Head-to-head reliability
RAM Promaster 1500 vs Chevrolet Silverado
How the RAM Promaster 1500 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
RAM Promaster 1500 vs Chevrolet Silverado: Over 10 years, the Promaster 1500 has 5 complaints and 0 recalls, while the Silverado has 5,105 complaints and 100 recalls. The Silverado also reports 117 crash-related complaints and 104 injuries. This suggests the Promaster has far fewer reported issues, but the Silverado's higher volume may reflect greater popularity. Source: NHTSA owner complaints.
The picture
Is the RAM Promaster 1500 or Chevrolet Silverado more reliable?
A plain-English read on what the NHTSA record says about living with each vehicle.
RAM Promaster 1500
The RAM Promaster 1500 is a full-size van often converted into campers or used for commercial work. Over ten years, it has only 5 owner complaints and no recalls, suggesting very few reported problems. The complaints that do exist cover a mix of areas, from backup cameras to propane systems in converted models. Overall, it appears to have a low complaint rate, but the small number means each report is significant.
Chevrolet Silverado
The Chevrolet Silverado is a full-size pickup available in many configurations, from work trucks to luxury models. It has a massive 5,105 complaints and 100 recalls over ten years, with 117 crash-related reports and 104 injuries. The most common issues involve the engine, transmission, electrical system, and brakes. This high volume of complaints indicates that many owners experience significant problems, sometimes shortly after purchase.
The numbers
Side-by-side NHTSA record
Lower is better in every category. The highlighted cell is the stronger result.
| Category | RAM Promaster 1500 | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| Total complaintsAll model years combined | 5 Better | 5,105 |
| Safety recallsFederal recall campaigns | 0 Better | 100 |
| Crash reportsCrash-related complaints | 0 Better | 117 |
| Complaints per yearAveraged across model years | 0.5 Better | 510.5 |
| Reported injuriesTied to owner complaints | 0 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.
RAM Promaster 1500
- 01UNKNOWN OR OTHER2
- 02POWER TRAIN1
- 03EQUIPMENT1
- 04VISIBILITY1
- 05STRUCTURE1
Owners report issues with aftermarket camper conversions, such as propane tank connections using Teflon tape, which could lead to leaks. Also, backup cameras may show the floor instead of obstacles, and parking grid lines can disappear. These problems affect safety and usability, especially in converted vans.
One owner mentioned a recall for a power train issue (NHTSA Campaign 23V301000) but the repair part was not available, leaving the problem unresolved. This could mean delays in getting a critical fix, potentially affecting vehicle operation.
A solar panel fractured and detached while driving at night, which could cause a hazard for other drivers. This highlights the importance of checking aftermarket equipment installations.
In some 2023 models, the driver's side A-pillar trim can block the side view mirror, reducing visibility. This creates a blind spot that could make lane changes riskier.
“This vehicle was transformed into a Solis Pocket 36A motorhome by Winnebago in 2022. This, as well as many others converted by Winnebago in 2023 abs 2024 as well, contains a propane tank, heater, and 2 burner stovetop. They used Teflon tape on propane connect…”
“The rear backup camera does not work correctly. The picture is of the floor and not the obstacle directly behind the vehicle. Also, the grid lines that assist in parking no longer appear. Yes - this vehicle is available for inspection. It is a safety issue be…”
Chevrolet Silverado
- 01ENGINE1,698
- 02POWER TRAIN1,453
- 03ELECTRICAL SYSTEM982
- 04SERVICE BRAKES691
- 05UNKNOWN OR OTHER542
Owners of 2026 models with the 6.2L or 6.6L Duramax report severe engine issues, including loss of power and diesel particulate filter soot accumulation requiring dealer service. These failures can leave families stranded and lead to costly repairs.
Complaints include sudden shifting into neutral while driving slowly, and transmission problems that cause loss of motive power. This can be dangerous in traffic or parking situations.
Reports describe sudden loss of braking assistance, with a firm pedal but reduced stopping power, and engine pinging followed by loss of power, brakes, and steering. These electrical glitches can compromise critical safety systems.
Owners report severe loss of normal braking, where the vehicle won't stop as expected. This is a major safety concern, especially when driving with children or in heavy traffic.
“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.
RAM Promaster 1500
No recalls on record.
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
RAM Promaster 1500 or Chevrolet Silverado: which should you buy?
The RAM Promaster 1500 has far fewer issues per year (0.5 complaints/year) compared to the Chevrolet Silverado (510.5 complaints/year). In practice, this means a Promaster owner is much less likely to experience frequent problems, while Silverado owners face a high chance of encountering engine, transmission, or brake issues. However, the Promaster's low complaint count may also reflect lower sales volume or different usage patterns.
Key differences
- Complaint volume: Silverado has 5,105 complaints vs. Promaster's 5 over 10 years, indicating vastly different reported reliability experiences.
- Recalls: Silverado has 100 recalls, including tailgate latches and brake fluid warnings, while Promaster has none on record.
- Crash/injury reports: Silverado has 117 crash-related complaints and 104 injuries; Promaster has zero, though this may be due to lower volume.
- Common failure areas: Silverado complaints cluster around engine, power train, electrical, and brakes; Promaster complaints are scattered across unknown, power train, equipment, and visibility.
- Inspect any aftermarket camper conversion, especially propane connections and solar panel mounts, for proper installation and leaks.
- Test the backup camera and parking grid lines; ensure the image is clear and not showing the floor, and that A-pillar trim does not block the side mirror.
- Check for engine issues like rough running, pinging, or loss of power, especially in 2026 models with 6.2L or 6.6L Duramax engines.
- Test brakes thoroughly for firm pedal but reduced stopping power, and verify that the transmission does not slip into neutral unexpectedly.
Before you buy
- Obtain a full vehicle history report and check for open recalls using the VIN on NHTSA's website.
- For the Promaster, if converted, have a qualified RV technician inspect propane, electrical, and solar systems.
- For the Silverado, take a long test drive including highway speeds and stop-and-go traffic to check for engine, transmission, and brake issues.
- Ask the seller for maintenance records, especially for oil changes and transmission service.
- Consider a pre-purchase inspection by a mechanic familiar with the specific model and its common problems.
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 | RAM Promaster 1500 | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 0 | 98 |
| 2025 | 0 | 150 |
| 2024 | 0 | 0 |
| 2023 | 1 | 0 |
| 2022 | 0 | 1340 |
| 2021 | 4 | 934 |
| 2020 | 0 | 0 |
| 2019 | 0 | 1992 |
| 2018 | 0 | 591 |
| 2017 | 0 | 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 RAM Promaster 1500 or Chevrolet Silverado in front of you — accident history, open recalls and title records.
Go deeper
Full reliability reports
- Comparison
- RAM Promaster 1500 vs Chevrolet Silverado
- RAM Promaster 1500 total complaints
- 5
- Chevrolet Silverado total complaints
- 5,105
- RAM Promaster 1500 total recalls
- 0
- Chevrolet Silverado total recalls
- 100
- RAM Promaster 1500 avg complaints/year
- 0.5
- Chevrolet Silverado avg complaints/year
- 510.5
- More reliable overall
- RAM Promaster 1500
- RAM Promaster 1500 top complaint area
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Chevrolet Silverado top complaint area
- ENGINE