This engineering informational bulletin is requesting information from technicians to perform the check list provided and contact the engineer listed in regards having the Check Engine Lamp illuminated on Driver Information Center (DIC).
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2024 Chevrolet Colorado electrical problems
severe 26 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $850 · see electrical across all vehicles →
Complaints
26
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$850
1crash
1fire
1injury
When does it fail?
Of the 26 electrical complaints filed for the 2024 Chevrolet Colorado, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 0-25,000 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
Owners have filed 26 electrical complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
Electrical accounts for 23% of all owner complaints filed against this vehicle, across 8 categories tracked.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering electrical 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 service bulletin provides repair information to correct a customer concern of Check Engine Lamp Illuminated with HVAC Related DTC.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This technical bulletin provides a procedure to correct the condition of Steering Column Rattle and Turn Signal Over Cancels.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This bulletin advises the tech to replace the starter and not the trans if grinding or growling is heard from the transmission area.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This service bulletin provides repair information to correct a customer concern of Forward Collision Alert Unavailable DIC Message with U3000 SYM44 in the Front Camera Module.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
The 24 complaints show a vehicle plagued by electrical and software gremlins. Instrument clusters go black without warning, leaving drivers unable to see speed, fuel level, or temperature—some owners report 12 blackouts in 30 miles, others experience complete failures lasting 30 minutes. Dealers have replaced clusters twice in some cases with no resolution.
Brake systems are unreliable: ABS activates over normal potholes on uneven streets and cuts braking power at the worst moments. One owner's brakes failed completely at 193 miles with spongy pedal feel. Another vehicle experienced a catastrophic cascade starting with phantom software updates, low tire pressure warnings, and random brake application, culminating in an engine fire and smoke inhalation at 6,900 miles.
Safety features are broken or dangerous. Right turn signals activate left turn signals 60% of the time; one teenage driver crashed trying to turn off the spurious left signal. Automatic emergency braking engages with nothing in front—three separate incidents on busy roads nearly caused accidents. The 360 camera activates during normal driving and locks the screen on, preventing headlight control. Blind spot sensors and pedestrian detection fail intermittently.
Software updates can drain the battery dead, stranding vehicles. Dealers admit GM has no fix for many of these issues. One owner's infotainment system went haywire—the radio turned on and wouldn't turn off. Voice activation requires a $45/month OnStar subscription.
Same Chevrolet Colorado electrical reports on nearby years: 2023
Failure modes owners describe
Unexpected ABS Activation and Braking Intervention
ABS engages inappropriately on uneven pavement despite available traction, reducing brake pressure and extending stopping distance. Reported at low-to-moderate speeds over potholes and bumps in normal driving.
When: 14,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: ABS warning indicator flashes briefly; Brake pressure reduces unexpectedly; Noticeable delay before normal braking resumes; Increased stopping distance; Occurs multiple times on city streets over uneven pavement
Codes mentioned: ABS warning indicator
Instrument Cluster and Radio System Blackouts
Gauge cluster and radio display go completely black, eliminating access to speedometer, fuel gauge, oil and temperature information. Occurs intermittently for 15 seconds to 30 minutes. Multiple dealership service attempts and software updates have not resolved the issue. Manufacturer admits knowledge of the defect but reports no available fix.
When: Early in vehicle ownership; repeated occurrence despite multiple service visits
Symptoms owners cite: Gauge cluster screen goes black with no speedometer or gauges visible; Radio display goes black; Five red automatic emergency braking LEDs illuminate and stay on; Radio functions malfunction (unable to turn off or adjust volume); Complete loss of critical vehicle information display; No warning lights remain on after events
Repairs/costs cited: Software updates attempted; no permanent fix available
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM has admitted knowledge of the defect but reports no software fix available as of September 2025
Battery Drain During Over-the-Air Software Updates
Vehicle battery drains completely during OTA software updates when system freezes mid-update. Battery voltage measured at 4.4 volts (potentially destructive to 12-volt battery). Issue leaves vehicle stranded and unrecoverable without external power.
When: During initial ownership period
Symptoms owners cite: Computer system freezes during OTA update; Software continues attempting to update despite freeze; Complete battery drain; Battery voltage drops to 4.4 volts
Repairs/costs cited: Required tow truck recovery and boost; dealership service did not resolve underlying issue
Cascading Electrical and Brake System Failures with Fire
Multiple sequential system failures beginning with software update warning, progressing through low tire pressure alarm, antilock brake warnings, random brake application with smoking, ESC shutdown causing loss of power steering and brakes, engine shutdown, and fire. Occurred at 6,900 miles on new truck.
When: 6,900 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Software update warning message; Low tire pressure alarm (3 times in short distance); Antilock brake warning with 62 MPH speed restriction; Random brake application and release; Smoke from air vents; ESC shutdown message; Loss of power steering; Loss of brakes; Engine shutdown; Fire under hood spreading to interior cab; Respiratory distress from smoke exposure
Codes mentioned: Antilock brake issue warning, ESV Shutting down warning, Software Update Needed message
Sudden Acceleration Reduction and Traction Control Loss
Vehicle suddenly decelerates on its own while traveling at highway speed in traffic. Dashboard warnings for reduced acceleration and traction control service appear. Vehicle feels like it is in high gear despite reduced speed, creating hazard with following traffic.
