The Chevrolet Colorado is a mid-size pickup truck manufactured by the American manufacturer, General Motors. It was first introduced in 2004 as an alternative to the full-sized Silverado pickup truck.
This midsize pickup truck has long been a popular choice for those looking for the capability of a truck with the maneuverability and convenience of a smaller car or SUV. As of 2022, the Chevrolet Colorado is in its third generation and has been well-received by consumers and critics alike.
The current version of the Colorado offers a variety of trim levels to fit any budget or lifestyle. From the entry-level WT model to the luxurious ZR2 Bison, there’s something for everyone in the Chevy lineup. The Colorado also offers a variety of engine options, ranging from a 2.5-liter four-cylinder to a powerful V6, making it one of the most versatile pickup trucks in its class.
Despite these advantages, the Chevrolet Colorado does have a few common problems. So before you purchase one of these vehicles, it’s important to be aware of the potential issues you may encounter. Here are seven common problems with the Chevy Colorado that you should know about.
1 – Transmission Failure
One of the most common issues with Chevy Colorados is transmission failure. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including improper maintenance and fluid levels, worn parts, or faulty electrical connections.
Symptoms of these transmission issues include difficulty shifting gears, slipping gears, grinding noises when shifting, and an inability to engage into gear. These symptoms are usually accompanied by a burning smell, especially if there’s a transmission fluid leak, which indicates that the transmission fluid has overheated.
Internal transmission system failure is most common in model years 2015 to 2019, which is often caused by a defective torque converter, and can affect all trim levels of the Colorado.
How to Fix
To fix this Chevrolet Colorado problem, it’s best to have a qualified technician inspect the vehicle and check for any faulty parts or connections. If necessary, they will replace the parts or rewire any faulty connections. If it’s a torque converter issue, you might get some luck having it fixed by Chevrolet.
Additionally, they may recommend replacing any contaminated transmission fluid and filter to ensure that there is sufficient lubrication for the transmission.
In some cases, a new transmission may be necessary if the damage is too severe. If this is the case, have your vehicle serviced by a trusted and experienced mechanic who can provide reliable repairs.
2 – Shuddering and Vibration
Shuddering and vibration in Chevy Colorado vehicles (2015-2019 models) can be quite alarming. Symptoms of this problem include the engine shaking, a rough running condition, and jerking motions when the vehicle is accelerating or decelerating.
The cause of these problems can vary. It could be due to an issue with the transmission, fuel injectors, spark plugs, or other components. In some cases, this problem is caused by the failure of certain parts in the suspension system.
How to Fix
The first step to resolving these issues is to have a professional mechanic inspect and diagnose the cause. Depending on what is causing the shuddering and vibration, the repair could involve replacing any worn-out parts, repairing or replacing the fuel injectors, replacing spark plugs, and/or adjusting the suspension system.
3 – Power Steering Failure
Power steering failure is another common problem with Chevy Colorados, especially in models from 2015, and to a lesser extent, from 2016. Symptoms of power steering failure include difficulty turning the vehicle’s wheels, an excessively loud noise when turning the wheel, and a burning smell coming from the engine bay.
How to Fix
The most common cause of power steering failure is a worn-out or failing power steering pump. If this is the case, it will need to be replaced by a qualified technician. It’s also important to check the hoses and other components for any potential leaks and replace them as necessary.
4 – Engine Misfires
Engine misfires are one of the most common problems with the Chevy Colorado. This issue is usually indicated by the check engine light turning on, indicating that something is wrong with the engine.
The root cause of this problem can be traced to a number of different issues, including a faulty spark plug, worn out distributor cap, a bad coil pack, or an issue with the fuel injectors. All of these issues are common in model years 2007 and 2008, so it is a good idea to check for them if your Colorado starts experiencing engine misfire symptoms.
How to Fix
The best way to fix engine misfires is to replace the faulty parts. If a spark plug or distributor cap needs replacing, they should be replaced with OEM parts that meet the factory specifications. In addition, the fuel injectors should be checked and cleaned to ensure they are working properly.
5 – Air-Conditioning Malfunction
Another common problem with the Chevy Colorado is an air-conditioning malfunction. This issue can manifest in a variety of ways, including an increase in cabin temperature or weak airflow from the vents.
The cause of this problem is usually due to a faulty compressor or other components within the A/C system, such as the condenser, evaporator, or blower motor. All of these components are prone to failure in model years 2004, 2005, and 2011, so they should be checked regularly.
How to Fix
The first thing to do in order to repair an A/C malfunction is to identify the faulty component and then replace it with an OEM part that meets the factory specifications. This can be done by a certified mechanic or by purchasing the part online and replacing it yourself.
Once the replacement is complete, the A/C system should be evacuated of air, recharged with refrigerant, and tested to ensure everything is working correctly.
6 – Electronics and Accessories
The electronics and accessories in a Chevy Colorado can also be prone to wear and tear over time. This includes the radio, speakers, interior lights, power locks, and windows.
The primary cause of this problem is usually faulty wiring or worn-out components that need to be replaced. All of these parts are common for model years 2008 and 2009, so they should be checked regularly.
How to Fix
The best way to fix any issues with the electronics and accessories is to first identify the faulty component and then replace it with an OEM part that meets the factory specifications. This can either be done by a certified mechanic or by purchasing the parts online and doing it yourself.
Once the replacement is complete, all of the wiring should be checked and secured to ensure everything is working correctly. Finally, a diagnostic scan should be run to make sure all the components are communicating correctly with each other.
7 – Paint Peeling and Chipping
[Support Image: Chevy Colorado exterior]
The paint on a Chevy Colorado can also suffer from wear and tear over time, leading to peeling and chipping. This issue is usually indicated by the paint becoming dull or fading, as well as visible signs of peeling.
The cause of paint peeling and chipping can vary, but it is usually caused by oxidation due to exposure to UV light or weather elements such as rain and snow.
While reported paint issues have been present in nearly all model years, it’s most prominent in the 2004 model.
How to Fix
The best way to repair paint peeling and chipping is to first identify the area that needs to be repaired and then sand it down to remove any oxidation. Once this is done, a new coat of paint should be applied using an airbrush or spray gun.
It’s crucial to use a high-quality paint that matches the original color of the car, and it should be applied evenly to avoid any uneven surfaces. After the new coat has dried, a clear coat should then be applied to seal and protect the paint from further damage.
Choose from the Best Chevy Colorado Model Years
If you’re in the market for a used Chevy Colorado, it’s best for you to be aware of these common problems and the model years that are likely to suffer from them.
You can, instead, choose from the better model years. Without question, the 2013 and 2014 model years are the best year to buy a Chevy Colorado. Both of these models boast improved performance, fuel economy, and safety ratings compared to earlier model years.
Additionally, there are no reported issues among Colorado owners, making them a standout choice when it comes to dependability. For those looking for an affordable and reliable Chevy Colorado, the 2013 and 2014 model years are the best ones to consider.
