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2006 Chevrolet Colorado Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

Rating: 4.18
Based on 56 Owner Reviews â–¶
Jovan | March 31, 2025

The 2006 Chevrolet Colorado is a mid-size pickup truck that offers a blend of practicality and affordability. It was part of the first generation Colorado, produced from 2004 to 2012. Body styles include regular, extended, and crew cabs. Key trims range from the base model to the LT and Z71. When new, prices ranged from around $15,000 to $25,000. Its appeal lies in its smaller size compared to full-size trucks, making it easier to maneuver and park, while still offering decent utility for hauling and towing.

The Good

The 2006 Chevrolet Colorado offers a practical blend of utility and affordability. Performance is adequate for daily tasks, while the design is functional and straightforward. For practical buyers, it's a value-oriented truck with reasonable fuel efficiency for its class. Emotionally, it provides the appeal of truck ownership without the bulk of a full-size model. Its decent reliability track record also contributes to peace of mind.

The Bad

Potential weaknesses of the 2006 Chevrolet Colorado include reported issues with the four-wheel-drive system, particularly the encoder motor. Also, the interior plastics can feel cheap and are prone to scratching. Rust can be a concern, especially in regions with harsh winters. Some owners have also reported issues with the HVAC system and premature wear of suspension components.

2006 Chevrolet Colorado: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options:
    • 2.8L Inline-4: 175 hp, 185 lb-ft of torque
    • 3.5L Inline-5: 220 hp, 225 lb-ft of torque
  • Horsepower: 175 hp - 220 hp (depending on engine)
  • Fuel Economy (estimated):
    • 2.8L I-4: 18 mpg city / 24 mpg highway
    • 3.5L I-5: 17 mpg city / 22 mpg highway
  • 0-60 Times (estimated):
    • 2.8L I-4: Around 9-10 seconds
    • 3.5L I-5: Around 8-9 seconds
  • Towing Capacity:
    • Ranges from 4,000 lbs to 6,000 lbs depending on configuration (engine, cab, 2WD/4WD)
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • Base: Vinyl seating, basic audio system, manual windows and locks.
    • LS: Cloth seating, air conditioning, AM/FM radio with CD player.
    • LT: Upgraded cloth seating, power windows and locks, cruise control, keyless entry, alloy wheels.
    • Z71: Off-road suspension, skid plates, locking rear differential, unique exterior trim.

2006 Chevrolet Colorado Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2006
Make Chevrolet
Model Colorado
Trim -
Style -
Type Pickup Truck
Category Heavy Truck
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City SHREVEPORT
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 5000 pounds
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine L52
Engine Size 3.5L
Engine Cylinders 6
Transmission Automatic 4-Speed
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 4-Speed
Drivetrain Rear-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

Vehicle History Report

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Market Price
Analysis

What Problems Does the 2006 Chevrolet Colorado Have?

The 2006 Chevrolet Colorado has some frequently reported problems. One common issue involves the four-wheel-drive system, specifically the encoder motor, which can fail, leading to difficulty engaging or disengaging four-wheel drive. Owners have also reported issues with the HVAC system, including problems with the blend door actuator, causing inconsistent temperature control. Rust is another concern, particularly in areas with road salt, affecting the frame and body panels. Premature wear of suspension components, such as ball joints and tie rod ends, has also been noted. While I don’t have access to real-time recall data, it's important to check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for any recalls related to the 2006 Colorado, as recalls can address safety-related defects. Long-term reliability concerns generally revolve around the issues mentioned above, as well as potential problems with the automatic transmission at higher mileage. Addressing these potential problems proactively through regular maintenance can help extend the vehicle’s lifespan. Some reports indicate the 2004 and 2005 models had more initial issues which were addressed in later model years like 2006, however, these improvements don't eliminate potential problems completely.

How long will the 2006 Chevrolet Colorado last?

With proper maintenance, a 2006 Chevrolet Colorado can potentially reach 200,000 miles or more. Many owners report getting 15-20 years of service from their trucks, but this heavily depends on maintenance habits. Regular oil changes, fluid checks, and timely repairs are crucial. Long-term durability can be affected by rust, particularly in northern climates. Weaknesses over time include potential issues with the four-wheel-drive system, suspension components, and the automatic transmission. Keeping up with maintenance and addressing issues promptly is key to maximizing the lifespan of a 2006 Colorado.

