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 823 per year over 10 years. Both have serious safety complaints, but the Silverado's higher rate suggests more frequent issues. 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 averaged about 174 complaints per year over six years, with 20 recalls. Owners frequently report electrical glitches like the ignition switch turning off while driving, which can cause a brief loss of power steering and braking. Steering problems, including the wheel locking or power steering seizing during turns, also appear in complaints. Air bag issues, such as unexpected deployment without a crash, add to the ownership concerns.
Chevrolet Silverado
The Chevrolet Silverado is a full-size pickup that averaged about 823 complaints per year over ten years, with 101 recalls. The most common complaint areas are the engine and power train, with owners describing sudden engine shutdowns, transmission shifting into neutral, and diesel exhaust filter problems. Braking loss and electrical issues that affect braking and engine operation are also reported. These patterns suggest that many problems can occur at low mileage and may compromise vehicle control.
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 | 8,227 |
| Safety recallsFederal recall campaigns | 20 Better | 101 |
| Crash reportsCrash-related complaints | 108 Better | 233 |
| Complaints per yearAveraged across model years | 174.3 Better | 822.7 |
| Reported injuriesTied to owner complaints | 117 Better | 160 |
| Reported deathsTied to owner complaints | 14 | 3 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 turning off while driving, which can cause a temporary loss of power steering and braking. This is dangerous because it can happen at highway speeds and may be hard to control.
Complaints describe the steering wheel locking or power steering seizing during turns, often at low speeds. This can make the car difficult to steer and increases the risk of a crash.
Some owners report the front passenger air bag deploying without any impact, sometimes with a musty odor and warning lights. An unexpected deployment can startle the driver and cause loss of control.
Oil leaks beginning around 40,000 miles are a common complaint, with owners noting increasing leakage over time. This can lead to low oil levels, potential engine damage, and costly repairs.
“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
- 01ENGINE2,521
- 02POWER TRAIN2,347
- 03ELECTRICAL SYSTEM1,513
- 04SERVICE BRAKES1,222
- 05UNKNOWN OR OTHER858
Owners of newer Silverado models report sudden engine shutdowns while driving, sometimes with a 'Return to Neutral' message. This can leave the driver without power and is especially risky in traffic.
Complaints include the transmission suddenly shifting into neutral, even at low speeds like in a parking garage. This can cause a loss of acceleration and may lead to a crash.
Electrical problems are linked to a severe loss of normal braking, where the brake pedal feels firm but braking is ineffective. This is a critical safety issue that could prevent the vehicle from stopping.
Owners report the truck completely shutting off with all screens going blank, leaving them unable to accelerate or brake normally. This can happen at low speeds and requires a restart to regain 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.
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: 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.
Chevrolet Silverado — 101 recalls
The defect: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2026 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, 2500, and 3500 vehicles. These vehicles may not have received an owner's manual during production. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 225, “Child Re…
The risk: Without an owner's manual to consult, owners may not know how to safely use and operate the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.
The fix: Dealers will provide the owner’s manual, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 30, 2025. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N252532020. Vehicle Identifi…
The defect: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Chevrolet Silverado 3500, and GMC Sierra 3500 vehicles with gasoline engines and dual fuel tanks (RPOs L8T and N2N). The rear fuel pump may not transfer adequate fuel to the front tank, causing an engine stall.
The risk: An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.
The fix: The vehicle's engine control module (ECM) will be updated by a dealer or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 8, 2026. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782…
The defect: General Motors has decided that certain 2027 Chevrolet Bolt EV, 2025-2026 Cadillac OPTIQ, Chevrolet Colorado, Equinox EV, GMC Canyon, 2026 Buick Enclave, Envision, Cadillac CT5, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade IQ, Escalade IQL, LYRIQ, VISTIQ, Chevrolet Blazer EV, Corvette Convertible, Corvette Cou…
The risk: Without an owner's manual to consult, owners may not know how to safely use and operate the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.
The fix: Dealers will reset the vehicle radio, which will facilitate automatic download of the electronic owner’s manual, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 16, 2026. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-866-467-970…
The defect: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2024-2025 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 and GMC Sierra 2500 vehicles equipped with the enhanced towing option and 20-inch accessory tire/wheel package. The tire information label may state the incorrect rear tire pressure, resulting in underinflated tires an…
The risk: Driving with underinflated tires can increase the risk of a crash.
The fix: Dealers will inspect, update the engine control module (ECM) software, apply a tire label overlay, inflate tires to the correct pressure, and perform a tire pressure monitor system (TPMS) re-learn process as necessary, free of charge. Owne…
Buyer analysis
Cadillac Deville or Chevrolet Silverado: which should you buy?
The Cadillac Deville has far fewer complaints per year (about 174) than the Chevrolet Silverado (about 823), but both have serious safety-related issues. The Deville's problems often involve electrical and steering failures, while the Silverado's issues more frequently involve engine, transmission, and brake failures. In practice, the Silverado may require more frequent attention, but the Deville's failures can be equally dangerous.
Key differences
- The Cadillac Deville has about 174 complaints per year, while the Chevrolet Silverado has about 823 per year, meaning the Silverado generates far more owner complaints annually.
- Deville owners frequently report ignition switch failures causing loss of power steering and braking, while Silverado owners report engine shutdowns and transmission shifting into neutral.
- The Deville has 14 deaths reported in its complaint data, compared to 3 for the Silverado, though the Silverado has more crash-related complaints (233 vs 108).
- Both vehicles have air bag and brake issues, but the Deville's air bag complaints include unexpected deployment, while the Silverado's brake complaints involve sudden loss of braking effectiveness.
- Check for any signs of ignition switch problems, such as the engine cutting out or electrical accessories flickering while driving; test drive at various speeds and over bumps.
- Inspect the steering system for stiffness, locking, or unusual noises when turning, especially at low speeds; a mechanic should check the power steering pump and rack.
- Look for any history of engine stalling or transmission slipping; scan for stored trouble codes and test drive at low speeds and during gear changes.
- Test the brakes thoroughly for any loss of braking power or unusual pedal feel; also check for electrical issues that could affect braking, such as warning lights or intermittent failures.
Before you buy
- Obtain a full vehicle history report and check for open recalls using the VIN; address any unrepaired recalls before purchase.
- Have a certified mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection focusing on the specific problem areas: electrical and steering for the Deville, engine and transmission for the Silverado.
- During the test drive, pay attention to any warning lights, unusual noises, or changes in steering and braking feel; test at both low and highway speeds.
- Ask the seller for maintenance records, especially for oil changes and any repairs related to the known issues; a well-maintained vehicle may have fewer problems.
- Verify that all safety features, including air bags and brakes, are functioning properly; a diagnostic scan can reveal pending codes.
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
- 8,227
- Cadillac Deville total recalls
- 20
- Chevrolet Silverado total recalls
- 101
- Cadillac Deville avg complaints/year
- 174.3
- Chevrolet Silverado avg complaints/year
- 822.7
- More reliable overall
- Cadillac Deville
- Cadillac Deville top complaint area
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Chevrolet Silverado top complaint area
- ENGINE