Head-to-head reliability
Chrysler 300C vs Chevrolet Silverado
How the Chrysler 300C 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
Chrysler 300C vs Chevrolet Silverado: The 300C averages 3.6 complaints per year over 7 years, while the Silverado averages 510.5 per year over 10 years. The 300C has no crash-related complaints, but the Silverado has 117. The 300C's main issues are electrical and engine-related, whereas the Silverado suffers from severe engine, transmission, and brake failures. Source: NHTSA owner complaints.
The picture
Is the Chrysler 300C or Chevrolet Silverado more reliable?
A plain-English read on what the NHTSA record says about living with each vehicle.
Chrysler 300C
The Chrysler 300C is a full-size sedan that, based on NHTSA data, shows a moderate number of complaints over seven years, averaging about 3.6 per year. The most frequent issues are electrical, with owners reporting stalling, power steering loss, and warning lights, often linked to starting or driving. Engine problems include the notorious 'Hemi tick' from hydraulic lifters, and fuel system complaints point to fuel odors and a cracked fuel pump. Air bag recalls are also present, but no crashes or deaths have been reported.
Chevrolet Silverado
The Chevrolet Silverado is a full-size pickup with a much higher complaint volume, averaging over 510 per year over ten years. Engine and powertrain issues dominate, including severe problems like sudden loss of power, transmission failures, and diesel particulate filter clogging. Electrical and brake complaints are also common, with reports of sudden braking loss and steering failure. The vehicle has been involved in crashes and injuries, and has numerous recalls, indicating a higher risk profile.
The numbers
Side-by-side NHTSA record
Lower is better in every category. The highlighted cell is the stronger result.
| Category | Chrysler 300C | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| Total complaintsAll model years combined | 25 Better | 5,105 |
| Safety recallsFederal recall campaigns | 7 Better | 100 |
| Crash reportsCrash-related complaints | 0 Better | 117 |
| Complaints per yearAveraged across model years | 3.6 Better | 510.5 |
| Reported injuriesTied to owner complaints | 1 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.
Chrysler 300C
- 01ELECTRICAL SYSTEM11
- 02ENGINE6
- 03FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM4
- 04AIR BAGS3
- 05ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)2
Owners report stalling, loss of power steering, and multiple warning lights (check engine, Stabilitrak, hazard) often accompanied by grinding sounds from the front wheel wells. Some vehicles require jump starts, indicating potential battery or charging system issues.
The 5.7L Hemi engine is prone to a loud 'Hemi tick' caused by hydraulic lifter issues, which can be annoying and may indicate wear. Some owners also report the engine not starting or surging unexpectedly, though these are less common.
Fuel odors inside the cabin, especially after filling, and fuel vapor entering the AC vents are reported. A cracked fuel pump, located under the rear seat, has been found on low-mileage vehicles, posing a safety risk to occupants.
Air bag warning lights illuminate, and there are multiple recalls for Takata inflators. Owners have reported difficulty getting replacement parts, leaving them without a functioning air bag for extended periods.
“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 CHRYSLER 300C. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED, A GRINDING SOUND WAS HEARD COMING FROM THE FRONT WHEEL WELLS. IN ADDITION, THE CHECK ENGINE, STABILITRAK, AND HAZARD WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT ALSO NOTICED A SMOKE ODOR…”
“The contact owns a 2011 Chrysler 300C. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle stalled and lost power steering on several occasions. The contact stated that the vehicle required to be jumpstarted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to…”
Chevrolet Silverado
- 01ENGINE1,698
- 02POWER TRAIN1,453
- 03ELECTRICAL SYSTEM982
- 04SERVICE BRAKES691
- 05UNKNOWN OR OTHER542
Engine failures are common, including sudden loss of power while driving, often with loud pinging sounds. Diesel models experience frequent diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogging, requiring dealer service multiple times.
Transmission issues are frequent, such as the vehicle suddenly shifting into neutral or losing drive while driving, which can be dangerous in traffic. Some owners report complete powertrain failure shortly after purchase.
Electrical problems often accompany engine and brake failures, with warning lights and messages appearing. Some owners report a total loss of power, including brakes and steering, while driving at highway speeds.
Sudden, severe loss of braking effectiveness is reported, even with a firm brake pedal. This can occur without warning, leading to crashes and injuries.
“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.
