Does a 2010 Colorado have a timing belt or chain?

The short answer: it uses a timing chain, not a timing belt, across the 2010 Colorado’s engines.

In 2010, Chevrolet offered the Colorado with a small set of gasoline powertrains and, in some markets, a diesel option. Across these setups, GM used timing chains to drive the camshafts rather than timing belts, a choice that influences maintenance expectations and potential wear over time.

Timing system in the 2010 Colorado

Below is a quick explainer of how the timing chain operates in the 2010 Colorado and what that means for upkeep and reliability.

Key points about the timing chain in the 2010 Colorado:

• The engines offered in 2010 Colorado models use timing chains to synchronize the crankshaft and camshafts, not belts.


• Timing chains are generally designed to last for the life of the engine under normal maintenance, with wear tied to oil quality and service intervals.


• Regular oil changes and proper engine maintenance help protect the chain, tensioners, and guides from premature wear.


• If you hear a noticeable rattling or slapping from the timing area, or if the Check Engine Light appears with related codes, have the system inspected promptly to avoid potential engine damage.

Bottom line: for most Colorado owners, there is no scheduled timing belt replacement, and a well-maintained chain should provide long service life.

Practical considerations for owners

What to watch for

To stay ahead of potential timing-chain issues, consider these practical tips:

• Plan regular oil changes; degraded oil can accelerate wear on the chain-guides and tensioners.


• Be attentive to unusual engine noises, especially during cold starts or at idle, which can indicate chain or tensioner problems.


• If you buy a used 2010 Colorado, request service history showing timely oil changes and any timing-chain service if performed.


• Seek prompt diagnosis if the engine runs rough, misfires, or loses power; early attention can prevent more serious damage.

Summary: The 2010 Colorado relies on a timing chain rather than a belt across its powertrains, aligning with GM’s approach to durability and maintenance. With regular maintenance, the chain is expected to last a long time, but owners should stay alert to potential noise or performance changes that warrant inspection.

Summary

Does the Chevy Colorado have a timing belt or chain?

A Chevy Colorado has a timing chain, not a timing belt, which means it does not have a routine replacement schedule like a belt. Timing chains are designed to last for the life of the engine, though they can stretch or wear out over time and may require replacement if you hear rattling noises or experience rough idling, according to JustAnswer and MotorTrend.
 

• Timing chain: Most Chevy Colorado models use a timing chain, which is more durable than a timing belt and generally lasts for the engine's lifetime. 
• Maintenance: Chains do not require periodic replacement like a belt. However, you should maintain regular oil changes with the correct viscosity to help prolong the chain's life. 
• Symptoms of a problem: If the timing chain is failing, you might notice symptoms like a rattling noise from the engine, especially at startup, or rough idling. 
• When to replace: If you experience these symptoms, it is best to have a mechanic inspect the timing chain tensioner and guides to prevent potential engine damage. 

Does a 2010 Holden Colorado have a timing belt or chain?

timing chains
The good news is that both the turbo-diesel and petrol V6 versions of the Colorado both use timing chains, so there's no need to change a timing belt.

How reliable is a 2010 Colorado?

Reliability. The 2010 Chevrolet Colorado has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and 2 recalls. RepairPal gives it a reliability rating of 4 out of 5, ranks it #6 out of 8 among Midsize Trucks.

What year to stay away from Chevy Colorado?

The Chevy Colorado years to avoid are primarily the 2004-2006 first-generation models and the 2014-2019 second-generation models due to common issues like transmission problems, engine misfires, and power steering loss. The 2015 model is often cited as the worst year due to widespread transmission and power steering failures. Other years with notable complaints include 2017 for electronics and 2018 for transmission shuddering. 
This video discusses the worst Chevy Colorado years to avoid, focusing on the 2015 model's transmission and steering issues: 1mEveryman DriverYouTube · Dec 23, 2019
Problematic generations and years 

• First Generation (2004-2006):
  • 2004-2006: Early years are prone to engine misfires and worn-out valve seats. 
• Second Generation (2014-2019):
  • 2015: This is frequently called out as the worst year due to numerous complaints about the transmission and a high number of power steering system failures. 
  • 2017: Issues with the display screen freezing and phone pairing problems are frequently reported. 
  • 2018: Transmission shuddering and other transmission-related problems were common. 
  • 2014-2019: This period saw many transmission and engine issues, as well as problems with power steering and the HVAC system. 
• Other years:
  • 2004-2012: These years can have problems with the A/C blower motor and fuel level sensors. 

You can watch this video to learn about potential problems with different generations of the Chevy Colorado: 56sTech TriumphYouTube · Apr 14, 2025
Common issues by category

• Transmission: Shuddering, sluggish shifting, and premature failure were common, particularly in the 2015-2019 models. 
• Engine: Misfires and worn-out valve seats were reported in the 2004-2009 and 2016 models. 
• Steering: A significant number of 2015 models experienced power steering loss, which is a major safety concern. 
• Electronics: The 2017 model is known for issues like freezing display screens and problems with phone pairing. 
• HVAC: Malfunctioning A/C blowers were a complaint in the 2004-2010 and 2012 model years.