2004-2008 Chevrolet Colorado: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
2008 Chevrolet Colorado
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2004-2008 Chevrolet Colorado ▼
- Price Range: $4,300 - $18,900
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 2004-2008 Chevrolet Colorado and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Instruments/controls
- Cargo room (crew cab)
Cons
- Acceleration (four-cylinder/auto.)
- Rear-seat comfort (extended cab)
Vehicle Highlights
General Motors launched its new generation of small pickup trucks with the 2004 Chevrolet Colorado and its GMC Canyon companion. Billed as a "midsize" pickup, Colorado was slightly larger than the Chevy S-10 it was meant to replace, but not as big as the compact-class size-leading Dodge Dakota. Available in regular, extended, and crew cab form, Colorado and Canyon differed in trim details but shared a platform and introduced two new GM truck engines. Replacing a 120-horsepower 2.2-liter as the base four-cylinder was a 175-horsepower 2.8-liter. A 220-horsepower 3.5-liter inline five-cylinder substituted for the previous 190-horsepower 4.3-liter V6. Both new engines had dual overhead cams versus overhead valves, and came with a manual or four-speed automatic transmission. Both were available with rear-wheel drive or with four-wheel drive that had low-range gearing, but must be disengaged on dry pavement. The regular cab seated up to three; extended cabs came with dual rear-hinged back doors and seated up to five. The four-door Crew Cab seated up to six and had a 5-foot cargo box, while others had a 6-foot bed. Antilock braking was standard. Available for the first time on a GM pickup were head-protecting curtain side airbags that covered all seating rows. All body styles, with 2WD or 4WD, could be equipped with a Z71 off-road suspension that offered elevated ground clearance. The ZQ8 sport-suspension option was a Chevrolet exclusive that included 17-inch wheels vs. 15s, and was offered only with 2WD. A locking rear differential was available on all Colorados. Traction control was a new option with 2WD. Also available were leather seats (crew cab only), OnStar assistance, and satellite radio. Colorados competed against the Dodge Dakota, Ford Ranger, and Toyota Tacoma. Sold alongside Colorado for the 2004 model year were heldover S-10 crew cabs.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Chevrolet Colorado LS Z85 ext. cab. 2WD 5-cyl w/auto Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 6 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 4 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 4 | |
| Quietness | 4 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 4 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 1 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 3 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 43 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 2004-2008 Chevrolet Colorado. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 2004-2008 Chevrolet Colorado.
Year to Year Changes
2005 Chevrolet Colorado:
A new Xtreme appearance package included bodyside cladding, different front and rear styling, and special exterior graphics. Xtreme models included the ZQ8 suspension, but added 18-inch wheels.
2006 Chevrolet Colorado:
A newly available Sun and Sound Package included a sunroof. Isuzu now sold I-280 and I-350 pickups that were equivalent to Colorados.
2007 Chevrolet Colorado:
Chevrolet's compact pickup got more power for 2007. Standard on most models was a 185-hp 2.9-liter 4-cyl engine; it replaced a 175-hp 2.8 liter. Standard on 4WD Crews and optional on other Colorados was a 242-hp 3.7-liter 5-cyl; it replaced a 220-hp 3.5 5-cyl.
2008 Chevrolet Colorado:
The 2008 Chevrolet Colorado carried on with no major changes
Our road test for the 2004-2008 Chevrolet Colorado includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 2004-2008 Chevrolet Colorado and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 2004-2008 Chevrolet Colorado is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
The four-cylinder engine is undepowered for anything other than daily commuting. Adequate with 2WD and manual shift, it's sluggish with 4WD and an automatic transmission. The five-cylinder is sprightly with 2WD and adequate with 4WD. Both engines are considerably smoother than the ones they replaced, and seem well-mated to the quick-shifting automatic transmission. Four-cylinder engines are a bit easier on fuel. An extended-cab 2WD five-cylinder averaged 18.8 mpg in mostly highway driving. A Crew Cab 4WD pickup with that engine averaged 18.1 mpg under similar conditions. A manual-shift 2WD four-cylinder regular-cab model averaged 18.1 mpg in mostly city driving. Chevrolet recommends regular-grade fuel for both engines. Jittery on rough or badly broken surfaces, Colorados are otherwise composed. Overall, they ride better than most other compact pickups. Still, abrupt vertical motions are felt over bumps and dips. The base suspension furnishes the best ride, while stiffer Z71 (off-road) and ZQ8 (sport) suspensions grow tiresome on long drives. A Colorado corners with more security and poise than the old S-10, making it among the more agile compact pickups. Expect good straightline stability, but some testers claim it's slow to react to steering inputs. Meaty steering has pronounced on-center feel. The turning radius is noticeably larger with 4WD than with 2WD. Brakes provide quick, even stops with precise pedal feel. Colorados are quieter overall than most competitors, though extended cabs in particular may suffer some wind rush where the front and rear door meet. Five-cylinder engines are louder and coarser than rival V6s, but the four-cylinder is about on par for this class. Gauges are easy to read, but some early digital readouts washed out in direct sunlight. Audio/climate controls are simple to use and clearly marked. Interior materials and fit-and-finish are above average for the class. Still, some early test models had a few squeaks and rattles from the dashboard area. Front occupants get lots of leg and head room, on seats that are adequately comfortable for long drives. The middle seat is for occasional use only. Some testers have complained of hard, flat seatbacks in base models. The extended cab's rear seat is for use by preteens only; adults lack leg room even if front seats are pushed well forward. Crew cabs are somewhat more spacious, but rear leg space is still no better than a compact sedan's, and entry/exit is difficult through small door openings. All rear seats are hard and undersized. Interior storage is limited on regular cabs, but good on extended and crew cabs with rear seats folded. A unique dual-position support cable allows the tailgate to be secured in a partially open position, permitting 4x8 sheets to be carried on top of the wheelwells, supported in back by the tailgate.
