2021 Chevrolet Colorado Safety Report
2021 Chevrolet Colorado Safety Report
Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado
This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado. It connects recall campaigns, owner complaint patterns, service bulletins, sibling model years, component issue hubs, and the model buying guide so a shopper or owner can move from a single report into the wider safety graph.
| Signal | Value | What to inspect next |
|---|---|---|
| Recall burden | Moderate (1) | Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below. |
| Owner complaints | Moderate (61) | Scan complaint narratives for recurring symptoms, mileage, crashes, fires, injuries, and dates. |
| Crash and fire reports | 7 | Treat any crash, fire, injury, or fatality-linked pattern as a priority pre-purchase inspection item. |
| Primary component hub | Unknown Or Other | Compare unknown or other issues across vehicles. |
| Cleaner nearby model year | 2022 | Compare against the 2022 Chevrolet Colorado with 40 complaints and 1 recalls. |
| Riskier nearby model year | 2018 | Check the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado before buying across this generation. |
Chevrolet Colorado Year-by-Year Comparison
The safest purchase decision usually comes from comparing neighboring model years, not reading a single page in isolation. The table below uses only validated Chevrolet Colorado years already present in the cleaned NHTSA dataset, so each comparison links to a real vehicle safety report rather than a generated combination.
| Model Year | Complaints | Recalls | Use case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 Chevrolet Colorado | 40 | 1 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2020 Chevrolet Colorado | 74 | 0 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2023 Chevrolet Colorado | 117 | 3 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2019 Chevrolet Colorado | 140 | 0 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2024 Chevrolet Colorado | 94 | 3 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2018 Chevrolet Colorado | 173 | 1 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
2021 Chevrolet Colorado Complaint Theme Map
Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado, these are the component areas with the clearest NHTSA complaint signals. Use each link to jump from this single vehicle into broader component hubs and make-specific issue pages.
Unknown Or Other
7 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Unknown Or Other issues Chevrolet onlySteering
6 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Steering issues Chevrolet onlyService Brakes
5 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Service Brakes issues Chevrolet onlyEngine
5 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Engine issues Chevrolet onlyElectrical System
4 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Electrical System issues Chevrolet onlyAir Bags
4 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Air Bags issues Chevrolet onlyAI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado
Reliability Score
The 2021 Chevrolet Colorado receives a reliability score of 55 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.
NHTSA Safety Ratings for the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) evaluates vehicles through controlled crash tests and assigns star ratings from 1 to 5, with 5 being the safest.
Known Issues for the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brake Assist Failure Several reports indicate a sudden loss of brake assist and complete brake failure, often occurring at low mileage. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Coolant Leaks Coolant leaks from the thermostat housing have been reported, affecting multiple vehicles. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Power Steering Issues Some owners have experienced issues with power steering, including a 'service power steering, drive with care' message. |
Low | Occasional | 30k-60k miles |
| Key Release Problems Owners have reported difficulty releasing the key from the ignition switch, especially at higher mileage. |
Medium | Occasional | 30k-60k miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado:
Issues with brake assist and complete brake failure are common.
Coolant leaks from the thermostat housing are frequently reported.
Power steering issues, including a 'service power steering, drive with care' message, are noted.
Problems with key release from the ignition switch have been observed.
Recall Details for the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado
The following 1 recall has been issued for the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado by NHTSA:
Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Chevrolet Bolt EV and 2021 GMC Canyon and Sierra 1500, 2500 and 3500, Yukon, Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV and Chevrolet Blazer, Camaro, Colorado, Equinox, Silverado 1500, 2500 and 3500, Suburban and Tahoe vehicles. Incorrect bolts may have been used at one or more fastening locations to secure the seat belts to the vehicle. If an incorrect bolt was used, the seat belt may not be properly attached to the vehicle.
Consequence: If a seat belt assembly is not properly attached to the vehicle, the seat belt may not properly restrain an occupant in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the suspect bolts, free of charge. The recall began January 29, 2021. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8785, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N202322230.
NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado
Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 4 complaints involved crashes. 2 reported injuries or fatalities.
While driving a 2021 Chevrolet Colorado on Interstate 95 in Florida, the vehicle suddenly experienced a loss of brake assist. The brake pedal became extremely hard and very difficult to press. The driver had difficulty slowing the vehicle and had to use the emergency brake to help bring the vehicle to a stop. This occurred on Interstate 95, which is a very busy highway with high-speed traffic. Th...
Transmission hesitates and/ or slams into gear.
