Last updated: 2026-04-20

2018 Chevrolet Colorado Reliability Report
The 2018 Chevrolet Colorado scores 75/100 ("Good"). With 1 recall and 173 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
1
Complaints
173
Complaint Rate
12.8per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$599
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,700–$4,050
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues to Watch
- POWER TRAIN (73)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (22)
- STEERING (17)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2018 is 3 years after the first facelift refresh.
- Year 4 in the Second generation (RG; 2011) (2015–2022).
- Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
- 2nd generation Colorado (US).
What this means for buyers
Post-refresh years tend to be among the most refined — updates have been applied and early kinks worked out.
2015: Second generation (RG; 2011) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2018: This Model Year
2018 is 3 years after the first facelift refresh.
2021: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
Should You Buy the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado?
At 75/100, the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2018 is 3 years after the first facelift refresh.
Owners log 173 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.
Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to power train (73). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2019 Chevrolet Colorado, which scored 3 points higher.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +Infrequent unscheduled repairs
- +Low major repair risk (13%)
- +Low recall count
Cons
- −POWER TRAIN: Transmission shudders and vibrations during acceleration, often between 20 to... (73 complaints)
- −ELECTRICAL SYSTEM issues reported (22 complaints)
Compare 2018 Chevrolet Colorado With
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 1 manufacturer recall issued
Other
HIGH RISK- POWER TRAIN (73)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (22)
Recall Overview
1
recall on record
The 2018 Chevrolet Colorado carries 1 recall — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
12.8
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 17.5
Safety Incidents
3
Crashes
5
Fires
3
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 4/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2018 Chevrolet Colorado Recall Details
1 recall has been issued for the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
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.
Consequence
A damaged fuel line can create a fuel leak, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy
GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the high pressure fuel pump, and high pressure fuel pipe, free of charge. The recall began July 2, 2018. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 18188.
Buying a used 2018 Chevrolet Colorado? Check its history first
Every 2018 Chevrolet Colorado has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2018 Chevrolet Colorado NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 21.4%
Safety Technologies
Chevrolet ColoradoRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
4Maintenance rating: 4 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$599
vs $548 avg for midsize trucks
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.2
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
13%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
15–25 MPG
Running cost: $3,300–$4,650/yr
Fuel + repair
15–22 city / 15–30 hwy MPG
Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2018 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado 2WD 2.5L 4-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic 6-spd | 20 | 26 | 22 | $2,700 |
| Colorado 2WD 2.5L 4-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 20 | 26 | 22 | $2,700 |
| Colorado 4WD 2.5L 4-cyl | 4-Wheel Drive | Automatic 6-spd | 19 | 24 | 21 | $2,850 |
| Colorado 2WD 3.6L 6-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic 8-spd | 18 | 25 | 20 | $3,000 |
| Colorado 4WD 3.6L 6-cyl | 4-Wheel Drive | Automatic 8-spd | 17 | 24 | 19 | $3,150 |
| Colorado 2WD 2.8L 4-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic 6-spd | 22 | 30 | 25 | $3,250 |
| Colorado 4WD 2.8L 4-cyl | 4-Wheel Drive | Automatic 6-spd | 20 | 28 | 23 | $3,500 |
| Colorado ZR2 4WD 3.6L 6-cyl | 4-Wheel Drive | Automatic 8-spd | 16 | 18 | 17 | $3,500 |
| Colorado Cab Chassis 2WD 3.6L 6-cyl | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic 8-spd | 15 | 15 | 15 | $4,000 |
| Colorado ZR2 4WD 2.8L 4-cyl | 4-Wheel Drive | Automatic 6-spd | 19 | 22 | 20 | $4,050 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2018 Chevrolet Colorado.
