2004 Chevrolet Colorado Problems
Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component
Data refreshed
What this page shows
Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2004 Chevrolet Colorado, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.
Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.
Reports by component
Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category
- Electrical8818.7%
- Brakes7916.8%
- Body & structure6113.0%
- Suspension357.4%
- Engine306.4%
- Airbags296.2%
- Visibility265.5%
- Tires & wheels183.8%
- Exterior lighting173.6%
- Powertrain (other)173.6%
- Driver assistance163.4%
- Interior & seats163.4%
- Fuel system122.5%
- Transmission102.1%
- Other / unspecified61.3%
- Steering61.3%
- Seat belts30.6%
- Heating & air conditioning20.4%
Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.
Each component in detail
What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words
Electrical
Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.
From owner reports, verbatim
One day, after I turned my truck off, I noticed that my taillights and overhead cargo light remained on. Key was out, truck was off, but the lights stayed on. So for the time being, I disconnected the battery. I brought it to a mechanic, who ran the codes that came back that the rear driver turn signal was high, the rear passenger turn signal was high, and the overhead cargo light was high. He checked the entire truck for a short, replaced the taillights, replaced the fuse box, replaced the body control module, and numerous other attempts at a repair, with no success. I was without a vehicle for many months, since I can't afford the absurd prices of the current vehicle market and was hopeful it could be fixed. Reading through some other complaints/online threads, this seems like a fairly common problem with these vehicles. Electrical issues that affect my ability to use a turn signal are a huge safety concern and this needs to be addressed.
Ignition safety module known as pass lock security. This causes my vehicle not to start and give a code and a light on the dash for the Pass Lock security. The vehicle was fine then I went into a store came out and put the key in the ignition, the lights on the dash came on but it would not crank. This is very hazardous cause It could happen while you’re driving anytime, which could cause the vehicle to go into security mode and turn vehicle off making it very dangerous for passengers in vehicle. This is a problem with other Chevy Colorado's when I research this problem.
Brakes
Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.
From owner reports, verbatim
AFTER TAKING MY 2004 COLORADO TO A MECHANIC FOR A BRAKE REPAIR HE INFORMED ME I HAD RUST SO BAD ON THE FRAME IT CREATED HOLE AND HE RECOMMENDED I NO LONGER DRIVE MY TRUCK ALSO HE CANNOT REPAIR THE BRAKES AND THE ABS SENSOR BECAUSE OF THE RUST. I PURCHASE THE TRUCK 2 1/2 YEARS AGO FROM A CHEVY DEALER AND STILL OWE MONEY ON A VEHICLE I CAN'T DRIVE. ONLY 135428 MILES.
TRUCK HAS 25,000 MILES. I DO NOT DRIVE IT OFTEN BECAUSE FUEL ECONOMY HAS NEVER BEEN AS ADVERTISED, NO BETTER THAN 15 MPG. WHEN IT WORKED, IT WAS FUN TO DRIVE. NOW FAILS INSPECTION BECAUSE THE FRAME IS SEVERELY RUSTED, MY TRUCK IS NOW UNSAFE. NOT COST EFFECTIVE TO REPAIR, I HAVE TO SELL AS SCRAP. RADIO REPLACED ONCE. BLOWER WORKS BUT VERY NOISY. ABS SENSORS WERE REPLACED AFTER 10,000 MILES AND NEED REPLACEMENT AGAIN. I HAVE REPLACED INNER AND OUTER TIE RODS AFTER 21K MILES. I HAVE REPLACED GAS TANK GASKET AND EXTERIOR CAB BRAKE LIGHT. ALSO REPLACED TRANSMISSION SHIFTER CABLE DUE TO RUST. TUBE ON RACK AND PINION RUSTED AND REPLACED. TINY COOLANT LEAK THAT I CANT FIND. ALL I CAN REMEMBER. MOST FAULTY VEHICLE I HAVE EVER OWNED. NEVER BUY A FIRST YEAR MODEL OF ANY VEHICLE.
Body & structure
Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.
From owner reports, verbatim
Frame rust
Mechanic had the truck on the lift raised up to check the brakes for squeaking and while under the truck the mechanic inspected the frame because he noticed a lot of rust and called me to come look at it and pointed out that the frame has rotted to the point that he should not be driven and could break in half and cause major problems for the safety of the occupants and other drivers on the road. I looked up online if other Colorado owners had the same issue and others have the same problem. I’m am forced to junk this vehicle even though the rest of the truck is in very good condition
Suspension
Reports naming suspension components — springs, struts, shocks, control arms and related hardware.
