Head-to-head reliability
Dodge NEON vs Chevrolet Silverado
How the Dodge NEON 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
Dodge NEON vs Chevrolet Silverado: The NEON averages 185.5 complaints per year over 6 years, while the Silverado averages 510.5 per year over 10 years. NEON owners report air bag non-deployment and brake failures, whereas Silverado owners face engine and transmission issues. Source: NHTSA owner complaints.
The picture
Is the Dodge NEON or Chevrolet Silverado more reliable?
A plain-English read on what the NHTSA record says about living with each vehicle.
Dodge NEON
The Dodge NEON is a compact sedan that, based on NHTSA data, shows a high rate of owner complaints, averaging about 185 per year over six years. Owners report serious issues with electrical systems, air bags failing to deploy in crashes, engine surging, and brake failures, making it a vehicle that may require frequent repairs and raise safety concerns.
Chevrolet Silverado
The Chevrolet Silverado is a full-size pickup with a much higher total complaint count (5,105 over 10 years), but that's partly due to its popularity and longer reporting period. The main issues center on engine problems (especially with 6.2L and Duramax engines), transmission failures, and electrical glitches that can affect braking, but the overall rate per year is still higher than the NEON.
The numbers
Side-by-side NHTSA record
Lower is better in every category. The highlighted cell is the stronger result.
| Category | Dodge NEON | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| Total complaintsAll model years combined | 1,113 Better | 5,105 |
| Safety recallsFederal recall campaigns | 41 Better | 100 |
| Crash reportsCrash-related complaints | 204 | 117 Better |
| Complaints per yearAveraged across model years | 185.5 Better | 510.5 |
| Reported injuriesTied to owner complaints | 172 | 104 Better |
| Reported deathsTied to owner complaints | 8 | 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.
Dodge NEON
- 01ELECTRICAL SYSTEM192
- 02AIR BAGS177
- 03ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING162
- 04SERVICE BRAKES152
- 05POWER TRAIN141
Owners report smoke coming from the dashboard, followed by failure of lights (brake, fog, high beams, turn signals). This suggests wiring or component failures that could lead to fire risk and loss of visibility.
Multiple complaints describe air bags not deploying in collisions, even when seat belts were used. This is a critical safety issue that could increase injury risk in an accident.
Reports include sudden unintended acceleration, where the car accelerates on its own despite braking, and misfiring with crankshaft/camshaft sensor codes that persist even after replacement. These can cause loss of control and stalling.
Brake failures are reported, such as new brakes failing after about 5,000 miles, leading to an inability to stop and resulting in crashes. This is a direct safety hazard.
“I WAS DRIVING TO DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES WITH MY FRIENDS AND ALL OF A SUDDEN THERE IS SMOKE COMING OUT OF MY DASHBOARD RIGHT IN FRONT OF MY STEERING WHEEL SOMETHING WAS BURNING. I THEN LATER NOTICE MY BRAKE,FOG,HIGH BEAMS, AND TURN SIGNALS LIGHT DO NOT WORK. I W…”
“I PURCHASE A 2005 DODGE NEON IN JUNE. APPROXIATELY 3 WERKS LATER I NOTICE HOW WHEN I WOULD HAVE TO STOP WHEN TIME TO MOVE FORWARD CAR WOULD STALL AND BARELY WANT TO GO THEN ALL OF A SUDDEN IT WOULD PICK UP. IT DID THAT FOR 2 DAYS. THE 3RD DAY I DROVE AWAY IN…”
Chevrolet Silverado
- 01ENGINE1,698
- 02POWER TRAIN1,453
- 03ELECTRICAL SYSTEM982
- 04SERVICE BRAKES691
- 05UNKNOWN OR OTHER542
Owners of 2026 models with 6.2L engines report sudden engine failure while driving, and Duramax diesel trucks have repeated diesel particulate filter clogging issues, requiring dealer service. These can leave you stranded and are costly to fix.
Transmission problems include the vehicle suddenly shifting into neutral while driving, even at low speeds, which can be dangerous in traffic. This is a common complaint across Silverado models.