There is a coolant leak from the hoses stemming to the thermostat housing. This has been commonly Reported amongst the same vehicles across the country. No damage to the hoses and no accidents to trigger leak. No light triggered. Just leaks visibly under the car
The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Colorado. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the front driver’s side seat belt buckle failed to remain latched securely and independently unlatched. The “SRS” warning light illuminated. In addition, the contact stated that on occasion, the driver’s side seat belt buckle failed to unlatch, and excessive force was needed to depress the unlatch ...
The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Colorado. The contact stated that while attempting to make a right turn from a traffic light, the vehicle lost power steering functionality, and the steering wheel became difficult to turn. The contact depressed the brake pedal the vehicle started operating as intended. The dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer or an independent mechanic to b...
The engine coolant temperature gauge is stuck at approximately 160•F. Cooling fans are running at high speed constantly. The thermostat is stuck in the open position. The vehicle is less than 100,000 miles. There is a “Special Coverage Bulletin N242484760” that has indicated the issue is occurring regularly with my type of vehicle but my specific VIN is excluded due to misplaced parameters. The pa...
In December 2024, at under 50,000 miles, my 2021 Chevrolet Colorado suffered complete brake failure caused by vacuum pump failure. The vacuum pump failure led to irreparable internal engine damage, requiring complete engine replacement under warranty. Sudden, complete brake failure in traffic could have led to a serious accident causing injuries or death to myself and/or others. The component was ...
The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Colorado. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle shuddered and failed to decelerate as intended while the brake pedal was depressed. An unknown message was displayed. In addition, the contact stated the vehicle failed to respond properly while the accelerator pedal was depressed. Upon inspection, the contact noticed an abnormal ...
Starting my 2021 Chevy Colorado Zr2 in the morning and noticed the "service power steering, drive with care message. 40,000 miles. No power steering. This would clear after leaving vehicle sit and restarting. After reading many articles and found the recall notice for 2015 colorados. Based off of postings I didn't drive it due to the possibility of losing power steering while on the highway, which...
This is the fifth vehicle with the 2.5l engine that has experienced vacuum pump failure resulting in a broken exhaust camshaft. Without warning, drivers have experienced a complete loss of brake function as a result of the vacuum pump failure.
Today while driving my brakes got super hard. Had to use my entire weight to get it to stop and still was moving forward. Had to use the emergency brakes and a prayer. Luckily I wasn’t on the highway or it would’ve been a deadly accident. When I opened the hood the camshaft sensor was broken loose. Mind you I had taken the truck to the dealer a while back for a rattling noise at 1500 RPM and they...
I was on my way home from work and I was on Highway 16 in Washington state near Port Orchard and I was driving 64mph and all vehicles in front of me were all breaking slowing down pretty fast and when I pressed down on my brakes the brakes were totally stiff I could not stop and had to drive on the side of the road and passed 20 plus cars and was finally able to come to a stop. If I had no where t...
Beginning at approximately 80,000 miles I began to notice I could not remove the key from the ignition switch at times. Turning the vehicle on and off, shifting repeatedly into park, turning the steering wheel and pressing the brake had no effect. I now have 90,000 miles and the problem occurs about half of the time when trying to exit the vehicle. It is dangerous to leave the vehicle with the ...
The key does not release when in park! I have to adjust the steering wheel and gear shift multiple times to get it to release. This has been going on for a while and the truck only has 27,000 miles. I've called multiple chevy dealers (including the one I bought it from) they all want a 250 diagnostic fee! This should be under warranty. This problem is dangerous. I have seen I am not the only one h...
I own a 2021 Chevrolet Colorado Lt Extended Cab 2WD. The rear differential has failed prematurely at 70000 miles. the failure caused loud whining/grinding noises, vibration, and unsafe driving conditions. After researching online, i found many other 2021 Colorado owners reporting the same issue with rear differential failure, often at relatively low mileage. This indicates a widespread defect in t...
Backup camera has failed at 38,000 miles. Backed into a tree damaging the rear bumper.
Complete engine failure due to defective crankshaft malfunction, truck taken to certified repair shop and then dealer, deal not responding for 24 days. Engine failed traveling on the highway was fortunately able to pull over, stranded. Engine light came on and the engine failed completely 5-10 min after on a 2 hour return trip home. Certified repair shop informed me this is the exact same reason...
The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Colorado. The contact stated that while driving 45 MPH, the vehicle lost automotive power. No warning light was illuminated. The contact pulled over to the shoulder and the started and fuel pump fuse were replaced as a temporary repair. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the starter and fuel pump fuse needed to be r...
There was a catastrophic engine failure of a 2021 Colorado 3.6L V6 engine. The engine has been replaced by GM and the failed engine is in the dealers' possession. While driving on a congested street, the engine misfired and immediately stopped. The vehicle rolled to a stop in the middle of 3 lanes. Occupants had to flag down traffic while pushing vehicle to the side. There was no warning lamps, me...
