2004 to 2012 Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon
The Draw: Look for 4- or 5-cylinder power in this one, the latter promising 4-cylinder gas mileage and 6-cylinder power, and backed by owners who say it performs well and isn’t overly thirsty despite up to 242 horsepower. A few models were sold with the 5.3L smallblock V8 if you’re into performance trucks. Owners have called this one a great city truck with a comfortable ride, confident handling, and a real “tough-truck” feel. Added confidence comes from the OnStar system available in these twins, which are the only pickups in the segment to offer it.
The Checks: Owners report a slew of small, easily identified issues in the Colorado/Canyon, especially in earlier models. These range from faulty audio head-units to rattling exhaust heat-shields to bad brake-light switches. More common gripes include poor air conditioner performance, blown stereo speakers, and some climate-control issues relating to the fan motor. Have the brakes and suspension system inspected for signs of excessive wear, too.
Note that some earlier units with the 3.5L 5-cylinder engine were affected by a potential issue with bad cylinder heads that could result in catastrophic engine failure. Some of these cylinder heads were replaced under warranty, but opting for a newer model -- or one with the updated 3.7L 5-cylinder unit -- is advised where possible. A GM dealer service department can look up the vehicle’s VIN number to check on its service history or for any outstanding warranty work.
The Draw: Look for 4- or 5-cylinder power in this one, the latter promising 4-cylinder gas mileage and 6-cylinder power, and backed by owners who say it performs well and isn’t overly thirsty despite up to 242 horsepower. A few models were sold with the 5.3L smallblock V8 if you’re into performance trucks. Owners have called this one a great city truck with a comfortable ride, confident handling, and a real “tough-truck” feel. Added confidence comes from the OnStar system available in these twins, which are the only pickups in the segment to offer it.
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| 2009 Chevrolet Colorado (Photo: Matthieu Lambert) |
The Checks: Owners report a slew of small, easily identified issues in the Colorado/Canyon, especially in earlier models. These range from faulty audio head-units to rattling exhaust heat-shields to bad brake-light switches. More common gripes include poor air conditioner performance, blown stereo speakers, and some climate-control issues relating to the fan motor. Have the brakes and suspension system inspected for signs of excessive wear, too.
Note that some earlier units with the 3.5L 5-cylinder engine were affected by a potential issue with bad cylinder heads that could result in catastrophic engine failure. Some of these cylinder heads were replaced under warranty, but opting for a newer model -- or one with the updated 3.7L 5-cylinder unit -- is advised where possible. A GM dealer service department can look up the vehicle’s VIN number to check on its service history or for any outstanding warranty work.
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| 2011 GMC Canyon (Photo: GMC) |