Chevrolet Colorado 1st generation (2003–2012)
Generation-specific owner insights from 80+ substantive owner discussions, with US complaint and recall records.
Should I buy one?
1,409
US owner complaints (NHTSA), 2003–2012
27
recall campaigns
electrical system
most-complained area
What owners say about this generation
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
The version owners recommend
The 2007-2012 trucks with the 3.7L inline-five are the consensus best choice, with multiple owners calling it a "fantastic truck and engine." The 2009-2012 5.3L V8 is highly praised as a rare sleeper with strong power, though owners note the four-speed automatic and torque management limit its potential. The 2004-2006 3.5L is repeatedly discouraged.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, Nissan Frontier, Dodge Dakota and Honda CR-V.
Is a 2003–2012 Colorado right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
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Overall sentiment
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. The most consistent praise centers on the later 3.7L inline-five and the rare 5.3L V8 (2009-2012), with one owner calling the first generation "the best Colorado they've made." Criticism focuses on the early 3.5L engine, shoddy fit and finish compared to newer trucks, a "stupid" front brake/wheel bearing design, and a cramped rear seat. There is a clear split between early years (2004-2006), which owners repeatedly warn about, and later years (2007-2012), which are widely recommended.
Positioning vs competitors
Owners position the Colorado as a capable but less premium alternative to the Tacoma, noting the "Tacoma tax" makes the Toyota far more expensive and that its rear seat is also poor. The Ranger is cited as having the largest rear passenger space among midsize trucks. The Dakota is seen as offering "more truck for the money," while full-size trucks like the Ram 1500, F-150, and Silverado are recommended when heavier towing or payload is needed. Against a CR-V, owners describe the Colorado as a downgrade in interior, ride, noise, MPG, and interior space.
Recommended configurations
Owners recommend seeking a 2007 or later model with the 3.7L engine, and specifically advise avoiding the 2005 due to pre-revision motor issues and more expensive parts. The Z71 4x4 package is mentioned favorably for its off-road equipment, torsion bar front suspension, and 4.10 rear gear. For towing, owners note the maximum rating is around 4,000 lbs and warn against using the Colorado for anything beyond a small trailer without rear suspension upgrades.
General recommendations
This generation suits buyers who want a compact, easy-to-park truck for light hauling and don't need full-size capability. Owners strongly advise preferring 2007-2012 models over 2004-2006, and inspecting thoroughly for rust on the frame, bed, cab corners, and floor pan, as well as checking the transmission, 4WD system, and maintenance history. Several owners recommend a pre-purchase inspection and a vehicle history report. One owner notes the rear seat is very cramped for adults.
Remarks
The 5.3L V8 (2009-2012) is a recurring point of enthusiasm, with owners describing it as a rare sleeper that surprises full-size trucks at stoplights, though the four-speed automatic and torque management limit burnouts. Owners note the V8 was limited to crew cab and extended cab configurations and is difficult to find. The inline-five is described as quirky and fun-sounding, with good parts interchangeability across the four- and six-cylinder family. Analysis based on approximately 80 substantive owner discussions about this generation.
Complaints and recalls by model year
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | 42 | 2 | air bags |
| 2011 | 42 | 5 | electrical system |
| 2010 | 84 | 2 | electrical system |
| 2009 | 67 | 3 | electrical system |
| 2008 | 81 | 2 | electrical system |
| 2007 | 140 | 3 | electrical system |
| 2006 | 236 | 4 | electrical system |
| 2005 | 356 | 3 | service brakes |
| 2004 | 361 | 3 | electrical system |
Source: US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices for this generation
2012 · seat belts:frontcampaign 11V552000
GENERAL MOTORS (GM) IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 CHEVROLET COLORADO AND GMC CANYON VEHICLES, MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 9, 2011, THROUGH OCTOBER 19, 2011, FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NUMBER 208, "OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION." THESE VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN PRODUCED WITH DRIVER SAFETY BELT BUCKLE ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR TERMINALS THAT DO NOT FIT SNUGLY WITH THE CONNECTOR PINS, CAUSING THE CONNECTION TO BE INTERMITTENT.
