Photo: Kevauto / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Wikimedia Commons
Chevrolet Colorado
Pick-up · Gas · 49 versions · owner report
Ranked #6 of 7 midsize pickup trucks on owner data, price and fuel economy
Every generation
Power
Combined, EPA 2026
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on the specific generation.
9 problems reported (2 very frequent, 2 recurrent, 5 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentMajor mechanical failures
Including complete engine replacement, transmission replacement, torque converter failure, and cracked engine blocks, often under 65,000 miles.
- Very frequentPersistent electrical issues
Causing various system failures and leaving vehicles undriveable.
- RecurrentTransmission problems in 2015-2016 model years
+ 6 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentPoor turning radius
- IsolatedTiming chain failure on four-cylinder engines
Causing check engine lights and complete engine failure, noted around 60,000-75,000 miles.
- IsolatedBraking system failures
- IsolatedCoolant leaks
- IsolatedTurbocharger whistling/tea kettle noise
- IsolatedFront suspension creaking noises when turning
The version owners recommend
For the second generation (2015-2022), the diesel-powered Duramax models are noted for their strong torque and up to 30 MPG highway fuel economy. The ZR2 trim is highlighted for its exceptional off-road capability. For the third generation (2023+), specific trim recommendations are absent from the data, but the ZR2 is mentioned in comparative contexts as a highly capable model.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, Nissan Frontier, GMC Canyon and Honda Ridgeline.
Is the Colorado right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on the specific generation. The first generation (circa 2004-2012) is viewed as a basic, utilitarian work truck with significant reliability concerns, particularly regarding the four-cylinder engine's timing chain. The second generation (2015-2022) receives a more positive reception, described as a decent, reliable choice that offers good value, especially when compared to competitors carrying a price premium. This generation is praised for its practicality, comfortable ride, and being the first midsize truck that didn't feel like a budget afterthought. The third generation (2023+) has generated polarized feedback; early adopters praise its modern design, impressive ride quality, agile handling, and advanced technology, but a very frequent and severe pattern of significant mechanical and electrical issues in early production models has severely damaged owner confidence. The overarching theme across all discussions is the Colorado's value as a practical, right-sized truck for those who do not need full-size capabilities, though this is tempered by generational reliability woes.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a value-oriented and more modern-feeling alternative to the Toyota Tacoma, which carries a "Toyota Tax" and is perceived as having a more basic interior and stiffer ride. Compared to the Ford Ranger, the Colorado is frequently cited as having a superior ride quality, better handling, and more comfortable daily driving manners. Versus the Nissan Frontier, the Colorado is seen as offering better fuel economy and a more refined package. It is clearly differentiated from car-based trucks like the Honda Ridgeline and Ford Maverick, being described as a "true truck" with greater towing and off-road capability at the expense of ride comfort and fuel efficiency. Within the GM family, it is the pragmatic choice for those who find the full-size Silverado too large, expensive, or unnecessary for their needs.
Recommended configurations
Insufficient owner data available for a consolidated list of recommended configurations. Isolated mentions include choosing a crew cab for passenger space, considering all-wheel drive/4WD for capability, and selecting the 2.7L turbo gasoline engine or the 2.8L Duramax diesel in the second generation. For the third generation, no specific configuration advice is present beyond warnings about early-model issues.
General recommendations
Recommended for buyers who need truck utility (bed space, light towing, off-road capability) but prioritize easier parking and maneuverability in urban environments over the maximum space of a full-size truck. Strongly advised for individuals or couples without young children, as the rear seat is consistently described as too tight for comfortably fitting three children or multiple car seats. Not recommended for families requiring regular transport of more than two older children or adults in the rear. For the 2023+ models, extreme caution is advised; potential buyers should thoroughly research widespread owner-reported issues, consider waiting for later production years, and investigate manufacturer buyback or lemon law processes if encountering serious defects. A thorough test drive with the entire family is considered essential to evaluate space.
Remarks
Owner feedback spans three distinct vehicle generations, which must be evaluated separately. The severe reliability problems reported for the third-generation (2023+) models represent a dominant and alarming trend in the available data, involving fundamental powertrain and electrical components. Several owners of problematic 2023+ trucks reported pursuing manufacturer buybacks or lemon law claims, with one noting GM offered a $3,000 discount on a new Colorado as settlement, which was rejected. The data suggests the 2023+ model's launch has been marred by significant quality control issues, severely impacting its reputation despite strong initial reviews for its design and driving dynamics. The analysis is based on community discussions covering nearly two decades of production, with the most critical and frequent complaints concentrated on the earliest (2004+) and latest (2023+) model years.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Colorado III Short Box2023–2026322 complaints · 8 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): electrical system (96) · forward collision avoidance (80) · service brakes (72)
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment for the 2023-2026 Colorado is mixed and heavily skewed negative in the early model years, with software and electrical gremlins dominating the conversation.
