2021 Chevrolet Colorado recalls, problems & safety ratings
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado and 79 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are service brakes (20), engine (18), unknown or other (17). It earned a 4-star overall NHTSA safety rating. EPA-rated fuel economy is 21–23 mpg combined, depending on engine.
The 2021 ranks #4 of 12 Colorado model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with fewer complaints than the average year (192). It has 1 recall vs. an average of 2.0 per model year.
Recalls 1
Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado. Not every recall applies to every vehicle, so check your VIN. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.
Seat belts
Problem: 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.
Risk: 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.
Fix: 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.
Common problems
From complaints owners filed with NHTSA. Complaints aren't verified, but patterns across hundreds of owners point to known weak spots.
Most-reported problem areas
By the numbers
Recent owner reports
The rear differential is sounding very loud, like grinding roaring sound @ 72,000. This truck doesn't pull any loads or anything heavy.all service are on time. How can this young milage truck major part go bad just so. It's dangerous driving on the street. It can cause death if it blows up or freeze. GM has a global service about their miss labeled rear differential. They now…
The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Colorado. The contact stated that the vehicle was involved in a crash after the contact fell asleep while driving 15 MPH. The vehicle came to a complete stop after crashing into a tree. The front of the vehicle was damaged. The contact stated that the air bags had not deployed. The contact sustained a fractured wrist and hand, burns to the neck…
In May 2025, I took my truck to the dealership due to a severe whining noise from the rear. They said the rear differential had failed and needed a full replacement, costing me $1,800 since the warranty didn’t cover the entire amount. By late September 2026, while driving on the highway, the whining returned—this time with vibrations under my feet whenever I accelerated. Back a…
Safety ratings
2021 Chevrolet Colorado PU/CC 2WD
2021 Chevrolet Colorado PU/EC 2WD
2021 Chevrolet Colorado PU/CC 4WD
Fuel economy
EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado.
Colorado 2WD
Auto 6-spd · 4 cyl · 2.5 L
Regular
Colorado 2WD
Auto 6-spd · 4 cyl · 2.8 L · Diesel · Turbo
Diesel
Colorado 4WD
Auto 6-spd · 4 cyl · 2.5 L
Regular
Colorado 4WD
Auto 6-spd · 4 cyl · 2.8 L · Diesel · Turbo
Diesel
Other model years
Questions
How many recalls does the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado have?
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado, most recently for seat belts (12/23/2020). Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer. Enter your VIN to check whether a recall applies to your vehicle.
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado?
Based on 79 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are service brakes (20), engine (18), unknown or other (17).
Is the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado safe?
The 2021 Chevrolet Colorado earned a 4-star overall rating in NHTSA's 5-star safety ratings.
Is the 2021 a good year for the Chevrolet Colorado?
The 2021 ranks #4 of 12 Colorado model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with fewer complaints than the average year (192). It has 1 recall vs. an average of 2.0 per model year.
What gas mileage does the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado get?
EPA ratings for the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado range from 21 to 23 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain.
Own a 2021 Chevrolet Colorado in South Carolina?
Our mobile mechanics diagnose and fix the problems above at your home, office or fleet lot in Lexington, Columbia and the Midlands, with dealer-grade scan tools.
Related vehicles
Sources: NHTSA recalls, complaints and 5-Star Safety Ratings APIs; EPA fueleconomy.gov. Data retrieved October 21, 2026. NHTSA model names used: COLORADO, Colorado.