Vehicle 1

Rivian R1T

112 complaints · 30 recalls

VS

Vehicle 2

Chevrolet Silverado

6,878 complaints · 98 recalls

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

Rivian R1T vs Chevrolet Silverado: The R1T averages 22.4 complaints per year over 5 years, while the Silverado averages 687.8 per year over 10 years. The Silverado has 98 recalls and 206 crash complaints, compared to the R1T's 30 recalls and 10 crash complaints. Source: NHTSA owner complaints.

Category Wins

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

4
Rivian R1T
wins all 4 categories
0
Chevrolet Silverado
no category wins
CategoryRivian R1TChevrolet Silverado
Total Complaints
All years combined
112
✓ lower
6,878
Safety Recalls
Federal campaigns
30
✓ lower
98
Crash Reports
Crash-related complaints
10
✓ lower
206
Avg / Year
Complaints per model year
22.4
✓ lower
687.8

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

Top Problem Areas

Most frequently reported components across all model years.

Rivian R1T

1. AIR BAGS20
2. FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE17
3. SUSPENSION17
4. UNKNOWN OR OTHER16
5. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM13

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 Rivian R1T has far fewer complaints per year (22.4) than the Chevrolet Silverado (687.8), suggesting lower overall issue frequency. However, the R1T's data spans only 5 years, so long-term reliability is less proven.

💡 Buyer Recommendation

If you prioritize fewer reported issues and newer technology, choose the Rivian R1T. If you need a proven, widely serviced truck with lower upfront cost, choose the Chevrolet Silverado, but be prepared for more frequent engine and powertrain complaints.

Key Differences
  • Rivian R1T averages 22.4 complaints/year vs Silverado's 687.8/year.
  • Silverado has 98 recalls vs R1T's 30.
  • Silverado's top issue is ENGINE (2056 complaints); R1T's top is AIR BAGS (20).
  • Silverado has 206 crash complaints; R1T has 10.
⚠ Watch on Rivian R1T
  • Air bag issues (20 complaints) and forward collision avoidance problems (17) are the most common complaints.
  • Suspension issues (17 complaints) may affect ride quality and alignment.
⚠ Watch on Chevrolet Silverado
  • Engine problems dominate with 2056 complaints, including potential stalling or failure.
  • Powertrain issues (1925 complaints) could lead to costly transmission or driveline repairs.
✓ Before You Buy — Checklist
  • Check NHTSA recall status for both vehicles and ensure all recalls are performed.
  • For Rivian: inspect air bag system and forward collision avoidance sensors.
  • For Silverado: review engine and transmission service history; look for signs of powertrain issues.
  • Test drive to assess suspension (Rivian) and brake feel (Silverado).
  • Consider an independent mechanic inspection, especially for the Silverado's engine and powertrain.

Complaints by Model Year

Years available for both vehicles (lower is better).

Rivian R1TChevrolet Silverado
2026
1
45
2025
9
115
2024
7
460
2023
36
375
2022
59
1172
Rivian R1T vs Chevrolet Silverado — comparison facts
Comparison
Rivian R1T vs Chevrolet Silverado
Rivian R1T total complaints
112
Chevrolet Silverado total complaints
6,878
Rivian R1T total recalls
30
Chevrolet Silverado total recalls
98
Rivian R1T avg complaints/year
22.4
Chevrolet Silverado avg complaints/year
687.8
More reliable overall
Rivian R1T
Rivian R1T top complaint area
AIR BAGS
Chevrolet Silverado top complaint area
ENGINE
Source: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration)

Full Reliability Reports

Full Report →

Rivian R1TReliability & Problems

112 complaints · All years · NHTSA data

Full Report →

Chevrolet SilveradoReliability & Problems

6,878 complaints · All years · NHTSA data

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