Head-to-head reliability
Hyundai Veracruz vs Chevrolet Silverado
How the Hyundai Veracruz 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 Veracruz vs Chevrolet Silverado: The Veracruz averaged 94 complaints per year over 7 years, while the Silverado averaged 510 over 10 years. The Veracruz had 30 recalls and 14 crash-related complaints; the Silverado had 100 recalls and 117 crash-related complaints. Both have engine and electrical issues, but the Silverado also shows many power train problems. Source: NHTSA owner complaints.
The picture
Is the Hyundai Veracruz or Chevrolet Silverado more reliable?
A plain-English read on what the NHTSA record says about living with each vehicle.
Hyundai Veracruz
The Hyundai Veracruz is a mid-size SUV that, based on owner complaints, can be a mixed bag in terms of reliability. Over 7 years, it averaged about 94 complaints per year, with the most common issues involving the electrical system, engine, and engine cooling. Many owners report stalling, warning lights, and brake problems, and there are 30 recalls to be aware of. While not the most complaint-heavy vehicle, it still requires careful maintenance and attention to potential electrical and engine faults.
Chevrolet Silverado
The Chevrolet Silverado is a full-size pickup that sees heavy use, and its complaint volume reflects that: over 10 years, it averaged about 510 complaints per year, with engine and power train issues dominating. Owners frequently report serious problems like sudden loss of power, transmission failures, and brake issues, and there are 100 recalls. With 117 crash-related complaints and 1 death, it's clear that some defects can have severe consequences. This is a vehicle that demands diligent upkeep and awareness of common failure points.
The numbers
Side-by-side NHTSA record
Lower is better in every category. The highlighted cell is the stronger result.
| Category | Hyundai Veracruz | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| Total complaintsAll model years combined | 659 Better | 5,105 |
| Safety recallsFederal recall campaigns | 30 Better | 100 |
| Crash reportsCrash-related complaints | 14 Better | 117 |
| Complaints per yearAveraged across model years | 94.1 Better | 510.5 |
| Reported injuriesTied to owner complaints | 25 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.
Hyundai Veracruz
- 01ELECTRICAL SYSTEM185
- 02ENGINE178
- 03ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING153
- 04SERVICE BRAKES91
- 05ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)51
Owners report warning lights (ABS, seatbelt, and others) illuminating and the vehicle stalling, often at speeds around 40-45 MPH. This can leave you stranded and may indicate underlying issues with sensors or wiring.
Complaints include unusual noises, loss of power, and the vehicle slowing down with warning lights. Some owners have had to visit mechanics for repairs, suggesting potential problems with engine components or sensors.
Similar to engine issues, owners describe stalling and warning lights, often overlapping with engine complaints. This points to possible cooling system or sensor failures that can cause sudden breakdowns.
Owners have received recall notices for brake issues, but parts were sometimes unavailable, delaying repairs. This means brake problems may persist, affecting stopping reliability.
“I have received three recall letters form Hyundai VeraCruz regarding an interim recall in January 2021, March 2021 and May 2021. I had the vehicle in for mechanical repairs to the rear brake system in Late February 2021 and was informed there was several leak…”
“The contact owns a 2009 Hyundai Veracruz. The contact stated that while driving at 40-45 MPH, the ABS warning light, seatbelt warning light, and other unknown warning lights illuminated, and the vehicle stalled. The contact veered to the side of the road but…”
Chevrolet Silverado
- 01ENGINE1,698
- 02POWER TRAIN1,453
- 03ELECTRICAL SYSTEM982
- 04SERVICE BRAKES691
- 05UNKNOWN OR OTHER542
Owners report severe issues like rough running, loss of motive power, and abnormal noises, even on new vehicles with low mileage. Some cases involve diesel particulate filter problems requiring dealer service.
Complaints include sudden shifting into neutral, loss of power, and transmission failures. These can happen at low speeds or while driving, posing safety risks.
Owners describe sudden loss of braking, with a firm pedal but reduced stopping power, as well as warning lights and inoperable steering. These electrical glitches can compromise critical functions.
Braking problems are reported, including loss of normal braking and recalls for brake fluid warning sensors. This can lead to longer stopping distances and increased 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 Veracruz — 30 recalls
The defect: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2007-2012 Veracruz vehicles that were previously recalled under recall number 14V-415. Oil may leak from the front cylinder bank cover gasket, potentially dripping onto the alternator and causing the charging system to become inoperative.