Test for transmission shudder during acceleration between 20-60 mph
Inspect for fuel leaks around the high-pressure fuel pump and AC line
Check power steering functionality, especially in cold conditions
Verify ignition key can be removed easily and doesn't get stuck
Test infotainment system for responsiveness and random activations
Inspect for signs of previous fire damage in engine compartment
2018 Chevrolet Colorado Common Problems by Component
173 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
POWER TRAIN
73 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report frequent issues with the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado's power train, particularly involving transmission shudders and vibrations during acceleration, often between 20 to 60 mph. Complaints commonly describe hard shifting, slipping between gears, and a persistent shudder even after transmission fluid changes. These issues typically arise around 20,000 to 60,000 miles, with some owners experiencing problems as early as 22,000 miles. There are safety implications noted, including one crash and two injuries, with reports of sudden power loss and engine shutdowns at highway speeds. Used car buyers should be aware that resolving these issues can be costly, with some owners mentioning repair quotes up to $13,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
22 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report several electrical system issues with the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado, with common complaints involving ignition problems, erratic touchscreen behavior, and wiring chafing. Many describe difficulty removing the ignition key, often requiring multiple attempts or tricks to release it, which can lead to drained batteries. Touchscreen malfunctions are also frequently noted, with symptoms such as unresponsive displays, random app activations, and backup cameras activating at highway speeds. Wiring issues, including harness chafing that can cause alarms and potential fire hazards, are mentioned, with one report of a fire originating from the rear seat area. These issues appear across various mileages and can affect vehicle safety, particularly when systems shut down unexpectedly or when wiring faults pose fire risks.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
22 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado frequently report issues related to the ignition system, with several complaints describing difficulty removing the key from the ignition, which can result in a dead battery or risk of theft. Another common problem involves the vehicle's infotainment system, which malfunctions and impacts the ability to monitor speed and use navigation. Complaints also highlight problems with the vehicle's heating system, including thermostat failures and heater core issues, leading to inadequate cabin heating and defrosting, especially in colder climates. Safety concerns are raised by two reports of fires starting in the engine compartment shortly after parking, and one incident involving coolant leakage that impaired visibility and resulted in an injury. These issues appear across various mileages and persist over extended periods, indicating potential long-term reliability concerns.
STEERING (17 complaints)
STEERING
17 complaintsOwners of the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado frequently report issues with the power steering system, particularly intermittent loss of power steering assistance while driving. Symptoms often include the steering wheel seizing or becoming difficult to turn, with some experiencing this issue during cold weather or after starting the vehicle. These problems typically arise around 40,000 miles, although some reports mention occurrences at lower mileages. Safety concerns are evident, as the sudden loss of steering assistance can lead to loss of vehicle control. Additionally, some owners describe ignition-related issues, such as difficulty removing the key or the ignition locking, which can leave them stranded.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (6 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
6 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado report several issues related to the fuel/propulsion system. A notable problem involves the high-pressure fuel pump detaching from its mounting flange, leading to fuel leaks; this issue is highlighted by a recall but not all affected vehicles appear to have been serviced. Additionally, there are reports of the fuel feed line rubbing against the AC line, causing leaks, particularly in diesel models around 60,000 to 70,000 miles. Another recurring issue is a blown 7.5 amp fuse to the fuel injectors, resulting in a loss of power. Safety implications are significant, with one report involving a fire after a fuel system leak. These patterns suggest potential safety risks that used car buyers should consider.
AIR BAGS (5 complaints)
AIR BAGS
5 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado often report unexpected deployment of side curtain airbags, particularly when driving on sand or off-road at low speeds, with no apparent cause. Some complaints highlight that the seat belt pretensioners also activate during these incidents. One owner reports a crash where airbags failed to deploy after hitting a tree, raising safety concerns. Another issue involves loose parts near the sidewall airbag area, which may affect airbag function. These problems are noted regardless of specific mileage, and owners have faced challenges in obtaining repairs under recalls, with at least one dealership refusing service. These reports suggest potential safety risks associated with the airbag system in certain conditions.
