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Chevrolet Colorado: which year should you buy?

Across the 2011 to 2026 model years, the public record is strongest on the 2012 (95/100). Every year below is scored on its own NHTSA complaint and recall history. Pick the year, not just the nameplate.

Best years to target

2012 95 · 2011 91 · 2022 89 · 2025 85

Every model year, scored

Same math for every year (how we score). A neutral Unproven or Too New stamp means too few owner reports are on file to affirm the year, not that it’s clean.

202693/100
Too New

9 complaints · 1 recalls

202585/100
Buy

26 complaints · 1 recalls

202468/100
Buy

114 complaints · 3 recalls

202373/100
Buy

129 complaints · 3 recalls

202289/100
Buy

48 complaints · 1 recalls

202180/100
Buy

67 complaints · 1 recalls

201881/100
Buy

176 complaints · 1 recalls

201782/100
Buy

213 complaints · 1 recalls

201664/100
Caution

694 complaints · 4 recalls

201563/100
Caution

483 complaints · 7 recalls

201295/100
Buybest year

41 complaints · 2 recalls

201191/100
Buy

42 complaints · 5 recalls

Zeroing in on the 2012?

The full year-by-year verdict is free. When you’re ready to inspect and negotiate one specific car, the Full Report turns the 2012 Chevrolet Colorado’s complaint breakdown and recall list into an inspection-ready, shareable PDF.

Recalls, complaint breakdown & inspection checklist, all in a shareable PDF

Cross-shopping a different nameplate? Compare the 2026 Chevrolet Colorado head-to-head →

The fine print: each year’s verdict is computed from public NHTSA complaint and recall records for the Chevrolet Colorado as a model, not for any individual car. A well-kept example of a weaker year can outlast a neglected strong one. Informational only, so always get a professional pre-purchase inspection.