When: <UNKNOWN>
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden unexpected deceleration at 60 MPH; Reduced Acceleration warning on dashboard; Service Traction Control warning; Sensation of high gear despite reduced speed; Vehicle requires reset that does not complete
Codes mentioned: Reduced Acceleration warning, Service Traction Control warning
Turn Signal Cross-Activation (Right Turn Activates Left Signal)
When right turn signal is used and returns to center, left turn signal illuminates for 3-4 blinks or approximately 60% of the time. Occurs consistently while vehicle is in motion. Dealership initially claimed this is design intent after finding two other vehicles with same behavior. Causes driver distraction and confusion to oncoming traffic.
When: From new vehicle; less than 90 miles in one case
Symptoms owners cite: Right turn signal auto-cancel activates left turn signal; Left blinker illuminates for 3-4 blinks after right turn; Occurs approximately 60% of the time; Only occurs while vehicle is in motion; Caused teenage driver distraction leading to collision at less than 90 miles; Check Engine light also illuminated in one case
Codes mentioned: Check Engine light (related case)
Repairs/costs cited: Dealership identified defective blinker switches in new Colorados and replaced them
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealership indicated blinker switches in new Colorados have been malfunctioning and are being replaced due to defect
Cruise Control Intermittent Failure and Power Loss
Cruise control becomes intermittently inoperable, causing vehicle to lose automotive power. Occurs at highway speeds. Multiple dealer visits have not determined root cause.
When: Approximately 1,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Cruise control intermittently inoperable; Vehicle loses automotive power; Failures occur on several occasions; Occurs at 75 MPH
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer referred contact to NHTSA; no diagnosis completed
Blind Spot Mirror Sensor Intermittent Failure
Blind spot mirror sensor warning light intermittently fails to illuminate when vehicles are passing in blind spot area. Safety feature becomes unreliable.
When: Approximately 1,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Blind Spot mirror sensor warning light intermittently fails to illuminate; Failure to warn of vehicles in blind spot
Pedestrian Detection System Intermittent False Alerts
Pedestrian detection warning light intermittently illuminates without pedestrians present or warranted reason. Occurs on several occasions at unknown speeds and conditions.
When: Approximately 1,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Pedestrian detection warning light intermittently illuminates
Voice Activation Button Failure and OnStar Paywall
Voice activation button on steering wheel failed approximately one month after purchase. Button requires OnStar paid subscription ($45/month) to function, creating safety and accessibility barrier. Voice control is critical for hands-free operation mandated by California law.
When: One month after purchase
Symptoms owners cite: Voice activation button failed; Infotainment screen message stated 'click here to purchase subscription'; Manual cell phone linking still requires holding phone to start or end calls (illegal in California)
Repairs/costs cited: Cell phone manual linking available but requires holding phone
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: OnStar requires $45/month subscription to re-enable voice activation functionality
360 Rearview Camera Unintended Activation
360 rearview camera activates and remains engaged while vehicle is not in reverse. Camera engages during normal driving and stays on for extended periods, preventing other infotainment functions like headlight control. Dealer diagnosed camera failure but manufacturer has no available fix.
When: Approximately 20 miles
Symptoms owners cite: 360 rearview camera activates while vehicle is not in reverse; Camera remains engaged for extended period; Prevents activation of headlights through infotainment system
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer has no fix for the failure; vehicle was not repaired
Infotainment and Instrument Cluster Unexpected Reboots
Infotainment system and instrument cluster reboot unexpectedly during driving. During reboot, speedometer, fuel gauge, and warning lights are unavailable for at least 30 seconds, occurring multiple times at highway speeds. No permanent fix or recall issued.
When: Multiple occurrences during ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Infotainment system reboots unexpectedly; Instrument cluster reboots unexpectedly; Speedometer unavailable during reboot; Fuel gauge unavailable during reboot; Warning lights unavailable for 30+ seconds; Occurs multiple times at highway speeds; Restarting vehicle sometimes restores functionality but issue recurs
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No permanent fix or recall issued as of complaint date
Instrument Cluster Failure After Battery Reconnection
After following manufacturer's recommendation to disconnect battery while towing with RV, instrument panel went completely blank upon reconnection and restart. Dealer diagnosed radio module failure and replaced it, but failure reoccurred. Case opened with manufacturer.
When: 2,500 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Instrument panel blank after battery reconnection; Fails to display pertinent vehicle information
Repairs/costs cited: Radio module replaced; failure reoccurred after repair
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer case opened for recurring failure
Brake System Failure (EBC and Master Cylinder)
Brake pedal became spongy with severely diminished braking force at 193 miles. Required excessive pedal pressure to stop vehicle at idle. EBC and master cylinder were diagnosed as failed. Warning light illuminated simultaneously with brake failure.