13 problems reported (3 very frequent, 5 recurrent, 5 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentBluetooth and Android Auto pairing failures, including phones unable to connect or re-pair
- Very frequentInfotainment system freezes or lockups requiring a hard reset via steering wheel buttons or battery disconnect
- Very frequentEngine ticking or rattling noise
Often described as coming from the passenger side engine bay under medium acceleration at 2-3k RPM.
+ 10 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentDead or drained batteries, including from failed repeated firmware update attempts
- RecurrentGauge cluster and infotainment screens going blank or not displaying
- RecurrentMetallic rattle at low RPM on inclines, with heat shields checked and sometimes found missing bolts
- RecurrentLoose fuses from the factory causing assorted electrical issues
- RecurrentAuto start-stop behavior discussed as an annoyance
With owners disabling it via plug-in devices or manual mode.
- IsolatedCameras going out
- IsolatedTruck stuck in four-wheel drive
- IsolatedConcern about rocker arm bearing failure producing a loud tick and misfire code, usually cylinder #4
- IsolatedTiming chain tensioner rattle concern
- IsolatedExposed under-carpet area with what appears to be a missing cover or flap
Is a 2023–2026 Colorado right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Colorado II Long Box2015–20221,961 complaints · 15 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): steering (906) · power train (436) · electrical system (306)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the 2015-2022 Colorado are broadly positive, praising its car-like ride, easy maneuverability and parking, strong V6 power, quiet cabin, and comfortable interior relative to its size.
12 problems reported (1 very frequent, 2 recurrent, 9 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentTorque converter shudder or shake felt like driving over rumble strips, often uphill
- RecurrentTransmission fluid flush or torque converter replacement needed to address the shudder
- RecurrentMyLink infotainment system described as clunky, dated, and with iffy iPhone integration
+ 9 more issuesShow fewer
- IsolatedDealerships dismissing the shudder as too slight to cover under warranty
- IsolatedBluetooth connectivity problems requiring a system reset
- IsolatedMissing heated mirrors on a Z71
- IsolatedNo CD player on a 2016 model
- IsolatedFront air dam difficult to remove or breaking around its clips
- IsolatedA/C condensate drip mistaken for a leak
- IsolatedDelay in acceleration when already at speed
- IsolatedTransmission downshifting to 2nd on long downhill stretches when 3rd would be more appropriate
- IsolatedCarbon buildup on intake valves of direct injection engines requiring fuel induction service
Is a 2015–2022 Colorado right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Colorado I2003–20121,409 complaints · 27 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): electrical system (397) · service brakes (244) · exterior lighting (145)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the 2003-2012 Colorado generally regard it as a solid, reliable little truck, with many describing long ownership experiences that were trouble-free.
12 problems reported (1 recurrent, 11 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentEarly 3.5L engine problems, described as having "a ton of issues" and being inferior to the 3.7L
- IsolatedHead gasket issues on 2005-2006 five-cylinder engines
- IsolatedDoor lock computer chip failure (reported twice on one 2007)
+ 9 more issuesShow fewer
- IsolatedAlignment going out easily from potholes
- IsolatedHeater fan speed selector burning out
- IsolatedFan clutch failure causing noise and reduced engine power
- IsolatedFront brake/wheel bearing design criticized as poorly engineered
- IsolatedRust on rockers, cab corners, bed, and floor pan
- IsolatedDiscontinued OEM parts, particularly fuel pump pipes on the V8
- IsolatedElectrical communication fault between EBCM and ECU (P0856) on a 2012 V8
- IsolatedTail-happy handling in icy winter conditions
- IsolatedPoor fuel economy on the 3.7L
Is a 2003–2012 Colorado right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2016. Years to avoid: 2016, 2015, 2005, 2004Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Chevrolet Colorado years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 28 | 1 | electrical system |
| 2025 | 29 | 1 | service brakes |
| 2024 | 130 | 3 | electrical system |
| 2023 | 135 | 3 | forward collision avoidance |
| 2022 | 55 | 1 | electrical system |
| 2021 | 75 | 1 | service brakes |
| 2020 | 84 | 0 | power train |
| 2019 | 150 | 0 | power train |
| 2018 | 183 | 1 | power train |
| 2017 | 216 | 1 | power train |
| 2016 | 707 | 4 | steering |
| 2015 | 491 | 7 | steering |
| 2012 | 42 | 2 | air bags |
| 2011 | 42 | 5 | electrical system |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices50 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2026 · equipment:other:owners/service/other manualcampaign 26V114000
General Motors has decided that certain 2027 Chevrolet Bolt EV, 2025-2026 Cadillac OPTIQ, Chevrolet Colorado, Equinox EV, GMC Canyon, 2026 Buick Enclave, Envision, Cadillac CT5, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade IQ, Escalade IQL, LYRIQ, VISTIQ, Chevrolet Blazer EV, Corvette Convertible, Corvette Coupe, Corvette Convertible E-Ray, Equinox, Silverado 1500, 2500, 3500, Silverado EV, Suburban 1500, Tahoe, Traverse, GMC Acadia, Hummer EV Pickup, Hummer EV SUV, Sierra 1500, 2500, 3500, Sierra EV, Terrain, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. The radio may not have been set to the correct status to download the electronic owner's manual during production. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, “Occupant Protection.”
