Last updated: 2026-03-04

Chevrolet Colorado vs Ford Maverick: Reliability Compared

More ReliableChevrolet Colorado reliability comparison

Chevrolet Colorado

78
GoodReliability score: 78 out of 100, rated Good
VS
Ford Maverick reliability comparison

Ford Maverick

66
GoodReliability score: 66 out of 100, rated Good

Choosing between the Chevrolet Colorado and the Ford Maverick? This page compares their reliability scores, NHTSA recall history, owner-reported complaints, and estimated annual repair costs so you can make a confident long-term ownership decision between these two midsize trucks.

Our reliability scores are based on NHTSA recall and complaint data, independent repair cost estimates, and sales-normalized complaint rates. The Chevrolet Colorado currently leads with an average score of 78/100 compared to 66/100. Scroll down for the full year-by-year breakdown, common problem areas, and repair cost comparison.

How Do the Chevrolet Colorado and Ford Maverick Generations Compare?

The Ford Maverick lacks detailed generation history, but it is a relatively new model, suggesting it is early in its lifespan. Typically, newer platforms can experience first-year issues as manufacturers work out initial production kinks. On the other hand, the Chevrolet Colorado is currently in its third generation, introduced in 2023. This new platform may also face early production challenges. However, its predecessor, the second generation (2015–2022), had two significant facelifts in 2015 and 2021, indicating a matured and well-sorted platform over time. For buyers prioritizing reliability, a model in the later stages of its generation, like the second-generation Colorado, might offer more proven reliability.

Verdict

The Chevrolet Colorado is more reliable than the Ford Maverick, scoring 78/100 vs 66/100.

The Chevrolet Colorado outshines the Ford Maverick in terms of reliability, boasting an average reliability score of 82/100 compared to the Maverick's 54/100. The Colorado has only 9 recalls over 9 years, while the Maverick has experienced 69 recalls in just 5 years. Moreover, the Maverick has a higher owner complaint rate at 20.8 per 10,000 sold, whereas the Colorado's raw complaint total is lower, albeit without normalized sales data. Although the Colorado's estimated annual repair cost is $599, its lower recall and complaint figures suggest stronger overall reliability.

Key Differences

  1. 1Chevrolet Colorado has 60 fewer total recalls
  2. 2Chevrolet Colorado scores 12 points higher in reliability
  3. 3Chevrolet Colorado has 12.0 fewer complaints per 10k sold

Category Scoreboard

3Chevrolet Colorado
—
0Ford Maverick
Reliability ScoreTotal RecallsComplaint Rate

Chevrolet Colorado vs Ford Maverick: Which Is More Reliable?

Chevrolet Colorado vs Ford Maverick at-a-glance reliability comparison
MetricChevrolet ColoradoFord Maverick
Reliability Score78/10066/100
Years Tracked95
Total Recalls969
Complaints per 10k Sold8.820.8
Year Wins40

What Are the Common Problems With the Chevrolet Colorado and Ford Maverick?

The Ford Maverick has a higher total number of complaints than the Chevrolet Colorado, with significant issues reported in the power train and electrical system categories. Notably, the Maverick's electrical system accounts for 229 complaints, including 4 crash-linked incidents, while the Colorado has fewer electrical complaints at 115, with 2 crash-linked. Both vehicles show a concerning number of crash-linked complaints in the service brakes category, but the Maverick also stands out with 10 crash-linked airbag complaints, indicating a potential safety concern not mirrored in the Colorado. Overall, while both models face power train issues, the Maverick's higher number of crash-linked airbag and electrical complaints suggests a more critical focus on resolving safety-related defects.

