2023 Chevrolet Colorado Safety Report

The 2023 Chevrolet Colorado presents a mixed safety picture, with a 4-star overall NHTSA safety rating, but notable concerns arising from both complaint data and recall history. While it achieved a 5-star rating in side crash tests, its frontal crash rating is 4 stars and rollover resistance is 3 stars, indicating average to slightly below-average performance in these areas. The vehicle has accumulated 117 complaints, including 2 crashes and 5 injuries, which is significant for a relatively new model year. A concerning pattern of issues related to the forward collision avoidance system, service brakes, and engine cooling system is evident in the complaint data. Common complaint patterns highlight issues with the 'FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE' system (18 complaints), 'SERVICE BRAKES' (10 complaints), and 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM' (9 complaints). Several complaints describe unexpected automatic emergency braking, brake failure, or spongy brakes, directly impacting vehicle control and increasing crash risk. Engine-related complaints, particularly concerning radiator hose failures and coolant leaks, are also prevalent, with multiple reports of overheating and potential engine damage. These issues, especially the brake and ADAS malfunctions, directly correlate with the reported crashes and injuries. Recall history further underscores these concerns, with three recalls issued. One recall addresses the 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ADAS:DRIVER MONITORING:CAMERA/SENSOR' for false obstacle detection leading to unexpected automatic emergency braking, directly aligning with numerous complaints. Another recall pertains to 'WHEELS:LUGS/NUTS/BOLTS/STUDS' due to over-tightened front wheel hub bolts, which could lead to a loss of vehicle control. The third recall involves 'SEAT BELTS:CRITICAL FASTENERS' for potentially loose seat belt buckle attachment bolts, increasing injury risk in a crash. These recalls indicate manufacturing or design flaws that could compromise safety, some of which appear to persist despite recall repairs, as suggested by ongoing complaints about false braking.

Our recommendation: Prospective buyers should be aware of the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado's recalls and numerous complaints regarding braking, ADAS, and engine cooling issues. Thoroughly check if all recalls have been addressed and consider an extended warranty, especially for powertrain and electrical components.