How reliable is the 2020 Chevy Colorado?
Overall, the 2020 Colorado lands in the mid-pack for reliability among midsize pickups. It can be dependable with regular maintenance, but it doesn’t stand out as exceptionally reliable in consumer surveys or owner reports.
This article surveys reliability ratings from major outlets, notes common ownership concerns, and offers practical guidance for evaluating a used Colorado. It also highlights how powertrain choices—gas versus diesel—can influence maintenance costs and long-term dependability.
Reliability ratings from major outlets
What researchers and consumers say about how the 2020 Colorado holds up, across different measurement approaches.
- Consumer Reports typically places the Colorado in the middle of the midsize pickup class for predicted reliability, with variations by engine and trim. The overall sentiment is “average” rather than outstanding.
- J.D. Power’s reliability and dependability assessments for the Colorado tend to be mid-pack within its segment, reflecting a mix of solid performance and some recurring issues reported by owners.
- NHTSA recall and investigation data show several campaigns across the Colorado’s model range. For 2020 specifically, there have been recalls in the family, so VIN-specific recall status and service history are important when evaluating a used example.
Taken together, major outlets generally rate the 2020 Colorado as an average performer for reliability, with variation by powertrain and how well the vehicle has been maintained.
Common issues reported by owners
Owner feedback and service data point to a range of concerns, some more prevalent on certain trims or with higher mileage.
- Transmission behavior: Some owners report rough shifting, hesitations, or shifts that feel out of step with expectations, especially on older automatics.
- Electrical and infotainment glitches: Infotainment system freezes, Bluetooth connectivity drops, or other screen/interface quirks appear in various trims.
- Drivetrain and four-wheel-drive components: A number of reports touch on wear or noises in axles, CV joints, or transfer-case areas, particularly on off-road-tuned variants or high-mileage units.
- Diesel considerations: The 2.8L Duramax diesel option tends to incur higher maintenance and repair costs, and some owners note longer service intervals and greater complexity compared with the gasoline V6.
Conclusion: Reliability is not uniformly poor, but it varies by powertrain, usage, and maintenance history. A well-documented service record and a careful pre-purchase inspection can mitigate surprises in a used Colorado.
Powertrain choices and reliability implications
How the two main engines influence long-term dependability and maintenance costs, along with what to expect in routine care.
- Gasoline 3.6L V6: A straightforward, widely supported powertrain with generally lower maintenance costs than the diesel. Regular timing-chain/timing-belt schedules and routine service are key to longevity.
- 2.8L Duramax diesel: Offers strong torque and fuel efficiency, especially for towing. Reliability can be solid when properly maintained, but parts and service costs are higher, and fuel-system components, particulate filters, and cooling systems require attentive upkeep.
Bottom line: The choice of engine affects not only performance but also ongoing maintenance economics. If you anticipate heavy towing or high mileage, the diesel may offer value, but with higher upkeep compared with the gas V6.
What to check before buying used 2020 Colorado
Practical steps to reduce the risk of surprises and identify potential reliability red flags before you commit to a purchase.
- Obtain a complete service history and verify that routine maintenance (oil changes, fluid services, filter changes) is up to date.
- Check for open recalls using the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and verify that recall work has been completed.
- Inspect the transmission and drivetrain for abnormal noises, shuddering, or slipping, especially in the 6-speed automatic variants and in high-mileage units.
- Assess electrical systems and infotainment stability, and test 4WD/transfer-case operation if equipped with four-wheel drive.
- For diesel models, review maintenance records for fuel-system components, glow plugs, and exhaust aftertreatment maintenance; factor in higher expected repair costs if issues arise.
Conclusion: A careful pre-purchase check — ideally with a trusted mechanic — plus VIN-specific recall history and a clean maintenance record — significantly improves confidence in a used Colorado’s reliability.
Summary
The 2020 Chevrolet Colorado sits in the reliability middle ground for midsize pickups. It can be a capable and dependable daily driver, but consumers should expect variability based on powertrain, maintenance history, and usage. Gas V6 models tend to be cheaper to service over time, while the Duramax diesel offers towing and efficiency benefits at a higher ongoing cost. Prospective buyers should verify recall status, review a full service history, and conduct a thorough pre-purchase inspection to reduce the risk of reliability concerns. When well cared for, a 2020 Colorado can deliver solid ownership experiences within its segment.
