Head-to-head reliability
Hyundai Tucson vs Chevrolet Silverado
How the Hyundai Tucson 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
Hyundai Tucson vs Chevrolet Silverado: The Tucson averages about 311 complaints per year, while the Silverado averages about 823, with the Silverado also having more recalls (101 vs 27). Both show engine and power train issues, but the Tucson's lower rate may mean fewer problems. Source: NHTSA owner complaints.
The picture
Is the Hyundai Tucson or Chevrolet Silverado more reliable?
A plain-English read on what the NHTSA record says about living with each vehicle.
Hyundai Tucson
The Hyundai Tucson is a compact SUV that, over the past decade, has generated about 311 complaints per year, with engine and power train issues dominating owner reports. Many complaints describe stalling, engine knocking, and transmission problems that can leave drivers stranded or in dangerous situations. While the overall complaint volume is lower than some rivals, the severity of reported engine and brake failures means a used Tucson demands a thorough mechanical inspection.
Chevrolet Silverado
The Chevrolet Silverado is a full-size pickup that averages roughly 823 complaints per year, more than double the Tucson's rate. Owner reports frequently mention engine shutdowns, transmission failures, and electrical glitches that can disable braking or cause the truck to stall. With 101 recalls and higher crash and injury counts, the Silverado's complexity and heavier use profile contribute to a broader range of potential problems.
The numbers
Side-by-side NHTSA record
Lower is better in every category. The highlighted cell is the stronger result.
| Category | Hyundai Tucson | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| Total complaintsAll model years combined | 3,112 Better | 8,227 |
| Safety recallsFederal recall campaigns | 27 Better | 101 |
| Crash reportsCrash-related complaints | 147 Better | 233 |
| Complaints per yearAveraged across model years | 311.2 Better | 822.7 |
| Reported injuriesTied to owner complaints | 137 Better | 160 |
| Reported deathsTied to owner complaints | 1 Better | 3 |
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.
Hyundai Tucson
- 01ENGINE1,315
- 02POWER TRAIN549
- 03UNKNOWN OR OTHER430
- 04SERVICE BRAKES387
- 05ELECTRICAL SYSTEM367
Owners report stalling while driving, often preceded by a flashing check engine light, and engine knocking that can lead to towed vehicles. These symptoms suggest potential internal engine damage or sensor failures that may require costly repairs.
Complaints include steering columns that remain locked after starting and catalytic converter efficiency failures. A locked steering column is an immediate safety risk, while catalytic converter issues can cause emissions test failures and reduced performance.
Drivers describe a hissing or buzzing noise when braking at low speeds and a soft brake pedal that can lead to reduced braking power. This pattern points to possible brake booster or ABS module problems that should be addressed promptly.
Reports include air conditioning systems that stop working entirely, sometimes requiring replacement of multiple components without a fix. Electrical gremlins like this can be frustrating and expensive to diagnose.
“My family’s safety is at serious risk with my 2021 Hyundai Tucson, which I’ve owned only 55 days. This vehicle has stalled three times while driving, putting me and my two young children in immediate danger. Each time, the car operated normally until a flashi…”
“I was driving down [XXX] from my house.My engine light started to flash.I tried to accelerate my car barely went 10 miles an hour.I got Home 2 minutes later.There was major knocking.I had the car towed to [XXX], Hyundai, the only code that is showing up on th…”
Chevrolet Silverado
- 01ENGINE2,521
- 02POWER TRAIN2,347
- 03ELECTRICAL SYSTEM1,513
- 04SERVICE BRAKES1,222
- 05UNKNOWN OR OTHER858
Owners of newer Silverado models report engine shutdowns while driving, sometimes with messages like 'Return to Neutral' appearing on the dash. Diesel models have also experienced repeated diesel particulate filter soot accumulation events requiring dealer service.
Complaints include transmissions that suddenly shift into neutral and electronic issues that prevent acceleration. These failures can occur at low speeds, such as in parking garages, and may leave the vehicle unable to move.
Drivers report sudden loss of normal braking, with a firm pedal but reduced stopping power, as well as screens going blank and engine shut-offs. These electrical faults can disable critical safety systems without warning.
Similar to electrical complaints, owners describe brake pedal firmness with ineffective braking, often linked to electronic control module failures. This can make stopping distances longer and increase crash risk.
“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.
