Chevrolet Colorado · Pickup
2.9L four-cylinder, replaced the 2.8L LK5 in 2007. 185 hp, more refined. Common issues: thermostat, water pump, engine mounts. The most economical choice if power is not a priority.
2.9 I4 — the most frugal Colorado
185 hp, slightly refined over the 2.8. Still not enough for a loaded truck, but perfect for light duty. Standard thermal items (water pump, thermostat). The engine nobody picks but that causes the least grief.
Vehicle Weaknesses 5
Box frame design traps water and road salt, causing severe frame corrosion. Driver-side rear near leaf spring is the first failure point. Aftermarket frame repair kits (Rust Buster) available but costly.
The 4L60-E suffers from weak sun shells and 3-4 clutch packs. Loss of reverse/2nd/4th indicates sun gear failure. Rebuild with hardened sun shell extends life.
Wire harness chafes at door hinge area, blowing fuse #42 and disabling windows and locks. GM TSB PIT3164B covers 2004-2009.
The resistor controlling HVAC fan speed fails prematurely. Fan only works on highest speed. Check blower motor for excessive current draw.
Fuel gauge sensor fails, reading higher than actual level. Requires dropping fuel tank for replacement.