Head-to-head reliability
Infiniti Q45 vs Chevrolet Silverado
How the Infiniti Q45 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
Infiniti Q45 vs Chevrolet Silverado: The Q45 averaged 7.6 complaints per year over 8 years, with 10 recalls, while the Silverado averaged 510.5 complaints per year over 10 years, with 100 recalls. Both have reported stalling and electrical issues, but the Silverado also has brake and power train complaints. Source: NHTSA owner complaints.
The picture
Is the Infiniti Q45 or Chevrolet Silverado more reliable?
A plain-English read on what the NHTSA record says about living with each vehicle.
Infiniti Q45
The Infiniti Q45 is a luxury sedan that, based on owner complaints, can be a mixed bag in terms of reliability. Over 8 years, it averaged 7.6 complaints per year, with electrical and engine issues being the most common. Owners report stalling, starting problems, and lighting failures that could leave you stranded. While the overall complaint count is low, the nature of these issues suggests that living with a Q45 requires vigilance and a good mechanic.
Chevrolet Silverado
The Chevrolet Silverado is a full-size pickup that, according to NHTSA data, has a much higher volume of complaints—averaging 510.5 per year over 10 years. The most frequent problem areas are the engine, power train, and electrical system, with some owners reporting severe issues like sudden loss of braking or motive power. With 100 recalls and 117 crash-related complaints, the Silverado demands careful attention to safety recalls and maintenance. It's a workhorse, but one that may need more frequent repairs.
The numbers
Side-by-side NHTSA record
Lower is better in every category. The highlighted cell is the stronger result.
| Category | Infiniti Q45 | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| Total complaintsAll model years combined | 61 Better | 5,105 |
| Safety recallsFederal recall campaigns | 10 Better | 100 |
| Crash reportsCrash-related complaints | 4 Better | 117 |
| Complaints per yearAveraged across model years | 7.6 Better | 510.5 |
| Reported injuriesTied to owner complaints | 3 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.
Infiniti Q45
- 01ELECTRICAL SYSTEM11
- 02ENGINE8
- 03EXTERIOR LIGHTING7
- 04VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL7
- 05WHEELS7
Owners report repeated stalling and failure to restart, sometimes while driving, which can put occupants at risk of rear-end collisions. These electrical gremlins can be intermittent and hard to diagnose, potentially leading to costly repairs.
Complaints include the engine shutting off without warning while driving, often with no error code, and difficulty restarting. This can happen every few days, making the car unreliable for daily use.
Low beam headlamp failures, particularly HID ballast issues, have been reported, which can impair nighttime visibility. Owners have had to replace ballasts, sometimes multiple times.
Owners describe delayed acceleration and erratic cruise control behavior, such as the car bucking or dropping speed unexpectedly. This can make merging and passing feel unpredictable.
“2004 INFINITI Q45 LEMON THIS AUTOMOBILE HAS AN IN-SERVICE DATE OF 12-17-04, PURCHASED BY ME ON 02-08-08 AT 26,670 MILES WITH 10 MONTHS REMAINING ON THE TIME WARRANTY THAT'S EXPIRED. IT WAS RETURNED TO MAJOR INFINITI ON 09-29-10 WITH 42,171 MILES ^0,000 WARRAN…”
“MY 2003 INFINITI Q45 REPEATEDLY STALLS [SO FAR, 15+ TIMES] AND OFTEN WILL NOT RESTART [10+ TIMES]. WITH MY FAMILY AND ME IN THE CAR, THE STALLING OF THE CAR PUTS US REPEATEDLY IN JEOPARDY OF A REAR-END COLLISION OR VANDALISM OR BODILY INJURY IN DANGEROUS AREA…”
Chevrolet Silverado
- 01ENGINE1,698
- 02POWER TRAIN1,453
- 03ELECTRICAL SYSTEM982
- 04SERVICE BRAKES691
- 05UNKNOWN OR OTHER542
Many complaints involve engine problems, including loss of power, rough running, and diesel particulate filter issues on Duramax models. Some owners report engine shutdowns at speed, which is a serious safety concern.
Transmission issues are common, such as sudden shifting into neutral or loss of motive power. These problems can occur at low speeds or while driving, leaving the driver unable to accelerate.
Electrical faults can cause a range of symptoms, from brake system failures to engine pinging and loss of steering. These issues often require dealer diagnosis and can be dangerous if they occur while driving.
Owners report sudden loss of braking effectiveness, with a firm pedal but reduced stopping power. This is a critical safety issue that should be addressed immediately if experienced.
“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.
