Which Is the Better Vehicle for Reliability: Ford or General Motors?
If you’ve ever shopped for a truck or SUV, you’ve probably found yourself comparing Ford and General Motors (Chevrolet/GMC) and wondering:
“Which is more reliable long-term?”
It’s a great question, and as a shop that works on both every single week, we can tell you there’s no one-word answer like “Ford” or “GM.” Instead, real reliability comes down to specific models, engines, maintenance history, and how the vehicle is used.
In this post, we’ll break down how to think about reliability between Ford and GM in a way that actually helps you make a smarter decision, whether you’re buying your next vehicle or trying to keep the one you already own in top shape.
What Does “Reliable” Really Mean?
When most drivers in and around Downey say they want a “reliable” Ford or GM vehicle, they usually mean:
It starts every time and doesn’t leave them stranded.
It doesn’t surprise them with constant, expensive repairs.
It ages well with proper maintenance.
It feels safe and solid on the road, even as the miles climb.
From a shop’s perspective, reliability is a mix of:
Engineering and design – How the vehicle and its systems were built.
Common failure points – Certain engines or transmissions with known issues.
Maintenance habits – Oil changes, fluid services, and timely repairs.
Driving conditions – Heavy traffic, towing, stop-and-go driving, short trips, etc.
So instead of asking, “Is Ford more reliable than GM?” it’s better to ask:
“Is this specific Ford or GM vehicle, with this engine and this service history, good for the long haul?”
That’s where a trusted shop likeGlenn’s Auto Service can give you real, practical insight.
Ford vs. GM: How They Compare in the Real World
1. Reliability Varies by Model and Year
Both Ford and GM have home-run models and a few that are… less beloved in the repair world.
Some Ford F-150 generations, for example, have been excellent long-term trucks when maintained well.
Certain Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra models are also known for going well past 200,000 miles with proper care.
On the flip side, particular engines, transmissions, or model years from both brands have had issues like:
That’s why we never recommend judging reliability by the brand name alone.
2. How You Drive Matters More Than Most People Think
Here in the Downey area, both Ford and GM vehicles deal with stop-and-go traffic, heat, short trips where the engine never fully warms up, and the occasional towing, hauling, or road trip. All of that qualifies as “severe service” in most owners’ manuals, even if it doesn’t feel severe day to day. Under those conditions, things like oil change intervals, transmission services, and cooling system maintenance have a huge impact on reliability, no matter what badge is on the grille. A well-maintained GM can easily outlast a neglected Ford, and the same is true the other way around.
3. Parts Availability and Repair Costs
From our side of the counter, one important question is:
“Can we get good parts, quickly, at a fair price?”
The good news: for Ford, Chevrolet, and GMC, parts availability is generally strong. That’s one reason many of our customers in Downey choose these brands — they’re often more affordable and practical to repair than some less common brands.
Where costs can vary:
Certain Ford systems may be more complex to access or repair on specific models.
Some GM trucks and SUVs can be time-consuming to work on in certain areas, especially as they age.
Overall, though, both brands are solid choices from a serviceability and parts cost perspective.
So… Which Is “Better” for Reliability: Ford or GM?
Here’s the honest answer most marketers won’t give you: neither Ford nor GM is automatically “better” in every situation. The specific model, engine, year, and maintenance history matter far more than the logo. You can absolutely have a Ford that’s incredibly reliable because it’s a strong generation with an engine that holds up well and an owner who stayed on top of maintenance, and you can also have a Chevy or GMC that’s just as reliable for the exact same reasons. On the flip side, you can run into a “problem child” model from either brand, especially when previous owners skipped recommended services or drove it hard without proper care. That’s why our advice is always the same: focus on the vehicle in front of you, not just the badge on the hood.
How to Choose Between a Ford and a GM (From a Mechanic’s Point of View)
If you’re trying to decide between a Ford and a GM vehicle, here’s a simple, shop-approved checklist:
1. Research the Specific Model and Engine
Look up:
Common issues for that model year
Known problem engines or transmissions
Owner forums and long-term reviews
Certain Ford F-150 engines, for example, have different reputations than others. The same is true for Silverado and Sierra engines from GM.
