Used Chevrolet Colorado 3rd Gen (2023-2025): Buyer's Guide

General Motors recalled thousands of 2023 Chevrolet Colorado trucks because the engine block may have cracks from the factory. Not a bad gasket. Not a corroded fitting. The block itself. GM's remedy under recall 24V106: replace the entire engine at no charge. That's the kind of first-year problem that defines a generation. If you're looking at a used 3rd gen Colorado, this guide covers exactly what to check, which model years to target, and what each trim level actually delivers versus what it costs you to own.

This Generation at a Glance

The 3rd gen Colorado (platform code B2UC) launched for the 2023 model year as a complete redesign of the 2015-2022 second generation. Gone are the V6 and diesel options. Every 3rd gen runs a 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, tuned to three distinct output levels depending on trim.

The cabin took a serious step forward. The 11.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard across all trims. Road and wind noise dropped noticeably compared to the 2nd gen. Towing jumped to 7,700 lbs maximum. Payload tops out at 1,684 lbs.

No mid-cycle refresh has occurred. The 2023, 2024, and 2025 model years share the same basic platform and powertrain architecture, with the primary differences being recall and software maturity.

Link to market data: 2023 | 2024 | 2025

Powertrain and Trim Breakdown

2.7L Turbo (237 hp) — WT and LT Base Configuration

The base 2.7L Turbo makes 237 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. On paper that's competitive. In daily driving, most owners find it adequate for highway merging and light towing, though acceleration feels soft compared to the TurboMax variants. Forum consensus on ColoradoFans.com is consistent: if you're buying an LT, pay the option price for the TurboMax upgrade. The base output is fine, but the high-output engine is worth the difference.

The base Turbo delivers the best fuel economy in the lineup, reaching 22 mpg combined in 2WD configuration. That advantage disappears with 4WD. If fuel economy is the priority and the truck will live in the city, the base Turbo with 2WD is the only configuration that makes sense.

Known issues specific to base-output models are largely shared across the full 2.7L family, since all variants use the same L3B block.

2.7L TurboMax (310 hp) — Z71, Trail Boss, ZR2, ZR2 Bison, and LT Option

The TurboMax version of the 2.7L makes 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. Those numbers beat the old 3.6L V6 that powered the 2nd gen. Owners consistently note the mid-range pull as genuinely strong, and towing with the TurboMax feels relaxed versus strained.

The TurboMax shares the same L3B block as the base Turbo, which means it carries the same engine block crack exposure (recall 24V106). That recall affects 2023 Colorado trucks equipped with the 2.7L L3B engine. GM replaced engines on affected units. If you're buying a 2023 with the TurboMax, verifying that recall was completed is not optional.

Engine block cracks (Recall 24V106, 2023 models). The 2.7L L3B engine block in certain 2023 Colorado trucks was cast with microscopic cracks that can propagate over time, leading to coolant leaks and potential engine failure. GM issued recall 24V106 in April 2024, covering 2023 Silverado 1500 and Colorado models with this engine. The remedy is engine replacement at no cost to the owner. Checking VIN recall completion status before purchasing a 2023 Colorado is essential.

AEB phantom braking (Recall 24V133, 2023 models). The front camera module in early 2023 Colorado and GMC Canyon trucks was improperly calibrated, causing the automatic emergency braking system to activate without an actual obstacle. GM documented five crashes and three injuries linked to this defect before issuing the recall in February 2024, covering approximately 57,000 trucks built between September 2022 and December 2023. The fix is a software update to the camera module, applied by dealers at no charge. An uncorrected truck can brake suddenly at highway speed. This recall must be confirmed completed on any 2023 you consider.

Oil consumption (2.7L TurboMax). A segment of TurboMax owners report consuming roughly one quart of oil per 5,000 miles. This is within GM's stated acceptable range, so dealers typically decline warranty repairs unless consumption is more severe. Owners on ColoradoFans.com have tracked this across multiple trucks, with results ranging from negligible to just over one quart per oil change interval. Check the dipstick before any test drive on a higher-mileage example.

Fuel injector issue (N232427950, small 2023 batch). A limited number of 2023 Colorado trucks were equipped with fuel injectors that didn't match the correct flow rate for the 2.7L engine, causing emissions non-compliance. GM's voluntary emissions recall N232427950 covered these vehicles; dealers replaced all four injectors at no charge. This was a small-batch issue, not fleet-wide, but worth checking on any 2023 with the 2.7L.

Engine wiring harness chafing (TSB N232409000, 2023 models). Certain 2023 Colorado trucks were built with insufficient clearance between the engine wiring harness and the turbo actuator. Chafing causes wiring damage that can trigger check engine lights and fault codes. GM issued service bulletin N232409000; dealers add nylon cable ties to re-route the harness. If a 2023 shows recurring check engine lights with turbo-related codes, ask whether this TSB has been addressed.