Infiniti Q45 — 10 recalls
The defect: NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2003-2005 INFINITI Q45 VEHICLES. A WIRING CONNECTOR FOR THE SEAT MOUNTED AIRBAG MAY EXPERIENCE INCREASED ELECTRICAL RESISTANCE, RESULTING IN THE NON-DEPLOYMENT OF THE SIDE AIR BAGS.
The risk: NON-DEPLOYMENT OF SIDE AIR BAGS COULD INCREASE THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.
The fix: NISSAN WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL MODIFY THE WIRING CONNECTOR, FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 19, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-647-7261.
The defect: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE BRAKE LAMP SWITCH MAY MALFUNCTION.
The risk: IF THIS OCCURS, THE BRAKE LIGHTS WILL NOT ILLUMINATE WHEN THE BRAKE IS APPLIED, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
The fix: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE BRAKE LAMP SWITCH. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 25, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT INFINITI AT 1-800-662-6200.
The defect: CERTAIN VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE STOP LAMP AND REFLEX REFLECTOR REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, 'LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
The risk: THIS STANDARD IS TO REDUCE CRASHES, INJURIES AND DEATHS BY PROVIDING ADEQUATE ILLUMINATION OF THE ROADWAY, AND BY ENHANCING THE CONSPICUITY OF MOTOR VEHICLES ON THE PUBLIC ROADS SO THAT THEIR PRESENCE IS PERCEIVED AND THEIR SIGNALS UNDERST…
The fix: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE REAR COMBINATION LAMP ASSEMBLIES FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT APRIL 16, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT INFINITI AT 1-800-662-6200.
The defect: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 17 INCH ALLOY WHEELS, THE WHEELS MAY HAVE A CASTING DEFECT FROM WHICH CRACKS COULD PROPAGATE AS THE VEHICLE IS BEING DRIVEN.
The risk: IF A SUFFICIENT NUMBER OF CRACKS DEVELOP, THE WHEEL COULD FAIL AND SEPARATE FROM THE MOUNTING HUB, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
The fix: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THESE WHEELS. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN APRIL 28, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT IN…
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
Infiniti Q45 or Chevrolet Silverado: which should you buy?
The Infiniti Q45 has far fewer complaints per year (7.6) compared to the Chevrolet Silverado (510.5), but both have serious reported issues. In practice, the Q45 may have fewer overall problems, but the Silverado's higher volume means more owners are affected, and some issues are severe. A buyer should weigh the lower frequency against the potential severity.
Key differences
- The Infiniti Q45 averages 7.6 complaints per year, while the Chevrolet Silverado averages 510.5, indicating a much higher volume of owner-reported issues for the Silverado.
- The Q45's top complaints are electrical and engine stalling, whereas the Silverado's top complaints are engine and power train, with some reports of sudden loss of braking or motive power.
- The Silverado has 100 recalls and 117 crash-related complaints, compared to the Q45's 10 recalls and 4 crash-related complaints, suggesting more safety-related actions for the Silverado.
- Both vehicles have reports of stalling or loss of power, but the Silverado's issues often involve more complex systems like the transmission and brakes, which can be costlier to repair.
- Check for any signs of electrical issues, such as intermittent stalling or difficulty starting, and ask for maintenance records related to the starter or battery.
- Inspect the headlights, especially the HID ballasts, for proper function, as failures have been reported and can be expensive to replace.
- Test the brakes thoroughly for any loss of effectiveness or unusual pedal feel, as sudden brake failure has been reported.
- Listen for engine noises and check for any signs of power loss or transmission issues during a test drive, especially at highway speeds.
Before you buy
- Obtain a full vehicle history report and check for open recalls on the NHTSA website for both models.
- Have a certified mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection, focusing on the engine, transmission, and electrical systems.
- For the Q45, test all electrical components, including lights, windows, and accessories, and check for any aftermarket modifications.
- For the Silverado, verify that all recall repairs have been completed, especially those related to brakes, steering, and tailgate latches.
- During a test drive, pay attention to any hesitation, stalling, or unusual noises, and test the brakes and transmission under various conditions.
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 Infiniti Q45 or Chevrolet Silverado in front of you — accident history, open recalls and title records.
Go deeper
Full reliability reports
- Comparison
- Infiniti Q45 vs Chevrolet Silverado
- Infiniti Q45 total complaints
- 61
- Chevrolet Silverado total complaints
- 5,105
- Infiniti Q45 total recalls
- 10
- Chevrolet Silverado total recalls
- 100
- Infiniti Q45 avg complaints/year
- 7.6
- Chevrolet Silverado avg complaints/year
- 510.5
- More reliable overall
- Infiniti Q45
- Infiniti Q45 top complaint area
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Chevrolet Silverado top complaint area
- ENGINE