2. Check the Maintenance History
A vehicle with regular oil changes, documented services (like transmission, coolant, and brakes), and clear repair records will almost always be more reliable than one with a thin or spotty history, no matter whether it’s a Ford or a GM.
3. Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection
This is where a shop likeGlenn’s Auto Service really shines.
Before you buy:
We can inspect the vehicle bumper-to-bumper.
Scan for trouble codes.
Check for leaks, worn suspension, brake issues, and more.
Give you a realistic picture of what you might face in the first year or two of ownership.
Whether it’s a Ford F-150, Chevy Silverado, GMC SUV, or another model, a pre-purchase inspection is one of the smartest investments you can make.
4. Think About How You’ll Use It
Before you decide, ask yourself whether you’ll be towing or hauling often, mostly driving around town in Downey, or doing longer freeway trips. Certain engines and configurations from both Ford and GM handle heavy use better than others, and we can help you match the right vehicle to your real-world needs.
What We See in the Shop: Ford and GM in Daily Life
At Glenn’s Auto Service, we regularly work on Ford F-150s and other Ford trucks and SUVs, Chevrolet Silverados and GMC Sierras, and GM SUVs like the Tahoe, Suburban, and Yukon. We see reliable long-term vehicles from both brands, and we also see vehicles from both that struggle because of poor maintenance, under-serviced fluids, ignored warning signs, and high miles without preventive care. The pattern is clear: a well-cared-for Ford or GM will usually treat you well, but a neglected one of either brand will eventually get your attention with bigger repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions: Ford vs. GM Reliability
1. Are Ford trucks more reliable than Chevy or GMC trucks?
Not automatically. Some Ford F-150 generations and some Chevy/GMC generations are excellent when maintained well. Others have known problem areas. The best way to judge reliability is by looking at that specific truck’s model year, engine, and maintenance history, not just the brand name.
2. Which brand is cheaper to repair: Ford or GM?
In our experience, both Ford and GM are generally reasonable to repair, with good parts availability and a wide range of quality options. Repair cost usually depends more on the specific issue, the engine and transmission configuration, and how long the problem has been building.
3. What should I check before buying a used Ford or GM?
We recommend:
Getting a pre-purchase inspection
Reviewing maintenance records
Looking up common issues for that exact year/engine
Checking for warning lights, leaks, and unusual noises
A one- or two-hour inspection now can save you from thousands of dollars in surprise repairs later.
4. Can a General Motors vehicle really go 200,000 miles or more?
Yes, and so can many Fords. We see plenty of Ford and GM vehicles in the shop that are well past 200,000 miles and still going strong because the owners stayed on top of oil changes, fluid services, and repairs as issues came up.
5. I already own a Ford/GM. How do I make it more reliable?
The best thing you can do is follow a consistent maintenance schedule, address small issues early (like noises, leaks, or warning lights), use quality fluids and parts, and work with a shop that truly knows Ford and GM platforms well. Reliability isn’t luck, it’s something you build over time with good habits and the right team behind you.
Ready to Make a Smarter Ford or GM Decision?
Whether you’re comparing a Ford and a Chevy on a used car lot or trying to keep your current truck or SUV running strong, you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Schedule a Ford or GM Inspection with Glenn’s Auto Service
At Glenn’s Auto Service in Downey, we work on Ford, Chevy, and GMC vehicles every week, so we understand the real-world issues these brands face in Southern California traffic. Our team takes the time to explain what your vehicle needs right now, what can safely wait, and how to keep it reliable for the long run. If you’re thinking about buying a Ford or GM, wondering how healthy your current vehicle really is, or trying to avoid big surprise repair bills, we’re here to help you make smart, stress-free decisions.
Schedule a pre-purchase inspection or comprehensive vehicle check with our team.