Hyundai Tucson — 27 recalls
The defect: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2024 Tucson and Santa Cruz vehicles. The circuit board in the motor-driven power steering assembly may short circuit, resulting in a loss of power steering assist.
The risk: A loss of power steering assist can increase the risk of a crash.
The fix: Dealers will replace the motor-driven power steering electric power pack, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 11, 2024. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall…
The defect: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2024 Tucson vehicles. The tire and loading information label may incorrectly indicate information about a spare tire. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selectio…
The risk: A label that incorrectly states spare tire pressure when there is no spare tire on-board may cause confusion during an emergency tire replacement, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
The fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the tire and loading information label, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 5, 2023. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's numbe…
The defect: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) recalled certain 2019-2021 Tucson vehicles on September 4, 2020. On December 30, 2020, Hyundai expanded the recall population, and added certain 2016-2018 Tucson vehicles. The Anti-lock Brake Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) could corrode internally and cause…
The risk: An engine compartment fire can increase the risk of injury or crash.
The fix: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the HECU fuse. For 2019-2021 model years, the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) software will also be updated. Recall repairs will be performed free of charge. Owners are advised to par…
The defect: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Palisade Tucson, 2023 Sonata, Elantra, and Kona vehicles. The electronic controller for the Idle Stop & Go oil pump assembly may contain damaged electrical components that can cause the pump controller to overheat.
The risk: An electric oil pump assembly that overheats increases the risk of a vehicle fire.
The fix: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will inspect and replace the electric oil pump controller, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed starti…
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
Hyundai Tucson or Chevrolet Silverado: which should you buy?
The Hyundai Tucson has far fewer complaints per year (about 311) compared to the Chevrolet Silverado (about 823), suggesting the Tucson may have fewer reported issues overall. However, both vehicles have serious reported problems, so the difference means a used Tucson might require less frequent attention, but neither should be bought without a careful inspection.
Key differences
- The Silverado has more than double the annual complaint rate of the Tucson, with engine and power train issues being the most common for both.
- Tucson owners frequently report stalling and engine knocking, while Silverado owners describe engine shutdowns and transmission neutral drops.
- Brake-related complaints on the Silverado often involve electronic failures causing loss of braking, whereas Tucson brake issues tend to be noise and soft pedal.
- The Silverado has 101 recalls versus 27 for the Tucson, indicating a wider range of potential safety fixes.
- Check for any history of engine stalling or flashing check engine lights; test drive at various speeds and listen for knocking.
- Inspect the steering column for proper unlock and function after starting, and test the brakes for softness or unusual noises at low speeds.
- Look for signs of transmission issues, such as delayed engagement or sudden neutral shifts, especially during low-speed maneuvers.
- Test all electrical systems, including brakes, infotainment, and driver displays, for intermittent failures or warning messages.
Before you buy
- Obtain a full vehicle history report and check for open recalls on both models using the NHTSA VIN lookup.
- Have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection focusing on engine, transmission, and brake systems.
- During the test drive, pay attention to any hesitation, stalling, or unusual noises from the engine and transmission.
- Verify that all electrical components, including brakes, lights, and infotainment, function correctly without warning lights.
- Ask the seller for maintenance records, especially for oil changes and any repairs related to engine or transmission.
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 | Hyundai Tucson | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 90 | 120 |
| 2025 | 287 | 157 |
| 2024 | 97 | 527 |
| 2023 | 134 | 450 |
| 2022 | 383 | 1390 |
| 2021 | 79 | 961 |
| 2020 | 178 | 868 |
| 2019 | 380 | 2003 |
| 2018 | 396 | 597 |
| 2017 | 1088 | 1154 |
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 Hyundai Tucson or Chevrolet Silverado in front of you — accident history, open recalls and title records.
Go deeper
Full reliability reports
- Comparison
- Hyundai Tucson vs Chevrolet Silverado
- Hyundai Tucson total complaints
- 3,112
- Chevrolet Silverado total complaints
- 8,227
- Hyundai Tucson total recalls
- 27
- Chevrolet Silverado total recalls
- 101
- Hyundai Tucson avg complaints/year
- 311.2
- Chevrolet Silverado avg complaints/year
- 822.7
- More reliable overall
- Hyundai Tucson
- Hyundai Tucson top complaint area
- ENGINE
- Chevrolet Silverado top complaint area
- ENGINE