The Chevy Colorado is a mid-size pickup truck that began as a 2004 model year.
For those looking for a smaller and more affordable alternative to full-size the Silverado, it makes an appealing choice.
In this article, we’ll be going through all of its best and worst years.
Table of Contents
Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Chevrolet Colorado Are:
The best Chevrolet Colorado model years are 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2012, 2011, 2010, and 2009. The worst model years of this model are 2015, 2016, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2017, 2018, and 2019. This is based on auto industry reviews, NHTSA statistics, reported problems, and consumer feedback.
What Are The Best Years For The Chevrolet Colorado?
2024 and 2023 Chevrolet Colorado
The 2024 and 2023 Colorado model years kick off the fully redesigned third generation boasting a significantly improved cabin, a new turbocharged four-cylinder engine, and a handsome new exterior.
These models are praised for their rapid acceleration and stout towing abilities with a maximum capacity of 7,700 pounds.
Base pricing for various trims ranges from $31,000 to $48,000.
There are a total of 5 trim levels: Work Truck, LT, Trail Boss, Z71, and ZR2.
All trims are equipped with a 2.7-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that has 3 different output levels:
- Work Truck and LT – Turbo (237 horsepower, 259 pound-feet of torque)
- Trail Boss and Z71 – Turbo Plus (310 horsepower, 391 pound-feet of torque)
- ZR2 – High-Output (310 horsepower, 430 pound-feet of torque)
2023 Chevrolet Colorado:
- Edmunds: 4.3 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: NA
2023 Colorado, Edmunds Review:
“Optioned mine to the max. Plenty of power for towing. Optional tow package is a must. Engine is a little whiny sounding but its a turbo’d 4 cylinder it’s not gonna sound like a V-8. Rear under seat storage is a joke that can fit about 4 water bottles in there with the way it sweeps down. Above are all the negatives I have to say and that was nitpicking. a great truck and if you really want a “nice” interior you really need the Z71 trim over the other options.”
2022 and 2021 Chevrolet Colorado
The 2021 and 2022 Colorado model years are great picks and are the most reliable options from the second generation.
For 2021 the Colorado received an updated front-end design, a stamped Chevrolet logo across the tailgate, and some minor standard and optional equipment shuffling. It carried over to 2022 unchanged.
Variants fitted with the standard 3.6-liter V6 gasoline engine (308 horsepower, 275 pound-feet of torque) can tow as much as 7,000 pounds.
Those with the optional 2.8-liter 4-cylinder diesel engine (181 horsepower, 369 pound-feet of torque) can achieve a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds.
There are a total of 4 trims: Work Truck, LT, Z71, and ZR2.
Notable safety features include the following:
- OnStar System
- Safety Package
- Teen Driver Mode
2022 Chevrolet Colorado:
- Edmunds: 3.9 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.3 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: 83 / 100
2021 Chevrolet Colorado:
- Edmunds: 3.9 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.3 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: 81 / 100
2021 Colorado, Edmunds Review:
“In the old days, back when trucks were little more than an engine and seat, we called basic trucks “stripped down” versions. When I teased the salesman that this was stripped down, he self-righteously corrected me that it is a work truck. To GM’s credit, and to his, he is right. It is more than just an engine and seat…”
2020 Chevrolet Colorado
The 2020 model year is a second-gen Colorado that is comfortable, easy to drive, and reliable. It comes in a wide variety of trim levels and its gasoline V6 and diesel four-cylinder engines can out-tow the segment competition.
For 2020 an available remote locking tailgate feature was introduced.
Offered in extended cab and crew cab body styles, this truck has a total of 5 trims: Base, Work Truck, LT, Z71, and ZR2.
When equipped with the proper towing gear, this model can tow as much as 7,000 pounds, which is more than enough for a standard trailer or midsize boat.
Based on hundreds of reviews online, owners loved this model year for the following aspects:
- Comfort
- Spaciousness
- Appearance
- Interior
- Fuel efficiency
- Handling
- Steering
- Overall driving experience
the 4WD V6 is officially rated at 19 mpg for combined city and highway driving, which is slightly above average for its class.
- Edmunds: 3.7 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.3 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: 81 / 100
2020 Colorado, Edmunds Review:
“Well mannered, comfortable seats with plenty of room for 6 footers. Front seat sets back enough for even a 7 footer. Handles well on smooth and rough surfaces. Solid – no squeaks. Trans is smooth and shifts well in drive. Using low allows you to shift all 8 gears according to your situation. Good power and great pickup speed. Air and heat is super with great fan speeds. Good turning radius and great view on all sides to park…”
2012, 2011, 2010, and 2009 Chevrolet Colorado
The 2012, 2011, 2010, and 2009 Colorado models are essentially the same with no major difference between them although head curtain airbags were made standard across the board for 2010.
These first-gen trucks are praised for their affordability, handsome good looks, composed handling on- and off-road, and selection of engine choices.
They are offered in 3 types: Crew Cab, Regular Cab, and Extended Cab and 3 trim levels: 1LT, 2LT, and 3LT.
EPA fuel estimates are 18 mpg city/24 mpg highway and 21 mpg combined for the four-cylinder regular cab.