From owner reports, verbatim
Mechanic had the truck on the lift raised up to check the brakes for squeaking and while under the truck the mechanic inspected the frame because he noticed a lot of rust and called me to come look at it and pointed out that the frame has rotted to the point that he should not be driven and could break in half and cause major problems for the safety of the occupants and other drivers on the road. I looked up online if other Colorado owners had the same issue and others have the same problem. I’m am forced to junk this vehicle even though the rest of the truck is in very good condition
THE FRAME OF THE TRUCK ROTTED AND IS NO LONGER DRIVEABLE WITHOUT A CHANCE OF AN ACCIDENT. THE PA INSPECTION IS ABOUT TO RUN OUT ALSO AND WILL NOT PASS INPECTION. I BOUGHT THIS TRUCK USED AND JUST PAID IT OFF AND WAS HOPING I WAS CLEAR OF ANY VEHICLE PAYMENTS. AT THIS POINT THERE IS NO WAY I WILL EVEN GET CLOSE TO WHAT I PAID FOR IT AS IT IS ONLY GOOD FOR SCRAP. I AGREE WITH ANOTHER POST I SAW ON HERE THAT SAID IF TOYOTA HAD TO RECALL THEIR VEHICLES FOR THE SAME REASON THEN WHY DOES GM NOT HAVE TO DO THE SAME THING? IT ONLY SEEMS RIGHT. I KNOW THEY HAVE HEARD OF THIS ISSUE BUT ARE JUST TRYING TO BRUSH IT UNDER THE RUG HOPING IT DOESN'T COME UP. HOPING YOU HAVE OUR BACK ON THIS WITH TRYING TO PROTECT THE CONSUMER.
Engine
Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.
From owner reports, verbatim
TRUCK HAS 25,000 MILES. I DO NOT DRIVE IT OFTEN BECAUSE FUEL ECONOMY HAS NEVER BEEN AS ADVERTISED, NO BETTER THAN 15 MPG. WHEN IT WORKED, IT WAS FUN TO DRIVE. NOW FAILS INSPECTION BECAUSE THE FRAME IS SEVERELY RUSTED, MY TRUCK IS NOW UNSAFE. NOT COST EFFECTIVE TO REPAIR, I HAVE TO SELL AS SCRAP. RADIO REPLACED ONCE. BLOWER WORKS BUT VERY NOISY. ABS SENSORS WERE REPLACED AFTER 10,000 MILES AND NEED REPLACEMENT AGAIN. I HAVE REPLACED INNER AND OUTER TIE RODS AFTER 21K MILES. I HAVE REPLACED GAS TANK GASKET AND EXTERIOR CAB BRAKE LIGHT. ALSO REPLACED TRANSMISSION SHIFTER CABLE DUE TO RUST. TUBE ON RACK AND PINION RUSTED AND REPLACED. TINY COOLANT LEAK THAT I CANT FIND. ALL I CAN REMEMBER. MOST FAULTY VEHICLE I HAVE EVER OWNED. NEVER BUY A FIRST YEAR MODEL OF ANY VEHICLE.
IDLE CONTROL VIA ELECTRONIC THROTTLE BODY RAISES RPM VERY HIGH WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL IS NOT DEPRESSED, CAUSING UNCONTROLLED ACCELERATION OF VEHICLE DURING COASTING OR WHEN BRAKE PEDAL IS APPLIED. TURNING THE VEHICLE OFF WITH THE KEY IS THE ONLY ACTION THAT HAS RESULTED IN A CESSATION OF EXTREMELY HIGH IDLE. AFTER RESTARTING THE VEHICLE, THE SYMPTOM IS GONE AND THE VEHICLE OPERATES NORMALLY. THIS BEHAVIOR IS ERRATIC AND INCONSISTENT, THE PROBLEM HAS BEEN DIFFICULT TO DUPLICATE DURING DIAGNOSIS. ALL TESTING AND INSPECTION OF THE ELECTRONIC THROTTLE BODY, WIRING HARNESS, CONNECTORS, AND FUNCTIONS WITHIN THE ENGINE COMPUTER HAS SHOWN NO DEFECT OR INDICATION THAT A WIRING FAULT, DIRTY THROTTLE BODY, OR OTHER "WEAR AND TEAR" ITEM IS THE CAUSE OF THIS INTERMITTENT REVVING AT IDLE. THE MOST RECENT EVENT OCCURRED ON AUGUST 9TH 2017. THIS HAS BEEN OCCURING FOR AT LEAST 6 MONTHS, ON AVERAGE ONCE A MONTH IN FREQUENCY.
Airbags
Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.
