Does Chevy Colorado have a backup camera?

Yes. On modern Chevy Colorados, a rearview backup camera is standard across all trims.

The Chevy Colorado’s approach to backup cameras has evolved with its generations. The first-generation trucks (2004–2012) offered a rearview camera only as an option on certain trims, while the second-generation redesign that began in 2015 standardized the feature across the lineup. This aligns with broader safety standards that push for backup cameras on new vehicles. Today, buyers of current Colorados can expect the camera to appear on the infotainment display whenever the vehicle is shifted into reverse.

Standard feature by generation

Here is a concise look at how backup cameras have been offered across the Colorado's generations.

• First generation (2004–2012): Backup camera was optional on some trims and packages, not universal.


• Second generation (2015–present): Backup camera is standard on all trims, with the display on the infotainment screen (or instrument cluster in some configurations).


• Modern updates (late 2010s–present): In higher trims, you may also find additional parking aids such as cross-traffic alert, but the basic rear camera remains standard.

In summary, if you're buying or evaluating a Chevy Colorado today, expect a backup camera as standard equipment across the lineup; for an older or base-model Colorado from the early 2000s era, verify the feature specifically with the dealer or the window sticker.

How to verify in a used model

To confirm the presence of a backup camera in a specific Colorado you are looking at, use these steps.

1. Check the window sticker or Monroney label for "Backup Camera" or "Rear Vision Camera."


2. In the vehicle, shift to Reverse and verify that the camera feed appears on your infotainment display and that guidelines, if available, show on screen.


3. Consult the owner’s manual or infotainment settings to confirm camera coverage and any available parking aids.

Tip: If shopping used, take a test drive in a parking-like scenario to ensure the camera view is active and clear, and check for any cloudiness or misalignment in the camera lens.

Summary

The Chevy Colorado is equipped with a backup camera on modern models. The first-generation trucks offered it as an option, but since the redesign into the second generation, backup cameras have been standard across all trims. For current buyers or buyers of used units, verify via window sticker, test in the car, or consult the manual to confirm the camera's presence and any additional parking aids.

What year did it become mandatory to have a backup camera?

Backup cameras became mandatory in the U.S. for all new vehicles manufactured on or after May 1, 2018. This requirement, set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), mandates that all light vehicles (under 10,000 pounds) must include rear visibility technology to prevent backover accidents.
 

• Mandate and Effective Date: The NHTSA announced the final rule in 2014, with the deadline for compliance being May 1, 2018. 
• Cause: The mandate was a response to the Cameron Gulbransen Kids Transportation Safety Act of 2007, passed to reduce backover accidents involving children and others. 
• Impact: Since the rule, all new cars sold in the U.S. come standard with a backup camera, making it a universal safety feature. 
• Global Adoption: Other countries have also implemented similar regulations, with Canada requiring them on the same date, while the European Union and Japan followed in 2022. 

What does the Chevy Colorado tow package include?

The 2024 Chevrolet Colorado is available with a Trailering package that adds a 2-inch receiver hitch, plus 4-pin and 7-pin connectors as well as a 7-wire electrical harness with a 7-pin sealed connector so that you can sync up your truck's lights and brakes with the trailer.

Do all new trucks have backup cameras?

All cars and light trucks manufactured for sale in the U.S. since May 1, 2018, have come with backup cameras, thanks to a federal requirement. That means all new cars have a backup camera. Prior to that, many cars were equipped with cameras as either standard or optional equipment.

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.