Head-to-head reliability
Lincoln MARK LT vs Chevrolet Silverado
How the Lincoln MARK LT 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
Lincoln MARK LT vs Chevrolet Silverado: The MARK LT has fewer complaints per year (13.3) than the Silverado (510.5), but owners report sudden stalling and unintended acceleration. The Silverado has more engine and transmission failures, including loss of power. Source: NHTSA owner complaints.
The picture
Is the Lincoln MARK LT or Chevrolet Silverado more reliable?
A plain-English read on what the NHTSA record says about living with each vehicle.
Lincoln MARK LT
The Lincoln MARK LT is a full-size luxury pickup that, in owner reports, shows a pattern of sudden power loss and stalling, often at low speeds or while turning, which can disable power steering and brakes. Owners also describe transmission shuddering and unintended acceleration incidents, making it a vehicle that demands careful inspection and maintenance history review.
Chevrolet Silverado
The Chevrolet Silverado, a popular full-size pickup, has a high volume of complaints concentrated on engine issues, including severe failures like loss of motive power and stalling, as well as transmission problems and electrical glitches that can affect braking. The sheer number of complaints and recalls suggests a broad range of potential issues, but many are isolated to specific model years and engine options.
The numbers
Side-by-side NHTSA record
Lower is better in every category. The highlighted cell is the stronger result.
| Category | Lincoln MARK LT | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| Total complaintsAll model years combined | 40 Better | 5,105 |
| Safety recallsFederal recall campaigns | 5 Better | 100 |
| Crash reportsCrash-related complaints | 8 Better | 117 |
| Complaints per yearAveraged across model years | 13.3 Better | 510.5 |
| Reported injuriesTied to owner complaints | 5 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.
Lincoln MARK LT
- 01POWER TRAIN7
- 02ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING7
- 03ENGINE6
- 04VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL5
- 05SERVICE BRAKES5
Owners report the transmission shudders, causing the whole truck to vibrate, and it may fail to downshift or engage overdrive, forcing the driver to manually shift. This can lead to unexpected slowing and is a safety concern.
Sudden engine stalling without warning, especially at low speeds or while turning, is a common complaint. This can result in loss of power steering and brakes, and in one case, the engine surged and accelerated unintentionally, causing a crash.
Several owners report the accelerator pedal becoming stuck or the vehicle accelerating on its own, even when the brake is applied. This has led to crashes and is a critical safety issue.
While specific brake complaints are fewer, the stalling incidents often render the power brake assist inoperative, making it hard to stop. This is a secondary effect of engine failures.
“IN 2012, WE BOUGHT A USED MARK LT WITH 60K MILES. THE VEHICLE SINCE STALLED TWICE AFTER REACHING 100K+ MILES AND DRAINING TWO BATTERY, SHUTTING DOWN THE ENGINE WITHOUT WARNING AT A LOW SPEED AND WHILE TRYING TO TURN. THIS RENDERED THE BRAKES AND POWER STEERIN…”
“THE TRUCK'S TRANSMISSION SHUTTERS, SO THE WHOLE TRUCK VIBRATES. THIS IS A HUGE SAFETY ISSUE. IT CAUSES THE TRUCK TO SLOW DOWN AND OVERDRIVE DOES NOT KICK IN. SO YOU HAVE TO SLOW DOWN AND FORCE THE TRUCK TO SHIFT. THIS IS A 5.4 TRITON MOTOR. I DID CHANGE THE P…”
Chevrolet Silverado
- 01ENGINE1,698
- 02POWER TRAIN1,453
- 03ELECTRICAL SYSTEM982
- 04SERVICE BRAKES691
- 05UNKNOWN OR OTHER542
Owners report sudden loss of engine power and stalling at highway speeds, sometimes accompanied by loud noises. Some newer models with the 6.2L or Duramax diesel have experienced serious issues like excessive soot accumulation in the diesel particulate filter, requiring dealer intervention.
Transmission problems include sudden shifting into neutral while driving, which can be dangerous, and other erratic behavior. These issues often occur at low mileage, as seen in a 2026 model with less than 300 miles.
Electrical failures can lead to a sudden loss of braking effectiveness, with the brake pedal firm but the vehicle not stopping normally. In some cases, the entire vehicle loses power, affecting brakes and steering.
Brake-related complaints often stem from electrical or engine issues, such as loss of power assist or brake failure warnings. Owners describe sudden severe loss of braking, which is a critical safety concern.
“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.
Lincoln MARK LT — 5 recalls
The defect: FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004-2006 F-150 PICK UP TRUCKS AS WELL AS CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2006 LINCOLN MARK LT VEHICLES. IF THE CLOCKSPRING JUMPER WIRE COMES IN CONTACT WITH THE DRIVER SIDE FRONTAL AIR BAG LOWER HORN PLATE, THE WIRE INSULATION MAY BECOME CHAFED, CREATING A POTENTIAL FOR A S…
The risk: THE DRIVER SIDE FRONTAL AIR BAG COULD INADVERTENTLY DEPLOY INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY OR LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL IF OCCURRING WHILE IN MOTION.