Positive Owner Reviews
corben
my experience with mine is great it is a 2006 work truck model four-cylinder automatic it has 265000 miles runs great drives great well made and is my daily driver I would buy another one if you go to buy one get the work truck model
Dawson
06 colorado crew 55,000 mile on it till still highway 180,000 love it to work everyday never die on me less repair it is fun
Joatmon72
I owned a 2006 Colorado extend cab 2 wheel drive I5 engine for 13 years. I had a few minor issues with it, otherwise it was a reliable vehicle and something of a workhorse. My blower switch lost the first three positions after about three years. A common problem. The stereo sound system sounded terrible after five years or so. The gas mileage fell off to 14/19 as it aged. But on the Pro side, I never garaged it and it never showed any rust. The paint job held up great as did the interior. I had the bed coated with a spray on bed liner that lasted the whole time I owned the truck. No major repairs, just ongoing service and normal tire and battery replacement as needed. I would love to be able to buy another pickup that would be as reliable and rustproof as that one was.
Negative Owner Reviews
deerhunt87
I have an 06 crew cab with 100000 miles. Nothing has broke on it besides the normal wear and tear i have to replace the u joints and 4 wheel drive computer module. But besides that nothing else for how hard i beat on it to get Thur Michigan winters. If u want a small truck it the way to go beside the lacking power and fuel economy then i recommend get the v-8 upgrade but that's not why i bought it its great to beat on on the trails , snow, and mud but i have to the regular maintenance to be able to do that

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2006 Chevrolet Colorado offered relatively basic tech and entertainment features for its time. Standard features typically included an AM/FM radio with a CD player. Higher trims could include options like satellite radio and upgraded sound systems. Driver-assistance features were minimal, primarily consisting of antilock brakes (ABS). Safety features included standard front airbags. Optional features included side-impact airbags on some trims.
Crash test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) varied depending on the specific test. For frontal crash tests, the Colorado generally received good ratings. However, side-impact ratings were often lower. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) also conducted crash tests, and results can be found on their website.
Overall, the 2006 Colorado's tech and safety features were adequate for its era, but significantly less advanced compared to modern vehicles. Keep in mind that the availability of certain features depended on the specific trim level and options package selected when the vehicle was new. The focus was more on utility and practicality than cutting-edge technology.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Summit White
Onyx Black
Victory Red
Sport Red Metallic
Silver Birch Metallic
Arrival Blue Metallic
Dark Blue Metallic
Light Gold Metallic
Dark Cherry Red Metallic
Interior Colors
Neutral
Ebony

2006 Chevrolet Colorado Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2006 Chevrolet Colorado had a price range of approximately $15,000 to $25,000, depending on the cab configuration, trim level, and options. As of today, used market prices typically range from around $3,000 to $10,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. The Colorado has depreciated significantly over time, which is typical for vehicles of this age. Factors affecting resale value include the truck's overall condition, mileage, service history, and whether it's a desirable configuration (e.g., 4x4, crew cab). Trucks with significant rust or mechanical issues will have considerably lower resale values.

2006 Chevrolet Colorado Cost of Ownership

The 2006 Chevrolet Colorado is generally considered relatively economical to own. Insurance costs are typically moderate compared to larger trucks. Fuel economy is decent for its class. Maintenance costs can be reasonable, but potential repairs, especially those related to the four-wheel-drive system or suspension, can add up. Long-term ownership costs depend heavily on maintenance and repair needs. Addressing potential issues proactively is crucial to keeping costs down. Overall, it's not the cheapest vehicle to own, but not excessively expensive either.

2006 Chevrolet Colorado Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage -
Highway Mileage -

2006 Chevrolet Colorado Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Side Overall Star Rating Not Tested
Overall Rollover Star Rating
Combined Front Seat Rating Not Tested
Combined Rear Seat Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Side Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating

