2019 Chevrolet Colorado problems: every known failure
All 6 documented failure points for this exact year — what goes wrong, when,
what it costs, and how to spot it on a test drive. Free, from Milo's research on this model.
6known failure points
146NHTSA owner complaints
0safety recalls
$4,500worst-case single repair
A genuinely capable mid-size truck let down by a fragile 8-speed transmission and GM electronics gremlins — buy the 3.6L V6 with eyes open, or hunt for the diesel and never look back.
Every documented failure, earliest first
Ordered by the mileage the problem typically appears. VERY HIGH
confidence means it's tied to a documented NHTSA recall, and 2 of these are rated Critical.
20k–70k mi● Plan$150–$400MODERATE
Ignition key stuck in accessory position / won't fully release
How to catch it: If you feel the key binding, don't force it — have the shifter interlock solenoid and ignition lock cylinder checked before it strands you in a parking lot.
Source: multi-source pattern (AI synthesis)
30k–60k mi● Watch$150–$4,500MODERATE
8-speed automatic (8L45/8L90) harsh shifting, shudder, or torque converter shudder
How to catch it: Do a full transmission fluid + filter change with Dexron HP fluid at 30k regardless of GM's 'lifetime fluid' claim — cheap insurance against the shudder complaints flooding NHTSA.
Source: multi-source pattern (AI synthesis)
40k–80k mi● Watch$0–$900MODERATE
Infotainment (MyLink) screen freezing, blanking, or randomly rebooting; loses CarPlay
How to catch it: Push every GM infotainment software update at the dealer for free before paying for a module swap — many units are fixed by firmware alone.
Source: multi-source pattern (AI synthesis)
50k–100k mi● Plan$600–$1,400HIGH
Steering rack/gear play and clunk (electric power steering complaints cluster here)
How to catch it: Address any steering clunk or looseness immediately with an alignment shop diagnosis — GM issued extended service on some EPS racks, check VIN eligibility first.
Source: owner-reported (49 NHTSA complaints)
60k–100k mi● Critical$800–$3,500MODERATE
Brake booster vacuum pump failure (cam-driven, no shear pin) — can send metal debris into the engine and cut brake assist
How to catch it: Have the vacuum pump inspected/replaced proactively around 80-90k — a failed unit doesn't just kill brake assist, it can eat a cam lobe.
Source: owner-reported (7 NHTSA complaints)
60k–120k mi● Critical$400–$900MODERATE
Fuel pump control module failure causing sudden fuel gauge drop and stall risk
How to catch it: If the fuel gauge ever jumps erratically or the check engine light pairs with a fuel warning, get the FPCM tested before it strands you.
Source: owner-reported (4 NHTSA complaints)
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First report free · then $10
Findings blend documented NHTSA recalls and complaints with patterns
synthesized from owner communities. Confidence is labeled on every item; an inference is
never presented as documented fact. Always inspect the specific vehicle and verify open
recalls by VIN before buying.