2019 Chevrolet Colorado: True Cost of Ownership (5-Year Breakdown)
The 2019 Chevrolet Colorado is a midsize pickup truck that hits a sweet spot between full-size truck capability and everyday practicality, making it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts, contractors, and suburban drivers who want truck utility without the bulk. Buying used around $22,000 puts you into a well-equipped, relatively modern truck that's out of its steepest depreciation curve. This guide breaks down exactly what it will cost you to own one over five years.
Monthly cost breakdown
The 2019 Colorado holds value reasonably well for a midsize truck, retaining roughly 45-50% of its original MSRP after five years from new — but buying at $22,000 used means the steepest depreciation has already occurred, limiting your further losses to an estimated $11,900 over your ownership period.
Pros
- Purchased at $22,000 you've avoided the worst depreciation hit, meaning lower annual value loss compared to buying new
- Fuel costs are moderate for a truck — the 2.5L four-cylinder can achieve 20-22 MPG combined, keeping energy costs manageable at 12,000 miles/year
- Routine maintenance (oil changes, brakes, tires) is straightforward and parts are widely available at competitive prices through GM's large dealer and aftermarket network
- Insurance rates are meaningfully lower than full-size trucks like the F-150 or Silverado 1500, saving $300-500/year on average
Cons
- The 3.6L V6 returns only 17-19 MPG combined, pushing monthly fuel costs closer to $200+ if you opt for that engine
- Transmission and engine reliability concerns mean you should budget for potential out-of-warranty repairs — an 8-speed transmission service or rebuild can run $1,500-$3,500
- Resale value, while decent, trails the Toyota Tacoma significantly; a comparable used Tacoma retains 10-15% more value over the same period
- Extended cab and crew cab configurations can have tight rear legroom, limiting long-term appeal to families and potentially narrowing your future buyer pool
Common problems to watch for
- Rough or hesitant shifting from the 8-speed automatic transmission, especially noticeable in the V6 models — a software update or fluid flush often helps but may recur
- Excessive oil consumption reported in the 2.5L and 3.6L engines, particularly in higher-mileage examples; check oil levels regularly and get a compression test before buying
- Infotainment system (MyLink) can freeze or reboot unexpectedly; a known issue across this generation with software-only fixes of limited long-term success
- Front-end shudder or vibration under light acceleration, commonly linked to the torque converter or drivetrain dampening; a software recalibration is typically the dealer fix
- Paint and exterior trim quality is below average for the segment — rock chips, peeling clear coat, and cab corner rust are reported more frequently than competitors
The verdict
At a $22,000 entry price, the 2019 Colorado is a solid cost-conscious choice for a midsize truck — you're past the brutal early depreciation and insurance is reasonably affordable. The main financial risks are transmission reliability and fuel costs if you choose the V6, so a pre-purchase inspection and sticking to the four-cylinder can meaningfully improve your total cost picture. It's a smart buy if you need truck capability on a budget, but Tacoma fans will correctly note that long-term resale and reliability give Toyota a slight edge.
Best for: The 2019 Colorado is best for the solo driver or small family who needs genuine truck capability — towing up to 7,700 lbs, off-road clearance, or work-site utility — but drives mostly city and suburban miles and wants to avoid the running costs of a full-size pickup.
Other model years
How it compares
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to insure a 2019 Chevrolet Colorado?
Expect to pay roughly $1,500-$1,800 per year (about $125-$150/month) for full coverage on a 2019 Colorado, depending on your location, driving record, and deductibles — meaningfully less than insuring a full-size truck.
What is the fuel economy of the 2019 Chevrolet Colorado?
The 2.5L four-cylinder gets approximately 20 city / 26 highway MPG, while the 3.6L V6 returns about 17 city / 24 highway; at 12,000 miles per year the four-cylinder will save you roughly $300-$400 annually over the V6 at current gas prices.
Is the 2019 Chevrolet Colorado reliable?
It's moderately reliable — Consumer Reports rates this generation around average for the segment, with the automatic transmission and oil consumption being the two most commonly reported issues; the four-cylinder paired with the 6-speed automatic has a better reliability record than the V6 and 8-speed combination.
How much will a 2019 Colorado depreciate over 5 more years?
Bought at $22,000 today, you can expect the truck to be worth approximately $10,000-$11,500 in 2029 at typical mileage, meaning depreciation of roughly $10,500-$12,000 over your ownership period — about $175-$200 per month.
What are the most expensive repairs on a 2019 Chevrolet Colorado?
The costliest repairs tend to be automatic transmission overhauls ($1,500-$3,500), air conditioning compressor replacement ($800-$1,200), and timing chain service on the V6 if neglected ($1,000-$1,800) — all more likely beyond 100,000 miles.
How does the 2019 Colorado compare to the Toyota Tacoma in total cost of ownership?
The Tacoma typically costs $50-$100 more per month to own due to a higher purchase price and insurance, but it recoups much of that through 10-15% stronger resale value at the end of five years; the Colorado wins on initial cost and insurance, the Tacoma wins on long-term value retention and reliability reputation.
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Estimates are AI-generated guidance based on typical costs for this year, make and model.