8-speed automatic transmission shudder. The 8L45 and 8L90 eight-speed automatics used in the Colorado have a documented tendency to shudder during light-throttle acceleration, most noticeable between 25 and 45 mph. This torque converter clutch shudder is common across multiple GM vehicles using the same unit. The fix that actually works: a full transmission fluid exchange using Mobil 1 Synthetic LV ATF HP (blue label). Dealers also have TSB coverage for this. If the truck shudders and no fluid exchange has been done, budget $150-250 for a shop to handle it. If it still shudders after the fluid change, the torque converter itself may need replacement, which runs $800-1,400 installed.

Rough 1st-to-2nd gear shift. Separate from shudder, the 8-speed has a mild tendency to feel abrupt when shifting from 1st to 2nd gear under moderate acceleration. GM acknowledged this via TSB 16-NA-361 and designated it as normal behavior. It hasn't been fixed. Every owner who asked about it on ColoradoFans.com received the same dealership response. Set expectations accordingly on the test drive.

ZR2 and ZR2 Bison Specifics

The ZR2 and ZR2 Bison share the TurboMax engine but add Multimatic DSSV spool-valve dampers, a two-inch front suspension lift, front and rear locking differentials, and a 220-amp alternator. Ground clearance reaches 11 inches. This is a purpose-built off-road truck, not an appearance package.

ZR2-specific complaints are more concentrated in early 2023 builds. Owners on ZR2zone.com report turbo under-boost faults requiring turbo replacement on some 2023 units. Sunroof-equipped models (which includes most ZR2s) are subject to a separate TSB for roof panel oil-canning, a popping or denting noise caused by air dryer pressure in automatic car washes flexing the roof panel.

The Multimatic dampers are a long-term maintenance cost worth knowing before you buy. They are rebuildable but not cheap. Expect $800-1,200 per damper at a qualified shop if they need rebuilding after heavy off-road use. For trucks used primarily on-road, this isn't a near-term concern. For trucks with documented trail use or high mileage, inspect the dampers.

The 2023 ZR2 had more issues than the 2024. One consistent pattern on ZR2zone.com: owners of later-build 2023 trucks (production dates after January 2023) report fewer problems than those built in fall 2022. If you're buying a 2023 ZR2, check the door jamb sticker for the production date.

Trim-Specific Notes

WT (Work Truck): The base trim. Vinyl flooring, minimal features, available in RWD or 4WD. If someone is selling a used WT with low miles, the price may look attractive. Just know you're getting the base 237hp engine unless the TurboMax option was added. Verify.

LT: The sweet spot for most buyers. Gets you the upgraded interior, power driver seat, and wireless phone charging as options. The TurboMax upgrade was available on the LT and costs around $1,500 more used versus a base-engine LT. It's worth paying the difference. An LT with TurboMax delivers everything most buyers need without the off-road tax of the Trail Boss or Z71.

Trail Boss: 4WD only. Gets the 258hp Turbo Plus engine, a 2-inch factory lift, all-terrain tires, skid plates, and 9.5 inches of ground clearance. The Trail Boss costs significantly less used than the Z71 while delivering more actual off-road capability. If you want a truck for light trails and bad weather, Trail Boss is the value choice. If you want a loaded daily driver that happens to handle dirt roads, Z71 is the better fit.

Z71: 4WD only. Gets the full TurboMax (310hp), LED headlights, heated leather seats, and a more street-tuned suspension than the Trail Boss. Ground clearance is 8.9 inches versus 9.5 for the Trail Boss. The Z71 costs about $4,000 more used than a comparable Trail Boss. That premium buys interior comfort, not off-road capability.

ZR2 and ZR2 Bison: These command a significant premium. Used ZR2s typically list $8,000-10,000 more than comparable Trail Boss trucks. The Multimatic damper system, locking diffs, and 11-inch ground clearance are genuinely different, not just badging. If you're going to use it seriously off-road, it's worth the money. If you're buying it for the look, the Trail Boss gets you 90% of the visual presence at a fraction of the cost.

Which Model Year to Target

All three available model years run the same platform. The differences come down to recall and software maturity.

The 2024 is the best value pick. It's old enough to have a meaningful discount from new prices but new enough to have escaped the 2023 first-year issues. Stick to trucks built after the recall completion dates: post-April 2024 for the engine block recall on 2023 models carrying that repair, or just buy a 2024 and skip the 2023 risk profile entirely.

If budget is the priority and you're looking at a 2023: check the production date on the door jamb sticker. Trucks built before December 2022 are early-run units with the highest risk. Trucks built after January 2023 have fewer reported issues. More importantly, confirm all open recalls are resolved before signing anything.

The 2023 had 121 NHTSA complaints filed, with forward collision avoidance leading (20 complaints). The 2024 had 106 complaints with engine and brakes as top categories. The 2025 has 23 complaints filed, trending well.

Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

For all 3rd gen Colorados:

• Run the VIN through the recall lookup tool before the test drive. Confirm recall 24V133 (AEB) is completed on any 2023. Confirm recall 24V106 (engine block) is resolved on any 2023 with the 2.7L engine.
• Check the door jamb sticker for production date. Early production (Sept-Nov 2022) carries the highest first-year problem rate.
• Start the engine cold. Let it idle for 30 seconds. Listen for any tick, knock, or rattle that doesn't fade as the engine warms. Any persistent cold-start knock on a 2.7L warrants investigation before you proceed.
• Check the oil level and color. If it's noticeably low between oil changes, ask the seller about consumption history. Dark brown is normal used oil. Black and gritty on a truck under 50k miles is a maintenance red flag.
• Test the automatic emergency braking: at low speed, drive toward a parking barrier. The system should stay alert but not trigger phantom stops. Phantom braking on a 2023 with an unverified AEB recall is a pass-or-fix situation, not a bargaining chip.
• On 4WD models: engage and disengage 4WD at low speed. Watch for the "Service 4WD" warning light. If it appears, the truck may have the wiring harness chafing issue (TSB N232409000) or a more significant 4WD actuator problem.

2.7L TurboMax (all trims):

• Under moderate throttle from a stop, feel for the 8-speed shifting 1st to 2nd. A mild abruptness is acknowledged as normal. A harsh clunk, slip, or shudder is not. Shudder during light-throttle highway cruising (25-45 mph) points to the torque converter clutch issue.
• On sunroof-equipped models (especially ZR2), inspect the roof panel for any dimpling or subtle deformation around the sunroof frame. Oil-canning from car wash dryers has been documented.

ZR2 and ZR2 Bison:

• Ask about off-road use history. The Multimatic DSSV dampers can handle significant trail abuse, but a truck used hard needs damper inspection. Bounce each corner of the truck. Slow, controlled return to level is normal. Bouncing multiple times points to worn dampers.
• Check the underbody skid plates for major gouges or bends that indicate rock contact. Surface scratches are expected on any used off-road truck. Bent or cracked skid plates mean something hit hard.

Running Costs

One maintenance note that applies to every 3rd gen Colorado with the 8-speed: the factory service interval for transmission fluid is 45,000 miles under normal use. Owners and mechanics consistently recommend shortening this to 30,000 miles, especially on trucks that have seen towing or off-road use. The specific fluid that resolves shudder and extends the transmission's life is Mobil 1 Synthetic LV ATF HP (blue label). Generic Dexron fluid will not fix the shudder.

The 2.7L requires full synthetic 5W-30. Oil changes run $80-120 depending on shop. GM's OLM (oil life monitor) typically calls for changes every 6,000-8,000 miles under normal use. Follow the monitor, not a fixed interval.

FAQ

Is the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado reliable? The 2023 had a rough first year. Nine recalls, including engine block cracks requiring full engine replacement (24V106) and phantom braking (24V133). Early-build trucks (September through November 2022 production) have the worst owner experience. Later-build 2023 trucks and all 2024-2025 models are meaningfully more reliable.

Which year 3rd gen Colorado should I avoid? Early-build 2023 models built before January 2023. Check the production date on the door jamb sticker. Any 2023 with unverified open recalls is a risk, particularly the engine block (24V106) and AEB recalls. The 2024 and 2025 model years carry significantly fewer issues.

What is the best trim for a used 3rd gen Colorado? The 2024 LT with the TurboMax option or the 2024 Trail Boss. The LT TurboMax delivers the 310hp engine and a well-equipped daily driver at the lowest premium over a base truck. The Trail Boss adds a factory lift, all-terrain tires, and skid plates for buyers who want genuine capability without paying the ZR2 premium.

How many miles will a 3rd gen Colorado last? The 3rd gen is too new for meaningful long-term mileage data. The 2.7L TurboMax is a high-output turbocharged engine: keep it on regular oil changes (follow the OLM, use full synthetic), change the transmission fluid at 30k miles, and watch for oil consumption. The engine family is used across multiple GM platforms, which provides a broader reliability picture than the Colorado alone. High-mileage examples without documented service history are a higher risk than they would be in a naturally-aspirated engine.

Does the 3rd gen Colorado have a diesel option? No. The 3rd generation dropped both the V6 and the 2.8L Duramax diesel that were available in the 2nd gen (2015-2022). Every 3rd gen Colorado runs the 2.7L turbocharged four-cylinder in one of three output levels. If diesel capability matters, the 2nd gen is the only Colorado generation that offered it.

Bottom Line

The 2024 Trail Boss or 2024 LT TurboMax is the sweet spot in this generation. You get the high-output engine, post-first-year reliability, and enough capability for real-world use without paying the ZR2 premium or accepting the 2023 risk profile. On any 2023 you consider, run the VIN through the recall lookup first. Engine block replacements and AEB software updates are quick verifications that either clear a truck or save you from a significant problem. CarScout members can track price drops on specific trims and model years at usecarscout.com.

Data sourced from NHTSA recalls database, EPA fuel economy data, CarScout market data, and real owner experiences from ColoradoFans.com, ZR2zone.com, GMAuthority.com, carcomplaints.com, and Consumer Reports. See the full Chevrolet Colorado market data for current pricing and inventory.