This preliminary informational (PI) bulletin provides information to dealership personnel that may be helpful when addressing underbody component corrosion with customers.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2017 Chevrolet Colorado powertrain problems
moderate 99 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $2,500 · see powertrain across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
99
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
1crash
When does it fail?
Of the 99 powertrain complaints filed for the 2017 Chevrolet Colorado, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 25,000-50,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Of the 14 model years of Chevrolet Colorado we track for powertrain problems, this one carries the most owner complaints on file — 99.
Powertrain accounts for 47% of every owner complaint on file for this vehicle — the dominant problem area across 8 categories tracked.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering powertrain on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
This Preliminary information communicates Diagnostic aids for a no start or DTC'S following a transmission replacement
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This Preliminary information communicates Diagnostic aids for a no start or DTC'S following a transmission replacement
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This service bulletin provides information on Transmission Adaptive Functions and Correcting Low Mileage Harsh Shifts, Slips, or Flares.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that may have a delayed engagement into drive, shudder at a launch, or the transmission is slipping when shifting into 1st, 2nd, 3rd or 4th gears. This may be due to loose stator support to pump cover bolts causing a leak at the stator support to pump cover gasket. Technician will check for the bolts to be loose. If any of the bolts are loose or the gasket is misaligned or leaking, the transmission pump cover must be replaced and the 1234 clutch plates should be inspected for being distressed and repaired as needed.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
Owners report a cluster of issues concentrated in the transmission and driveline. The most frequent complaint is transmission shudder or vibration, typically at highway speeds (50–80 mph) or during light acceleration, often described as driving over rumble strips. Many note this began early—sometimes under 1,000 miles—and dealers have attempted fixes via transmission fluid changes, torque converter replacement, or both, with mixed results. Some shudder recurs months or years later.
Hard shifting and lurching are also common, particularly when downshifting to first gear or coming to a stop; owners report the truck lunges unexpectedly, creating collision risk in parking lots and near pedestrians. A few owners experienced sudden power loss or forced downshift to limp mode on highways, with no warning lights. One owner's truck "shut off" due to an exposed wiring harness rubbing the firewall.
Differential noise (whining, grinding, growling) was reported, with at least one owner citing a GM-Techlink bulletin mentioning a machining issue on the carrier bearing bore for 2017–2019 models. An oil coolant line ruptured twice in under two years on another vehicle. One owner found transmission bolts missing.
Owners also report confusion over the transfer case 4WD indicator—a small LED partially hidden by the steering wheel, with no dash indicator light—leading to accidental engagement and difficulty knowing which mode the vehicle is in while driving.
Cold-weather electrical failures affecting cruise control, traction control, 4WD, and the radio are mentioned. One contact experienced spontaneous brake failure (pedal to floor) coinciding with acceleration and unusual noise.
Same Chevrolet Colorado powertrain reports on nearby years: 2015 · 2016 · 2018 · 2019 · 2020
Failure modes owners describe
Transmission torque converter shudder
Transmission shudders or vibrates under light throttle acceleration, typically at highway speeds (50–80 mph), described as feeling like driving over rumble strips. Occurs intermittently or persistently and can recur after repair.
When: Often early (under 1,000–20,000 miles), recurring at higher mileage (50,000–79,000+)
Symptoms owners cite: Shudder or vibration at constant highway speed; Shudder on light throttle acceleration; Tachometer fluctuation; Loss of power during shudder; Increased frequency over time
Codes mentioned: P0700 (transmission control system malfunction), P0711 (transmission fluid temperature performance)
Repairs/costs cited: Dealers performed transmission fluid changes/flushes (including multiple flushes with synthetic LV ATF HP), torque converter replacement. Repairs often temporary; shudder returns after months or thousands of miles. One owner faced $5,900 transmission replacement quote at 79,000 miles with minimal warranty coverage.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM issued Technical Service Bulletins (TSB 18-NA-355, 19-NA-018, 4942742 PIE0405C) acknowledging torque converter shudder. GM offered extended warranty (3 to 4 years on some cases). Dealers often cite 'no fix available yet' or claim shudder is a vehicle characteristic. One owner was told shudder is not covered by warranty and charged $500–$80.
