Head-to-head reliability
Infiniti QX56 vs Chevrolet Silverado
How the Infiniti QX56 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 QX56 vs Chevrolet Silverado: The QX56 has 46.1 complaints per year, with brakes the top issue, while the Silverado has 510.5 per year, led by engine failures. The Silverado also has more crashes (117 vs 18) and injuries (104 vs 14). Source: NHTSA owner complaints.
The picture
Is the Infiniti QX56 or Chevrolet Silverado more reliable?
A plain-English read on what the NHTSA record says about living with each vehicle.
Infiniti QX56
The Infiniti QX56 is a large luxury SUV that, in owner reports, shows a troubling pattern of brake-related incidents, including sudden loss of braking power and delayed response, which can be alarming in everyday driving. Electrical gremlins also surface, with owners describing unexpected no-start situations and instrument panel failures. While the total complaint count is lower than the Silverado's, the nature of the brake issues raises serious safety concerns for a family vehicle.
Chevrolet Silverado
The Chevrolet Silverado, a popular full-size pickup, generates a much higher volume of complaints, with engine and powertrain problems dominating. Owners report catastrophic engine failures, including sudden loss of power and stalling, often at highway speeds, which can be dangerous. Electrical system issues also contribute to braking and steering failures, painting a picture of a vehicle that may be less dependable for heavy-duty use.
The numbers
Side-by-side NHTSA record
Lower is better in every category. The highlighted cell is the stronger result.
| Category | Infiniti QX56 | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| Total complaintsAll model years combined | 461 Better | 5,105 |
| Safety recallsFederal recall campaigns | 30 Better | 100 |
| Crash reportsCrash-related complaints | 18 Better | 117 |
| Complaints per yearAveraged across model years | 46.1 Better | 510.5 |
| Reported injuriesTied to owner complaints | 14 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 QX56
- 01SERVICE BRAKES200
- 02ELECTRICAL SYSTEM59
- 03HYDRAULIC59
- 04ENGINE59
- 05AIR BAGS34
Owners report sudden loss of braking power, delayed brake response, and warning lights like 'VDC OFF' and 'SLIP' illuminating, sometimes while driving at highway speeds. This suggests potential issues with the brake booster, master cylinder, or electronic stability control system, which could increase stopping distances and crash risk.
Multiple complaints describe the SUV failing to start, requiring jumps, even after battery replacement. Others report all instrument panel lights coming on and the vehicle stalling, indicating possible alternator, battery, or wiring harness problems that can leave you stranded.
Some owners mention timing belt/chain failure, which was recalled and repaired, but then subsequent catalytic converter issues. This suggests potential for expensive engine repairs and emissions system problems, especially as the vehicle ages.
“DRIVING DOWN HIGHWAY 421 IN WILKESBORO, NC ON A 45 MPH SECTION OF THE HIGHWAY, MERGED OVER INTO THE TURNING LANE TO TURN LEFT ACROSS TWO LANES OF TRAFFIC. WAITED FOR A BREAK IN TRAFFIC, UPON A BREAK IN TRAFFIC TRIED TO ACCELERATE TO CROSS TRAFFIC, AS VEHICLE…”
“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 INFINITI QX56. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 70 MPH, THE VEHICLE DYNAMIC CONTROL OFF SLIP ON WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED AND STAYED ON UNTIL THE VEHICLE STOPPED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE FAILURE O…”
Chevrolet Silverado
- 01ENGINE1,698
- 02POWER TRAIN1,453
- 03ELECTRICAL SYSTEM982
- 04SERVICE BRAKES691
- 05UNKNOWN OR OTHER542
The most frequent complaints involve engine failures, including sudden loss of motive power, loud pinging noises, and stalling. Owners also report issues with diesel particulate filter (DPF) excessive soot accumulation, requiring repeated dealer visits for regeneration, which can be inconvenient and costly.
Transmission problems are common, with reports of the vehicle suddenly shifting into neutral while driving, especially under load, such as climbing a hill. This can be a serious safety hazard if it occurs in traffic.
Electrical issues often manifest as sudden loss of braking and steering assist, sometimes accompanied by warning messages. This points to potential failures in the vehicle's computer modules or sensors, which can compromise critical safety systems.
Owners describe a severe loss of normal braking with a firm pedal, indicating possible issues with the brake booster or master cylinder. This can lead to extended stopping distances and increase the risk of collisions.
“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 QX56 — 30 recalls
The defect: NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN FRONT AND REAR LOWER LINKS, P/NOS. 54501ZQ00A, 54500ZQ00A, 551A1ZQ00A, 551A0ZQ00A , 54501EA00A, 54500EA00A, 551A1EA500, 551A0EA500, 54501ZR00A, AND 54500ZR00A, SOLD BETWEEN NOVEMBER 25, 2009 AND MAY 14, 2010 AS REPLACEMENT PARTS FOR MODEL YEAR 2004 THROUGH 2010 TITAN, AR…
The risk: IF THE COLLAR WELD SEPARATES, THE VEHICLE HANDLING WILL DETERIORATE, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
The fix: NISSAN WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE ANY AFFECTED LOWER LINK FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 12, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.
