Head-to-head reliability
Saturn LS vs Chevrolet Silverado
How the Saturn LS 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
Saturn LS vs Chevrolet Silverado: The Saturn LS averaged 139 complaints per year over 3 years, while the Silverado averaged 511 per year over 10 years. The Saturn LS had 16 recalls and 10 crash-related complaints; the Silverado had 100 recalls and 117 crash-related complaints. Both show serious issues, but the Silverado's higher volume suggests more frequent problems. Source: NHTSA owner complaints.
The picture
Is the Saturn LS or Chevrolet Silverado more reliable?
A plain-English read on what the NHTSA record says about living with each vehicle.
Saturn LS
The Saturn LS is a mid-size sedan that, based on owner complaints, demands close attention to its engine and electrical systems. Over three years, it averaged about 139 complaints per year, with the most frequent issues involving the engine, electrical system, and exterior lighting. Many reports describe serious failures like a broken timing chain that can destroy the engine, and rusted subframes that affect steering. Buyers should expect a car that may need major repairs unless it has been well maintained.
Chevrolet Silverado
The Chevrolet Silverado is a full-size pickup that, according to NHTSA data, generates a high volume of complaints—about 511 per year over ten years. The most common problem areas are the engine, power train, electrical system, and service brakes. Owners report issues ranging from engine knocking and loss of power to sudden brake failure and transmission problems. While some complaints involve newer models, the pattern suggests that many Silverados may require significant repairs over their lifetime.
The numbers
Side-by-side NHTSA record
Lower is better in every category. The highlighted cell is the stronger result.
| Category | Saturn LS | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| Total complaintsAll model years combined | 416 Better | 5,105 |
| Safety recallsFederal recall campaigns | 16 Better | 100 |
| Crash reportsCrash-related complaints | 10 Better | 117 |
| Complaints per yearAveraged across model years | 138.7 Better | 510.5 |
| Reported injuriesTied to owner complaints | 16 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.
Saturn LS
- 01ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING143
- 02ELECTRICAL SYSTEM65
- 03EXTERIOR LIGHTING62
- 04STEERING35
- 05STRUCTURE29
Owners frequently report timing chain failure, often preceded by a rattling or slapping noise. This can cause sudden engine shutdown and extensive internal damage, leaving the car undrivable and requiring a costly rebuild or replacement.
Complaints include tail lights that repeatedly go out and cannot be fixed with simple bulb or fuse changes. This can lead to reduced visibility and potential safety risks, especially at night.
Many owners report brake lights and tail lights that fail prematurely or intermittently. This is a safety concern because other drivers may not see the vehicle braking or turning.
Some owners describe the front subframe rusting through completely, causing the steering to become uncontrollable. This is a severe structural issue that can lead to loss of control and is expensive to repair.
“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS 2000 SATURN L-SERIES SEDAN. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO DECELERATE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE TECHNICIAN STATED THE TIMING CHAIN FRACTURED CAUSING DAMAGE TO TH…”
“ENGINE BEGAN HAVING A SLOW KNOCKING NOISE, PRIOR TO THAT I WOULD HEAR A NOISE OF THE CHAIN SLAPPING, WHICH I WAS EXPLAINED TO BY SATURN THAT THIS WAS NORMAL IN MY VEHICLE. DROVE THE VEHICLE HOME THEN WHILE I WAS PARKING, HEARD A LOUD BANG AND WHEN I GOT OUT -…”
Chevrolet Silverado
- 01ENGINE1,698
- 02POWER TRAIN1,453
- 03ELECTRICAL SYSTEM982
- 04SERVICE BRAKES691
- 05UNKNOWN OR OTHER542
Owners report a range of engine problems, from rough running and knocking to sudden loss of power. In some cases, the engine shuts down while driving, which can be dangerous and leave the truck stranded.
Complaints include transmissions that suddenly shift into neutral or fail to engage, especially at low speeds. This can cause the vehicle to lose motive power unexpectedly, increasing the risk of a crash.
Electrical issues can cause a sudden loss of braking assistance, with the brake pedal becoming firm but ineffective. This is a critical safety concern because it can prevent the truck from stopping normally.
Owners describe brake problems such as a firm pedal with reduced stopping power, sometimes accompanied by warning lights. These issues can lead to longer stopping distances and potential 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.
Saturn LS — 16 recalls
The defect: ON CERTAIN SEDANS AND WAGONS, THE PLASTIC HOUSING IN THE REAR TAIL LAMP ASSEMBLY CAN BECOME DISTORTED IF THE BRAKE LAMPS REMAIN ON FOR AN EXTENDED TIME.
The risk: THIS CAN CAUSE (1) AN INTERMITTENTLY INOPERATIVE BRAKE/TAIL LAMP BULB OR (2) A SHORT CIRCUIT THAT OPENS A FUSE CAUSING INOPERATIVE BRAKE LAMPS (INCLUDING THE CENTER HIGH-MOUNTED STOP LAMP) OR TAIL LAMPS. A FOLLOWING DRIVER MAY NOT KNOW WHE…
The fix: DEALERS WILL INSTALL TWO NEW TAIL LAMP REINFORCING SOCKET ADAPTERS AND SOCKETS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 17, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SATURN AT 1-800-972-8876.