From owner reports, verbatim
THE AIRBAGS WERE DEACTIVATED DUE TO THE WIRES BEING DAMAGED THROUGH NORMAL USE OF THE EXTENDED CAB REAR DOOR. A NORMAL MECHANIC SHOP WOULDN'T FIX IT, BECAUSE IT WAS A SAFETY ISSUE, SO TOOK THE TRUCK TO THE CHEVROLET DEALER, WHO CONFIRMED THE PROBLEM, AND HAD TO REPLACE THE WIRING HARNESS IN THAT DOOR.
IN OCTOBER 2015, I RECEIVED A NOTICE FROM GM INDICATING A FAULT WITH THE AIRBAGS. THE LETTER INDICATED THAT THEY WOULD COVER THE REPAIRS IF THE YEARS HAD NOT EXCEEDED 10 PAST MANUFACTURE, WHICH, ON A 2004 MODEL THIS WAS ALREADY A DISQUALIFIER. THEY ALSO INDICATED NOT IN EXCESS OF 120K MILES, AGAIN A DISQUALIFIER ON MY VEHICLE WITH 150K MILES. ADDITIONALLY, WHEN I SHOWED THE LETTER TO THE LOCAL DEALER, AND THEY RAN A VEHICLE REPORT, THE RECALL WAS NOT SHOWN. FOR ALL INTENT THEN, GM IS DISREGARDING THE FAULTY AIRBAGS ON MY VEHICLE. IT IS MY UNDERSTANDING THAT WHEN THE INDICATOR IS ON, THE AIRBAGS ARE NOT FUNCTIONING. I WOULD THINK THAT AN AIRBAG ISSUE, WITH A KNOWN CAUSE BY THE MANUFACTURER, SHOULD BE A LIFETIME RECALL. I AM THE ORIGINAL OWNER OF THE TRUCK. ORIGINALLY, THIS WAS AN INTERMITTENT PROBLEM WHEN USING THE LEFT REAR DOOR, BUT IT IS NO LONGER SO. I AM SUBMITTING THIS REPORT TODAY, AS I AM CONCERNED THAT THIS LONG STANDING ISSUE WILL NEVER BE SATISFIED BY GM.
Visibility
Reports naming windshields, glass, wipers, defrosters and mirrors.
From owner reports, verbatim
THE SWITCH WHICH CONTROLS THE FAN SPEED FOR THE HEAT AND A/C QUIT WORKING. THE FAN ONLY WORKS WHEN THE IT IS SET ON HIGH. *TR
THIS INCIDENT OCCURRED TWICE. IT INVOLVES THE HEATER BLOWER MOTOR RESISTOR ASSEMBLY. 8 YEARS AGO MY DAUGHTER USED PUT HER BACK PACK ON THE PASSENGER FLOOR WHERE IT REPEATEDLY MADE IMPACTED THE CONNECTION TO THE BLOWER MOTOR RELAY ASSEMBLY. THIS EVENTUALLY CAUSED THE PIN AND SOCKET ON THE ORANGE WIRE TO SEPARATE TO THE POINT WHERE IT ARCED AND BURNT. I FOUND AND REPAIRED THE SOCKET WHEN THE HEATER WOULD ONLY WORK ON HIGH. ON THE 16TH OF DEC 2013, A PASSENGER SIZE 12 SHOES ACCIDENTALLY, AND UNWITTINGLY KICKED THE SAME SPOT AND CAUSED THE SAME FAULT. I REPAIRED THE SOCKET AGAIN. MY COMPLAINT IS THE RESISTOR CONNECTION IS IN A SPOT TO EASILY SERVICE, BUT IT IS IN A VULNERABLE SPOT FOR ACCIDENTAL CONTACT. I BELIEVE IT NEEDS A ROBUST PROTECTIVE COVER, EITHER METAL OR PLASTIC. FOR PEOPLE THAT CANNOT REPAIR THEIR OWN VEHICLES, THIS SITUATION COULD COST THEM A COUPLE OF HUNDRED DOLLARS. MY OTHER ELECTRICAL FAULT IS THE RIGHT SIDE WINDOW MOTOR. IT QUIT WORKING COUPLE OF YEARS AGO, AND I WAS ABLE TO TAKE IT APART AND CLEAN THE BRUSHES. IT WORKED FOR A COUPLE OF YEARS UNTIL IT STOPPED A COUPLE OF WEEKS AGO. I REPLACED THE MOTOR BECAUSE I COULD NOT FIND BRUSHES TO REPLACE. I AM CONVINCED THAT THE BRUSHES FAILED BECAUSE THEY WERE MADE BRITTLE FROM SLAMMING THE DOORS TOO HARD BY THE PASSENGERS. THE DOORS ARE LIGHT AND IT IS COMMON FOR THEM TO SLAMMED. THE BRUSHES OR THE MOTOR NEED TO BE MORE ROBUST. *TR
Tires & wheels
Reports naming tires, wheels, hubs, or the tire-pressure monitoring system.
