GMC Logo My Garage

Chevrolet Colorado Reliability Reviews and Ratings

Chevrolet Colorado Reliability Reviews and Ratings

Is the Chevrolet Colorado's reliability a concern for you? In this article, we explore its overall reliability, highlighting strengths, common issues, and what real owners have experienced.

Get a thorough understanding before you decide on this midsize truck—and learn why the Colorado has a renewed reputation for reliability!

Practical Considerations on the Reliability of the Chevrolet Colorado

  • Starting at approximately $45,000, the Colorado offers an economical choice for those seeking a reliable and budget-friendly vehicle.
  • Reviews of recent years for the Colorado gave it a stellar 85/100 rating, with J.D. Power noting its reliability.
  • With a maximum towing capability of up to 7700 pounds, the Colorado proves to be a reliable option for tow and hauling.
  • The Colorado ZR2’s 2.7L Turbo high-output engine has been updated to serve reliably. Owners of the ZR2 model that we've talked to expressed high satisfaction with its off-road capabilities.
  • RepairPal rates the Colorado as a 4.0 / 5-star mid-size truck.
  • For the Chevrolet Colorado, common repairs are usually amounting to an average of $806 per year.
  • The truck comes with a 3-year/60,000 km base warranty and a 5-year/100,000 km warranty for powertrain components and extended warranty options.
  • The Chevy Colorado offers good fuel efficiency for a midsize truck, with newer models reliably getting up to 9.4 L/100 km on the highway and 11.8 L/100 km in the city.
  • It stands out in its class for towing capacity and advanced features, making it an attractive option for both work and leisure.

Chevrolet Colorado Reliability Overview

The Chevrolet Colorado has earned high praise from critics and owners alike. Reviews of recent years for the Colorado gave it a stellar 85/100 rating, with J.D. Power noting its reliability for daily use and off-road adventures over a span of years. The Colorado has become known its versatility—and bagged recent Truck of the Year awards from MotorTrend for its performance and refined ride.

One of the key advantages of the Chevrolet Colorado is its affordability as a new truck, with manageable financing payments that make ownership costs reasonable. Starting at approximately $45,000, the Colorado offers an economical choice for those seeking a reliable and budget-friendly vehicle.

Chevrolet Colorado Engine and Transmission Performance

Closeup shot of the Colorado ZR2’s 2.7L Turbo high-output engine

Get a closeup look at the Colorado ZR2’s 2.7L Turbo high-output engine, designed for impressive power and performance. To enhance the reliability of your Chevrolet Colorado, stick to a regular maintenance schedule, ensuring this robust engine continues to deliver peak performance. Your sales advisor can provide tips on maintaining your vehicle to keep it running smoothly for years to come.

The Chevrolet Colorado makes great use of a 2.7L Turbomax 4-cylinder engine that strikes a perfect balance between power and efficiency. While the average annual maintenance cost for a Chevrolet Colorado is about average, it's lower than the national average for all vehicles. Additionally, with a maximum towing capability of up to 7700 pounds, the Colorado proves to be a reliable option for tow and hauling.

A standout feature is the advanced 8-speed automatic transmission. This system provides smoother acceleration and better power management, enhancing your overall driving experience. According to our sales advisors, the combination of the turbocharged engine and 8-speed transmission offers a smooth ride, making long journeys for work or play much more enjoyable.

To further enhance your driving experience, the Colorado includes features like adaptive cruise control and an intuitive infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. These additions make long drives more comfortable; if you're looking for your next road trip vehicle, the Colorado is a great model to get with your old vehicle's trade-in.

Chevrolet Colorado Electrical System Reliability

The Chevrolet Colorado boasts a strong electrical system, though like any vehicle, it can face minor issues. Some owners have noted power steering loss in older models and occasional fuel gauge inaccuracies due to faulty and discontinued sensors. These issues are generally manageable with regular maintenance and a lot less common in newer models.

An older issue in older models involves communication errors within the electrical system, often due to loose connectors around the driver's door area. Regular checks can help maintain the Colorado's reliability no matter what year it's from; it's an easy fix.