2012 · latches/locks/linkages:hood:latchcampaign 12V594000
General Motors is recalling certain model year 2010-2012 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon vehicles manufactured from November 9, 2009, through August 28, 2012, for failing to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 113, "Hood Latch System." The hood may be missing the secondary hood latch.
2011 · visibility:windshield wiper/washer:motorcampaign 11V276000
GENERAL MOTORS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 CHEVROLET COLORADO AND GMC CANYON VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 22, 2010, THROUGH NOVEMBER 5, 2010. SOME OF THESE VEHICLES HAVE THE CONDITION IN WHICH THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR CRANK ARM NUT MAY NOT BE TIGHTENED TO SPECIFICATION. WHEN THE WIPERS ARE OPERATED WITH A BUILD-UP OF SNOW OR ICE, OR IF THE WIPERS ARE OPERATED ON A DRY WINDSHIELD, THE NUT COULD LOOSEN. IF THERE IS SUFFICIENT LOOSENING OF THE NUT, THE WIPERS COULD BECOME INOPERATIVE.
2011 · latches/locks/linkages:hood:latchcampaign 12V594000
General Motors is recalling certain model year 2010-2012 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon vehicles manufactured from November 9, 2009, through August 28, 2012, for failing to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 113, "Hood Latch System." The hood may be missing the secondary hood latch.
2011 · power train:automatic transmission:gear position indication (prndl)campaign 11V337000
GENERAL MOTORS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 CHEVROLET COLORADO AND GMC CANYON PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A 2.9 OR 3.7 LITER ENGINE AND A FOUR-SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FOR FAILING TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO 102, "TRANSMISSION SHIFT LEVER SEQUENCE, STARTER INTERLOCK, AND TRANSMISSION BRAKING EFFECT," AND FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 114, "THEFT PROTECTION." THESE VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN BUILT WITH AN AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION ADJUSTMENT CLIP THAT MAY NOT RETAIN THE SHIFT CABLE IN THE CORRECT POSITION. IF THE SHIFT CABLE IS NOT IN THE CORRECT POSITION, THE PRNDL SHIFT LEVER MAY NOT ACCURATELY REFLECT THE POSITION OF THE TRANSMISSION GEAR. THE DRIVER COULD MOVE THE SHIFTER TO "PARK" AND REMOVE THE IGNITION KEY, BUT THE TRANSMISSION GEAR MAY NOT BE IN "PARK."
2011 · child seatcampaign 10V575000
GM IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004-2011, CHEVROLET COLORADO, GMC CANYON, MODEL YEAR 2006, ISUZU I-280/I-350, AND MODEL YEAR 2007-2008, I-290/I-370, REGULAR CAB VEHICLES AND EXTENDED CAB VEHICLES WITHOUT A REAR SEAT AND EQUIPPED WITH A FRONT 60/40 SPLIT BENCH SEAT. THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 225, "CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORAGE SYSTEMS." THE TOP TETHER ANCHOR FOR THE FRONT CENTER SEAT IS NOT ACCESSIBLE AND THE OWNER MANUAL DOES NOT INCLUDE INSTRUCTIONS REGARDING HOW TO USE THE TOP TETHER.
2011 · suspension:rear:axle:spindlecampaign 11V007000
GENERAL MOTORS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 CADILLAC ESCALADE, ESCALADE ESV, ESCALADE EXT; CHEVROLET AVALANCHE, COLORADO, EXPRESS, SILVERADO, SUBURBAN, TAHOE; AND GMC CANYON, SIERRA, SAVANA, YUKON AND YUKON XL VEHICLES. THE REAR AXLE CROSS PINS WERE NOT PROPERLY HEAT TREATED AND COULD FRACTURE AND BECOME DISPLACED WITHIN THE REAR AXLE. SHOULD THE PIN SHIFT OUT OF POSITION, IT COULD CREATE AN INTERFERENCE CONDITION AND CAUSE THE REAR AXLE TO LOCK.