2006 Chevrolet Colorado Recalls & Defects

Exterior Lighting:brake Lights:switch
Recall date 2006-04-27
Recall no. 06v139000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Pickup Trucks MAY Experience THE Permanent Loss OF Brake Lamp Function or Brake Lamps That ARE Illuminated AT All Times. THE Center High-Mounted Stop Lamp (Chmsl) IS Affected IN Both Instances. Also, IF Equipped, THE Cruise Control Will Become Inoperative. ANY Trailer Brake Lamps Which ARE Connected TO THE Vehicle's Brake Lamp Wiring Will Mimic THE Vehicle's Brake Lamps When Either Condition Occurs.
Consequence A Following Driver MAY NOT Know When THE Brakes Have Been Applied, and A Rear-End Crash Could Occur Without Prior Warning.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Brake Lamp Switch Assembly. THE Recall Began ON December 5, 2006. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438; GMC AT 1-866-996-9463 or Isuzu AT 1-800-255-6727.
Notes GM Recall NO. 06030.customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Equipment:other:labels
Recall date 2005-12-07
Recall no. 05v552000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Trucks and Sport Utility Vehicles Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 110, "tire Selection and Rims." These Vehicles Were Shipped With Tire and Loading Information Labels Listing AN Inacccurate Vehicle Capacity Weight.
Consequence A Misprinted Label Could Lead TO Improper Vehicle Loading Specifications or Tire Inflation Which Could Result IN A Tire Failure, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Owners Will BE Provided With Corrected Labels and Installation Instructions. AT THE Customer's Option, A Dealer CAN Install THE Label FOR Them. THE Recall Began ON March 31, 2006. Owners MAY Contact Buick AT 1-866-608-8080, Cadillac AT 1-866-982-2339, Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438, GMC AT 1-866-996-9463, Hummer AT 1-800-732-5493, Pontiac AT 1-800-620-7668, Saturn AT 1-800-972-8876, or Isuzu AT 1-800-255-6727.
Notes GM Recall NO. 05109.customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting:brake Lights:switch
Recall date 2009-07-29
Recall no. 09v310000
Source NHTSA
Summary GM IS Recalling 185,903 Model Year 2004-2009 Colorado, GMC Model Year 2009-2004 Canyon, Model Year 2006 I-280, I-350, Model Year 2007-2008 I-290, and I-370, Passenger Vehicles Originally Sold IN or Currently Registered IN THE States OF Alabama, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, Nevada, NEW Mexico, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Texas, U.s. Virgin Islands and Utah. Some OF These Vehicles Have A Brake Lamp Switch That MAY NOT Work AS Designed DUE TO Contamination IN THE Switch.
Consequence This Condition Could Cause THE Simultaneous Loss OF All Brake Lamps or Cause All OF THE Brake Lamps TO Stay ON Continuously. Both OF These Conditions Could Fail TO Warn Others OF THE Driver's Intentions and Could Lead TO A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Inspect and Replace THE Necessary Components AS Specified IN THE Recall Bulletin Free OF Charge. GM Anticipates That Parts Will BE Available BY June 2010. A Special Coverage FOR Vehicles Registered IN All Other States Will BE Implemented IN THE Same Time Frame. IN THE Interim, Owners WHO Experience THE Failure CAN Obtain A Free Repair, However They Will BE Required TO Return When THE NEW Design Part Becomes Available. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438, GMC AT 1-866-996-9463, Isuzu AT 1-800-255-6727 or AT Www.gmownercenter.com.
Notes GM Recall NO. 09049.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Child Seat
Recall date 2010-11-18
Recall no. 10v575000
Source NHTSA
Summary GM IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2004-2011, Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, Model Year 2006, Isuzu I-280/I-350, and Model Year 2007-2008, I-290/I-370, Regular Cab Vehicles and Extended Cab Vehicles Without A Rear Seat and Equipped With A Front 60/40 Split Bench Seat. These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 225, "child Restraint Anchorage Systems." THE Top Tether Anchor FOR THE Front Center Seat IS NOT Accessible and THE Owner Manual Does NOT Include Instructions Regarding HOW TO USE THE Top Tether.
Consequence Both Nhtsa and GM Discourage Placement OF A Child IN A Front Seat. Nevertheless, There ARE Individual Circumstances That MAY Require Placement OF A Child IN A Restraint IN THE Front Center Seating Position OF This Vehicle That Does NOT Offer A Rear Seat. Lack OF Access TO THE Top Tether Anchor and A Lack OF Instructions AS TO HOW TO USE IT, MAY Result IN Improper Installation OF A Child Restraint. Improper Installation OF A Child Restraint CAN Result IN A Reduction IN THE Restraint's Performance IN THE Event OF A Crash and AN Increased Risk OF Injury or Death TO THE Child Seated IN THE Restraint.
Remedy Dealers Will CUT A Hole Into THE Back Panel Trim Cover TO Allow Access TO THE Top Tether Anchor FOR THE Front Center Seat Position and Will Provide Supplemental Information AS TO USE IN THE Owner's Manual. THE Manufacturer HAS NOT YET Provided AN Owner Notification Schedule FOR This Campaign. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438, GMC AT 1-866-996-9463, Isuzu AT 1-800-255-6727 or Visit Gm's Website AT Www.gmownercenter.com.
Notes GM Safety Recall NO. 10367 And/Or 10407.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .

2006 Chevrolet Colorado Insurance

Insurance for a 2006 Chevrolet Colorado is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Pickup Truck with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2006 Chevrolet Colorado Compare to Other Pickup Truck?

