Head-to-head reliability
Infiniti QX30 vs Chevrolet Silverado
How the Infiniti QX30 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 QX30 vs Chevrolet Silverado: The QX30 averaged 19.3 complaints per year over 3 years, while the Silverado averaged 510.5 per year over 10 years. The QX30 had 8 recalls and 5 crash-related complaints; the Silverado had 100 recalls and 117 crash-related complaints. Source: NHTSA owner complaints.
The picture
Is the Infiniti QX30 or Chevrolet Silverado more reliable?
A plain-English read on what the NHTSA record says about living with each vehicle.
Infiniti QX30
The Infiniti QX30 is a compact luxury SUV that averaged about 19 complaints per year over three years, with 8 recalls. Owners frequently report electrical glitches, airbag concerns, and steering problems, including a transmission that slips into neutral at speed. The low annual complaint rate suggests fewer overall issues, but the severity of some reports—like airbags not deploying in a crash—makes it a vehicle that demands careful inspection.
Chevrolet Silverado
The Chevrolet Silverado is a full-size pickup that averaged about 510 complaints per year over ten years, with 100 recalls. The most common trouble spots are the engine, powertrain, and electrical system, with reports of sudden power loss, transmission failures, and brake problems. The sheer volume of complaints and recalls means owners face a higher likelihood of encountering a serious issue.
The numbers
Side-by-side NHTSA record
Lower is better in every category. The highlighted cell is the stronger result.
| Category | Infiniti QX30 | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| Total complaintsAll model years combined | 58 Better | 5,105 |
| Safety recallsFederal recall campaigns | 8 Better | 100 |
| Crash reportsCrash-related complaints | 5 Better | 117 |
| Complaints per yearAveraged across model years | 19.3 Better | 510.5 |
| Reported injuriesTied to owner complaints | 4 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 QX30
- 01ELECTRICAL SYSTEM18
- 02AIR BAGS16
- 03STEERING11
- 04UNKNOWN OR OTHER9
- 05POWER TRAIN7
Owners report the QX30 slipping into neutral at high speeds without warning, often accompanied by a vague 'Service required' message. This can leave a driver suddenly without power, increasing crash risk.
Complaints include airbags failing to deploy in a collision, as well as concerns about the steering angle sensor affecting airbag performance. Non-deployment in a crash is a critical safety concern.
Some owners describe a significant change in steering feel and difficulty getting recall repairs completed. Steering problems can make the vehicle hard to control, especially at highway speeds.
There are reports of the car rolling backwards while in drive, which could lead to unexpected movement and collisions. This suggests transmission or control module issues that need prompt attention.
“Hello, My 2018 Infiniti QX30 slips into neutral while driving on the road at high speeds and without any warning. The message on the dash is vague “Service required. Do not shift gears. Visit Dealer.” I almost got into an accident more than once while driving…”
“What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? I am not entirely sure what specific part of my car is causing this issue, but from the research I have done regarding other people with my make/model of the ca…”
Chevrolet Silverado
- 01ENGINE1,698
- 02POWER TRAIN1,453
- 03ELECTRICAL SYSTEM982
- 04SERVICE BRAKES691
- 05UNKNOWN OR OTHER542
Owners of newer Silverados report engine failures, including a 6.2L motor that failed shortly after purchase and diesel particulate filter soot accumulation requiring dealer service. These can leave you stranded and lead to costly repairs.
Complaints include the truck suddenly shifting into neutral while driving slowly, causing a loss of power. This can happen in everyday situations like parking garages, posing a risk of rolling or collision.
Reports describe a sudden loss of normal braking and loud engine pinging followed by loss of motive power, brakes, and steering. Such failures at speed are extremely dangerous.
Owners report the brake pedal remaining firm but braking effectiveness severely reduced, making it hard to stop. This could lead to crashes, especially in traffic or at intersections.
“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 QX30 — 8 recalls
The defect: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Nissan Altima, Armada, Frontier, Kicks, Leaf, Maxima, Murano, NV, NV200, Pathfinder, Rogue, Rogue Sport, Sentra, Titan, Titan Diesel, Versa Note and Versa Sedan vehicles, as well as Infiniti Q50, Q60, QX30 and QX80 vehicles. Additio…
The risk: The lack of an image in the back-up camera display increases the risk of a crash.
