Last updated: 2026-04-20

2019 Chevrolet Colorado Reliability Report
The 2019 Chevrolet Colorado scores 78/100 ("Good"). With 0 recalls and 139 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
0
Complaints
139
Complaint Rate
11.4per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$599
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,700–$4,250
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 (59)
- STEERING (21)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (16)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2019 is 4 years after the first facelift refresh.
- Year 5 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.
2019: This Model Year
2019 is 4 years after the first facelift refresh.
2021: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
Should You Buy the 2019 Chevrolet Colorado?
At 78/100, the 2019 Chevrolet Colorado lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2019 is 4 years after the first facelift refresh.
Owners log 139 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 (59). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado, which scored 3 points higher. See also the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +Infrequent unscheduled repairs
- +Low major repair risk (13%)
- +No recalls issued
Cons
- −POWER TRAIN issues reported (59 complaints)
- −STEERING issues reported (21 complaints)
Compare 2019 Chevrolet Colorado With

2019 Ford Ranger
Reliability: 64/100

2019 Toyota Tacoma
Reliability: 55/100

2019 Honda Ridgeline
Reliability: 65/100

2019 Nissan Frontier
Reliability: 80/100
Common Problem Categories
Other
HIGH RISK- POWER TRAIN (59)
- STEERING (21)
Recall Overview
0
recalls on record
No recalls are on record for the 2019 Chevrolet Colorado — uncommon, and a strong signal of manufacturing quality.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
11.4
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 20.4
Safety Incidents
6
Crashes
4
Fires
12
Injuries
1
Deaths
NHTSA 4/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
Buying a used 2019 Chevrolet Colorado? Check its history first
Every 2019 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
2019 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
15–23 MPG
Running cost: $3,300–$4,850/yr
Fuel + repair
15–20 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 2019 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 | 20 | 30 | 23 | $3,500 |
| Colorado ZR2 4WD 3.6L 6-cyl | 4-Wheel Drive | Automatic 8-spd | 16 | 18 | 17 | $3,500 |
| Colorado 4WD 2.8L 4-cyl | 4-Wheel Drive | Automatic 6-spd | 19 | 28 | 22 | $3,700 |
| 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 | 18 | 22 | 19 | $4,250 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2019 Chevrolet Colorado.
Test for transmission shudder during acceleration and gear shifts
Inspect power steering for smooth operation and check for any binding or stiffness
Verify brake pedal responsiveness and inspect for any signs of vacuum pump failure
Check for any oil leaks under the vehicle, particularly around the valve cover gasket
Test infotainment system for screen outages and ensure all functions operate correctly
Inspect for any signs of fuel leaks or unusual fuel odors around the vehicle
2019 Chevrolet Colorado Common Problems by Component
139 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
POWER TRAIN
59 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Chevrolet Colorado frequently report issues with the vehicle's transmission, particularly shuddering, hesitation, and hard shifting between gears. Symptoms commonly described include vibration during acceleration, slamming into gear, and slipping or delays when shifting, often occurring between the first and second gears. These issues are reported at various mileage points, with some complaints arising as early as 5,100 miles and others around 100,000 miles. Safety concerns are evident, with one complaint involving a crash and multiple injuries reported, highlighting potential risks related to sudden vehicle behavior. Buyers should be aware of these recurring transmission problems, which may require significant repairs or replacements.
STEERING
21 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Chevrolet Colorado frequently report issues with the power steering system, with many describing sudden loss of power steering assist while driving. Common symptoms include the steering wheel becoming difficult to turn or locking up entirely, often without warning lights or error messages. These issues are reported across a wide range of mileages, from as low as 8,000 miles to over 55,000 miles. Some owners note water penetration and corrosion as possible causes, while others mention repeated failures even after repairs. Safety implications are significant, as several reports describe near-miss accidents and difficulty controlling the vehicle, particularly at higher speeds or in heavy traffic. Potential buyers should be aware of these recurring steering issues when considering a used 2019 Chevrolet Colorado.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
16 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Chevrolet Colorado frequently report issues with the ignition key getting stuck in the accessory position, preventing removal and sometimes causing battery drainage. Complaints also highlight problems with the infotainment system, including screen outages that disrupt navigation, CarPlay connectivity, and even turn signal functionality. Additionally, some owners experience repeated failures of exterior lights, such as headlights and brake lights, despite multiple repair attempts. Two complaints involve fires, one originating between the driver and passenger doors and another associated with smoke from the windshield area, underscoring potential safety risks. These issues appear across varied mileages, with some starting as early as 13,125 miles, which may be relevant for prospective buyers assessing the vehicle's reliability.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (11 complaints)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
