Head-to-head reliability
Volvo EC40 vs Chevrolet Silverado
How the Volvo EC40 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
Volvo EC40 vs Chevrolet Silverado: The EC40 has zero complaints over two years, while the Silverado averages 510.5 complaints per year, including engine and transmission failures. The EC40's three recalls are software updates, whereas the Silverado has 100 recalls with issues like brake loss. Source: NHTSA owner complaints.
The picture
Is the Volvo EC40 or Chevrolet Silverado more reliable?
A plain-English read on what the NHTSA record says about living with each vehicle.
Volvo EC40
The Volvo EC40 is a relatively new electric vehicle with a very short ownership history, showing no owner complaints on record over two years. This suggests that early buyers have not reported any significant issues, but it also means there is limited real-world data to assess long-term reliability. The three recalls focus on software updates for braking and backup systems, indicating that the manufacturer is proactively addressing potential electronic control issues before they become widespread problems.
Chevrolet Silverado
The Chevrolet Silverado, a long-running pickup, has a substantial complaint history with over 5,000 complaints in ten years, averaging more than 500 per year. Owners frequently report serious engine problems, including diesel particulate filter clogging and sudden loss of power, as well as transmission issues like unexpected shifts to neutral. Electrical system failures are also common, sometimes leading to loss of braking and steering, which are critical safety concerns. With over 100 recalls and multiple crash-related incidents, the Silverado shows a pattern of significant mechanical and electronic reliability challenges.
The numbers
Side-by-side NHTSA record
Lower is better in every category. The highlighted cell is the stronger result.
| Category | Volvo EC40 | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| Total complaintsAll model years combined | 0 Better | 5,105 |
| Safety recallsFederal recall campaigns | 3 Better | 100 |
| Crash reportsCrash-related complaints | 0 Better | 117 |
| Complaints per yearAveraged across model years | 0.0 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.
Volvo EC40
No component data available.
No owner complaints are on record, but a recall addresses software in the brake control module, which could affect braking performance. Buyers should ensure the recall fix is applied to avoid potential brake assist issues.
Two recalls relate to the backup camera or sensor software, which could impact visibility or warnings when reversing. While no failures have been reported, these recalls indicate the system may need updates to function correctly.
Chevrolet Silverado
- 01ENGINE1,698
- 02POWER TRAIN1,453
- 03ELECTRICAL SYSTEM982
- 04SERVICE BRAKES691
- 05UNKNOWN OR OTHER542
Owners report severe engine issues, including diesel particulate filter clogging (P2463) requiring dealer service, and sudden loss of motive power accompanied by loud pinging sounds. These problems can lead to breakdowns and costly repairs.
Transmission problems are common, such as the vehicle suddenly shifting into neutral while driving, which can be dangerous, especially in traffic or on hills. This indicates potential transmission control module or mechanical failures.
Electrical failures can cause a cascade of problems, including loss of braking and steering while driving at highway speeds. Owners describe the brake pedal staying firm but braking ineffective, pointing to electronic control issues.
Brake-related complaints include sudden severe loss of braking effectiveness, even with a firm pedal. This is a critical safety concern that may stem from electrical or hydraulic system failures.
“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.
Volvo EC40 — 3 recalls
The defect: Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2023 Volvo C40 BEV, 2025 EC40, 2023-2024 XC40 BEV, 2020-2026 XC90 PHEV, 2022-2026 XC60 PHEV, 2023-2025 S60 PHEV, 2024-2025 V60 PHEV, and 2025-2026 EX40 and 2025 S90 PHEV vehicles. In certain driving scenarios while coasting down a hill and using "…
The risk: A loss of brake function increases the risk of a crash.
The fix: Owners are advised not to use "B" Mode (for plug-in hybrid vehicles) or "One Pedal Drive" (for pure electric vehicles) until the repair has been completed. The brake module software will be updated over-the-air (OTA) or by a dealer, free o…
The defect: Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2021-2025 XC40, 2022 V90, 2022-2025 S90, V90CC, C40, XC60, 2023-2025 S60, V60, V60CC, XC90, and 2025 EC40 and EX40 vehicles. The rearview camera image may not display when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply wi…
The risk: A rearview camera image that does not display reduces the driver's view of what is behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: The software will be updated by a dealer or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 27, 2025. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for…
The defect: Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2021-2025 XC40, 2022 V90, 2022-2024 C40BEV, 2022-2025 S90, V90CC, XC60, 2023-2025 S60, V60, V60CC, XC90, and 2025 EC40, and EX40 vehicles. The rearview camera image may not display when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fai…
The risk: A rearview camera image that does not display reduces the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: The software will be updated by a dealer or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 24, 2026. Owners may contact Volvo Car’s customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo Car's numb…
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
Volvo EC40 or Chevrolet Silverado: which should you buy?
The Volvo EC40 has zero complaints per year, while the Chevrolet Silverado averages over 500 complaints per year. This stark difference indicates that the EC40 has far fewer reported issues, but its short history means long-term reliability is unproven. In contrast, the Silverado's high complaint rate points to persistent and serious mechanical and electrical problems that could affect safety and ownership satisfaction.
Key differences
- The Volvo EC40 has no owner complaints, while the Silverado has thousands, including engine and transmission failures.
- Silverado owners report dangerous sudden loss of power, braking, and steering, whereas EC40 has no such reports.
- The EC40's recalls are software updates, while the Silverado's recalls include mechanical issues like tailgate latches and seat belt anchors.
- The Silverado has a history of crash-related incidents and injuries, while the EC40 has none reported.
- Check that all three recalls (brake software and backup prevention software) have been performed, as they address potential electronic control issues.
- Since there are no complaints, inspect the vehicle for any signs of software glitches during a test drive, especially braking and backup camera functionality.
- Inspect the engine for signs of diesel particulate filter issues, such as warning lights or previous service records for P2463 codes.
- Test the transmission thoroughly, including slow-speed maneuvers and hill driving, to check for unexpected shifts to neutral.
Before you buy
- For the Volvo EC40, verify recall completion by checking the VIN on the NHTSA website.
- For the Silverado, ask for service records related to engine and transmission complaints, especially DPF cleanings or replacements.
- Take the Silverado on a highway test drive to ensure no loss of power or braking occurs.
- Check the Silverado's brake system for any warning lights or unusual pedal feel.
- Consider a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic for either vehicle, focusing on the specific problem areas.
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 | Volvo EC40 | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 0 | 98 |
| 2025 | 0 | 150 |
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 Volvo EC40 or Chevrolet Silverado in front of you — accident history, open recalls and title records.
Go deeper
Full reliability reports
- Comparison
- Volvo EC40 vs Chevrolet Silverado
- Volvo EC40 total complaints
- 0
- Chevrolet Silverado total complaints
- 5,105
- Volvo EC40 total recalls
- 3
- Chevrolet Silverado total recalls
- 100
- Volvo EC40 avg complaints/year
- 0.0
- Chevrolet Silverado avg complaints/year
- 510.5
- More reliable overall
- Volvo EC40
- Chevrolet Silverado top complaint area
- ENGINE