2016 Chevrolet Silverado Safety Report
2016 Chevrolet Silverado plagued by brake, powertrain, and steering complaints; two safety recalls issued.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Chevrolet Silverado
Reliability Score
The 2016 Chevrolet Silverado receives a reliability score of 45 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2016 Chevrolet Silverado
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Chevrolet Silverado:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brake Pedal Failure/Sponginess Brake pedal becomes inoperable or feels spongy, leading to extended stopping distances or inability to stop, as reported in 222 complaints related to SERVICE BRAKES. |
High | Common | unknown miles |
| Transmission Failure/Slipping/Hard Shifting Transmission slipping, hard downshifts, going into limp mode, or complete failure requiring replacement, as indicated by 149 POWER TRAIN complaints. |
High | Common | 40000-100000 miles |
| Engine Lifter/Afm System Failure Active Fuel Management (AFM) system causing lifter collapse, camshaft wear, and catastrophic engine failure, requiring engine replacement, reported in ENGINE complaints. |
High | Common | 40000-100000 miles |
| Steering Wheel Locking/Pulling/Loss Of Power Steering Steering wheel locking up randomly, pulling to one side, or becoming uncontrollable, with associated warning lights, reported in 101 STEERING complaints. |
High | Common | unknown miles |
| Airbag Non-Deployment/Malfunction Airbags failing to deploy in collisions despite significant impact, or deploying without collision, linked to a recall for SDM housing fracture. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Electrical System Malfunctions (Flickering Lights, Radio/Ac Cutting Out) Truck shutting off/on rapidly, flickering lights, radio screen going black, AC cutting out, especially when turning or operating accessories like snowplows, reported in ELECTRICAL SYSTEM complaints. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Rear Sliding Glass Defroster Overheating/Fire/Shattering Rear defroster element overheating, catching fire, or causing the back glass to shatter. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2016 Chevrolet Silverado:
A high volume of complaints (222 out of 960) regarding brake pedal failure, sponginess, and reduced braking effectiveness.
Significant issues reported (149 complaints) including transmission slipping, hard shifting, complete transmission failure, and going into limp mode.
Numerous complaints (101) about steering wheel locking up, vehicle pulling unexpectedly, and loss of power steering control.
Reports (40 complaints) of various electrical malfunctions such as flickering lights, radio/AC cutting out, and vehicle shutting off/on rapidly.
Complaints (35) detailing engine lifter failures, Active Fuel Management (AFM) system issues, and catastrophic engine failure requiring replacement.
Reports (17 complaints) of airbags failing to deploy in crashes or deploying inadvertently, compounded by a recall for the SDM module.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Chevrolet Silverado
Is the 2016 Chevrolet Silverado safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 Chevrolet Silverado has a concerning number of complaints (960 total), including 50 crashes, 11 fires, 22 injuries, and 1 death. While official NHTSA crash test ratings are unavailable, common issues like brake failure, transmission problems, and steering malfunctions, along with two safety recalls (one for electrical system warnings and another for airbag deployment issues), suggest potential safety risks. Buyers should be aware of these reported problems.
What are common problems with the 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?
The most reported issues for the 2016 Chevrolet Silverado are related to SERVICE BRAKES (222 complaints), POWER TRAIN (149 complaints), and STEERING (101 complaints). Specific problems include brake pedal failure, transmission slipping or complete failure, engine lifter issues (AFM system), and steering wheel locking or loss of control. Electrical system malfunctions and airbag deployment issues are also noted.
Are there any recalls for the 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?
Yes, the 2016 Chevrolet Silverado has two recalls. One recall addresses an ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE issue where the radio may fail to provide an audio warning when the key is left in the ignition. The second recall is for AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE, where a fractured SDM housing could prevent proper airbag deployment.
How does the 2016 Chevrolet Silverado perform in crash tests?
NHTSA crash test ratings for the 2016 Chevrolet Silverado are not available for Overall, Frontal, Side, or Rollover categories. Therefore, its performance in controlled crash scenarios cannot be assessed through official NHTSA ratings.
What should I look out for when buying a used 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?
When considering a used 2016 Chevrolet Silverado, pay close attention to the braking system, transmission performance (check for slipping, hard shifts, or warning lights), and steering responsiveness. Also, inquire about any engine ticking noises or previous repairs related to lifters or the AFM system, and ensure all recall work has been completed.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the high volume of critical safety complaints regarding brakes, powertrain, and steering, along with two safety recalls, prospective buyers should proceed with caution and thoroughly inspect these components, ensuring all recall repairs have been addressed.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Chevrolet Silverado
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Chevrolet Silverado. The data includes 960 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 2 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 50 reported crashes, 11 fire incidents, 22 reported injuries, and 1 fatalities associated with this vehicle.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.