11 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Chevrolet Colorado frequently report issues with the ignition system, where keys get stuck and cannot be removed, sometimes requiring battery disconnection to resolve. This problem often begins intermittently but can become persistent, with some owners noting this across various model years. Additionally, multiple complaints highlight transmission-related shuddering and delayed response, particularly during acceleration or gear shifts. One report involves a fire incident where the vehicle lost power and brakes, requiring emergency measures to stop. These issues appear across various mileages, with some occurring as early as 4,000 miles, and may have significant safety implications, including potential vehicle fires and loss of control.
ENGINE (8 complaints)
ENGINE
8 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Chevrolet Colorado frequently report engine-related issues, including a blown head gasket, high pressure fuel pump detachment, and a malfunctioning thermostat. Symptoms described include loss of power, sudden acceleration, and coolant mixing with oil, often occurring around 34,800 to 41,000 miles. A notable safety concern involves a fire incident following vehicle shudder and smoke, leading to a complete vehicle loss. Additionally, multiple complaints highlight issues with the variable valve timing system and oil filter adapter, which can result in engine failure if not addressed. These patterns suggest potential reliability challenges for prospective buyers, particularly regarding engine components and associated safety risks.
SERVICE BRAKES (5 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
5 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Chevrolet Colorado frequently report issues with the brake system, primarily involving vacuum pump failures. Common symptoms include the brake pedal becoming stiff and unresponsive, sometimes going to the floor, which significantly impairs braking ability. These issues occur at varied mileages, with some reports at approximately 21,000 to 130,000 miles. Safety implications are notable, as multiple owners describe situations where the inability to brake effectively nearly led to collisions, particularly in high-traffic or emergency situations. Additionally, some owners mention related problems such as grinding brakes and the need for rear brake pad and rotor replacements at lower mileages, suggesting potential maintenance concerns for prospective buyers.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (4 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
4 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Chevrolet Colorado report issues primarily related to the high-pressure fuel pump and fuel leaks. Multiple complaints describe the fuel pump mounting bolts breaking, which leads to a loss of power and potential gasoline leaks. Additionally, some owners mention fuel leaks from the top of the fuel tank, attributed either to the fuel pump seal or external damage from road debris. These issues often occur around 24,000 miles, with symptoms including reduced vehicle speed and visible fuel leakage. Safety implications include the risk of fuel leaks, which could lead to fire hazards if not addressed.
AIR BAGS (3 complaints)
AIR BAGS
3 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Chevrolet Colorado frequently report issues with airbag non-deployment during crashes. Complaints consistently mention that the airbags fail to deploy in rear-end and head-on collisions, even when the vehicle sustains substantial damage or is declared a total loss. These incidents involve vehicles traveling at speeds ranging from 32 to 40 miles per hour. The reports include three crashes resulting in five injuries, indicating a potential safety concern for buyers considering this model.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (2 complaints)
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
2 complaintsOwners report issues with the engine and cooling system of the 2019 Chevrolet Colorado, primarily involving oil leaks and temperature gauge malfunctions. Complaints frequently mention oil leakage due to a valve cover gasket, which in one case reoccurred and was later attributed to a failed camshaft carrier gasket. Additionally, some owners describe problems with the temperature gauge not functioning and the engine light remaining on, often accompanied by transmission slipping. These issues have been reported at mileages around 40,000 and 112,000. No crashes, fires, or loss of control have been reported in connection with these complaints.
SUSPENSION (2 complaints)
SUSPENSION
2 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Chevrolet Colorado report issues related to the suspension, with symptoms including abnormal roaring sounds from the rear and shuddering while driving at various speeds. One owner describes a severe incident where the front passenger control arm broke, causing the wheel to collapse and resulting in a loss of steering and an abrupt stop. This incident occurred at approximately 15 mph on a gravel driveway, with no prior warning signs or external impacts. The mileage at the time of these issues is noted around 9,000 miles. The control arm failure has safety implications, as it led to a crash, though no injuries were reported. These reports suggest potential concerns for used car buyers regarding the vehicle's suspension integrity.
When Do 2019 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(selected) | 78/100 | +3 | Good | 0 | 139 |
| 2018 | 75/100 | — | Good | 1 | 173 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2019 Chevrolet Colorado reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2019 Chevrolet Colorado?
How many recalls does the 2019 Chevrolet Colorado have?
Is the 2019 Chevrolet Colorado expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2019 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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