 03AIR BAGS140
- 04ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING140
- 05VISIBILITY101
Owners report the ignition switch can turn off while driving, causing loss of power steering and braking assist. This is a serious safety risk, especially at highway speeds, and has led to recalls.
Complaints describe the steering wheel locking or power steering seizing during turns, often at low speeds. This can make the car difficult to control and may require costly repairs to the steering gear.
There are reports of air bags deploying without a crash, sometimes accompanied by a musty odor and warning lights. This unexpected deployment can startle the driver and cause injury.
Oil leaks are a common complaint, often starting after 40,000 miles and worsening over time. Owners report spending significant money on repairs as leaks progress from a few drops to quarts between oil changes.
“DRIVING ON A LOCAL FREEWAY, MY IGNITION SWITCH TO OFF. I WAS ONLY GOING 55 MPH IN HEAVY TRAFFICE. I WAS ABLE TO PLACE THE CAR IN NEUTRAL & RESTART THE ENGINE, BUT FOR A SHORT PERIOD I WAS WITH LIMITED BRAKING AND STEERING. HAD MY WIFE BEEN DRIVING I AM CERTAI…”
“ENGINE BEGAN TO LEAK OIL AFTER 40000 MILES. THE COMPANY AND DEALERSHIP ASSURED ME THIS WAS NORMAL. LONGER I OPERATED THIS CAR, MORE IT BEGAN TO LEAK. AT FIRST FEW DROPS, THEN LATER, 1-2 QTS BETWEEN OIL CHANGES. TODAY, IT IS WORST. I HAVE SPENT SEVERAL THOUSAN…”
Chevrolet Silverado
- 01ENGINE1,698
- 02POWER TRAIN1,453
- 03ELECTRICAL SYSTEM982
- 04SERVICE BRAKES691
- 05UNKNOWN OR OTHER542
Owners of newer Silverados report severe engine issues, including loss of motive power and loud pinging sounds, sometimes with less than 10,000 miles. Diesel models have experienced repeated diesel particulate filter soot accumulation events requiring dealer service.
Complaints include the vehicle suddenly shifting into neutral while driving, even at low speeds, which can leave the driver stranded. This transmission problem can be dangerous in traffic and may require expensive repairs.
Owners describe sudden loss of normal braking, with a firm brake pedal but ineffective stopping, as well as loss of motive power and inoperable steering. These electrical glitches can compromise critical safety systems.
Reports of brake failure where the pedal remains firm but braking is severely reduced are alarming. This issue, sometimes linked to electrical problems, could lead to accidents if not addressed promptly.
“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.
Cadillac Deville — 20 recalls
The defect: This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain…
The risk: If the key is not in the run position, the air bags may not deploy if the vehicle is involved in a crash, increasing the risk of injury. Additionally, a key knocked out of the run position will cause loss of engine power, power steering, a…
The fix: GM will notify owners, and dealers will install two key rings and an insert in the key slot or a cover over the key head on all ignition keys, free of charge. The recall began on September 23, 2014. Owners may contact General Motors custom…
The defect: This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain…
The risk: If the key is not in the run position, the air bags may not deploy if the vehicle is involved in a crash, increasing the risk of injury. Additionally, a key knocked out of the run position will cause loss of engine power, power steering, a…
The fix: GM will notify owners, and dealers will install two key rings and an insert in the key slot or a cover over the key head on all ignition keys, free of charge. The recall began on September 23, 2014. Owners may contact General Motors custom…
The defect: ON CERTAIN CADILLAC DEVILLE AND SEVILLE PASSENGER VEHICLES, FUNERAL COACHES, AND LIMOUSINES EQUIPPED WITH A V8 (4.6L) ENGINE, OLDSMOBILE AURORA PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A V8 (4.0L ) ENGINE, AND PONTIAC BONNEVILLE SSEI PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A SUPERCHARGED V6 (3.8L) ENGINE, THE FUE…
The risk: FUEL SYSTEM COMPONENTS CAN BE DAMAGED AND FUEL CAN LEAK FROM THE VEHICLE WHEN IT IS REFUELED. FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE CAN RESULT IN A FIRE.
The fix: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL TANK PRESSURE SENSOR. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON OCTOBER 17, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339; OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-630-6537; OR PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668.
The defect: CERTAIN PASSENGER, MINI VANS, AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES HAVE AN AIR BAG INFLATOR ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE THAT COULD FRACTURE AT A WELD DURING A DEPLOYMENT.
The risk: PIECES OF THE INFLATOR COULD STRIKE AND INJURE VEHICLE OCCUPANTS AND THE AIR BAG CUSHION WOULD NOT INFLATE FULLY, REDUCING THE CAPABILITY OF THE BAG TO PROTECT THE DRIVER.
The fix: DEALERS WILL INSPECT, AND REPLACE, IF NECESSARY, THE AIR BAG MODULE ASSEMBLY ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN AUGUST 15, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT R…
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
Cadillac Deville or Chevrolet Silverado: which should you buy?
The Cadillac Deville has far fewer complaints per year (174) compared to the Chevrolet Silverado (510), but both have serious safety-related issues. In practice, the Deville's problems tend to be concentrated in older vehicles, while the Silverado's complaints often involve newer models with low mileage. This means a used Silverado might still be under warranty but could spend more time in the shop.
Key differences
- The Cadillac Deville averages 174 complaints per year, while the Chevrolet Silverado averages 510 per year, indicating a much higher complaint rate for the Silverado.
- Deville owners frequently report ignition switch failures causing loss of power steering and braking, whereas Silverado owners report engine and transmission failures that can cause sudden loss of power.
- The Deville has 14 reported deaths in NHTSA data over 6 years, compared to 1 death for the Silverado over 10 years, though these figures don't account for vehicle miles or sales volume.
- Both vehicles have numerous recalls, but the Silverado has 100 recalls versus 20 for the Deville, suggesting more widespread safety-related defects.
- Check for any signs of ignition switch problems, such as the engine cutting out or difficulty restarting, and ensure the recall for the ignition system has been performed.
- Test the steering at low speeds for any locking or stiffness, and listen for unusual noises from the power steering system.
- During a test drive, pay attention to any hesitation, pinging, or loss of power from the engine, and check for transmission slipping or sudden neutral engagement.
- Test the brakes for a firm pedal but reduced stopping power, and verify that all electrical systems, including brakes and steering, function correctly.
Before you buy
- Obtain a vehicle history report and check for open recalls on the NHTSA website using the VIN.
- Have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection focusing on the specific problem areas for each model.
- For the Deville, test the ignition switch, steering, and air bag system, and check for oil leaks.
- For the Silverado, scan for engine and transmission error codes, and test the brakes and electrical functions.
- Ask the seller for maintenance records and confirm that any previous recalls have been addressed.
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 Cadillac Deville or Chevrolet Silverado in front of you — accident history, open recalls and title records.
Go deeper
Full reliability reports
- Comparison
- Cadillac Deville vs Chevrolet Silverado
- Cadillac Deville total complaints
- 1,046
- Chevrolet Silverado total complaints
- 5,105
- Cadillac Deville total recalls
- 20
- Chevrolet Silverado total recalls
- 100
- Cadillac Deville avg complaints/year
- 174.3
- Chevrolet Silverado avg complaints/year
- 510.5
- More reliable overall
- Cadillac Deville
- Cadillac Deville top complaint area
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Chevrolet Silverado top complaint area
- ENGINE