The Good
The 2011 Chevrolet Colorado offers a blend of practicality and capability. Its manageable size makes it easy to drive in urban environments. Performance is adequate for everyday tasks, and reliability is generally good. For practical buyers, it offers decent fuel efficiency for a truck and a lower price point than full-size options. Emotionally, it provides the satisfaction of owning a truck without the bulk.
The Bad
The 2011 Chevrolet Colorado has some weaknesses to consider. The interior can feel dated and lacks some modern features. The base engine can feel underpowered, especially when towing or hauling. Some owners have reported issues with the four-wheel-drive system and the automatic transmission. Rust can also be a concern, especially in areas with road salt.
2011 Chevrolet Colorado: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.9L Inline-4: Produces around 185 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque.
- 3.7L Inline-5: Produces around 242 horsepower and 242 lb-ft of torque.
- 5.3L V8 (optional): Produces around 300 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque.
- Horsepower:
- 185 hp (2.9L I4)
- 242 hp (3.7L I5)
- 300 hp (5.3L V8)
- Fuel Economy (estimated):
- 2.9L I4: 18 mpg city / 25 mpg highway
- 3.7L I5: 17 mpg city / 23 mpg highway
- 5.3L V8: 15 mpg city / 21 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times (estimated):
- Vary greatly depending on engine and drivetrain. The V8 models could achieve 0-60 in around 7 seconds. The I4 would be significantly slower.
- Towing Capacity (maximum):
- Around 6,000 lbs (with the V8 engine and proper equipment). The inline engines have lower towing capacities.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base: Vinyl seating, basic AM/FM radio, manual windows and locks.
- LT: Cloth seating, air conditioning, power windows and locks, upgraded audio system, cruise control. May include optional features like fog lamps and alloy wheels.
- LTZ: Leather seating, premium audio system, automatic climate control, power-adjustable driver's seat, chrome exterior trim, alloy wheels. Often includes optional features like heated seats.
2011 Chevrolet Colorado Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2011 |
| Make | Chevrolet |
| Model | Colorado |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle Cab; Extended |
| Category | Medium Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | SHREVEPORT |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | LFW |
| Engine Size | 3L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Four-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
Check
Check
Check
Check
Listings
Recalls
Check
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2011 Chevrolet Colorado Have?
Rust is a common concern, especially on the frame and undercarriage, particularly in regions where road salt is used. This can lead to structural issues over time. The fuel level sensor can also be problematic, leading to inaccurate readings on the fuel gauge. Some owners have reported issues with the HVAC system, such as the blower motor failing.
While recalls can vary and should be checked on the NHTSA website, common recalls for this generation Colorado often involve safety concerns like airbags or brake systems. Long-term reliability concerns center around the aforementioned rust, transmission issues, and potential for engine problems as the vehicle ages. Checking the vehicle's history report for documented maintenance and repairs is crucial before purchasing a used 2011 Colorado.
How long will the 2011 Chevrolet Colorado last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features were limited. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard. Electronic stability control (StabiliTrak) was available.
Safety features included front airbags. Side-impact airbags were optional.
Crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) varied depending on the cab configuration. Some configurations received acceptable ratings, while others were marginal. It's essential to check specific ratings for the cab style you are considering. Overall, the 2011 Colorado lacks the advanced safety and tech features found in newer vehicles, reflecting its age. Optional features like OnStar could provide some level of connectivity and emergency assistance.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2011 Chevrolet Colorado Prices and Market Value
2011 Chevrolet Colorado Cost of Ownership
2011 Chevrolet Colorado Fuel Efficiency
2011 Chevrolet Colorado Safety Rating
NHTSA
2011 Chevrolet Colorado Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2011 Chevrolet Colorado Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle Cab; Extended?
In terms of features, the Colorado is generally less refined than the Tacoma, lacking some of the newer technology and interior comforts. Performance is adequate, especially with the V8 engine, but the Tacoma offers better off-road capabilities.
If reliability is a top priority, the Toyota Tacoma is often a better choice, despite the higher price. If budget is a primary concern and you don't need the absolute best reliability, the Colorado or Nissan Frontier are viable options. A well-maintained Honda Ridgeline is also a comfortable alternative with better on-road handling if you don't require heavy towing.
Ranks #222 Truck
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Tundra | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2022 Honda Ridgeline | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Ford E-Transit Chassis | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Cab Chassis | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD | (0.0★) |
| 6 | 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz | (5.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Nissan Frontier | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Ram 4500 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2022 Jeep Gladiator | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2012 Suzuki Equator | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2009 Mitsubishi Raider | (5.0★) |
| 222 | 2011 Chevrolet Colorado | (4.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2011 Chevrolet Colorado a Good Sport Utility Vehicle Cab; Extended?