2010 · latches/locks/linkages:hood:latchcampaign 12V594000
General Motors is recalling certain model year 2010-2012 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon vehicles manufactured from November 9, 2009, through August 28, 2012, for failing to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 113, "Hood Latch System." The hood may be missing the secondary hood latch.
2010 · child seatcampaign 10V575000
GM IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004-2011, CHEVROLET COLORADO, GMC CANYON, MODEL YEAR 2006, ISUZU I-280/I-350, AND MODEL YEAR 2007-2008, I-290/I-370, REGULAR CAB VEHICLES AND EXTENDED CAB VEHICLES WITHOUT A REAR SEAT AND EQUIPPED WITH A FRONT 60/40 SPLIT BENCH SEAT. THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 225, "CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORAGE SYSTEMS." THE TOP TETHER ANCHOR FOR THE FRONT CENTER SEAT IS NOT ACCESSIBLE AND THE OWNER MANUAL DOES NOT INCLUDE INSTRUCTIONS REGARDING HOW TO USE THE TOP TETHER.
2009 · fuel system, gasolinecampaign 09V154000
GM IS RECALLING 27,188 MY 2009 CADILLAC ESCALADE, ESCALADE HYBRID, ESCALADE ESV, AND ESCALADE EXT; CHEVROLET AVALANCHE, SUBURBAN, TAHOE, TAHOE HYBRID, AND COLORADO; AND GMC YUKON, YUKON HYBRID, YUKON XL, AND CANYON VEHICLES. THE FUEL SYSTEM CONTROL MODULES MAY HAVE A CONDITION IN WHICH AN ADHESIVE SEPARATION OF THE ROOM TEMPERATURE VULCANIZING (RTV) SEAL BETWEEN THE SEAL AND THE HOUSING MAY ALLOW WATER TO SEEP INTO THE MODULE.
2009 · child seatcampaign 10V575000
GM IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004-2011, CHEVROLET COLORADO, GMC CANYON, MODEL YEAR 2006, ISUZU I-280/I-350, AND MODEL YEAR 2007-2008, I-290/I-370, REGULAR CAB VEHICLES AND EXTENDED CAB VEHICLES WITHOUT A REAR SEAT AND EQUIPPED WITH A FRONT 60/40 SPLIT BENCH SEAT. THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 225, "CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORAGE SYSTEMS." THE TOP TETHER ANCHOR FOR THE FRONT CENTER SEAT IS NOT ACCESSIBLE AND THE OWNER MANUAL DOES NOT INCLUDE INSTRUCTIONS REGARDING HOW TO USE THE TOP TETHER.
2009 · exterior lighting:brake lights:switchcampaign 09V310000
GM IS RECALLING 185,903 MODEL YEAR 2004-2009 COLORADO, GMC MODEL YEAR 2009-2004 CANYON, MODEL YEAR 2006 I-280, I-350, MODEL YEAR 2007-2008 I-290, AND I-370, PASSENGER VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF ALABAMA, ARIZONA, FLORIDA, GEORGIA, HAWAII, LOUISIANA, MISSISSIPPI, NEVADA, NEW MEXICO, PUERTO RICO, SOUTH CAROLINA, TEXAS, U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS AND UTAH. SOME OF THESE VEHICLES HAVE A BRAKE LAMP SWITCH THAT MAY NOT WORK AS DESIGNED DUE TO CONTAMINATION IN THE SWITCH.
3 more recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Owner insights summarize real ownership discussions for this generation only. Complaint and recall data is public NHTSA (US) information. Always verify recalls against your VIN at nhtsa.gov.