Transmission hard shifting and lunging
Transmission shifts harshly or unexpectedly, particularly when downshifting to first gear or coming to a stop. Vehicle lurches forward suddenly, creating collision risk.
When: Varies; reported at low mileage and throughout ownership (some at 18,466 miles, others continuing to high mileage)
Symptoms owners cite: Hard, violent downshift to first gear when stopping; Vehicle lurches forward unexpectedly; Jerking or slamming sensation resembling rear-end collision or U-joint failure; Hard shifts during acceleration; Missed or delayed shifts
Repairs/costs cited: Torque converter replacement, transmission fluid changes, transmission reprogramming attempted. One dealer stated they know the vehicle lunges but there is 'no fix for it.' Another owner was advised to run in 'tow mode' to reduce severity.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: TSB 18-NA-177 may address some shift issues. One dealer provided TSB on transmission failures in cold weather (30°F or lower) and advised this is a 'characteristic of the vehicle.' No recalls issued; limited warranty coverage.
Transmission slipping and power loss
Transmission loses power or slips under acceleration, forcing vehicle to limp mode or causing sudden downshift. One owner reported transmission slipped while turning, then uncontrolled engine rev when transmission re-engaged.
When: Various mileages; one at 30,000 miles, another at highway speed (65+ mph), recurring incidents
Symptoms owners cite: Transmission slips during acceleration or turning; Sudden uncontrolled engine revving after slip; Forced downshift to 10 mph on highway; Vehicle unable to accelerate above 10 mph; Loss of power while passing
Codes mentioned: U0401 (invalid data from ECM), B1325 (control module power circuit low voltage), P200C (diesel particulate filter high temperature)
Repairs/costs cited: One owner noted transmission 'slipped as going around a corner' causing sudden stop; occurred 3 times since purchase. Another owner's truck 'blew up' (dealership term) at 75 mph highway speed after torque converter replacement and fluid flush; remained unresolved.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No specific response documented; owner noted GM inventory of 6L50 transmissions is 'on lockdown.' Dealers unable to diagnose; one stated 'no codes, no lights' despite repeated dealer visits.
Differential noise and machining defect
Rear differential produces whining, growling, or grinding noise. Owner cited GM-Techlink bulletin identifying a machining issue on the carrier bearing bore surface in 2017–2019 Colorado and GMC Canyon models.
When: Reported in early ownership; one owner purchased vehicle March 2021 with noise development over time
Symptoms owners cite: Whining noise from rear end; Grinding noise from rear; Growling sound in cab
Repairs/costs cited: Differential removal and repair required. One owner was offered 25% cost coverage by both dealer and GM. Parts and labor costs not specified beyond negotiated coverage.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM-Techlink bulletin indicates GM is aware of the issue affecting 2017–2019 Colorado and Canyon models due to machining defect on carrier bearing bore. GM offered only 25% cost coverage; owner disputed adequacy given it is a 'GM problem.' No recall issued.
Oil coolant line rupture
Engine oil-coolant line ruptures suddenly while driving, causing immediate shutdown warnings and vehicle immobilization. Occurred twice on same vehicle in two years.
When: First failure under warranty (vehicle had ~41,000 miles); second failure 8 months post-warranty (~50,000 miles total)
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden rupture while driving; Alarms triggered to shut off engine; No warning lights or symptoms before failure; Vehicle stranded on road
Repairs/costs cited: First repair covered under warranty by dealer. Second repair (8 months past warranty, within mileage limit) cost $1,200. Owner states this is a known, common issue with GM.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No response or warning issued by GM despite owner noting this is a known, common problem. No recall or TSB documented by owner.
Missing transmission bolts
Two transmission bolts found missing on a 2017 Colorado with only 30,650 miles and light use (50–100 miles per week over 4 years).
When: Discovered during routine service at 30,650 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Loud creaking noises on driver's side; Noise pronounced when cornering and going over bumps
Repairs/costs cited: Bolts replaced by dealer (Ferman Chevrolet, Tampa, FL). Owner uncertain if this was a manufacturing defect or assembly issue.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Owner found a possible related recall (N202313440) for certain FWD GM models with missing transmission bolts, but unclear if it applies to 2017 Colorado. No specific response from GM documented.
