Vehicle 1

Mazda Mazda5

406 complaints · 15 recalls

VS

Vehicle 2

Chevrolet Silverado

6,878 complaints · 98 recalls

📊 Based on NHTSA owner complaint & recall data
Which Should I Buy?

Mazda Mazda5 vs Chevrolet Silverado: The Mazda has 406 complaints over 10 years (40.6/year) and 15 recalls, while the Silverado has 6878 complaints (687.8/year) and 98 recalls. The Mazda's top issue is steering; the Silverado's is engine. Source: NHTSA owner complaints.

Category Wins

Lower numbers are better for complaints, recalls, and crashes.

4
Mazda Mazda5
wins all 4 categories
0
Chevrolet Silverado
no category wins
CategoryMazda Mazda5Chevrolet Silverado
Total Complaints
All years combined
406
✓ lower
6,878
Safety Recalls
Federal campaigns
15
✓ lower
98
Crash Reports
Crash-related complaints
28
✓ lower
206
Avg / Year
Complaints per model year
40.6
✓ lower
687.8

Source: NHTSA owner complaints & recall records. Lower is better.

Top Problem Areas

Most frequently reported components across all model years.

Mazda Mazda5

1. STEERING101
2. TIRES59
3. SUSPENSION57
4. STRUCTURE36
5. SERVICE BRAKES33

Chevrolet Silverado

1. ENGINE2,056
2. POWER TRAIN1,925
3. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM1,263
4. SERVICE BRAKES1,077
5. UNKNOWN OR OTHER735
🤖
AI Buyer Analysis
DeepSeek interpretation of NHTSA data · cached result
The Verdict

The Mazda Mazda5 has far fewer complaints per year (40.6 vs 687.8) and recalls (15 vs 98), suggesting it may have fewer widespread issues. However, the Chevrolet Silverado's higher numbers could reflect its larger sales volume and longer production history.

💡 Buyer Recommendation

If you prioritize reliability and lower risk of major repairs, choose the Mazda Mazda5. If you need a full-size truck for towing or hauling, choose the Chevrolet Silverado but budget for potential engine or powertrain issues.

Key Differences
  • Mazda Mazda5 averages 40.6 complaints/year vs Chevrolet Silverado's 687.8/year.
  • Chevrolet Silverado has 98 recalls vs Mazda Mazda5's 15.
  • Top Mazda issue is steering (101 complaints); top Chevy issue is engine (2056 complaints).
  • Chevrolet Silverado has 206 crash complaints vs Mazda Mazda5's 28.
⚠ Watch on Mazda Mazda5
  • Watch for steering problems, which are the most common complaint (101).
  • Check for tire and suspension issues (59 and 57 complaints respectively).
⚠ Watch on Chevrolet Silverado
  • Engine and powertrain issues are very common (2056 and 1925 complaints).
  • Electrical system problems are also frequent (1263 complaints).
✓ Before You Buy — Checklist
  • Get a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic.
  • Check NHTSA recall history for both vehicles.
  • Test drive and listen for unusual noises from steering or engine.
  • Review service records for any major repairs.
  • Consider a vehicle history report for accident or flood damage.
Mazda Mazda5 vs Chevrolet Silverado — comparison facts
Comparison
Mazda Mazda5 vs Chevrolet Silverado
Mazda Mazda5 total complaints
406
Chevrolet Silverado total complaints
6,878
Mazda Mazda5 total recalls
15
Chevrolet Silverado total recalls
98
Mazda Mazda5 avg complaints/year
40.6
Chevrolet Silverado avg complaints/year
687.8
More reliable overall
Mazda Mazda5
Mazda Mazda5 top complaint area
STEERING
Chevrolet Silverado top complaint area
ENGINE
Source: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration)

Full Reliability Reports

Full Report →

Mazda Mazda5Reliability & Problems

406 complaints · All years · NHTSA data

Full Report →

Chevrolet SilveradoReliability & Problems

6,878 complaints · All years · NHTSA data

Buying a specific Mazda Mazda5 or Chevrolet Silverado?

Run a free VIN check to see that exact car's accident history, open recalls, and title records.