Build Quality and Durability of the Colorado

Enjoy the commanding view from the driver’s seat of the Colorado ZR2, with a dry climate vista visible through the front windshield

While the Chevrolet Colorado has faced past issues like transmission problems, power steering loss, and inconsistent fuel gauge readings, recent models have incorporated reliable elements from Chevrolet’s most dependable vehicles to address these concerns; it's a great example of build quality.

The Chevrolet Colorado is built to last, using high-quality materials that not only look good but also stand up to the test of time. The interior design, despite some hard plastics, is generally well-reviewed for its straightforward controls and overall good looks, especially on the inside.

One of the key highlights is the fortified steel frame, which enhances the vehicle’s rigidity and improves handling and safety during impacts. This robust construction is particularly beneficial in off-road scenarios, where 4WD durability is key.

Owners of the ZR2 model that we've talked to expressed high satisfaction with its off-road capabilities. The specialized suspension and underbody skid-plate protection make it a formidable choice for rugged terrains. Whether you’re using it as a lifestyle vehicle or a work truck, the Colorado strikes a commendable balance between power and ride comfort.

Self-Reported Colorado Owners' Experiences

Hearing from real owners can provide invaluable insights into the Chevrolet Colorado’s reliability. Many owners have shared positive experiences, highlighting the truck’s performance and comfort. For instance, newer model years' Colorado owners on Reddit mentioned,

"I have a ZR2 and love it. I don’t think reliability is as bad as you think. You only hear about the bad days and the issues. Nobody comes on here and says, "I just drove for a full month without a single issue!"

This sentiment is echoed by another owner who praised the truck’s comfort and towing capabilities, stating, "Our 2019 3.6L 4WD is comfortable to drive and tow with, has leather heated seats and steering wheel, and the only non-consumable fault was a rotted engine oil cooler pipe that needed replacement".

While some owners of older years have reported intermittent issues with power windows and power door locks, these are generally minor inconveniences. The front seats are often highlighted for their comfort, making long drives more enjoyable. One owner shared, "I love my Colorado, I have the extended cab, and it’s been great for long trips".

Overall, the Chevrolet Colorado continues to receive positive feedback from its owners, who appreciate its blend of performance, comfort, and advanced features. By focusing on regular certified maintenance and staying informed about potential issues, you can ensure your Chevrolet Colorado remains a reliable and enjoyable vehicle for years to come.

Chevrolet Colorado Maintenance and Repair Costs

See our skilled pickup truck mechanic working on a Chevrolet Colorado, ensuring it runs at its best

While the Chevrolet Colorado has faced issues in the past, it's now easy and affordable for our technicians and mechanics to maintain. Recent models have incorporated reliable elements from Chevrolet’s most dependable vehicles. You can expect to spend around $500 a year to maintain a Chevrolet Colorado, which is quite reasonable compared to other midsize trucks, ensuring a smooth and worry-free driving experience.

RepairPal has weighed in and rates the Colorado as a 4.0 out of 5-stars mid-size truck. Maintenance and repair costs are a big consideration for any vehicle owner. For the Chevrolet Colorado, common repairs include brake pad replacements, tire rotations, and oil changes. amounting to an average of $806 per year.

Scheduled Chevy maintenance has one of the most powerful roles in enhancing the Colorado’s reliability. Here are some key maintenance tasks and their recommended intervals:

  1. Tire rotation and oil change servicing every 12 000 km
  2. Air filters every 36,000 km
  3. Spark plugs should be checked at intervals of 96,000 km
  4. Transmission fluid changes are recommended every 72,000 km to keep the transmission in good condition.

Adhering to these maintenance guidelines and promptly addressing issues helps owners save on repairs and keep their Chevrolet Colorado running smoothly for years. Our services involve checking drive belts, shocks, and the battery’s condition regularly can prevent larger, more costly problems down the line.

Chevrolet Warranty Coverage

Chevrolet offers comprehensive warranty coverage for the Colorado, providing peace of mind to owners. The truck comes with a 3-year/60,000 km base warranty and a 5-year/100,000 km warranty for powertrain components. This coverage ensures that major mechanical issues are taken care of without significant out-of-pocket expenses.