The risk: An inoperative charging system can result in an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the valve cover gasket and repair it as necessary, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed September 7, 2021. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's n…
The defect: Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2007-2012 Veracruz vehicles manufactured from December 26, 2006, through July 24, 2012. The affected vehicles may experience an oil leak from the front cylinder bank valve cover gasket. If there is a sufficient amount of oil dropped on…
The risk: If the alternator is damaged, the charging system warning lamp in the instrument cluster will illuminate, and the engine will lose power and the vehicle will eventually stop operating while being driven. An unexpected failure of motive pow…
The fix: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect/repair or replace the alternator and the front valve cover gasket, free of charge. Hyundai sent out an interim letter to owners on September 3, 2014. Owners may contact Hyundai customer…
The defect: Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2007-2012 Veracruz vehicles manufactured from December 26, 2006, through July 24, 2012. The affected vehicles may experience an oil leak from the front cylinder bank valve cover gasket. If there is a sufficient amount of oil dropped on…
The risk: If the alternator is damaged, the charging system warning lamp in the instrument cluster will illuminate, and the engine will lose power and the vehicle will eventually stop operating while being driven. An unexpected failure of motive pow…
The fix: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect/repair or replace the alternator and the front valve cover gasket, free of charge. Hyundai sent out an interim letter to owners on September 3, 2014. Owners may contact Hyundai customer…
The defect: Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2007-2012 Veracruz vehicles manufactured from December 26, 2006, through July 24, 2012. The affected vehicles may experience an oil leak from the front cylinder bank valve cover gasket. If there is a sufficient amount of oil dropped on…
The risk: If the alternator is damaged, the charging system warning lamp in the instrument cluster will illuminate, and the engine will lose power and the vehicle will eventually stop operating while being driven. An unexpected failure of motive pow…
The fix: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect/repair or replace the alternator and the front valve cover gasket, free of charge. Hyundai sent out an interim letter to owners on September 3, 2014. Owners may contact Hyundai customer…
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
Hyundai Veracruz or Chevrolet Silverado: which should you buy?
The Hyundai Veracruz has far fewer complaints per year (94.1 vs. 510.5) and fewer recalls (30 vs. 100), suggesting it may be less prone to frequent issues. However, the Silverado's higher volume reflects its popularity and heavier use, but also more serious problems like power loss and brake failures. In practice, the Veracruz might be easier to live with day-to-day, but both require vigilance.
Key differences
- The Veracruz averages 94 complaints per year, while the Silverado averages 510, indicating the Silverado has more reported issues overall.
- Engine and electrical problems are common in both, but the Silverado also has many power train complaints, including sudden loss of power and transmission failures.
- The Silverado has 117 crash-related complaints and 1 death, while the Veracruz has 14 crash-related and 0 deaths, suggesting potentially more severe outcomes in the Silverado.
- Recalls are more numerous for the Silverado (100 vs. 30), covering areas like tailgate latches, steering, and brakes, which may require more frequent dealer visits.
- Check for any signs of electrical issues: test all warning lights, ensure no flickering or stalling occurs during a test drive, and ask about any recall repairs for the electrical system.
- Listen for unusual engine noises and check for smooth acceleration; also verify that the brake system has been serviced per recalls, as parts may have been unavailable.
- Test drive at various speeds and pay attention to transmission shifting; any hesitation or sudden neutral engagement is a red flag.
- Inspect brake function carefully: a firm pedal with reduced stopping power could indicate a problem; also check for any pending recalls on brakes and electrical systems.
Before you buy
- Obtain a full vehicle history report and check for open recalls on both models, ensuring all recall repairs are completed.
- Have a mechanic inspect the electrical system, engine, and transmission for any stored trouble codes or pending issues.
- For the Veracruz, specifically test the ABS and warning lights, and check for any stalling during a thorough test drive.
- For the Silverado, test the brakes and transmission under various conditions, and listen for engine noises or power loss.
- Ask the seller for maintenance records, especially for oil changes and any repairs related to known complaint areas.
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 Veracruz or Chevrolet Silverado in front of you — accident history, open recalls and title records.
Go deeper
Full reliability reports
- Comparison
- Hyundai Veracruz vs Chevrolet Silverado
- Hyundai Veracruz total complaints
- 659
- Chevrolet Silverado total complaints
- 5,105
- Hyundai Veracruz total recalls
- 30
- Chevrolet Silverado total recalls
- 100
- Hyundai Veracruz avg complaints/year
- 94.1
- Chevrolet Silverado avg complaints/year
- 510.5
- More reliable overall
- Hyundai Veracruz
- Hyundai Veracruz top complaint area
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Chevrolet Silverado top complaint area
- ENGINE