The defect: CERTAIN WAGONS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 210, "SEAT BELT ASSEMBLY ANCHORAGES." THE SEAT BELT ANCHOR MAY SEPARATE FROM THE FLOOR OF THE VEHICLE BEFORE HOLDING THE REQUIRED TEST LOAD FOR THE REQUIRED TIME.
The risk: IF A SEPARATION OCCURRED IN CRASH, THE RIGHT AND CENTER REAR SEAT OCCUPANTS MAY NOT BE PROPERLY RESTRAINED, INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.
The fix: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A REAR SEAT CENTER BELT ANCHOR REINFORCEMENT PLATE TO THE FLOOR PAN OF THE VEHICLE FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 25, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SATURN AT 1-800-972-8876.
The defect: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 2.2L L4 (L61) ENGINES, A FAILURE OF THE IGNITION CONTROL MODULE MAY CAUSE DETERIORATION IN IDLE QUALITY, REDUCTION IN OVERALL ENGINE POWER, AND THE VEHICLE MAY BE HARD TO START. CONTINUED OPERATION OF THE VEHICLE AFTER SUCH AN IGNITION MODULE FAILURE WILL…
The risk: FAILURE OF THE RESONATOR WILL CAUSE INCREASED EXHAUST NOISE. PROLONGED OPERATION OF THE VEHICLE FOLLOWING A RESONATOR FAILURE MAY LEAD TO A FIRE.
The fix: DEALERS WILL (1) REPLACE THE IGNITION CONTROL MODULE, (2) REPLACE THE IGNITION CONTROL MODULE AND SPARK PLUGS, OR (3) REPLACE THE IGNITION CONTROL MODULE, SPARK PLUGS, AND UPDATE THE POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE CALIBRATION. OWNER NOTIFICATIO…
The defect: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A 2.2L 4-CYLINDER ENGINE, LINKS IN THE ENGINE'S TIMING CHAIN CAN SEPARATE.
The risk: IF A TIMING CHAIN LINK SEPARATES WHILE THE ENGINE IS RUNNING, THE ENGINE WILL STALL AND WILL NOT RESTART INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
The fix: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE TIMING CHAIN FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 15, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SATURN AT 1-800-972-8876.
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
Saturn LS or Chevrolet Silverado: which should you buy?
The Saturn LS has far fewer complaints per year (about 139) compared to the Chevrolet Silverado (about 511). However, the Saturn's complaints often involve severe, disabling failures like timing chain breakage and subframe rust, while the Silverado's higher volume includes many different issues across major systems. In practice, the Saturn may be cheaper to buy but could require major repairs sooner, whereas the Silverado's problems are more numerous but may be spread across a larger population of trucks.
Key differences
- The Saturn LS has about 139 complaints per year, while the Silverado has about 511 per year, indicating a much higher complaint rate for the Silverado.
- Saturn LS owners most often report engine timing chain failure and rusted subframes, which can cause sudden breakdowns or loss of steering.
- Silverado owners frequently report engine and transmission problems that can cause loss of power, as well as brake issues that reduce stopping ability.
- The Saturn LS has 16 recalls over 3 years, while the Silverado has 100 recalls over 10 years, suggesting the Silverado has had more widespread safety-related fixes.
- Listen for a rattling or slapping noise from the engine, especially when starting or accelerating, which could indicate a failing timing chain.
- Inspect the front subframe and engine cradle for rust or holes, as severe rust can lead to loss of steering control.
- Check for any signs of transmission slipping or sudden neutral engagement, especially during low-speed maneuvers or when shifting.
- Test the brakes thoroughly, looking for a firm pedal with reduced stopping power or any warning lights related to the brake system.
Before you buy
- Obtain a vehicle history report and look for any open recalls, especially for the Saturn LS (brake lights, seat belts) and Silverado (tailgate latch, steering, brakes).
- Have a mechanic inspect the Saturn LS for timing chain noise and subframe rust before purchase.
- For the Silverado, ask a mechanic to check for transmission codes, engine misfires, and brake system functionality.
- Test drive both vehicles in various conditions, including highway speeds and stop-and-go traffic, to feel for hesitation, unusual noises, or braking issues.
- Review owner complaint patterns on NHTSA's website for the specific model year you are considering to see if common problems apply.
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 Saturn LS or Chevrolet Silverado in front of you — accident history, open recalls and title records.
Go deeper
Full reliability reports
- Comparison
- Saturn LS vs Chevrolet Silverado
- Saturn LS total complaints
- 416
- Chevrolet Silverado total complaints
- 5,105
- Saturn LS total recalls
- 16
- Chevrolet Silverado total recalls
- 100
- Saturn LS avg complaints/year
- 138.7
- Chevrolet Silverado avg complaints/year
- 510.5
- More reliable overall
- Saturn LS
- Saturn LS top complaint area
- ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Chevrolet Silverado top complaint area
- ENGINE