Dave on July 8, 2022
Good people hauler/ runs to HomeDepotBought used 11 years old from Chevy dealer. The 4cyldr is anemic in town but on Hwy ok 25 mpg. Not a heavy hauler/tower vehicle
Evan Campbell on May 25, 2021
Good place, good people!Is an awesome place to buy a vehicle from .The staff there are respectful, kind,and friendly. I recommend anybody that's looking to purchase a vehicle to go Auto Choice.
OldCoot on August 15, 2020
Completely unreliableThis truck is a piece of crap. Too many times I've gone to start the truck and it won't. Sometimes it's dead. Sometimes it has power and won't start and sometimes, with a full battery, won't do anything. Chevrolet knows of the problem but won't recall it. It's not this model year. Avoid this truck at all costs. Problems began about 65k.
Passlock-major-problem on April 5, 2020
Refuses to recap passlock systems, HUGE PROBLEMLove the truck but once it leaves you sitting and wont start or crank and you look it up online to find FOR MANY MANY YEARS the passlock sustems have fails leaving stranded. Some it shuts down while driving, mine like others leaves you sitting for 10 minutes and you can try again and hope it turns over. They are well aware but wont recall it and instead make the parts to fix it, a new ignition switch...with zero promise that it wont happen again. So...unless you like leaving 20 minutes early just incase, and then when it starts get useto showing up waaay early...then I wouldnt buy ANY CHEVY again with a passlock system. THIS WILL BE MY LAST ONE EVER UNLESS THEY FIX THE SAME PROBLEM THEY HAD FOR 8-10 YEARS...AND STILL HAVNT FIXED, RECALLED, OR EVEN CARED AT ALL ABOUT. I guess their time is the only time that matters and pur money is all that matter as well. I CHALLANGE ANYONE READING THIS....before you buy a Chevy, look up onkine how long this has been a problem swept under the carpet and the cost of fixing it. Ifyou want to by a chevy after that...you got more time on your hands then I do then. DEAR CHEVY- FIX IT AND RECALL LIKE YOU SHOULD
Cheetah56 on March 9, 2020
Worst vehicle I'ved ownedThis is the worst vehicle I'ved ever owned I'm a Chevy person but after buying this truck and problems I've had with it I would probably never by another chevy
Fiver on January 24, 2020
Liked it until it stretched the timing chain.Bought used in 2014, std cab with 6 ' box. Great in the snow, good acceleration, comfortable seat, decent mileage, fun truck, BUT stretched two timing chains in four years. The second time is the end of the road of course. Also had lights on on the dash all the time.
Over cooked on December 27, 2019
Still in the truck,fuel mileage sucksNeedless for me to say I am not a GM fun. I needed a truck do junk work with.so i bought a Chevy Colorado just to do that
Jose Mejia on December 12, 2019
Toyota truckTruck rides very nice looks great inside and out . Great on gas a vey smooth ride. Has great leg room it also has a good pick up when i need to go .
Junker on September 11, 2019
HorribleThis the worst truck I have ever owned. I have gone through 4 front end alignments since new, 3 sets of tires. All tires are cut on the inside while being rotated every 5 thousand miles. Jockey box broke second day of ownership, took 3 months to get part. Two stereos, both ate CD. If over 50 lbs sits in back seat, plastic retainers fall off. You will not no until you drive over 50 mph with back windows down. Rear seat cushion will lift off frame and flop around. Passenger wiper continually hits radio antenna. Right wiper blade will stick to window and strip loose in freezing weather. Trans seal out in 36000 miles (no warrenty), transfer case seal in 49o,oo0 miles. Engine used oil since new up 2 qrts in an oil change. If seats get dirt on them it will not come out, same with door panels, carpet. Will not go into 4 low, or out once in. 80,000 on truck now.
Cra on December 16, 2018
Strong little truck GREAT on gas for a truck.So I thought I was down grading I have been a ford guy I I've always liked the way that Ford's look to me they look good but I've had bad luck with almost every Ford that I've had I don't know if it's luck or if it's Ford but I'm starting to think it's a Ford thing.So and right my last truck was 2010 ford f150 5.4 Drove it and 150,030 miles blown motor cam phazers how motor rebuild And came on check light airbag mechanic in ford could not figure out what was going on had enuff traded in on this little work truck wow I'm happy right now I tow just over 2,000 lbs for work ever day pulls like a champ for just 5 cyl And gets 20 mpg my for got 9 and pulled the same thing.Little less power up hill but the ford should be better pulling better.If your just towing around 2.000 lbs your good and it's great in the snow and off road.Only had for a month but I might be a chey guy now also my only other chey was 1999 gnu Safarie that van pulled trailers like this truck and whent over 300,000 miles v6 in that Kohl's a little bit better than the van and more power up hills and backing up the trailer has more power for sure hoping this little truck can be like my van was for me if it is I'll never go back to buying a Ford again!!
Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma