Head-to-head reliability

Suzuki Verona vs Chevrolet Silverado

How the Suzuki Verona and Chevrolet Silverado compare on NHTSA complaints, recalls and crash reports — and which is the lower-risk used buy.

Suzuki Verona216 complaints · 9 recalls Fewer issues per year
Chevrolet Silverado5,105 complaints · 100 recalls

Based on NHTSA owner-complaint & recall records

Which should you buy?

Suzuki Verona vs Chevrolet Silverado: The Verona averaged 43.2 complaints per year with 9 recalls, while the Silverado averaged 510.5 complaints per year with 100 recalls. Both have 1 death reported, but the Silverado has more crash-related complaints (117 vs 10). Source: NHTSA owner complaints.

The picture

Is the Suzuki Verona or Chevrolet Silverado more reliable?

A plain-English read on what the NHTSA record says about living with each vehicle.

Suzuki Verona

The Suzuki Verona is a sedan that, based on owner complaints, can be a headache to live with due to frequent engine stalling and transmission problems. Over five years, it averaged 43.2 complaints per year, with the engine and cooling system being the most common trouble spot. Owners report sudden stalls in traffic and repeated transmission replacements, which can leave you stranded. With 9 recalls and 10 crash-related complaints, it's a vehicle that demands careful inspection before purchase.

Chevrolet Silverado

The Chevrolet Silverado is a full-size pickup that, while popular, has a high volume of owner complaints—averaging 510.5 per year over ten years. The most common issues involve the engine, power train, and electrical system, with some owners reporting severe problems like sudden power loss and brake failure. There are 100 recalls and 117 crash-related complaints, indicating that some defects can have serious safety consequences. Buyers should be aware that even newer models can experience major failures.

The numbers

Side-by-side NHTSA record

Lower is better in every category. The highlighted cell is the stronger result.

CategorySuzuki VeronaChevrolet Silverado
Total complaintsAll model years combined216 Better5,105
Safety recallsFederal recall campaigns9 Better100
Crash reportsCrash-related complaints10 Better117
Complaints per yearAveraged across model years43.2 Better510.5
Reported injuriesTied to owner complaints9 Better104
Reported deathsTied to owner complaints11

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.

Suzuki Verona

  1. 01ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING80
  2. 02ELECTRICAL SYSTEM37
  3. 03POWER TRAIN31
  4. 04FUEL SYSTEM25
  5. 05VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL22
What these mean
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Owners frequently report the engine stalling without warning, sometimes in the middle of the street, and then failing to restart. This can be dangerous if it happens in traffic and may require costly repairs like throttle body replacement.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Complaints include stalling linked to electrical issues, such as the daytime running light module, and instances where the car cuts off without notice. These problems can be intermittent and hard to diagnose, leading to repeated dealer visits.

POWER TRAIN

Transmission problems are common, with owners reporting loud clunks during acceleration and even multiple transmission replacements. This indicates a potential for expensive repairs and ongoing reliability concerns.

FUEL SYSTEM

The fuel system is implicated in stalling incidents, often during deceleration, and throttle body failures that trigger check engine lights. These issues can cause sudden loss of power and require repeated repairs.

In owners' words — ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

I PURCHASED THE 2004 SUZUKI VERONA LAST YEAR FROM A THIRD PARTY. THE ENGINE STALLS IN THE MIDDLE OF THE STREET. IT COMPLETELY STOPS. LAST YEAR IT STOPPED COMPLETELY AND WOULD NOT TURN ON. LUCKILY NO CARS WERE BEHIND ME. I HAD TO CALL THE TOW TRUCK AND FIX IT.…

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 SUZUKI VERONA. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS FIRST PURCHASED, IT PULLED TO THE RIGHT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER BECAUSE BOTH THE CHECK ENGINE AND TIRE PRESSURE LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THE DEALER REPLACED THE TIRE PRESSURE SENSOR, BUT T…

Chevrolet Silverado

  1. 01ENGINE1,698
  2. 02POWER TRAIN1,453
  3. 03ELECTRICAL SYSTEM982
  4. 04SERVICE BRAKES691
  5. 05UNKNOWN OR OTHER542
What these mean
ENGINE

Owners report severe engine issues, including loss of motive power, loud pinging sounds, and diesel particulate filter problems requiring dealer service. These can lead to breakdowns and expensive repairs, even on new vehicles.

POWER TRAIN

Complaints include sudden shifting into neutral and loss of power, which can be dangerous. Some owners experienced these problems with very low mileage, indicating potential defects in the transmission or drivetrain.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Electrical problems can cause a sudden loss of braking assistance and inoperable steering, as reported by owners. These are critical safety issues that could lead to crashes if they occur while driving.

SERVICE BRAKES

Owners describe severe loss of braking, where the pedal remains firm but braking is ineffective. This is a major safety concern that requires immediate attention and may be linked to electrical or hydraulic faults.

In owners' words — ENGINE

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.

Suzuki Verona — 9 recalls

Exterior Lighting — Headlights
#14V363000

The defect: Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. (Suzuki) is recalling certain model year 2004-2006 Verona vehicles manufactured June 2003 to October 2005. In the affected vehicles, there may be heat generated within the DRL module located in the instrument panel, which could melt the DRL module.

The risk: If the DRL module melts due to the heat generation, it could cause a vehicle fire.