From owner reports, verbatim
Tire size 245/45R20 I purchased a set a 4 Cooper Discoverer H/T Plus tires for my truck in 2022. I haven't driven a lot of miles on them due to the fact that I live on the Island of Oahu, in Honolulu, Hawaii and have a lot of thread life left. I noticed that the sidewalls on 2 of 4 tires are cracking and separating. I removed them from the vehicle due to the risk of tire blowout and injury in the event of an accident. I've emailed Cooper tires for information and warranty resolution and have yet had a reply.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CHEVROLET COLORADO EQUIPPED WITH TBC TIRES, TIRE LINE: SIGMA SHADOW, AND TIRE SIZE: P225/75R15. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL NOISE COMING FROM THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE TIRE. THE CONTACT DISCOVERED THAT THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE TIRE TREAD SEPARATED FROM THE SIDE WALL OF THE TIRE. THE TIRE WAS NOT REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE TIRE AND VEHICLE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 79,166.
Exterior lighting
Reports naming headlights, tail lights, turn signals and other exterior lighting.
From owner reports, verbatim
One day, after I turned my truck off, I noticed that my taillights and overhead cargo light remained on. Key was out, truck was off, but the lights stayed on. So for the time being, I disconnected the battery. I brought it to a mechanic, who ran the codes that came back that the rear driver turn signal was high, the rear passenger turn signal was high, and the overhead cargo light was high. He checked the entire truck for a short, replaced the taillights, replaced the fuse box, replaced the body control module, and numerous other attempts at a repair, with no success. I was without a vehicle for many months, since I can't afford the absurd prices of the current vehicle market and was hopeful it could be fixed. Reading through some other complaints/online threads, this seems like a fairly common problem with these vehicles. Electrical issues that affect my ability to use a turn signal are a huge safety concern and this needs to be addressed.
WIRES IN THE HARNESS WHICH PASS FROM CAB TO LEFT REAR DOOR BREAK. THE BREAK DISABLES THE SEAT BELT LOCK UP MECHANISM. A BROKEN WIRE CAUSES THE AIR BAG READINESS LIGHT TO ILLUMINATE. THE DOOR OPEN AND CLOSE SWITCH IS INOPERABLE. THE LEFT REAR STEREO SPEAKER DOES NOT WORK.
Powertrain (other)
Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.
From owner reports, verbatim
Ignition safety module known as pass lock security. This causes my vehicle not to start and give a code and a light on the dash for the Pass Lock security. The vehicle was fine then I went into a store came out and put the key in the ignition, the lights on the dash came on but it would not crank. This is very hazardous cause It could happen while you’re driving anytime, which could cause the vehicle to go into security mode and turn vehicle off making it very dangerous for passengers in vehicle. This is a problem with other Chevy Colorado's when I research this problem.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CHEVROLET COLORADO. WHILE THE GEAR SHIFTER WAS PLACED IN REVERSE, THE SHIFT LINKAGE FAILED AND THE SHIFT CABLE SNAPPED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO WEST CHEVROLET AT (865) 970-9378 (3450 ALCOA HWY, ALCOA, TN 37701) WHERE THE SHIFT CABLE WAS REPLACED. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION, THE DEALER NOTICED THAT THE FRAME WAS RUSTED AND CORRODED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS UNSAFE TO DRIVE AND THAT THE FRAME NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 115,440.
Driver assistance
Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.
From owner reports, verbatim
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CHEVROLET COLORADO. WHILE DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL OR ATTEMPTING TO DRIVE, THE ABS, STABILITY CONTROL, AND TRACTION CONTROL WARNING INDICATORS INTERMITTENTLY ILLUMINATED AND FLASHED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED, BUT A FAILURE CODE COULD NOT BE FOUND. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER AND DEALER WERE NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 62,000.