The fix: FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND INSTRUCT THEM TO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO A FORD OR LINCOLN/MERCURY DEALER TO HAVE A NEW CLOCKSPRING JUMPER WIRE INSTALLED THAT INCORPORATES A PROTECTIVE MESH COVER. REPAIRS WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THIS…
The defect: CERTAIN AFTERMARKET FUEL FILTERS SOLD UNDER THE PUROLATOR BRAND NAME, P/N F65277, SHIPPED FROM JANUARY 16 THROUGH JUNE 2, 2006, FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. DUE TO INCORRECT DESIGN, THE QUICK CONNECTORS MAY NOT FULLY SEAT WITH THE TUBE INTERFACE, EVEN THOUGH THE PERSON MAKING THE…
The risk: FAILURE OF THIS CONNECTION COULD LEAD TO FUEL SPILLAGE AND, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
The fix: UFI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 4, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT UFI FILTERS USA AT 800-230-5876.
The defect: FORD IS RECALLING 605,684 MY 2005-2006 F-150 AND LINCOLN MARK LT VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 5.4L 3-VALVE ENGINES. THE BRAKE BOOSTER VACUUM SUPPLY HOSE ATTACHED TO THE INTAKE MANIFOLD FITTING MAY SWELL OVER TIME AND LOSE RETENTION FORCE. THIS CONDITION COULD ALLOW THE HOSE TO BECOME DETACHED FROM THE FI…
The risk: ONCE THE BRAKE BOOSTER VACUUM RESERVE IS DEPLETED, THE DRIVER WILL HAVE FOUNDATION BRAKE FUNCTION, BUT WITH INCREASED BRAKE PEDAL EFFORT. REDUCED VEHICLE BRAKING COULD LEAD TO A CRASH.
The fix: DEALERS WILL REPLACE A RUBBER HOSE ON THE BRAKE BOOSTER VACUUM SUPPLY TUBE ASSEMBLY. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 27, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
The defect: CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH EITHER THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD (FMVSS) NO. 105, 'HYDRAULIC AND ELECTRIC BRAKE SYSTEMS' OR FMVSS NO. 135, 'PASSENGER CAR BRAKE SYSTEMS.' THESE VEHICLES WERE BUILT WITH A SOFTWARE ERROR IN THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER.
The risk: THIS ERROR COULD PREVENT THE ANTILOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS) WARNING LIGHT FROM ILLUMINATING IF THE ABS MODULE EVER BECAME INOPERATIVE.
The fix: DEALERS WILL RECALIBRATE THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER IN THESE VEHICLES. THE RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 27, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
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
Lincoln MARK LT or Chevrolet Silverado: which should you buy?
The Lincoln MARK LT has far fewer complaints per year (13.3) compared to the Chevrolet Silverado (510.5), but its issues are more concentrated on sudden power loss and unintended acceleration, which are serious safety risks. The Silverado's higher volume reflects its popularity, but the nature of its engine and transmission failures can also be severe.
Key differences
- The MARK LT has fewer complaints overall but a higher proportion of sudden stalling and unintended acceleration reports, which are critical safety issues.
- The Silverado has a much larger sample size, with engine issues dominating, including severe failures like loss of power and stalling, but also many other component problems.
- The MARK LT's recalls include air bag inflators and fuel system issues, while the Silverado's recalls cover tailgate latches, steering, and brake fluid sensors.
- The Silverado's complaints include newer models (2026) with low mileage, indicating potential early failures, whereas the MARK LT's complaints are from older models (2006-2007).
- Inspect for any history of stalling or engine shutdown, especially at low speeds or during turns, and check the battery and charging system.
- Test the transmission for shuddering or delayed shifting, and verify that the accelerator pedal is not sticky or prone to unintended acceleration.
- Check for any engine-related recalls or service bulletins, and listen for abnormal engine noises or loss of power during a test drive.
- Verify the transmission shifts smoothly and does not slip into neutral unexpectedly, and test the brakes for any loss of effectiveness.
Before you buy
- Obtain a vehicle history report and check for open recalls on both models.
- Have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection, focusing on the engine, transmission, and electrical systems.
- Test drive at various speeds, including low-speed turns and highway merging, to check for stalling or hesitation.
- Check the brake system for any warning lights or unusual pedal feel.
- For the Silverado, research specific model years and engine options known for issues, such as the 6.2L or Duramax diesel.
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 Lincoln MARK LT or Chevrolet Silverado in front of you — accident history, open recalls and title records.
Go deeper
Full reliability reports
- Comparison
- Lincoln MARK LT vs Chevrolet Silverado
- Lincoln MARK LT total complaints
- 40
- Chevrolet Silverado total complaints
- 5,105
- Lincoln MARK LT total recalls
- 5
- Chevrolet Silverado total recalls
- 100
- Lincoln MARK LT avg complaints/year
- 13.3
- Chevrolet Silverado avg complaints/year
- 510.5
- More reliable overall
- Lincoln MARK LT
- Lincoln MARK LT top complaint area
- POWER TRAIN
- Chevrolet Silverado top complaint area
- ENGINE