What is the haul capacity of the Colorado?
The Colorado's haul capacity (payload) is typically around 1,500 to 1,600 pounds, depending on configuration.
Payload represents the maximum weight of passengers and cargo a truck can carry in addition to its own curb weight. For the Chevrolet Colorado, this figure varies with cab style, bed length, drivetrain, and engine choice. The numbers you’ll see on a showroom spec sheet or window sticker reflect the exact rating for a given build, so it’s important to check your specific configuration if you’re planning heavy loads.
Payload by configuration (approximate)
The following figures reflect representative ranges for common Colorado configurations in recent years. They are intended as a guide; exact payload depends on model year, options, and equipment.
- Typical payload range for common configurations: approximately 1,400–1,580 pounds.
- Maximum payload: about 1,580 pounds, typically found on lighter Crew Cab 2WD configurations with the 3.6L V6 and minimal optional equipment.
- Heavier, more capability-focused variants (such as 4x4 or diesel-equipped models) often fall in the 1,400–1,500 pound range.
Note: Payload is not the same as towing capacity. Towing refers to how much weight the vehicle can pull behind it, while payload is the total weight the truck can carry in and on the vehicle itself. For frequent or heavy loads, always confirm the exact rating for your specific build from the door jamb sticker or the manufacturer's official specifications.
What factors influence payload?
Engine and drivetrain
Engine choice and whether the vehicle is 2WD or 4WD affect payload. Heavier powertrains and drivetrains can reduce maximum payload a bit, while lighter configurations may allow more cargo and passengers.
Cab and bed configuration
Regular, extended, and crew cab setups, along with bed length, all influence payload. Crew Cab variants with longer equipment lists generally carry less payload than lighter configurations with shorter equipment loads.
Optional equipment and accessories
Added options such as larger fuel tanks, off-road packages, aftermarket hardware, and accessory mounts can reduce the available payload by increasing the vehicle’s curb weight.
Why this matters for buyers
Knowing the payload helps you plan safety and performance when carrying people or heavy cargo. If you regularly haul gear, trailers, or multiple passengers, aim for a configuration with a payload near the high end of the Colorado’s range. Don’t exceed the indicated limit, and distribute weight evenly to maintain braking, handling, and stability.
Summary
The Chevrolet Colorado’s haul capacity sits roughly in the 1,400–1,580 pound range, with the exact number depending on cab/bed configuration, drivetrain, and optional equipment. For precise figures, always check the vehicle’s door jamb sticker or consult Chevrolet’s official specifications for the exact model year and build you’re considering. When planning loads, remember payload is distinct from towing capacity and is key to safe operation.
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.
What is the 80% rule for towing?
The 80% rule for towing is a safety guideline that recommends the weight of a fully loaded trailer should not exceed 80% of a vehicle's maximum towing capacity. This provides a safety margin for unpredictable conditions and reduces stress on the vehicle's engine, transmission, and brakes, helping to ensure better handling and a longer lifespan for components.
How it works
- Calculate your vehicle's limit: Find your vehicle's maximum towing capacity in the owner's manual or on the manufacturer's website.
- Calculate 80% of the limit: Multiply the maximum towing capacity by 0.800.800.80 to find your safe towing limit. For example, if your vehicle can tow 10,00010 comma 00010,000 pounds, your limit is 8,0008 comma 0008,000 pounds.
- Account for all weight: Ensure the total weight of the fully loaded trailer, including cargo and passengers in both the vehicle and the trailer, stays below this 80% limit.
Why it's important
- Safety margin: It provides a buffer for real-world factors like hills, curves, and sudden stops.
- Vehicle longevity: It reduces strain on key components like the engine, transmission, and brakes, which can extend their lifespan.
- Handling: Maintaining a margin helps ensure your vehicle can be steered and controlled effectively, even under load.
What is the payload capacity of the 2025 Colorado?
The 2025 Chevy Colorado's payload capacity varies by trim, ranging from a maximum of 2,046 pounds for the 4WD WT and LT models to as little as 1,445 pounds for the ZR2. Other trims like the Trail Boss and Z71 have a maximum payload of 1,846 pounds.
| Trim Level | Drivetrain | Maximum Payload Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| WT | 4WD | 2,046 lbs |
| LT | 4WD | 2,046 lbs |
| WT | 2WD | 1,846 lbs |
| LT | 2WD | 1,846 lbs |
| Trail Boss | 4WD | 1,846 lbs |
| Z71 | 4WD | 1,733 lbs |
| ZR2 | 4WD | 1,445 lbs |
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How much can a Chevy Colorado haul?
Chevy Colorado Towing Capacity by Trim, Engine & Drivetrain
As you can see, both the two-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models boast a max capacity of 7,700 pounds,1 with the exception of the AWD-exclusive ZR2 trim level, which can only pull up to 6,000 pounds.