2025 · equipment:other:owners/service/other manualcampaign 26V114000
General Motors has decided that certain 2027 Chevrolet Bolt EV, 2025-2026 Cadillac OPTIQ, Chevrolet Colorado, Equinox EV, GMC Canyon, 2026 Buick Enclave, Envision, Cadillac CT5, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade IQ, Escalade IQL, LYRIQ, VISTIQ, Chevrolet Blazer EV, Corvette Convertible, Corvette Coupe, Corvette Convertible E-Ray, Equinox, Silverado 1500, 2500, 3500, Silverado EV, Suburban 1500, Tahoe, Traverse, GMC Acadia, Hummer EV Pickup, Hummer EV SUV, Sierra 1500, 2500, 3500, Sierra EV, Terrain, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. The radio may not have been set to the correct status to download the electronic owner's manual during production. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, “Occupant Protection.”
2024 · tirescampaign 24V366000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2024 Chevrolet Colorado vehicles. Incorrect tires may have been installed that do not match the tire label, and the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) may provide inaccurate information for the installed tires. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 110, "Tire Selection and Rims" and 138, "Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems."
2024 · fuel system, gasoline:storage:tank assemblycampaign 24V491000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2024 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon vehicles. The lock ring that secures the fuel pump to the fuel tank assembly may not have been fully locked during assembly, which can result in a fuel leak during a crash.
2024 · seat belts:critical fastenerscampaign 24V703000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Chevrolet Colorado and 2023 GMC Canyon vehicles. The left or right front seat may have a seat belt buckle attachment bolt that was not tightened properly.
2023 · electrical system:adas:driver monitoring:camera/sensorcampaign 24V133000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2023 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon vehicles. The front camera module (FCM) system may falsely detect an obstacle, causing the automatic emergency braking (AEB) to engage unexpectedly.
2023 · wheels:lugs/nuts/bolts/studscampaign 24V237000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2023 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon vehicles. The front wheel hub bolts may have been over-tightened and damaged during installation.
2023 · seat belts:critical fastenerscampaign 24V703000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Chevrolet Colorado and 2023 GMC Canyon vehicles. The left or right front seat may have a seat belt buckle attachment bolt that was not tightened properly.
2022 · seats:critical fastenerscampaign 22V375000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2022 GMC Canyon and Chevrolet Colorado vehicles equipped with a manual passenger seat. The front passenger seat may have a hook attachment that was not properly welded, allowing it to separate from the inboard track of the seat frame.
2021 · seat beltscampaign 20V811000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Chevrolet Bolt EV and 2021 GMC Canyon and Sierra 1500, 2500 and 3500, Yukon, Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV and Chevrolet Blazer, Camaro, Colorado, Equinox, Silverado 1500, 2500 and 3500, Suburban and Tahoe vehicles. Incorrect bolts may have been used at one or more fastening locations to secure the seat belts to the vehicle. If an incorrect bolt was used, the seat belt may not be properly attached to the vehicle.
2018 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 18V358000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015-2018 GMC Canyon, 2016-2017 Buick Envision, 2016-2018 Chevrolet Colorado and Malibu, 2017-2018 GMC Acadia, 2018 Buick LaCrosse, Cadillac ATS, Chevrolet Equinox, and GMC Terrain vehicles. The high pressure fuel pump may detach from its mounting flange, possibly resulting in the pump damaging the high pressure fuel line.
2017 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 18V358000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015-2018 GMC Canyon, 2016-2017 Buick Envision, 2016-2018 Chevrolet Colorado and Malibu, 2017-2018 GMC Acadia, 2018 Buick LaCrosse, Cadillac ATS, Chevrolet Equinox, and GMC Terrain vehicles. The high pressure fuel pump may detach from its mounting flange, possibly resulting in the pump damaging the high pressure fuel line.
2016 · air bags:frontalcampaign 17V621000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015-2016 GMC Canyon and Chevrolet Colorado, and 2016 Chevrolet Volt vehicles. The driver's frontal air bag may improperly inflate during second-stage deployment in the event of a high speed crash.
2016 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 18V358000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015-2018 GMC Canyon, 2016-2017 Buick Envision, 2016-2018 Chevrolet Colorado and Malibu, 2017-2018 GMC Acadia, 2018 Buick LaCrosse, Cadillac ATS, Chevrolet Equinox, and GMC Terrain vehicles. The high pressure fuel pump may detach from its mounting flange, possibly resulting in the pump damaging the high pressure fuel line.
2016 · latches/locks/linkagescampaign 15V807000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2016 Chevrolet Colorado trucks manufactured August 25, 2015 to September 24, 2015, and GMC Canyon trucks manufactured August 28, 2015 to September 24, 2015. The affected vehicles have a console compartment lid latch assembly that may fail to keep the compartment door closed in the event of a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 201, "Occupant Protection in Interior Impact."
35 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
ZR2 2.7 Turbo
4-cylinder · 310 hp · AWD · automatic
Built 2023–2026