Head-to-head reliability
Volvo XC40 vs Chevrolet Silverado
How the Volvo XC40 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 XC40 vs Chevrolet Silverado: The XC40 averages 58.8 complaints per year, while the Silverado averages 510.5. The XC40's top issues are electrical and backup camera failures, whereas the Silverado faces serious engine and powertrain problems. Source: NHTSA owner complaints.
The picture
Is the Volvo XC40 or Chevrolet Silverado more reliable?
A plain-English read on what the NHTSA record says about living with each vehicle.
Volvo XC40
The Volvo XC40 is a compact luxury SUV that, in ownership terms, offers a premium experience but comes with a notable number of electronic and driver-assistance glitches. Owners report repeated software and sensor failures, particularly with the backup camera and forward collision systems, which can be frustrating and occasionally alarming. While the vehicle has a relatively low complaint rate per year, the nature of the issues—often requiring multiple dealer visits—suggests a need for patience and a good warranty.
Chevrolet Silverado
The Chevrolet Silverado is a full-size pickup known for its capability, but the data reveals a much higher volume of complaints, especially concerning the engine and powertrain. Owners describe serious failures like sudden loss of power, transmission issues, and brake problems that can occur at low mileage, raising concerns about long-term reliability. With over 500 complaints per year on average, the Silverado demands careful inspection and a robust maintenance plan.
The numbers
Side-by-side NHTSA record
Lower is better in every category. The highlighted cell is the stronger result.
| Category | Volvo XC40 | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| Total complaintsAll model years combined | 470 Better | 5,105 |
| Safety recallsFederal recall campaigns | 23 Better | 100 |
| Crash reportsCrash-related complaints | 46 Better | 117 |
| Complaints per yearAveraged across model years | 58.8 Better | 510.5 |
| Reported injuriesTied to owner complaints | 34 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 XC40
- 01ELECTRICAL SYSTEM101
- 02BACK OVER PREVENTION95
- 03UNKNOWN OR OTHER83
- 04FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE61
- 05SERVICE BRAKES59
Owners report persistent electrical gremlins, including software glitches that require multiple reprogramming attempts and module replacements. Some describe failures that compromise safety, such as unexpected seatbelt tightening, which can be alarming and potentially dangerous.
The rear camera frequently fails, showing a blank or black screen when shifting into reverse. This is a common complaint and a safety concern, as it impairs visibility behind the vehicle, especially in tight parking situations.
The ADAS features, including automatic emergency braking and parking collision warnings, sometimes fail to activate when needed. Owners report incidents where the system did not prevent a collision, suggesting potential unreliability in critical moments.
Brake-related complaints often tie back to software issues in the power assist module. Owners describe a loss of normal braking effectiveness, which is a serious safety issue that requires immediate attention.
“am writing to formally report a serious issue involving the sale of a Certified Pre-Owned Volvo by a franchised Volvo dealership in Pennsylvania that I believe violates consumer protection standards and certified vehicle regulations. On [XXX], I purchased a 2…”
“Despite multiple repair attempts by Volvo Cars Sugar Land — including software reloads, module reprogramming, and the completion of Recall R10333 — the vehicle continues to experience failures that directly compromise my safety and the safety of my wife. I no…”
Chevrolet Silverado
- 01ENGINE1,698
- 02POWER TRAIN1,453
- 03ELECTRICAL SYSTEM982
- 04SERVICE BRAKES691
- 05UNKNOWN OR OTHER542
Engine problems are the most frequent, with owners reporting issues like excessive soot accumulation in diesel particulate filters, leading to repeated dealer visits. Some describe sudden loss of motive power while driving, which is a major safety hazard.
Transmission and drivetrain issues are common, including sudden shifts into neutral while driving, which can leave you stranded or cause a loss of control. These failures often occur at low mileage, indicating potential manufacturing defects.
Electrical failures can lead to a cascade of problems, including loss of power steering and brakes. Owners report loud pinging sounds followed by a complete loss of vehicle control, which is extremely dangerous.
Brake failures are reported, with the pedal remaining firm but braking power reduced. This can lead to longer stopping distances and increase the risk of a collision, especially in emergency situations.
“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 XC40 — 23 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, 2022-2025 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 2024 XC40 vehicles. A diagnostic error in the Central Electronic Module (CEM) software may cause the left rear turn signal indicator to not function.
The risk: A nonfunctioning exterior turn signal may not notify other drivers of a turning vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: The CEM software will be updated by a dealer or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 16, 2024. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo Car's nu…
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 XC40 or Chevrolet Silverado: which should you buy?
The Volvo XC40 has significantly fewer complaints per year (58.8) compared to the Chevrolet Silverado (510.5), indicating a lower rate of reported issues. In practice, this means the XC40 is likely to require fewer unscheduled repairs, but the Silverado's higher volume of serious engine and powertrain problems suggests a greater risk of major breakdowns.
Key differences
- The XC40's top issues are electronic and driver-assist related, like backup camera failures and software glitches, while the Silverado's are more mechanical, such as engine and transmission failures.
- The Silverado has a much higher complaint volume per year (510.5 vs 58.8), suggesting a greater likelihood of encountering problems.
- The XC40 has fewer crash-related complaints (46 vs 117) and no reported deaths, while the Silverado has one death, though both have injury reports.
- The Silverado's engine issues, like diesel particulate filter clogging, can lead to costly repairs, whereas the XC40's issues are often software-related and may be fixed with updates.
- Check the backup camera and infotainment screen for any signs of failure, as this is a common issue.
- Ask about any open recalls, especially those related to backup prevention and electrical system software, and ensure they have been performed.
- Inspect the engine for any signs of excessive soot or check the service history for DPF-related repairs, especially on diesel models.
- Test the transmission thoroughly, including slow-speed maneuvers, to ensure it doesn't unexpectedly shift into neutral.
Before you buy
- Obtain a vehicle history report and verify that all recalls have been addressed.
- Have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection, focusing on the specific problem areas mentioned.
- Test drive the vehicle in various conditions, including reverse and low-speed maneuvers, to check for camera and transmission issues.
- Check for any pending software updates or service bulletins related to the known issues.
- Consider purchasing an extended warranty to cover potential costly repairs, especially for the Silverado.
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 XC40 | Chevrolet Silverado |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 1 | 98 |
| 2025 | 11 | 150 |
| 2024 | 14 | 0 |
| 2023 | 129 | 0 |
| 2022 | 111 | 1340 |
| 2021 | 120 | 934 |
| 2020 | 24 | 0 |
| 2019 | 60 | 1992 |
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 XC40 or Chevrolet Silverado in front of you — accident history, open recalls and title records.
Go deeper
Full reliability reports
- Comparison
- Volvo XC40 vs Chevrolet Silverado
- Volvo XC40 total complaints
- 470
- Chevrolet Silverado total complaints
- 5,105
- Volvo XC40 total recalls
- 23
- Chevrolet Silverado total recalls
- 100
- Volvo XC40 avg complaints/year
- 58.8
- Chevrolet Silverado avg complaints/year
- 510.5
- More reliable overall
- Volvo XC40
- Volvo XC40 top complaint area
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Chevrolet Silverado top complaint area
- ENGINE