2016 Chevrolet Colorado Safety Report
2016 Chevrolet Colorado: Strong crash ratings, but widespread power steering failures raise significant safety concerns.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado
Reliability Score
The 2016 Chevrolet Colorado receives a reliability score of 45 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sudden Power Steering Loss Numerous complaints describe sudden loss of power steering while driving, often accompanied by 'Service Stabili-Trak' warnings, making the vehicle extremely difficult to steer and increasing crash risk. This issue is similar to a recalled problem in the 2015 model year. |
High | Common | variable miles |
| Engine Stalling/Power Loss Several reports indicate sudden engine power loss or stalling at various speeds, including highway speeds, leading to dangerous situations where the vehicle becomes inoperable. |
High | Occasional | variable miles |
| Fuel System Leak (Recall) Recall issued for potential damage to the fuel line, which can lead to a fuel leak and increase the risk of fire. |
High | Rare | N/A miles |
| Air Bag Improper Inflation (Recall) Two separate recalls address the driver's frontal air bag potentially inflating improperly during a crash, increasing the risk of injury. |
High | Rare | N/A miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado:
Overwhelmingly, the most reported issue is sudden loss of power steering and StabiliTrak warnings while driving, making the vehicle difficult to control.
Issues related to the power train, including transmission problems and sudden loss of power.
Various electrical system malfunctions, sometimes linked to steering issues or other component failures.
Reports of engine stalling, sudden power loss, and internal engine component failures like cracked pistons or vacuum pump issues.
Complaints related to braking system performance, including loss of brakes due to vacuum pump failure.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado
Is the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado has a 4-star overall safety rating with good crash test performance (5 stars for side impact). However, it has a significant number of complaints (681 total), particularly concerning sudden power steering loss, which is a serious safety hazard. There have been 14 crashes and 6 injuries reported.
What are common problems with the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado?
The most reported issues for the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado are related to the STEERING system, accounting for 322 complaints (47% of the total). These often describe sudden loss of power steering and StabiliTrak warnings while driving. Other common problems include POWER TRAIN issues (56 complaints) and various ELECTRICAL SYSTEM malfunctions (39 complaints).
Has the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado been recalled?
Yes, the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado has had 4 recalls. These include recalls for potential fuel leaks, two separate recalls for improper driver's frontal air bag inflation, and a recall for the console compartment door not remaining closed in a crash.
Are the power steering issues serious?
Yes, the power steering issues are very serious. Numerous complaints describe sudden and complete loss of power steering while the vehicle is in motion, making it extremely difficult to control and posing a high risk of a crash. This issue is frequently reported and has led to crashes and injuries.
Why isn't there a recall for the power steering issues on the 2016 model, given the 2015 recall?
While the 2015 Chevrolet Colorado had a recall for power steering issues, the 2016 model currently does not have a similar recall, despite a high volume of complaints (322) from owners experiencing identical symptoms. Owners are actively reporting this discrepancy to NHTSA, suggesting a potential gap in recall coverage.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Prospective buyers should be aware of the widespread and serious power steering issues reported for the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado, despite its otherwise decent crash test ratings. Thoroughly investigate the vehicle's service history for steering system repairs and consider an extended warranty covering this critical component.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Chevrolet Colorado
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado. The data includes 681 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 4 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 14 reported crashes, 1 fire incidents, 6 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 3 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.