Inadequate 4WD shift indication
Transfer case lacks a prominent dash indicator light showing 4WD engagement. Only a small LED on the shift knob (partially hidden by steering wheel) provides indication. Owners can inadvertently engage 4WD and not realize it, or accidentally shift it with their knee.
When: Design issue present from manufacture; incidents reported at various mileages
Symptoms owners cite: No obvious dash indicator of 4WD status; Small LED on knob difficult to see, especially in daylight; Knob location (left of steering wheel, below line of sight) requires eyes off road to verify status; Accidental engagement possible due to knee strike; Awareness requires taking eyes off road while driving
Repairs/costs cited: No repair available; design flaw. Owner noted one incident where truck was left in 4WD on pavement after beach trip, nearly causing accident when checking knob position. Another owner nearly hit intersection traffic checking 4WD status in dark.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No response documented. Owner noted GM offers 4WD information screen on some models (off-road 4WD info on DIC) but did not include it on Colorado. Owner requested mandatory dash indicator or knob relocation.
Cold weather electrical failures
Multiple electrical system failures occur in cold weather (below freezing), affecting cruise control, traction control, 4WD, engine light, oil light, radio, and dash dimming.
When: Reported in cold weather spell; vehicle had ~6 months ownership at time of first failures; recurred over several months
Symptoms owners cite: Loss of cruise control; Loss of traction control; Loss of 4WD function; Engine light illumination; Oil light illumination; Radio stops working; Dash lights not dimming correctly; Dash lights going completely dark, then suddenly very bright
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer initially dismissed as 'normal in cold weather' or attributed to washing vehicle previous day. After repeated visits and video evidence, dealer replaced radio in October 2018 (bulletin identified radio as root cause). Owner reported 10+ occurrences over several months.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealer cited TSB for radio indicating it was the root cause of all symptoms. No broader electrical system issue addressed or acknowledged.
Wiring harness rubbing firewall
Wiring harness behind engine rubs on firewall, causing insulation damage and short circuits. Results in complete engine shutdown with no warning.
When: Occurred at unknown mileage; vehicle had 2017 Colorado model year
Symptoms owners cite: Engine shuts off suddenly with no warning light; No restart possible immediately; Vehicle immobilized on roadway
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer identified wiring harness rubbing firewall and causing exposed wires/shorts. Owner stated that replacement harness would encounter same problem due to location. Repair conducted but not detailed.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No response documented. Owner attempted to escalate as safety recall issue; Chevy customer support showed no interest in fixing issue past warranty expiration.
Transmission fluid contamination and inadequate fill fluid
Transmission fluid was either incorrect type from factory or became contaminated with shavings. Factory fluid was also inappropriate and caused torque converter clutch slippage and shudder.
When: Recognized via service bulletins (TSB 18-NA-355); issues at various mileages
Symptoms owners cite: Shudder from torque converter; Transmission shavings found in fluid; Vibration at front when accelerating
Repairs/costs cited: Dealers performed transmission fluid flushes (some dealers flushed 3 times with synthetic LV ATF HP). One owner charged $500 initially then $80; another dealer refused to extend warranty for remaining cost. At 58,000 miles, one owner was told owner's manual recommends flush at 72,000 miles.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM issued TSB 18-NA-355 acknowledging transmission fluid failure issue. GM stated the issue 'would not harm the truck' but consumer disagreed, noting it causes TCC slip and eventual clutch ruin. One dealer told owner issue 'is not covered by warranty.'
Transmission limp mode activation without warning
Vehicle enters limp mode (forced 10 mph limit) suddenly on highway with no prior warning, making driving dangerous in traffic. Multiple occurrences on same vehicle.
When: Occurred at ~41,000 miles; happened twice on same trip at highway speeds
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden drop to 10 mph, no warning or grace period; Check engine, StabiliTrak, and traction control lights illuminate; Cannot override limp mode even with accelerator floored; Engine remains operational (brakes not affected)
Codes mentioned: U0401 (invalid data from ECM), B1325 (control module power circuit low voltage), P200C (DPF high temperature)
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer ordered new ECM as second-phase troubleshooting; first phase was ECM reprogramming. Issue remains unresolved.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealer noted ECM cannot disable limp mode per GM requirements; limp mode can only be disabled for emergency vehicles. Owner stated dealership was sympathetic but limited by GM constraints.