In addition to the standard warranty, Chevrolet includes a complimentary lube-oil-filter program for the first 2 years or 24,000 km of ownership. Owners also benefit from 5-year/100,000 km roadside assistance and courtesy transportation services, adding an extra layer of convenience and support.

Dealerships like ours offer extended plans for those seeking additional protection tailored to specific driving needs and if you're lucky, you might find a used Chevrolet Colorado among our used vehicles under $30,000.

Comparison with Other Trucks

Front profile of a Chevrolet Silverado 1500 sitting on our dealer's lot in Toronto

Check out the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 sitting on our dealer’s lot in Toronto, ready to impress with its robust capabilities. The Chevrolet Colorado, however, stands out with better towing capacity and advanced features, delivering a notably smooth ride compared to the Ford Ranger and, some say, even the Silverado 1500. Your sales advisor can help you explore these benefits and find the perfect truck for your needs.

The Chevrolet Colorado stands out in the crowded midsize truck market, thanks to its advanced driver-assistance features and impressive towing capacity. These features enhance safety and decidedly contribute to the truck’s overall reliability by potentially reducing accident-related issues.

When compared to the Honda Ridgeline, the Colorado’s superior towing capacity becomes evident. While the Ridgeline offers a dual-use tailgate for functional unloading, it falls short in towing capability. The Toyota Tacoma, another popular competitor, struggles with limited cabin space and an underperforming engine.

The Ford Ranger, although equipped with a capable powertrain, can suffer from a dated cabin design and subpar ride quality due to its soft suspension—in some years. In contrast, the Chevrolet Colorado provides a more balanced and comfortable ride, making it a great choice for many of our truck buyers.

Chevrolet Colorado Comparison with Other GM Trucks

When compared to the Chevrolet Silverado, the Colorado holds its own with a reliability score of 85 out of 100 from J.D. Power, which is commendable. The Silverado, however, scores slightly under that with a reliability score of 84 out of 100, nevertheless reflecting its robust build and long-standing reputation.

While the Silverado offers a larger cargo space and more powerful engine options, the Colorado balances these aspects with better maneuverability and fuel efficiency, making it a versatile choice for various needs.

Call on Woodbine GM to Try Your New Chevrolet Colorado

A rear 3/4 profile of a Chevrolet Colorado for sale sitting on our dealer's lot in Toronto

Check out the Chevrolet Colorado sitting on our GM dealer’s lot in Toronto, ready to take on any challenge. The Chevrolet Colorado is known for its impressive fuel efficiency, making it a cost-effective choice for both city driving and long-distance trips. Your sales advisor can help you explore all the features that make the Colorado a standout option in the midsize truck category.

The turbocharged engine and 8-speed automatic transmission provide a smooth and powerful driving experience, although regular maintenance is crucial to prevent common issues. The electrical system, while having its quirks, can be managed with regular checks and timely repairs.

Ultimately, the Chevrolet Colorado offers a solid mix of performance, comfort, and reliability. By following the tips provided and staying on top of maintenance, owners can enjoy a dependable and enjoyable driving experience for years to come—making it well worth the cost of vehicle finance.

Don't just take our word for it—schedule a test drive today and experience the unparalleled reliability and performance of the Chevrolet Colorado for yourself!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Chevy Colorados good on gas?

Yes, the Chevy Colorado offers good fuel efficiency for a midsize truck, with the 2023 model achieving up to 9.4 L/100 km on the highway and 11.8 L/100 km in the city.

Do Chevy Colorado models last a long time?

Yes, Chevy Colorados are known for their longevity, with many owners reporting high mileage, some even surpassing 320,000 km with regular and recommended maintenance.

Is GM discontinuing the Colorado?

While the Chevrolet Colorado is a reliable choice, there are other great models known for their dependability—that put reliability first. The Chevrolet Trax, for instance, is a compact SUV that offers excellent fuel efficiency and a smooth ride. Additionally, the Chevrolet Equinox is another solid option, praised for its advanced safety features and comfortable interior.

Categories: Vehicle Reviews