TransmissionHigh
8-speed automatic hard shifts and shudder (fluid-related).
- Typically appears
- Any
- What to inspect
- Test-drive and feel for harsh 'clunk' shifts; ask about fluid flush.
2015–2022 Chevrolet Colorado · common problems & known faults
The 2nd-gen Colorado is a versatile midsize truck; the 8-speed automatic hard-shift issue is the headline check.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed July 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2015–2022 Chevrolet Colorado are 8-speed automatic hard shifts and shudder (fluid-related), DEF (AdBlue) heater or pump failure on the 2.8L Duramax, leading to a speed-limited limp mode and Sudden loss of power steering assistance caused by a failing electronic power steering (EPS) torque sensor. 3 of the documented issues are rated high severity · inspect these first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
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Build the inspection planReliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the Chevrolet Colorado.
4.3/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 3
- Medium
- 4
- Low
- 1
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Known faults to check
EmissionsMedium
CEL / emissions faults on the four-cylinder.
- Typically appears
- 70,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Scan for stored codes.
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Build the inspection planHVACMedium
AC performance and blend-door faults.
- Typically appears
- 80,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Confirm cold AC output.
SafetyLow
Front seat frame recall.
- Typically appears
- Any
- What to inspect
- Confirm the seat-frame recall was completed.
InteriorMedium
Ignition key cannot be removed when the vehicle is placed in Park due to a faulty shifter microswitch.
- Typically appears
- 40,000-80,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Shift into Park, switch off the engine, and attempt to remove the key. If it sticks, squeeze the gear selector trigger repeatedly to see if it releases.
BodyworkMedium
Water ingress into the cabin causing damp headliners and musty odours due to a failed high-level brake light seal.
- Typically appears
- 3-5 years
- What to inspect
- Press firmly on the rear headliner directly below the high-level brake light to check for dampness. Inspect the rear seatbelts for water staining or mould.
ExhaustHigh
DEF (AdBlue) heater or pump failure on the 2.8L Duramax, leading to a speed-limited limp mode.
- Typically appears
- 50,000-90,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Turn the ignition on and scroll through the driver information centre to check for active AdBlue warnings, 'Exhaust Fluid Quality Poor' messages, or impending speed-limit countdowns.
SteeringHigh
Sudden loss of power steering assistance caused by a failing electronic power steering (EPS) torque sensor.
- Typically appears
- 30,000-70,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Start the engine and turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock whilst stationary on the forecourt. Listen for electronic whining and watch the dash for 'Service Power Steering' warnings.
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Build my inspection planFrequently asked questions
Is the Colorado reliable?
Mostly — the 8-speed hard-shift complaint is the main concern; a fluid change often helps.
Which engine to pick?
The 3.6 V6 is strong; the 2.8 diesel is torquey but pricier to maintain.
Is the hard shift dangerous?
It's more annoying than dangerous, but confirm any transmission service history.
Does the 2.8L Duramax diesel use a timing belt or a timing chain?
The 2.8L Duramax four-cylinder diesel engine utilises a timing belt, unlike the petrol variants which are chain-driven. The manufacturer specifies a replacement interval of 150,000 miles, but UK technicians strongly advise inspecting the belt and tensioners from 100,000 miles to prevent catastrophic engine failure.
Are the rear leaf springs prone to sagging under heavy payloads?
Yes, the factory rear leaf springs on this generation are notoriously soft. If the previous owner frequently towed heavy trailers or carried maximum payloads, the rear suspension may sit noticeably lower. Inspect the bump stops for impact damage and check the leaf packs for flattening.
What should I look out for when testing the four-wheel-drive system?
The electronic transfer case can suffer from delayed engagement or actuator failure. On the forecourt, select 4WD High and 4WD Low whilst stationary in neutral. You should hear a distinct mechanical click. If the dashboard indicator flashes continuously without turning solid, the actuator requires replacement.
Sources & further reading
Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.
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