This goes down to 14/19/16 for a 4WD crew cab with the V8.
A properly equipped V8-powered Colorado can tow up to 6,000 pounds.
2012 Chevrolet Colorado:
- Edmunds: 4.1 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.1 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: 78 / 100
2011 Chevrolet Colorado:
- Edmunds: 4.3 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.1 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: 80 / 100
2010 Chevrolet Colorado:
- Edmunds: 4.4 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.1 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: 82 / 100
2009 Chevrolet Colorado:
- Edmunds: 4.4 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.1 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: 78 / 100
2012 Colorado, Edmunds Review:
“I bought this 2012 Chevy Colorado with the 3.7 liter 5 used for 21,000 miles. I then took it on a 6,000 mile road trip this September 2012 through 22 states. From Charleston South Carolina, to Great Falls Montana to Parker Arizona back to Charleston. The Last leg of the trip from AZ to SC I towed a 2000 Dodge Dakota single cab with a frame hitch behind my Colorado. Throughout the entire trip the truck ran excellent. Before towing the Dodge I averaged 24.5 MPG highway at about 75 MPH. Towing the Dodge I managed 15-19 MPG…”
Consumer Scores For Best Chevrolet Colorado Years
| Model Year | Edmunds Consumer Rating | Kelley Blue Book Consumer Rating | J.D. Power Consumer Rating |
| 2024 Chevrolet Colorado | – | – | – |
| 2023 Chevrolet Colorado | 4.3 / 5.0 | 4.6 / 5.0 | NA |
| 2022 Chevrolet Colorado | 3.9 / 5.0 | 4.3 / 5.0 | 83 / 100 |
| 2021 Chevrolet Colorado | 3.9 / 5.0 | 4.3 / 5.0 | 81 / 100 |
| 2020 Chevrolet Colorado | 3.7 / 5.0 | 4.3 / 5.0 | 81 / 100 |
| 2012 Chevrolet Colorado | 4.1 / 5.0 | 4.1 / 5.0 | 78 / 100 |
| 2011 Chevrolet Colorado | 4.3 / 5.0 | 4.1 / 5.0 | 80 / 100 |
| 2010 Chevrolet Colorado | 4.4 / 5.0 | 4.1 / 5.0 | 82 / 100 |
| 2009 Chevrolet Colorado | 4.4 / 5.0 | 4.1 / 5.0 | 78 / 100 |
Related: 21 Best & Worst Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Years (Explained)
What Are The Worst Years For The Chevrolet Colorado?
2015 and 2016 Chevrolet Colorado
The 2015 (named a “Clunker” by CarComplaints.com) and 2016 Colorado trucks are the most problematic model years produced.
The overwhelming majority of the complaints filed were due to loss of power steering. The problem was often accompanied by a “service stabiltrak” message.
“Random loss of power steering while vehicle is moving. Pulling over, shutting truck off and restarting usually clears up the issue. Previous recall number is 21v213. My truck does not qualify for this recall but is now having this issue.” – NHTSA.gov
“My 2015 Colorado is repeatedly losing power steering. Twice while driving and three times upon starting the vehicle the power steering has failed” – NHTSA.gov
“Vehicle suddenly loses power steering without warning. The power steering module is connected to the can bus which errors everything else on the same network so stabilitrack, traction control, abs, etc goes out all at the same time.” – NHTSA.gov
- The 2015 Colorado had a total of 125 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 533 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2016 Colorado had a total of 118 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 621 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Common problems:
- Loss of power steering
- Sluggish performance
- Transmission failure
- Shakes while driving
- Shifting issues
- Engine stalling
2016 Chevrolet Colorado
2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, and 2008 Chevrolet Colorado
The Colorado did not get off to a great start to life and the initial first-generation models suffered from a wide variety of electrical issues.
Many of the complaints were linked to the ignition and passlock security which had several reported problems, some of which were covered by a recall.
“Ignition safety module known as pass lock security. This causes my vehicle not to start and give a code and a light on the dash for the pass lock security.” – NHTSA.gov
“With the revelation of the gm ignition recall problem, there are much more ignition problems that were not included in the recall. The problem is in the ignition cylinder and alignment with the passlock or passkey sensor. “ – NHTSA.gov
“The ignition key has twice needed to be replaced as the key itself seems to lose the ability to turn in the ignition.” – NHTSA.gov
“Firstly the passlock system is a huge issue, if the parts in the system ignition system break down or trip you can be stuck high and dry on a whim.” – NHTSA.gov
- The 2004 Colorado had a total of 106 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 422 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2005 Colorado had a total of 100 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 388 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2006 Colorado had a total of 60 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 280 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2007 Colorado had a total of 29 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 172 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2008 Colorado had a total of 31 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 117 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Common problems:
- Rusted out frame
- Engine misfire at steady speeds
- Fan speed switch issues
- Check engine light is on
- Brakes squeaking
- ABS light on
- Intermittent difficulties in starting
- Engine turns over, will not start
- Blower motor not working
- Shorted electrical system
- Overheating, runs hot
2017, 2018, and 2019 Chevrolet Colorado
Owners of the 2017, 2018, and 2019 Colorado models complained about transmission problems with the most commonly reported symptom being shuddering whilst driving.