ENGINE (4 complaints)
ENGINE
4 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado frequently report issues related to the engine, including a notable problem with the engine block heater causing fires when the vehicle is parked and the heater is plugged in. Complaints also describe a rattle noise on cold starts, attributed to a malfunctioning variable timing actuator, which becomes more frequent after the powertrain warranty expires. Additionally, there are reports of significant oil leaks due to defective oil cooler line hoses, with one case occurring at approximately 5,000 miles. Safety implications include the risk of fire and potential engine damage, which are critical considerations for potential buyers of this model.
SUSPENSION (4 complaints)
SUSPENSION
4 complaintsOwners of the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado frequently report issues with the vehicle's suspension, particularly regarding the Multimatic DSSV dampers. Complaints highlight a tendency for the left rear damper to lose fluid due to leaks, attributed to thin shafts and poorly designed seals, leading to an unbalanced ride. Additionally, multiple owners describe a clunking noise from the front end when driving over bumps or entering driveways at low speeds. In some cases, structural integrity is a concern, as one owner reports the frame bending while towing a trailer on rough terrain, which may indicate a potential safety risk when towing. These issues appear to affect the vehicle's handling and stability, especially in off-road or towing scenarios.
STRUCTURE (4 complaints)
STRUCTURE
4 complaintsOwners of the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado report several structural issues, with common complaints involving hood movement and body panel distortion. Specifically, one owner describes the hood bouncing while driving, despite attempts to adjust the latch, occurring at approximately 3,901 miles. Another owner notes buckling and rippling of the fender wheel/cargo bed, observed around 69,000 miles. Additional reports include a backup camera that becomes excessively bright at low speeds at night, impairing visibility both inside and outside the vehicle. These issues do not mention any crashes or loss of control, but potential buyers should be aware of these structural concerns and their impact on vehicle usability.
SERVICE BRAKES (2 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
2 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report issues with the braking system of the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado, specifically involving master cylinder leaks leading to brake fluid contamination of the vacuum pump and subsequent damage to the camshaft. Symptoms include vehicle vibration due to the damaged camshaft. One owner mentions a significant safety concern where the brakes failed to engage during a sudden stop on a freeway, resulting in a collision. No warning lights were noted in this instance. These complaints highlight potential safety risks and mechanical failures that prospective buyers should consider.
When Do 2018 Chevrolet Colorado Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Chevrolet Colorado Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Chevrolet Colorado Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Chevrolet Colorado year is 2025 with a reliability score of 83/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2022 (81/100) and 2020 (81/100).
Chevrolet Colorado Years to Avoid
The worst Chevrolet Colorado year is 2023 with a score of 73/100, primarily due to electrical system (30) issues.
Chevrolet Colorado Reliability Score Trend
Chevrolet Colorado reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 78/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 75/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 78/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 81/100 | Excellent |
| 2021 | 78/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 81/100 | Excellent |
| 2023 | 73/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 76/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 83/100 | Excellent |
Chevrolet Colorado Reliability Compared to Other Years
| Year | Score | vs Prior Year | Rating | Recalls | Complaints |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 77/100 (predicted) | — | Predicted | 0 | 0 |
| 2025 | 83/100 | +7 | Excellent | 0 | 19 |
| 2024 | 76/100 | +3 | Good | 3 | 82 |
| 2023 | 73/100 | -8 | Good | 3 | 113 |
| 2022 | 81/100 | +3 | Excellent | 1 | 39 |
| 2021 | 78/100 | -3 | Good | 1 | 59 |
| 2020 | 81/100 | +3 | Excellent | 0 | 71 |
| 2019 | 78/100 | +3 | Good | 0 | 139 |
| 2018(selected) | 75/100 | — | Good | 1 | 173 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado?
How many recalls does the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado have?
Is the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2018 Chevrolet Colorado without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
Get notified when new recalls or reliability data is added for the Chevrolet Colorado.
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