Head-to-head reliability
FORD Fusion vs Chevrolet Silverado
How the FORD Fusion 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
FORD Fusion vs Chevrolet Silverado: The Fusion has 13,611 complaints over 10 years (1,361/yr) with steering and engine issues, while the Silverado has 5,105 complaints (511/yr) but severe brake and engine failures. Fusion owners report control arm breakage and engine overheating; Silverado owners face sudden brake loss. Source: NHTSA owner complaints.
The picture
Is the FORD Fusion or Chevrolet Silverado more reliable?
A plain-English read on what the NHTSA record says about living with each vehicle.
FORD Fusion
The Ford Fusion, as a used midsize sedan, shows a heavy burden of steering and engine complaints, with owners reporting parts like lower control arms snapping and engine cooling fans failing, leading to overheating and engine destruction. Electrical issues, including battery management problems in hybrids, add to the ownership risk. With over 13,600 complaints in a decade, it's a vehicle that demands careful inspection and a maintenance fund.
Chevrolet Silverado
The Chevrolet Silverado, a full-size pickup, has fewer complaints per year but still shows significant engine and powertrain troubles, particularly with newer models experiencing engine failures and transmission issues at low mileage. Brake problems, including sudden loss of braking, are a serious concern. While it has more recalls, the complaint rate is lower, but the severity of reported failures makes thorough pre-purchase checks essential.
The numbers
Side-by-side NHTSA record
Lower is better in every category. The highlighted cell is the stronger result.
| Category | FORD Fusion | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| Total complaintsAll model years combined | 13,611 | 5,105 Better |
| Safety recallsFederal recall campaigns | 91 Better | 100 |
| Crash reportsCrash-related complaints | 472 | 117 Better |
| Complaints per yearAveraged across model years | 1361.1 | 510.5 Better |
| Reported injuriesTied to owner complaints | 310 | 104 Better |
| Reported deathsTied to owner complaints | 7 | 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.
FORD Fusion
- 01STEERING4,151
- 02ENGINE2,545
- 03POWER TRAIN2,020
- 04ELECTRICAL SYSTEM1,293
- 05UNKNOWN OR OTHER1,153
Owners report lower control arms snapping while turning, which can cause loss of control. This is a critical safety issue that may require immediate repair.
Engine cooling fans can fail, blowing fuses and leading to overheating that destroys the head gasket and engine, requiring complete replacement. This is a costly failure.
Transmission cooling lines can leak fluid without any warning lights, leading to transmission failure. Owners also report loud knocking and vibration after routine service.
Hybrid models have experienced sudden engine failure and fires originating from the high-voltage battery. Other electrical issues can leave the vehicle unable to move when in park.
“I’ve learned a while ago that the vehicle doesn’t have a working horn, I’ve replaced the fuse at least five times and it’s still not working. Yes the car was sold to me this way. Also I’ve been getting this warning to my ford app: “The Blind Spot Information…”
“The front left lower control arm (driver's side) snapped off (broke) while turning a corner. There was no reason for the breakage other than turning. It was repaired through insurance. The driver's safety as well as the safety of pedestrians were put at risk…”
Chevrolet Silverado
- 01ENGINE1,698
- 02POWER TRAIN1,453
- 03ELECTRICAL SYSTEM982
- 04SERVICE BRAKES691
- 05UNKNOWN OR OTHER542
Newer models with the 6.2L engine have experienced catastrophic failures at low mileage, leaving families stranded. Diesel models face repeated diesel particulate filter clogging, requiring dealer service.
Transmissions can suddenly shift into neutral while driving, especially at low speeds, which is dangerous in traffic. This has occurred with less than 300 miles on the odometer.
Electrical issues can cause a sudden loss of braking and steering while driving, accompanied by loud pinging sounds and loss of motive power. This is a severe safety hazard.
Owners report sudden, severe loss of braking where the pedal is firm but the vehicle does not stop effectively. This can happen without warning, posing a high risk of collision.
“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.
FORD Fusion — 91 recalls
The defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Fusion PHEV vehicles. The battery energy control module (BECM) may become damaged due to excessive voltage and current flow.
