Last updated: 2026-03-04

2019 Chevrolet Colorado Reliability Score & Common Problems
The 2019 Chevrolet Colorado scores 78/100 ("Good"). With 0 recalls and 139 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
2019 is 4 years after the first facelift refresh.
Recalls
0
Complaints
139
Complaint Rate
11.4
per 10k sold
Below avgEst. Annual Cost
$599
About avgMajor Repair Risk
13%
NHTSA Rating
4/5
Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues
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.
Second generation (RG; 2011)
Should You Buy the 2019 Chevrolet Colorado?
The 2019 Chevrolet Colorado scores 78/100 ("Good"), placing it in acceptable but not class-leading territory. 2019 is 4 years after the first facelift refresh.
With 139 owner complaints, some reported issues may need attention, but we don't yet see evidence of a single dominant failure mode.
A pre-purchase inspection is recommended for used examples, with particular attention to power train (59). An extended warranty may provide additional peace of mind.
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
Common Problem Categories
Other
- POWER TRAIN (59)
- STEERING (21)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (16)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (11)
- ENGINE (8)
- SERVICE BRAKES (5)
- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (4)
- AIR BAGS (3)
- BACK OVER PREVENTION (3)
- ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (2)
- EXTERIOR LIGHTING (2)
- SUSPENSION (2)
- VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (1)
- VISIBILITY (1)
- STRUCTURE (1)
Recall Overview
0
recalls on record
The 2019 Chevrolet Colorado has no recalls on record, which is uncommon and a positive indicator of manufacturing quality.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
11.4
per 10k soldSegment avg: 21.1
Safety Incidents
Crashes
6
Fires
4
Injuries
12
Deaths
1
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2019 Chevrolet Colorado NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 21.4%
Safety Technologies
Chevrolet Colorado Repair 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.
When Buying a Used 2019 Chevrolet Colorado
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing, based on the most common reported issues.
- 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
Check Any 2019 Chevrolet Colorado's History Before You Buy
Reliability scores tell you what to expect from the 2019 Colorado in general — but every car has its own story. Uncover past accidents, title issues, odometer rollbacks, and service records for a specific Chevrolet Colorado with a free VIN lookup.
Powered by VINExposed.com — free vehicle history reports using public title and safety data.
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
Best Chevrolet Colorado Years to Buy
The 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.
See full Chevrolet Colorado years-to-avoid analysis →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?
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.
Browse More Chevrolet Models
Browse More 2019 Vehicles
2019 Lexus RX
Score: 82/100
2019 Lexus IS
Score: 79/100
2019 Lexus GX
Score: 78/100
2019 Mazda 3
Score: 78/100
2019 Hyundai Elantra
Score: 78/100
2019 Lexus UX
Score: 77/100
2019 Toyota Corolla
Score: 77/100
2019 Toyota Prius
Score: 77/100
See incorrect data? Report an issue