The defect: NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2010 TITAN, ARMADA, QX56, FRONTIER, XTERRA, AND PATHFINDER VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM NOVEMBER 19, 2009 THROUGH MARCH 3, 2010. THE LOWER CONTROL LINK ASSEMBLY HAS TWO CYLINDRICAL COLLARS FORMING THE INBOARD ATTACHMENT POINTS TO THE CHASSIS. DUE TO AN IMPROPER…
The risk: IF THE COLLAR WELD SEPARATES, THE VEHICLE HANDLING WILL DETERIORATE, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
The fix: NISSAN WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE VEHICLES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 20, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.
The defect: NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008-2010 TITAN, ARMADA, AND INFINITI QX56, AND MODEL YEAR 2008-2009 NISSAN QUEST VEHICLES. THE BRAKE PEDAL PIVOT PIN END WAS NOT SPIN-FORMED TO SPECIFICATION DURING THE MANUFACTURING PROCESS OF THE BRAKE PEDAL ASSEMBLY. THE PIVOT PIN COULD SLIDE AND CAUSE THE…
The risk: THE DRIVER WILL EXPERIENCE UNUSUAL AND NOTICEABLE LOOSENESS IN THE PEDAL AND A REDUCTION IN BRAKING FORCE INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
The fix: DEALERS WILL INSPECT TO SEE IF THE PIVOT PIN HAD BEEN FORMED PROPERLY AND WILL REPLACE THE BRAKE PEDAL ASSEMBLY IF NECESSARY FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 22, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.
The defect: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2013 Infiniti QX56 vehicles manufactured September 1, 2012, to April 26, 2013, and 2014 Infiniti QX80 vehicles manufactured June 18, 2013, to February 11, 2014. In the affected vehicles, the driver's frontal air bag inflator may ha…
The risk: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's air bag, the incorrect part may block the flow of propellant to the air bag and the air bag's inflator may rupture. The rupture could cause metal fragments to strike and pote…
The fix: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front driver air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on December 1, 2014. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-647-7261.
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 QX56 or Chevrolet Silverado: which should you buy?
The Infiniti QX56 has far fewer complaints per year (46.1) compared to the Chevrolet Silverado (510.5), suggesting a lower rate of reported issues. However, the QX56's brake-related complaints are particularly concerning for safety. In practice, the Silverado's higher volume of engine and powertrain failures may lead to more frequent and costly repairs, while the QX56's issues, though less common, can be more directly safety-critical.
Key differences
- The QX56 has a much lower complaint rate (46.1/yr) than the Silverado (510.5/yr), indicating fewer reported problems overall.
- Brake failures are the top issue on the QX56, with owners reporting sudden loss of braking power, while the Silverado's top issue is engine failure, including loss of power and stalling.
- The Silverado has a higher number of crash-related complaints (117 vs 18) and injuries (104 vs 14), suggesting more severe incidents.
- Electrical system problems on the Silverado often lead to loss of braking and steering, whereas on the QX56 they primarily cause starting and stalling issues.
- Inspect the brake system thoroughly: check for any warning lights, test brake response at various speeds, and have a mechanic examine the brake booster, master cylinder, and ABS module.
- Check the battery and charging system: look for corrosion, test the alternator output, and ensure the battery is relatively new, as owners report frequent no-start issues.
- Listen for any unusual engine noises, especially pinging or knocking, and check for any warning lights related to the engine or emissions. Have a compression test and diagnostic scan performed.
- Test the transmission by driving at various speeds and inclines to ensure it doesn't slip or unexpectedly shift into neutral. Also, check the brake pedal feel for any sponginess or loss of assist.
Before you buy
- Obtain a vehicle history report to check for any open recalls and prior accident damage.
- Have a certified mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection, focusing on brakes, electrical system, and engine/transmission.
- Test drive both vehicles under varied conditions, including highway speeds and stop-and-go traffic, to feel for any hesitation or unusual behavior.
- Check for any pending or stored diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) using an OBD-II scanner.
- Review the maintenance records to see if the timing belt/chain (QX56) or diesel particulate filter (Silverado) has been serviced as needed.
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 QX56 or Chevrolet Silverado in front of you — accident history, open recalls and title records.
Go deeper
Full reliability reports
- Comparison
- Infiniti QX56 vs Chevrolet Silverado
- Infiniti QX56 total complaints
- 461
- Chevrolet Silverado total complaints
- 5,105
- Infiniti QX56 total recalls
- 30
- Chevrolet Silverado total recalls
- 100
- Infiniti QX56 avg complaints/year
- 46.1
- Chevrolet Silverado avg complaints/year
- 510.5
- More reliable overall
- Infiniti QX56
- Infiniti QX56 top complaint area
- SERVICE BRAKES
- Chevrolet Silverado top complaint area
- ENGINE