Axle seal leak
Front right axle seal leaks oil shortly after purchase.
When: Discovered within one month of purchase (bought August 24, 2017; leak discovered September 14, 2017)
Symptoms owners cite: Fresh oil spots on garage floor; Oil leaking from front right axle
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer replaced axle seal.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No response documented.
Transmission cooling line or bearing-related noise
Transmission makes rubbing or grinding noise; dealer replaced transmission fluid with different/correct fluid type after initially installing wrong fluid at manufacture.
When: Manifested during use; detected at routine maintenance
Symptoms owners cite: Sound as if something rubbing inside transmission; Noise occurs on acceleration
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer replaced transmission fluid with correct type fluid. Owner uncomfortable with fluid-only fix; worried about underlying transmission damage.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Service advisor explained original transmission fluid was wrong type for the vehicle.
Synthesized from 99 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 9 most recent
Transmission is slipping, vibrating, jerking. Bought the truck used. It started on 12/28/2023. There is no open recall or anything.
Twice now my 2017 w/~41000 miles has gone into instant, no warning or grace period, but an instant drop to a forced 10 MPH in the middle of traffic, this last time on a highway with no shoulders during rush hour. The three codes thrown the first time (I don't have the codes from the second time but the dealer is ordering a new ECM based on the u0401 code): rc (radio controls): b1325 -…
After about 600-700 miles on new vehicle, after truck sits overnight when first started you could feel what seems to be the the torque converter was engaging as it the transmission had lost pressure. Then while driving anywhere between 40-65mph converter seem to be unlocking and locking which cause a very bad shutter as if you were driving over bricks, and then when coming to a stop the…
The problem with my Chevrolet colorado 2017 truck started with when the new truck barley had under 200 miles on its odometer. The issue is the truck starts to vibrated at a speed of 50-55 MPH like if you are going thru speed bumps and the noise stops when you go over 60 miles per hour. I have done a simple 20 minute reserch and have found out that there are other individuals that have had the…
At 21000 miles felt like driving over rumble strips and tach would move in cruise. Dealer flushed trans. 4 months later at 29000 miles same problem but now shifting hard noticed during acceleration and deceleration. Changed out converter and flush. Now 3 months later and only 2500 miles later it has started all over again. So back to the dealer I will go. Am starting to regret buying a Chevy…
Transmission is stuttering randomly every minute or so, it vibrates the car and feels like I'm running over rumble strips.
2017 colorado, 19632 miles, hard up/down shifts to first gear and shudders while driving, found bulletin 18na355, dealer huffines Chevrolet plano tx replaced transmission fluid per bulletin and resolved shuddering issue but not hard shifting in and out of first gear and dealership will not return calls to resolve problem.
My car was shuddering (almost like the wheels didn't have enough power) and it felt like I was going over a rumble strip. After some research I found out that Chevrolet knew of this problem and acknowledged it in a service bulletin in 2018. The problem was that the transmission oil Chevrolet had used was failing and needed to be replaced. The oil Chevy had in there was causing the Torque…
Transmission shutters when going at a constant speed. This started around 10k miles and the dealership has tried to fix it three times without success. First two times they replaced the torque converter and third time they replaced the transmissions fluid. The truck also shifts very hard from first gear to second gear with a huge jerking motion around 10 MPH. This is very dangerous when…
Had powertrain trouble with your 2017 Chevrolet Colorado?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the powertrain problem on the 2017 Chevrolet Colorado?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 99 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $2,500 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the powertrain typically fail?
Across the 64 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most powertrain failures cluster between 12,000 and 40,000 miles, with the median around 21,837. A quarter of owners report trouble before 12,000; a quarter make it past 40,000. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $2,500 for powertrain repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to powertrain?
No active recalls currently cover powertrain issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2017/Chevrolet/Colorado.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.