Chrysler 300C — 7 recalls
The defect: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2005-2009 Dodge Ram 2500, 2004-2008 Dodge Ram 1500 and Durango, 2006-2009 Dodge Ram 3500, 2008-2010 Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500, 2007-2008 Chrysler Aspen, 2005-2010 Chrysler 300, 300C, 300S, and SRT8, 2006-2010 Dodge Charger, 2005-2008 Magnum, 2005-…
The risk: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
The fix: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicle until the recall repair is complete. Chrysler will notify the affected Chrysler and Dodge owners and Mitsubishi will notify the affected Raider owners. Dealers will replace the driver's frontal…
The defect: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2005-2009 Dodge Ram 2500, 2004-2008 Dodge Ram 1500 and Durango, 2006-2009 Dodge Ram 3500, 2008-2010 Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500, 2007-2008 Chrysler Aspen, 2005-2010 Chrysler 300, 300C, 300S, and SRT8, 2006-2010 Dodge Charger, 2005-2008 Magnum, 2005-…
The risk: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
The fix: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicle until the recall repair is complete. Chrysler will notify the affected Chrysler and Dodge owners and Mitsubishi will notify the affected Raider owners. Dealers will replace the driver's frontal…
The defect: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2005-2009 Dodge Ram 2500, 2004-2008 Dodge Ram 1500 and Durango, 2006-2009 Dodge Ram 3500, 2008-2010 Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500, 2007-2008 Chrysler Aspen, 2005-2010 Chrysler 300, 300C, 300S, and SRT8, 2006-2010 Dodge Charger, 2005-2008 Magnum, 2005-…
The risk: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
The fix: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicle until the recall repair is complete. Chrysler will notify the affected Chrysler and Dodge owners and Mitsubishi will notify the affected Raider owners. Dealers will replace the driver's frontal…
The defect: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2005-2009 Dodge Ram 2500, 2004-2008 Dodge Ram 1500 and Durango, 2006-2009 Dodge Ram 3500, 2008-2010 Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500, 2007-2008 Chrysler Aspen, 2005-2010 Chrysler 300, 300C, 300S, and SRT8, 2006-2010 Dodge Charger, 2005-2008 Magnum, 2005-…
The risk: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
The fix: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicle until the recall repair is complete. Chrysler will notify the affected Chrysler and Dodge owners and Mitsubishi will notify the affected Raider owners. Dealers will replace the driver's frontal…
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
Chrysler 300C or Chevrolet Silverado: which should you buy?
The Chrysler 300C has far fewer complaints per year (3.6 vs 510.5) and no crash-related incidents, making it a lower-risk choice in terms of reported issues. The Silverado's high complaint volume and serious safety-related failures suggest a higher likelihood of encountering major problems.
Key differences
- The 300C averages 3.6 complaints per year versus 510.5 for the Silverado, a dramatic difference in reported issues.
- The 300C has no crash-related complaints, while the Silverado has 117, indicating a higher incidence of safety-relevant failures.
- The 300C's main issues are electrical and engine-related (Hemi tick), while the Silverado suffers from severe engine and transmission failures, including sudden loss of power.
- The Silverado has 100 recalls compared to 7 for the 300C, suggesting more widespread and frequent safety defects.
- Check for any electrical gremlins: test all warning lights, ensure the car starts reliably, and listen for grinding noises from the front wheels.
- Inspect the fuel system for odors and have the fuel pump checked, especially if the car has low mileage.
- Be wary of any engine hesitation or loss of power during a test drive; have a mechanic inspect the engine and transmission thoroughly.
- Test the brakes at various speeds and check for any warning messages; ask for service records related to brake or electrical issues.
Before you buy
- Obtain a vehicle history report to check for open recalls and prior accident damage.
- Have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection, focusing on the engine, transmission, brakes, and electrical system.
- For the 300C, specifically ask about the Hemi tick and fuel pump condition; for the Silverado, ask about DPF issues and transmission behavior.
- Check the NHTSA website for the latest recall information and ensure all recalls have been addressed.
- Take both vehicles for an extended test drive, including highway speeds and stop-and-go traffic, to feel for any abnormalities.
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 Chrysler 300C or Chevrolet Silverado in front of you — accident history, open recalls and title records.
Go deeper
Full reliability reports
- Comparison
- Chrysler 300C vs Chevrolet Silverado
- Chrysler 300C total complaints
- 25
- Chevrolet Silverado total complaints
- 5,105
- Chrysler 300C total recalls
- 7
- Chevrolet Silverado total recalls
- 100
- Chrysler 300C avg complaints/year
- 3.6
- Chevrolet Silverado avg complaints/year
- 510.5
- More reliable overall
- Chrysler 300C
- Chrysler 300C top complaint area
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Chevrolet Silverado top complaint area
- ENGINE