The fix: Suzuki will notify owners, and dealers will replace the DRL module in the instrument panel, free of charge. The recall began on November 5, 2014. Owners can contact Suzuki customer service at 1-800-934-0934. Suzuki's number for this recall…

Steering — Hydraulic Power Assist — Pump
#05V507000Mar 2005

The defect: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE POWER STEERING PUMP PULLEY MAY SEPARATE FROM THE POWER STEERING PUMP DUE TO INADEQUATE WALL THICKNESS OF THE PULLEY.

The risk: THIS CONDITION CAN CAUSE THE POWER STEERING PUMP DRIVE BELT TO DISCONNECT RESULTING IN HEAVY STEERING, AND CAN LEAD TO ENGINE OVERHEATING OR TO BATTERY DISCHARGE AND ENGINE STALL.

The fix: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE POWER STEERING PUMP PULLEY AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE IT. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 1, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SUZUKI AT 1-800-934-0934.

Exterior Lighting — Headlights
#14V363000

The defect: Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. (Suzuki) is recalling certain model year 2004-2006 Verona vehicles manufactured June 2003 to October 2005. In the affected vehicles, there may be heat generated within the DRL module located in the instrument panel, which could melt the DRL module.

The risk: If the DRL module melts due to the heat generation, it could cause a vehicle fire.

The fix: Suzuki will notify owners, and dealers will replace the DRL module in the instrument panel, free of charge. The recall began on November 5, 2014. Owners can contact Suzuki customer service at 1-800-934-0934. Suzuki's number for this recall…

Steering — Hydraulic Power Assist — Pump
#05V507000Mar 2005

The defect: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE POWER STEERING PUMP PULLEY MAY SEPARATE FROM THE POWER STEERING PUMP DUE TO INADEQUATE WALL THICKNESS OF THE PULLEY.

The risk: THIS CONDITION CAN CAUSE THE POWER STEERING PUMP DRIVE BELT TO DISCONNECT RESULTING IN HEAVY STEERING, AND CAN LEAD TO ENGINE OVERHEATING OR TO BATTERY DISCHARGE AND ENGINE STALL.

The fix: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE POWER STEERING PUMP PULLEY AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE IT. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 1, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SUZUKI AT 1-800-934-0934.

Chevrolet Silverado — 100 recalls

Latches/Locks/Linkages — Tailgate — Latch
#24V060000Jan 2024

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…

Steering
#23V549000Mar 2023

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…

Latches/Locks/Linkages — Tailgate — Latch
#24V894000

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…

Seat Belts — Front — Anchorage
#23V786000

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

Suzuki Verona or Chevrolet Silverado: which should you buy?

The Suzuki Verona has far fewer complaints per year (43.2) compared to the Chevrolet Silverado (510.5), but both have serious issues. In practice, the Verona's problems are more concentrated in stalling and transmission, while the Silverado's higher volume means you're more likely to encounter a wide range of defects, including critical safety failures.

Recommendation. If you prioritize a lower volume of complaints and can tolerate a smaller sedan, the Suzuki Verona might be less overwhelming, but only if you thoroughly inspect the engine and transmission. If you need a truck and are willing to accept a higher risk of issues, the Silverado offers capability but demands careful attention to brakes, electrical, and engine systems.

Key differences

  • The Suzuki Verona averages 43.2 complaints per year, while the Chevrolet Silverado averages 510.5, indicating a much higher volume of owner-reported issues for the Silverado.
  • Verona owners frequently report engine stalling and transmission clunks, whereas Silverado owners describe sudden power loss, brake failure, and electrical problems that can affect steering and braking.
  • The Silverado has 100 recalls and 117 crash-related complaints, compared to the Verona's 9 recalls and 10 crash-related complaints, suggesting more widespread safety defects in the Silverado.
  • Both vehicles have 1 death reported, but the Silverado's higher complaint and recall numbers mean a greater likelihood of encountering a serious defect.
Watch on Suzuki Verona
  • Check for any history of engine stalling or hesitation, especially during deceleration, and test drive at various speeds to see if the engine cuts out.
  • Inspect the transmission for clunking noises during acceleration and ask for service records to see if it has been replaced or repaired.
Watch on Chevrolet Silverado
  • Test the brakes thoroughly for any loss of braking power or unusual pedal feel, as owners report sudden brake failure.
  • Listen for engine pinging or knocking sounds and check for any warning lights related to the engine or electrical system, as these can indicate serious issues.

Before you buy

  • Obtain a full vehicle history report and check for open recalls on the NHTSA website for both models.
  • Have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection focusing on the engine, transmission, and electrical systems.
  • During the test drive, pay attention to any stalling, hesitation, or unusual noises from the engine or transmission.
  • For the Silverado, specifically test the brakes and steering at low and high speeds to ensure they function properly.
  • Ask the seller for maintenance records and be wary if there are gaps or repeated repairs for the same issue.

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 Suzuki Verona or Chevrolet Silverado in front of you — accident history, open recalls and title records.

Go deeper

Full reliability reports

Suzuki Verona vs Chevrolet Silverado — comparison facts
Comparison
Suzuki Verona vs Chevrolet Silverado
Suzuki Verona total complaints
216
Chevrolet Silverado total complaints
5,105
Suzuki Verona total recalls
9
Chevrolet Silverado total recalls
100
Suzuki Verona avg complaints/year
43.2
Chevrolet Silverado avg complaints/year
510.5
More reliable overall
Suzuki Verona
Suzuki Verona top complaint area
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Chevrolet Silverado top complaint area
ENGINE