The risk: A damaged BECM can result in a loss of drive power or fire, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
The fix: Owners are advised not to charge their vehicles until the remedy is completed. Dealers will replace the battery and update the BECM software for free, or Ford will repurchase the vehicle. If your vehicle is currently operating normally, Fo…
The defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2022 Transit Connect, 2019-2020 MKZ, MKX, Edge, Continental, F-150, Nautilus, Fusion, 2019-2023 Ranger, Mustang, 2020-2021 EcoSport, Expedition, Navigator, 2020-2022 Escape, F-250 SD, Corsair, 2020-2023 Aviator, Transit, 2020-2024 Explorer, 2021-2…
The risk: A rearview camera that displays a blank image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle. A rearview image that continues to be displayed after the vehicle is shifted out of reverse may distract the driver. Both of these situations ca…
The fix: Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 4, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S72.
The defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Lincoln MKC, 2016-2023 Explorer, 2019-2020 Fusion, 2019-2024 Ranger, 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair, Escape, 2021-2024 Bronco, Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. The engine block heater may crack and develop a coolant leak, causing it…
The risk: An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
The fix: Owners are advised not to plug in their block heater until the vehicle is remedied. Dealers will replace the block heater, free of charge. Owners will also have a alternative option to replace engine block heater element with a threaded bl…
The defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Fusion PHEV vehicles. The battery energy control module (BECM) may become damaged due to excessive voltage and current flow.
The risk: A damaged BECM can result in a loss of drive power or fire, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
The fix: Owners are advised not to charge their vehicles until the remedy is completed. Dealers will replace the battery and update the BECM software for free, or Ford will repurchase the vehicle. If your vehicle is currently operating normally, Fo…
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
FORD Fusion or Chevrolet Silverado: which should you buy?
The Ford Fusion has more than double the complaints per year (1,361 vs 511) compared to the Chevrolet Silverado, indicating a higher frequency of owner-reported issues. In practice, Fusion owners may face more frequent repairs, especially in steering and engine, while Silverado owners might encounter fewer but potentially more severe failures, particularly in newer models.
Key differences
- Fusion has a much higher complaint rate (1,361/yr) vs Silverado (511/yr), indicating more frequent issues.
- Fusion steering failures include control arm breakage, while Silverado has sudden brake loss and steering failure.
- Fusion engine issues often involve cooling fans and overheating, while Silverado engines can fail catastrophically at low mileage.
- Silverado has more recalls (100 vs 91) but fewer complaints, suggesting different quality control challenges.
- Inspect the lower control arms for wear or damage, as they have been reported to snap.
- Check the engine cooling fan operation and fuses; a failing fan can lead to engine destruction.
- Test the brakes thoroughly, including sudden stops, to ensure no loss of braking power.
- Check for any engine warning lights or unusual noises, especially in newer models with the 6.2L engine.
Before you buy
- Have a mechanic inspect the steering components, especially lower control arms, on the Fusion.
- Verify the Fusion's cooling fan works and check for any signs of overheating or blown fuses.
- On the Silverado, perform a road test that includes braking at various speeds to detect any brake issues.
- Check the Silverado's service history for any engine or transmission repairs, especially if it's a 2026 model.
- Review the recall history for both vehicles and ensure all recalls have been addressed.
Year by year
Which model years to avoid
Complaints per model year for both vehicles — lower is better. The spikes are the years to scrutinize.
| Year | FORD Fusion | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 178 | 0 |
| 2019 | 373 | 1992 |
| 2018 | 436 | 591 |
| 2017 | 1104 | 0 |
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 FORD Fusion or Chevrolet Silverado in front of you — accident history, open recalls and title records.
Go deeper
Full reliability reports
- Comparison
- FORD Fusion vs Chevrolet Silverado
- FORD Fusion total complaints
- 13,611
- Chevrolet Silverado total complaints
- 5,105
- FORD Fusion total recalls
- 91
- Chevrolet Silverado total recalls
- 100
- FORD Fusion avg complaints/year
- 1361.1
- Chevrolet Silverado avg complaints/year
- 510.5
- More reliable overall
- Chevrolet Silverado
- FORD Fusion top complaint area
- STEERING
- Chevrolet Silverado top complaint area
- ENGINE