“My vehicle shutters on highway. I was told by a few chevy representatives that they would help fix it even though it’s out of warranty. This is a known problem across the USA and they should fix it at no charge to customers.” – NHTSA.gov
“While driving, there is noticeable “shudder” that seems to feel like an issue with the transmission when it is shifting (automatic transmission). Research online shows this to be a consistent issue and concern with many owners of the 2018 chevy Colorado.” – NHTSA.gov
“Transmission problems. Vibrates under acceleration and deceleration. Occasionally won’t shift gears up or down, slips or hesitation between shifts. Violent jerks at times.” – NHTSA.gov
The problem has been linked to the manufacturer installing the wrong transmission fluid.
“Trans issues were related to incorrect fluid being factory filled. I’m not going to get into the science but once flushed and filled with the correct fluid it was fixed. New trucks starting in July of 2019 no longer have issues.” Reddit.com/r/ChevyColorado
- The 2017 Colorado had a total of 57 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 226 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2018 Colorado had a total of 100 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 170 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2019 Colorado had a total of 49 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 128 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Common problems:
- Shuddering, slipping
- Vibration
- Transmission issues
- High pressure fuel pump failure
- Vehicle stalling
- Shifting problems
- Touch screen malfunction
What Years Have The Most Complaints?
| Model Year | Complaints (CarComplaints.com) | Problems (CarProblemZoo.com) | Recalls (NHTSA.gov) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 Chevrolet Colorado | – | – | – |
| 2023 Chevrolet Colorado | – | 22 | – |
| 2022 Chevrolet Colorado | 2 | 17 | 1 |
| 2021 Chevrolet Colorado | 1 | 36 | 1 |
| 2020 Chevrolet Colorado | 2 | 41 | 0 |
| 2019 Chevrolet Colorado | 49 | 128 | 0 |
| 2018 Chevrolet Colorado | 100 | 170 | 1 |
| 2017 Chevrolet Colorado | 57 | 226 | 1 |
| 2016 Chevrolet Colorado | 118 | 621 | 4 |
| 2015 Chevrolet Colorado | 125 | 533 | 7 |
| 2012 Chevrolet Colorado | 18 | 55 | 2 |
| 2011 Chevrolet Colorado | 14 | 55 | 5 |
| 2010 Chevrolet Colorado | 12 | 45 | 2 |
| 2009 Chevrolet Colorado | 23 | 85 | 3 |
| 2008 Chevrolet Colorado | 31 | 117 | 2 |
| 2007 Chevrolet Colorado | 29 | 172 | 3 |
| 2006 Chevrolet Colorado | 60 | 280 | 4 |
| 2005 Chevrolet Colorado | 100 | 388 | 3 |
| 2004 Chevrolet Colorado | 106 | 422 | 3 |
What Problems Do Chevrolet Colorados Have?
- Shuddering, vibration
- Loss of power steering
- Check engine light is on
- Sluggish performance
- Chugging, will not downshift
- Shakes while driving
- Shifting issues
- Engine stalling
- High pressure fuel pump failure
- Rusted out frame
- Misfires at steady speeds
- Fan speed switch malfunction
- Brakes squeaking
- ABS light is on
Related: 11 Common Chevrolet Colorado Problems (Explained)
What Are The Best Alternatives To The Chevrolet Colorado?
| Make & Model | Score | MSRP | Fuel Economy (MPG) |
| GMC Canyon | 8.4 | $36,900 – $55,500 | City: NA /Highway: NA |
| Honda Ridgeline | 8.4 | $38,800 – $46,230 | City: 18 /Highway: 24 |
| Chevrolet Colorado | 8.2 | $29,200 – $46,800 | City: 17 – 20 /Highway: 19 – 25 |
| Ford Maverick | 8.2 | $23,400 – $34,855 | City: 22 – 40 /Highway: 28 – 33 |
| Jeep Gladiator | 8.1 | $38,775 – $50,995 | City: 16 – 22 /Highway: 22 – 28 |
| Hyundai Santa Cruz | 7.9 | $26,650 – $41,070 | City: 19 – 22 /Highway: 25 – 27 |
| Nissan Frontier | 7.8 | $29,190 – $39,120 | City: 17 – 18 /Highway: 22 – 24 |
| Ford Ranger | 7.3 | $27,400 – $40,945 | City: 19 – 21 /Highway: 19 – 26 |
| Toyota Tacoma | 7.2 | $27,750 – $49,890 | City: 17 – 20 /Highway: 20 – 24 |
Source: cars.usnews.com, edmunds.com
Related: Why Does My Chevy Keep Beeping? (11 Common Causes)
References
https://www.caranddriver.com/chevrolet/colorado
https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/chevrolet/colorado
https://www.edmunds.com/chevrolet/colorado/
https://www.kbb.com/chevrolet/colorado/
https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2023/chevrolet/colorado
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Chevrolet/Colorado/
https://www.carproblemzoo.com/chevrolet/colorado/
https://www.cars.com/research/chevrolet-colorado/recalls/