The vacuum pump brake booster on my Chevy Colorado went out with no warning first the camshaft went out then once the cam shaft was fixed the brakes didnt work luckily I made it home but the risk was there as the brakes became incredibly stiff and hard to press with me using all my weight to stop the truck I had a mechanic look at it and confirm the pump/booster as the readings show it’s getting p...
Showing 20 of 61 complaints. Additional complaints are available via the NHTSA database.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado
Has the 2021 CHEVROLET COLORADO been recalled?
Yes, the 2021 CHEVROLET COLORADO has 1 recall on record with NHTSA. Each recall addresses a specific safety defect identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA.
How many complaints does the 2021 CHEVROLET COLORADO have?
The 2021 CHEVROLET COLORADO has 61 complaints filed with NHTSA. Of these, 6 involved crashes. 4 injuries and 2 deaths have been reported.
What is the safety rating for the 2021 CHEVROLET COLORADO?
The 2021 CHEVROLET COLORADO received an overall NHTSA safety rating of good (4/5). Frontal crash: 4/5. Side crash: 5/5. Rollover: 3/5.
What are the most common problems with the 2021 CHEVROLET COLORADO?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2021 CHEVROLET COLORADO involve unknown or other (7 complaints), steering (6 complaints), service brakes (5 complaints). Other affected components include engine, electrical system, air bags.
How many crash reports does the 2021 CHEVROLET COLORADO have?
There are 6 crash reports associated with the 2021 CHEVROLET COLORADO out of 61 total complaints (9.8% of complaints involved crashes).
How many fire reports does the 2021 CHEVROLET COLORADO have?
There are 1 fire reports for the 2021 CHEVROLET COLORADO out of 61 total complaints. Fire reports are among the most serious safety concerns tracked by NHTSA.
Are there any deaths reported for the 2021 CHEVROLET COLORADO?
Yes, 2 deaths have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2021 CHEVROLET COLORADO. These are self-reported by complainants and do not imply the vehicle caused the death.
How many injuries are reported for the 2021 CHEVROLET COLORADO?
4 injuries have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2021 CHEVROLET COLORADO. These are self-reported by vehicle owners as part of their safety complaints.
Should I buy a 2021 CHEVROLET COLORADO?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 CHEVROLET COLORADO is acceptable with caveats. It has 61 complaints, 1 recalls, and a good (4/5) safety rating. Note: 2 death(s) have been reported. Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.
What components fail most on the 2021 CHEVROLET COLORADO?
The components with the most failures on the 2021 CHEVROLET COLORADO are: 1. UNKNOWN OR OTHER (7 complaints), 2. STEERING (6 complaints), 3. SERVICE BRAKES (5 complaints), 4. ENGINE (5 complaints), 5. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4 complaints). UNKNOWN OR OTHER is the single most-reported problem area with 7 complaints.
What should I know before buying a 2021 CHEVROLET COLORADO?
Be cautious of brake and coolant issues, and monitor power steering and key release problems, especially at lower mileages. The 2021 CHEVROLET COLORADO has 61 NHTSA complaints and 1 recalls on record. NHTSA rates it good (4/5).
How reliable is the 2021 CHEVROLET COLORADO?
The 2021 CHEVROLET COLORADO receives a reliability score of 55/100, indicating average reliability. This is based on 61 owner complaints, 1 recalls, and 7 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include Brake Assist Failure and Coolant Leaks.
What are the known issues with the 2021 CHEVROLET COLORADO?
Known issues with the 2021 CHEVROLET COLORADO include: Brake Assist Failure, Coolant Leaks, Power Steering Issues, Key Release Problems. These are based on patterns found across 61 NHTSA complaints. 1 of these patterns resulted in formal recalls.
Are there any known issues with the brakes on the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado?
Yes, several reports indicate sudden loss of brake assist and complete brake failure.
What should I do if I experience coolant leaks?
Address the coolant leak promptly to prevent engine damage.
Are there any common problems with the power steering system?
Some owners have reported a 'service power steering, drive with care' message and difficulty releasing the key from the ignition.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Be cautious of brake and coolant issues, and monitor power steering and key release problems, especially at lower mileages.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Chevrolet Colorado
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado. The data includes 61 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 1 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 6 reported crashes, 1 fire incidents, 4 reported injuries, and 2 fatalities associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2021 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.
Disclaimer: This analysis is AI-generated from NHTSA public data and does not constitute professional automotive or safety advice. Always verify recall status at NHTSA.gov and consult a qualified mechanic.
Analysis last updated: 2026-05-14