When: 193 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Brake pedal becomes spongy; Severely diminished braking force; Requires forced pedal to floor to stop at idle; Issue persists after engine restart; Warning light on dash illuminates
Codes mentioned: Brake warning light
Repairs/costs cited: EBC and master cylinder diagnosed as failed
Instrument Cluster Chronic Blackouts
Instrument cluster goes dark frequently with no speedometer or gauges illuminated. Darkness may last from brief periods to extended times. Occasional physical contact (smacking) may restore display. Cluster replaced twice by dealer; problem continues. Harness connector code appeared once then was cleared. Problem persists; dealer now ignoring the issue.
When: Frequent throughout ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Instrument cluster goes dark frequently; No speedometer illuminated; No gauges illuminated; Dark periods vary from short to extended durations; Physical contact sometimes brings display back; Went dark 12 times in 30 miles in one instance; Occurrence at night without instrumentation
Codes mentioned: Harness connector problem code (appeared once, then cleared)
Repairs/costs cited: Cluster changed 2 times by dealer; problem continues
Instrument Cluster Black Screen Display Failure
Instrument cluster displays black screen and fails to function at highway speed. Failure not duplicated by dealer during multiple visits. Vehicle not diagnosed or repaired.
When: Approximately 4,500 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Instrument cluster displays black screen; Cluster fails to function as intended
Repairs/costs cited: Vehicle not diagnosed or repaired; failure not duplicated by dealer
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer made aware but provided no assistance
Automatic Emergency Braking False Activation
Automatic emergency braking engages multiple times without any object in front of vehicle to trigger activation. Each occurrence on busy roads where following traffic nearly causes accident. System provides no visual confirmation of obstacle triggering braking event.
When: 3 separate occasions during ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Automatic emergency braking engages with nothing in front; Occurs on busy sections of road; Nearly causes accidents with following traffic; Three separate occasions reported
Camera System Activation Lag
Front and 360 cameras have occasional lag in activation. When maneuvering in close quarters, cameras may require multiple button pushes and up to 4 seconds delay before activating.
When: <UNKNOWN>
Symptoms owners cite: Occasional lag in camera systems turning on; Front and 360 cameras require multiple button presses to activate; Up to 4 seconds delay in camera activation
Backup Camera View Failure
Backup camera view does not appear on dash screen. All camera views also unavailable. No warning or indicator provided. System was working on previous drive but failed on next vehicle startup.
When: <UNKNOWN>
Symptoms owners cite: Backup camera view does not appear; All camera views unavailable; No warnings or indicators; Failed on startup after successful prior operation
Multiple Warning Light Cascade
Upon startup, multiple warning lights and service messages illuminate simultaneously: Brake System Failure, Service ESC, Service Trailer Brake System, Traction Control, Forward Collision, ABS, Check Engine Light, and Parking Brake Warning light flashing. Auto Start feature also malfunctions, working less than 10% of the time.
When: <UNKNOWN>
Symptoms owners cite: Brake System Failure warning; Service ESC warning; Service Trailer Brake System warning; Traction Control warning; Forward Collision warning; ABS warning; Check Engine Light illuminated; Parking Brake Warning light flashing; Auto Start feature works less than 10% of the time
Codes mentioned: Brake System Failure, ESC Service, Trailer Brake System Service, Traction Control, Forward Collision, ABS, Check Engine
Synthesized from 26 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 4 most recent
Starting on [XXX] while driving the truck, the gauge cluster and radio went completely out (black screen) and the five red automatic emergency braking LED's illuminated and stayed on for up to 5 minutes. This happened about 8 times on my commute home. This happed again on [XXX] after the dealership did a software update to resolve the issue. The truck was serviced again on 09/11/2025 and I was…
Vehicle: 2023 Chevrolet Colorado Trail Boss Mileage: Approximately 14,000 miles I am submitting this complaint because the ABS braking system on my vehicle activates unexpectedly and causes a temporary loss of braking when driving over uneven pavement. When braking over potholes, bumps, or rough road surfaces at low to moderate speeds, the ABS system engages even though traction is available.…
While driving my 2024 Chevrolet Colorado, both the infotainment system and the instrument cluster reboot unexpectedly. During these reboots, the speedometer, fuel gauge, and warning lights are unavailable for at least 30 seconds. This has occurred multiple times at highway speeds, creating a serious safety concern because I cannot see my speed or critical vehicle information while the system…
The contact owns a 2024 Chevrolet Colorado. The contact stated while driving 75 MPH, the cruise control feature was intermittently inoperable causing the vehicle to lose automotive power. The Blind Spot mirror sensor warning light intermittently failed to illuminate when another vehicle was passing by the vehicle. The turn signal lights intermittently activated the opposite turn signal light…
Had electrical trouble with your 2024 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 electrical problem on the 2024 Chevrolet Colorado?
It's a meaningful issue. 26 complaints have been filed and the failure mode causes operational problems for owners. Repairs average $850.
At what mileage does the electrical typically fail?
Based on the 26 complaints filed, electrical issues most often appear around 4,100 miles. Some report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 with no symptoms. Maintenance habits matter — vehicles that received timely fluid services and were not regularly overworked tend to last longer.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $850 for electrical 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 electrical?
No active recalls currently cover electrical 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/2024/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.