CARFOCAL

2016 Chevrolet Colorado Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026Daniel Wilson3 Critical Recalls
2016 Chevrolet Colorado Report

Overall Score

Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The steering system is the most significant concern, with frequent reports of power assist loss.
  • Electrical system and powertrain issues are also common, impacting overall dependability.
  • This truck earned a respectable 4-star overall safety rating from NHTSA.
  • Fuel economy is adequate for the class, averaging 16 MPG combined.
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Overview

2016 Chevrolet Colorado

The 2016 Chevrolet Colorado offers a compelling package for truck buyers, but its below-average reliability verdict demands a cautious approach. With a robust 3.6L V6 engine and rear-wheel drive, it's suited for utility. However, a significant number of complaints, particularly regarding the steering system, indicate potential ownership challenges. Buyers should prioritize thorough pre-purchase inspections, especially focusing on steering and powertrain components, and confirm all safety recalls have been addressed.

Critical Failure Risk

The most prevalent issue involves the steering system, with a high volume of complaints related to intermittent loss of power assist or complete steering failure. This can be linked to electrical faults, sensor issues, or pump problems.

Early detection can help you avoid a $800-$2,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Reliability

Practicality

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing utility and a V6 engine in a mid-size truck.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2016 Chevrolet Colorado Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado.

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic 6-spd
Drivetrain
Rear-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Pickup
EPA Combined MPG
16

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Most Common Issues

1. Steering

Most reported

Usage: 422 reports

2. Electrical System

Usage: 108 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Check (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering)

Est. shop cost: $80 - $150

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
4 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado is 5.5/10. Reliability score is 5.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 4. Owner complaints: 906.

How practical is the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.9/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 16 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 1169 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado is 6.4/10. Overall score is 6.4/10 (Mixed). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.9/10. Practicality 5.9/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Chevrolet Colorado?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Check (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Steering Gear Assembly (typical at 85,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,000 • Max: $2,500).

What engine is in the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado?

Engine specs list 6 • 3.6.

What transmission does the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado, transmission is Automatic 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado?

EPA combined estimate is 16 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado?

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

How many people fit in a 2016 Chevrolet Colorado?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado, body style is pickup.

What drivetrain does the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado, drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 6-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado?

NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 3/5.

What are the most common steering problems on the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado?

Top complaint category: steering (422 reports, 46.6% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado?

This model year has 4 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado?

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2016 Toyota Tacoma and 2016 Nissan Frontier.