Chevrolet Colorado vs Ford Maverick common problem areas comparison
ComponentChevrolet ColoradoFord Maverick
POWER TRAIN2.3Low5.9Average
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM1.5Low4.5Average
SERVICE BRAKES0.7Very Low2.3Low
ENGINE0.5Very Low1.6Low
UNKNOWN OR OTHER0.8Very Low0.9Very Low
STEERING1Very Low0.6Very Low
AIR BAGS0.2Very Low0.6Very Low
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL—None0.5Very Low
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE0.3Very Low0.1Very Low
SUSPENSION0.1Very Low0.3Very Low
STRUCTURE0.1Very Low0.2Very Low
EXTERIOR LIGHTING0.2Very Low—None
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM0.1Very Low0.1Very Low
BACK OVER PREVENTION—None0.2Very Low
LANE DEPARTURE0.1Very Low—None
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING—None0.1Very Low
EQUIPMENT—None—None
VISIBILITY/WIPER—None—None
SEAT BELTS—None—None

Complaints per 10,000 units sold, aggregated across all tracked model years from NHTSA owner reports.

Which Is Cheaper to Maintain: Chevrolet Colorado or Ford Maverick?

The Chevrolet Colorado incurs an annual repair cost of $599, with a repair frequency of 0.2 visits per year and a 13% risk of major repairs. While specific data for the Ford Maverick isn't available, this information allows us to gauge the Colorado's efficiency in maintenance. Over five years, the Colorado's repair expenses would accumulate to approximately $2,995, with a likelihood of one major repair during ownership. Given the Colorado's transparent cost data, it offers a clearer picture for buyers concerned about potential expenses. Although lacking specific figures, the Maverick might still be appealing if its repair metrics are lower. For cost-conscious buyers, the Colorado provides tangible estimates, making it a reliable option for those prioritizing predictable maintenance costs.

How Does Chevrolet Colorado vs Ford Maverick Reliability Compare by Year?

Chevrolet Colorado vs Ford Maverick year-by-year reliability scores
YearChevrolet ColoradoFord MaverickEdge
202583/1000R / 19C77/1006R / 31CChevrolet Colorado
202476/1003R / 82C71/10014R / 139CChevrolet Colorado
202373/1003R / 113C60/10020R / 308CChevrolet Colorado
202281/1001R / 39C54/10027R / 572CChevrolet Colorado
2026(predicted)77/100(predicted)69/100(predicted)Chevrolet Colorado

Best years to cross-shop: The 2025 Chevrolet Colorado scored 83/100 and the 2025 Ford Maverick scored 77/100 — these represent the strongest model years in our tracking range.

Who Should Buy the Chevrolet Colorado vs the Ford Maverick?

If you prioritize reliability and peace of mind, the Chevrolet Colorado is the better choice. With a reliability score of 82/100 and only 9 total recalls, it presents a more dependable option. The Colorado also features a relatively low estimated annual repair cost of $599 and a modest repair frequency of 0.2 times per year, making it appealing for those who want to minimize unexpected expenses. Additionally, with a major repair risk of just 13%, you can drive with confidence knowing that significant issues are less likely to arise. On the other hand, if you're considering the Ford Maverick, be prepared for a different experience. With a reliability score of 54/100 and 69 total recalls, it may present more challenges in terms of maintenance and potential issues. The Maverick has higher owner complaints, at 20.8 per 10,000 sold, indicating more frequent dissatisfaction. If you are attracted to the Maverick for its features or price, ensure you have a plan for potential repairs and consider extended warranties or service plans.

Chevrolet Colorado vs Ford Maverick: Common Questions

Is the Chevrolet Colorado more reliable than the Ford Maverick?
Based on our data, the Chevrolet Colorado is more reliable with an average score of 78/100 compared to 66/100. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices.
Which has more recalls, the Chevrolet Colorado or the Ford Maverick?
The Ford Maverick has more recalls (69) compared to the Chevrolet Colorado (9). More recalls don't always mean worse reliability — some are minor — but it's worth reviewing what each recall covers.
Which has fewer owner complaints, the Chevrolet Colorado or the Ford Maverick?
Adjusted for sales volume, the Chevrolet Colorado has a lower complaint rate at 8.8 per 10,000 sold versus 20.8 for the Ford Maverick. This per-sales normalization gives a fairer comparison than raw totals.

Related Reliability Comparisons

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

1

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.

2

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

3

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.

4

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.

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