The fix: Nissan will notify owners in phases, having dealers update the back-up camera settings software, free of charge. The recall began November 11, 2019 and all affected VINs should be activated. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-…
The defect: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2018 Infiniti QX30 vehicles. The bolt securing the right-hand side lower seat belt anchorage may have been incorrectly installed during production. This can result in the lower seat belt anchorage detaching in a crash. As such, these vehicles…
The risk: If the lower seat belt anchorage detaches in a crash, it can increase the risk of injury.
The fix: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will weld in a new retaining plate and secure the seat belt anchorage with a new anchor bolt, free of charge. All vehicles were repaired July 17, 2018. Owners may contact Infiniti customer service at…
The defect: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2017 Infiniti QX30 vehicles. The steering shaft bore hole for the universal joint bearing may allow excessive movement that, over time, could result in the separation of the bearing and universal joint.
The risk: A separated universal joint bearing can cause a loss of steering control and increase the risk of a crash.
The fix: Dealers will replace the lower steering shaft, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 30, 2021. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is PG1CF.
The defect: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Nissan Altima, Armada, Frontier, Kicks, Leaf, Maxima, Murano, NV, NV200, Pathfinder, Rogue, Rogue Sport, Sentra, Titan, Titan Diesel, Versa Note and Versa Sedan vehicles, as well as Infiniti Q50, Q60, QX30 and QX80 vehicles. Additio…
The risk: The lack of an image in the back-up camera display increases the risk of a crash.
The fix: Nissan will notify owners in phases, having dealers update the back-up camera settings software, free of charge. The recall began November 11, 2019 and all affected VINs should be activated. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-…
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 QX30 or Chevrolet Silverado: which should you buy?
The Infiniti QX30 has far fewer issues per year (about 19 vs. 510 for the Silverado), but its problems often involve safety-critical systems like airbags and steering. The Silverado's higher volume means you're more likely to encounter a serious engine, transmission, or brake failure. In practice, the QX30 may have fewer trips to the shop, but the Silverado's issues are more numerous and varied.
Key differences
- The QX30 has about 19 complaints per year, while the Silverado has about 510 per year, a massive difference in reported problem frequency.
- QX30 complaints often involve electrical glitches causing sudden neutral and airbag non-deployment, whereas Silverado complaints frequently cite engine failures and brake loss.
- The Silverado has 100 recalls over 10 years, compared to 8 recalls for the QX30 over 3 years, indicating more widespread safety fixes for the truck.
- Both vehicles have reports of unintended neutral engagement, but the Silverado also has numerous reports of complete power loss and brake failure at speed.
- Check for any history of transmission slipping into neutral or electrical warnings; test drive at highway speeds and note any hesitation or dashboard messages.
- Inspect airbag system and steering angle sensor; ask if recalls for airbags and steering have been performed and get proof of repair.
- Listen for engine pinging or knocking and check for loss of power; scan for diagnostic trouble codes related to the engine and transmission.
- Test brakes thoroughly for firm pedal but reduced stopping power; also check for transmission shifting into neutral unexpectedly during slow maneuvers.
Before you buy
- Obtain a full vehicle history report and confirm all open recalls have been addressed, especially for airbags, steering, and brakes.
- Have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection focusing on the specific problem areas: electrical and airbag systems for the QX30; engine, transmission, and brakes for the Silverado.
- During a test drive, include highway speeds and slow parking maneuvers to check for sudden neutral engagement or power loss.
- Ask the seller for maintenance records and any warranty information, particularly for the Silverado's engine and emissions components.
- Verify that the vehicle's software is up to date, as some issues may be addressed by dealer updates.
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 | Infiniti QX30 | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 3 | 1992 |
| 2018 | 22 | 591 |
| 2017 | 33 | 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 Infiniti QX30 or Chevrolet Silverado in front of you — accident history, open recalls and title records.
Go deeper
Full reliability reports
- Comparison
- Infiniti QX30 vs Chevrolet Silverado
- Infiniti QX30 total complaints
- 58
- Chevrolet Silverado total complaints
- 5,105
- Infiniti QX30 total recalls
- 8
- Chevrolet Silverado total recalls
- 100
- Infiniti QX30 avg complaints/year
- 19.3
- Chevrolet Silverado avg complaints/year
- 510.5
- More reliable overall
- Infiniti QX30
- Infiniti QX30 top complaint area
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Chevrolet Silverado top complaint area
- ENGINE