Value for the Money
Colorado and its GMC Canyon counterpart focus on the light-duty daily user--assuming heavy haulers will move up to Silverado. That said, Colorado is a well-balanced, modern, and attractive small truck with plenty of appeal.
Colorado and its GMC Canyon counterpart focus on the light-duty daily user--assuming heavy haulers will move up to Silverado. That said, Colorado is a well-balanced, modern, and attractive small truck with plenty of appeal.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Chevrolet Colorado LS Z85 ext. cab. 2WD 5-cyl w/auto Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 6 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 4 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 4 | |
| Quietness | 4 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 4 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 1 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 3 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 43 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Chevrolet Colorado includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Chevrolet Colorado .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Check-engine light:
The check engine light may come on accompanied by an engine misfire due to weak exhaust valve springs which must be replaced. (2004-05)
Electrical problem:
If the OnStar system quits or won't come on (no power), but comes back to life if the fuse is removed for five minutes, the vehicle communications interface module must be replaced or else the problem will recur. (2005-06)
Fuel gauge:
The engine may not start or may stall because the tank is empty yet the gauge shows fuel remaining, or the fuel gauge will not show full after refilling due to sulfur corrosion of the fuel level sender and if after treating with Fuel System Cleaner PLUS the problem remains, the sender may need to be replaced. (2004-06)
Fuel gauge:
The fuel gauge may not move on trucks with the 4-cylineder or 5-cylinder engine, and all California models, requiring recalibration of the PCM. (2004)
Hood/trunk:
Pickup box must be reinforced with available kit before installing a tool box, cap, etc. to prevent collapse. (2004-06)
Keyless entry:
The keyless remote transmitter may not work, but function may be restored if reprogrammed only to quit working again due to water leaking into the body control module from a leak in the cowl. (2005)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $730 |
| Alternator | $410 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $2,450 |
| Brakes | $420 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $750 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $320 |
| Exhaust System | $640 |
| Radiator | $490 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $390 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $1,750 |
Our price chart for this generation Chevrolet Colorado details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 2008 | |||
| Colorado | $10,500-18,500 | $9,500-16,700 | $5,600-9,800 |
| Colorado Crew Cab | $17,000-20,500 | $15,600-18,900 | $10,900-13,100 |
| 2007 | |||
| Colorado | $8,900-17,000 | $8,000-15,300 | $4,600-8,800 |
| Colorado Crew Cab | $15,000-18,700 | $13,700-17,000 | $9,500-11,800 |
| 2006 | |||
| Colorado | $7,500-15,000 | $6,800-13,500 | $3,800-7,500 |
| Colorado Crew Cab | $13,200-17,000 | $12,000-15,500 | $7,700-9,900 |
| 2005 | |||
| Colorado | $6,200-13,000 | $5,400-11,300 | $2,700-5,600 |
| Colorado Crew Cab | $11,500-15,000 | $10,400-13,500 | $6,300-8,300 |
| 2004 | |||
| Colorado | $5,000-11,000 | $4,300-9,400 | $2,000-4,400 |
| Colorado Crew Cab | $9,500-12,500 | $8,600-11,300 | $4,900-6,500 |
|
|
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This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Chevrolet Colorado include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | crew cab 4-door pickup | ext. cab 2-door pickup | reg. cab 2-door pickup |
| Wheelbase, in. | 125.9 | 125.9 | 111.2 |
| Overall Length, in. | 207.1 | 207.6 | 192.8 |
| Overall Width, in. | 68.6 | 67.6 | 67.6 |
| Overall Height, in. | 64.8 | 64.8 | 64.8 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3802 | 3346 | 3117 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | -- | -- | -- |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | 1489 | 1654 | 1733 |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 19.6 | 19.6 | 19.6 |
| Seating Capacity | 6 | 5 | 3 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.6 | 39.6 | 39.6 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 44.0 | 44.0 | 44.0 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 38.3 | 37.9 | -- |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 34.8 | 23.1 | -- |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Two engines and two transmissions are available in Colorados. Both the 175-horsepower 2.8-liter four-cylinder and the 220-horsepower 3.5-liter five-cylinder engine team with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. For 2007. standard on most models is a 185-hp 2.9-liter 4-cyl engine; it replaces a 175-hp 2.8. Standard on 4WD Crews and optional on other Colorados is a 242-hp 3.7-liter 5-cyl; it replaces a 220-hp 3.5 5-cyl.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| dohc I4 | 2.9 / 178 | 185 | 190 | 5-speed manual: 20/26 4-speed automatic: 17/24 |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: -- |
| dohc I5 | 3.7 / 223 | 242 | 242 | 4-speed automatic: 17/23 | 4-speed automatic: -- |
| dohc I5 | 3.5 / 211 | 220 | 225 | 5-speed manual: 18/23 4-speed automatic: 18/23 |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: -- |
| dohc I4 | 2.8 / 169 | 175 | 185 | 5-speed manual: 19/23 4-speed automatic: 18/23 |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: -- |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
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Built In: USA
Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/rear- or 4-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Chevrolet Colorado include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 2005 Colorado 2-door |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 4 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 5 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 2004-2008 Chevrolet Colorado directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
2004-06 Colorado:
Brake lamps may fail to function, or may illuminate at all times; also, cruise control would become inoperative.
2006 Colorado:
Tire and loading information label may list inaccurate vehicle capacity weight.
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