The 2006 Chevrolet Colorado competed with rivals like the Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier, and Ford Ranger. Compared to the Tacoma, the Colorado generally offered a lower price point but lacked the Tacoma's renowned reliability and resale value. The Frontier was similar in terms of price and features, but the Colorado arguably had a slightly more modern interior design at the time. The Ford Ranger was a strong competitor, known for its dependability, but may have lacked some of the Colorado's styling appeal.
In terms of performance, the Colorado's engine options were competitive, but some might find the Tacoma's V6 more refined. Features-wise, they were all relatively similar, with the Tacoma often offering a slight edge in available options.
If reliability is a top priority, the Toyota Tacoma is a better choice, albeit at a higher price. The Nissan Frontier is a similar alternative to the Colorado, offering comparable features and price. The Ford Ranger could be a good choice, depending on availability and condition. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual priorities and budget. If value is paramount, the Colorado can be a decent option, provided a thorough inspection is conducted before purchase.

Ranks #250 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★)
250 2006 Chevrolet Colorado (5.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2006 Chevrolet Colorado a Good Pickup Truck?

The 2006 Chevrolet Colorado is ideal for buyers seeking an affordable and capable mid-size pickup for light to moderate use. It's worth considering if you're on a budget and need a truck for hauling, towing, or general utility. However, it's crucial to buy a used Colorado with a thorough inspection, paying close attention to potential rust, four-wheel-drive system issues, and suspension wear. The LT or Z71 trims offer more features than the base model. Due to its age, buying a well-maintained used model is the only option. Be prepared for potential maintenance costs and factor those into your budget. If reliability is your top priority, consider a Toyota Tacoma instead, but be prepared to pay more.

2006 Chevrolet Colorado Owner Reviews

4.18
Consumer Rating, Based on 56 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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Kenneth Pierce on August 7, 2024

Love this truck.

Love this truck. My version had a nname plate of Isuzu that was built by Colorado at the Shreveport LA plant. It currently has 208,800 miles. No rust only 6 small spots of where gm paint has blistered. Recently has had engine problem of stalling while being driven in traffic. It has the I5 engine. If this is revised by gm please contact me.

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corben on December 27, 2022

work truck model

my experience with mine is great it is a 2006 work truck model four-cylinder automatic it has 265000 miles runs great drives great well made and is my daily driver I would buy another one if you go to buy one get the work truck model

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Ruby on November 30, 2022

I would never recommend a chevy colorado

Well when I first bought it 2 weeks later my tire fell Off and skidded nose first down the road wheel bearings went out as I was changing them I seen the breaks were bad so I changed both front breaks then I put new plugs and coils on it two months after that I put an oxygen sensor a thermostat a throttle body and now a purge valve and it still ain't running right I would have never bought this xxx

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Dawson on June 2, 2022

Very strong 💪 2006 colorado

06 colorado crew 55,000 mile on it till still highway 180,000 love it to work everyday never die on me less repair it is fun

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nanato7grands on February 25, 2022

Won’t get a new one ‘til this wears out.

17 years old and still runs and looks like new! They don’t make ‘em like this anymore. Have never broken down on the road. Good truck!

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Joatmon72 on April 8, 2021

Great small pick-up

I owned a 2006 Colorado extend cab 2 wheel drive I5 engine for 13 years. I had a few minor issues with it, otherwise it was a reliable vehicle and something of a workhorse. My blower switch lost the first three positions after about three years. A common problem. The stereo sound system sounded terrible after five years or so. The gas mileage fell off to 14/19 as it aged. But on the Pro side, I never garaged it and it never showed any rust. The paint job held up great as did the interior. I had the bed coated with a spray on bed liner that lasted the whole time I owned the truck. No major repairs, just ongoing service and normal tire and battery replacement as needed. I would love to be able to buy another pickup that would be as reliable and rustproof as that one was.

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Ksj on August 4, 2020

Great truck!

This vehicle will run for a very long time if you maintain care. No major issues, just the normal. Oil changes, breaks, tuneup, tires. One of the best trucks i have ever had! Well worth the money spent.

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TruckFan on July 16, 2020

Most reliable vehicle I’ve ever owned.

I owned this vehicle for seven years. I made 4 cross country moves in it and used it as my daily work driver and on countless adventures through all sorts of conditions

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Jimjjr52 on May 15, 2020

Good Truck

Very clean and well taken care of by previous owner and the paint was almost flawless The truck drives and handles Very good for being 14 years old.

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GERALD on February 10, 2020

We feel we got our money 's worth

Have not taken this truck very far, but so far very good. It should meet all of our requirements. Not a lot of fancy features and that is just fine, it will not be our family vehicle but a work vehicle.

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Jovan

Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.