Electrical issues can cause a sudden loss of braking power and steering, as described in one complaint where the brake pedal was firm but braking was ineffective. This suggests problems with electronic brake systems or sensors.
Brake failure is reported, with the vehicle not stopping normally despite a firm pedal, indicating a possible issue with brake boost or ABS. This is a serious safety concern.
“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.
Dodge NEON — 41 recalls
The defect: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES…
The risk: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
The fix: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
The defect: CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO.…
The risk: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
The fix: CK MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE NONCOMPLIANT LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CK MOTORSPORT AT 1-909-610-7211.
The defect: FEDERAL MOGUL IS RECALLING 6,903 AFTERMARKET BALL JOINT ASSEMBLIES SHIPPED BETWEEN NOVEMBER 9, 2007 AND MARCH 26, 2008, WHICH MAY HAVE BEEN PACKAGED WITH INCORRECT NUTS. THE PART NUMBERS PACKAGED WITH INCORRECT NUTS ARE: K7147, K7329, K8683, AND 104353. THESE PARTS WERE MADE FOR USE ON THE VARIOUS…
The risk: THE NUTS INCLUDED IN THE PACKAGING FOR THESE BALL JOINT ASSEMBLIES ARE MISSING THE INTENDED PREVAILING TORQUE (SELF-LOCKING) FEATURE. IF THE INCORRECT NUT WAS TO BECOME LOOSE, THE JOINING MEMBERS MAY LOOSEN LEADING TO A SEPARATION OF THE B…
The fix: FEDERAL MOGUL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE PARTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 22, 2008. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FEDERAL MOGUL AT 877-489-6659.
The defect: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE D…
The risk: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
The fix: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
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
Dodge NEON or Chevrolet Silverado: which should you buy?
The Dodge NEON has fewer complaints per year (185.5) compared to the Chevrolet Silverado (510.5), but the NEON's issues are more likely to involve safety-critical systems like air bags and brakes. The Silverado's higher rate is partly due to its larger sales volume, but its engine and transmission problems are also serious.
Key differences
- The NEON has a higher proportion of air bag non-deployment complaints, which is a life-safety issue, while the Silverado's complaints are more about engine and transmission reliability.
- The Silverado's engine problems include catastrophic failures in newer models, whereas the NEON's engine issues are more about sensors and unintended acceleration.
- Both have brake issues, but the NEON's brake failures are reported after only 5,000 miles, while the Silverado's are often linked to electrical problems.
- The NEON has recalls for exterior lighting and suspension, while the Silverado has recalls for tailgate latches and brake fluid sensors.
- Check for any signs of electrical burning smell or melted wiring under the dashboard, and test all exterior lights.
- Verify that the air bag light is off and consider having the air bag system inspected by a professional, given the non-deployment reports.
- Ask for service records related to engine recalls or known issues, especially for 6.2L or Duramax engines, and check for any pending recalls.
- Test the transmission for smooth shifting and be alert to any sudden neutral events; also have the brake system checked for any warning lights.
Before you buy
- For the NEON: have a mechanic inspect the electrical system and wiring harness for signs of overheating or damage.
- For the NEON: check the air bag system's diagnostic codes and ensure all recalls are performed.
- For the Silverado: review the vehicle's service history for any engine or transmission repairs, and check for open recalls.
- For the Silverado: test drive at various speeds, including uphill, to see if the transmission holds gears properly.
- For both: get a pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic who can check brakes, engine, and electrical systems.
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 Dodge NEON or Chevrolet Silverado in front of you — accident history, open recalls and title records.
Go deeper
Full reliability reports
- Comparison
- Dodge NEON vs Chevrolet Silverado
- Dodge NEON total complaints
- 1,113
- Chevrolet Silverado total complaints
- 5,105
- Dodge NEON total recalls
- 41
- Chevrolet Silverado total recalls
- 100
- Dodge NEON avg complaints/year
- 185.5
- Chevrolet Silverado avg complaints/year
- 510.5
- More reliable overall
- Dodge NEON
- Dodge NEON top complaint area
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Chevrolet Silverado top complaint area
- ENGINE