2017 Chevrolet Colorado Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The powertrain is the most significant concern, with frequent reports of transmission shudder and hard shifting impacting drivability.
- Electrical system issues, including problems with power steering and control modules, are also common and warrant close inspection.
- While safety ratings are generally good, with a 5-star side crash rating, the overall reliability verdict is below average.
- A single recall for the fuel pump exists; verify it has been addressed by a dealer.
2017 Chevrolet Colorado
The 2017 Chevrolet Colorado offers a capable platform for truck utility, but used buyers should proceed with caution. While it earns a respectable 4-star overall NHTSA safety rating, its reliability record is marred by a high volume of complaints, especially concerning the powertrain and electrical system. The 3.6L V6 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission is the most frequent source of owner dissatisfaction, with reports of transmission shudder and hard shifting. This, combined with a significant number of electrical system complaints, including steering issues, points to potential long-term ownership challenges. Despite its utility, potential buyers must prioritize thorough inspections of these critical systems.
Critical Failure Risk
A significant number of complaints point to transmission shudder and harsh shifts, often appearing between 10,000 and 40,000 miles. This suggests potential issues with the torque converter or internal transmission components.
Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$3,500 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Buyers prioritizing utility and towing capacity over long-term reliability.
+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
2017 Chevrolet Colorado Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2017 Chevrolet Colorado.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Drivetrain
- Rear-Wheel Drive
- EPA Combined MPG
- 15
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See the full 2017 Chevrolet Colorado buyer report before you decide
Most Common Issues
1. Powertrain
Most reportedUsage: 99 reports
2. Electrical System
Usage: 38 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering)
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2017 Chevrolet Colorado reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 Chevrolet Colorado is 8.2/10. Reliability score is 8.2/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 270.
How practical is the 2017 Chevrolet Colorado for daily use?
Practicality score is 4.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 15 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed.
What is the overall score for the 2017 Chevrolet Colorado?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 Chevrolet Colorado is 6.8/10. Overall score is 6.8/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.7/10. Practicality 4.0/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2017 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 System Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Transmission (typical at 30,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,500 • Max: $3,500).
What is the MSRP range for the 2017 Chevrolet Colorado?
Base MSRP is $40,000.
What engine is in the 2017 Chevrolet Colorado?
Engine specs list 6 • 3.6.
What transmission does the 2017 Chevrolet Colorado use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Chevrolet Colorado, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2017 Chevrolet Colorado?
EPA combined estimate is 15 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2017 Chevrolet Colorado?
8 standard and 2 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2017 Chevrolet Colorado?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Chevrolet Colorado, seating capacity is 5.
What drivetrain does the 2017 Chevrolet Colorado use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Chevrolet Colorado, drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2017 Chevrolet Colorado?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 3/5.
What are the most common power train problems on the 2017 Chevrolet Colorado?
Top complaint category: power train (99 reports, 36.7% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2017 Chevrolet Colorado?
This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2017 Chevrolet Colorado?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2017 Toyota Tacoma and 2017 Honda Ridgeline.