MY CRUISE CONTROL AND MY REAR DRIVER'S SIDE TOP TAIL LIGHT WENT OUT A WEEK OR SO AGO. TODAY, MY STOP LIGHTS STOPPED WORKING COMPLETELY, INCLUDING THE 3RD BRAKE LIGHT. I WAS ALMOST REAR ENDED AND ANOTHER DRIVER INFORMED ME THAT MY BRAKE LIGHTS DIDN'T WORK. AFTER RESEARCHING THE ISSUE, I DISCOVERED THAT THE PROBLEMS I'M EXPERIENCING ARE RELATED TO 2 SWITCHES ABOVE MY BRAKE PEDAL-THE STOP LAMP SWITCH AND THE BRAKE CRUISE RELEASE SWITCH.I CALLED THE CHEVY RECALL HOTLINE AND PROVIDED MY VIN #. THE GIRL LACY INFORMED ME THERE WASN'T A RECALL FOR MY VEHICLE AND THAT THEY WOULD DO NOTHING TO HELP ME GET THE PROBLEM RESOLVED. I'VE SEEN NUMEROUS REPORTS ONLINE OF OTHER PEOPLE WITH THE SAME ISSUE BEING DENIED AS WELL. THE REFERENCE # TO MY CALL IS [XXX]. I BELIEVE THIS TO BE AN EXTREME SAFETY HAZARD AND WOULD LIKE CHEVY TO COVER THE COST OF THE REPAIR AND ANY ACCIDENTS I MAY GET INTO AS A RESULT OF THIS PROBLEM.THANK YOU. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR*JB*JB
Interior & seats
Reports naming seats, latches, locks, linkages and interior fittings.
From owner reports, verbatim
INTERMITTENT NON WORKING POWER DOOR LOCKS WIPERS HEADLIGHTS AND WINDOWS! THERE ARE HUNDREDS OF THESE INCIDENTS POSTED ONLINE. THERE LOOKS TO BE THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS IN REPAIRS WITH NO SOLUTION! *KB
I HAVE REPLACED THE MASTER SWITCH THAT CONTROLS THE LOCKS AND WINDOWS ONCE ALREADY. GOT A NEW SWITCH AND IT STILL DOESN'T WORK. I CALLED GM AND THEY SAID THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS ON MY TRUCK FOR THAT ISSUE. I CAN ONLY LOCK AND UNLOCK THE DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR WITH THE INTERIOR PANEL OR THE REMOTE- THE REST OF THE DOORS DO NOT LOCK/UNLOCK. *KB
Fuel system
Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.
From owner reports, verbatim
There apparently was fuel dripping onto the starter and soaking the starter so when we went to start the truck. It caught on fire 🔥🔥 And my truck is a total loss
WHEN FILLING FUEL TANK, ABOUT A HALF CUP OF FUEL COMES SPEWING FROM FILLER NECK DUE TO IMPROPER VENTING. THIS IS NOT ONLY DETRIMENTAL TO OUR ECOLOGICAL SYSTEM, IT IS A FIRE HAZARD WAITING TO HAPPEN.
Transmission
Reports naming the automatic or manual transmission, including shifting behaviour, shudder, slipping and transmission control modules.
From owner reports, verbatim
2004 CHEVROLET COLORADO. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO ENGINE AND IGNITION SWITCH PROBLEMS. *SMD THE CONSUMER STATED ON APRIL 12, 2014, THE VEHICLE SHUT OFF WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH. THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS HARD TO PUSH AND THE DASHBOARD READ REDUCED POWER. AFTER WAITING THREE MINUTES, THE CONSUMER WAS ABLE TO RE-START THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE STALLED AGAIN, AFTER DRIVING TWO MILES. ACCORDING TO THE SERVICE INVOICE, THE PCM COMPUTER WAS BAD.
ODI 10150645, ODI 10150645: 3RD RECURRING PROBLEM. CUSTOMER INVOICE: DRIVERS WINDOW INOPERATIVE, SCREWS BACKED OUT OF WINDOW MOTOR CAUSING IT TO BIND R & R WINDOW MOTOR AND REINSTALLED BOLTS. NOISE GONE AFTER REPAIRS. UPON ENGAGE DRIVER'S SIDE TURN SIGNAL, FAILURE TO OPERATE VISIBLE TURN INDICATION. DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHT ALSO INOPERABLE, BULB NOT WORKING. CUSTOMER INVOICE: DRIVER SIDE DAYTIME RUN LIGHT INOPERATIVE. LF TURN SIGNAL BULB BURNT OUT. REPLACED BULB UPON ENGAGING BRAKE SYSTEM, BRAKES EXHIBIT HIGH FREQUENCY SQUEAKING, MORE ON LEFT THAN RIGHT. EXTREME TIRE WEAR IS APPARENT ON THE INSIDES OF BOTH FRONT TIRES. CUSTOMER INVOICE: BRAKES NOISY AT STOPS ALL THE TIME. UNABLE TO VERIFY CUSTOMER CONCERN AT THIS TIME. VEHICLE HAS A LOT OF MUD UNDERNEATH. ENGAGING 4WD HIGH, VEHICLE BECAME STUCK IN 4WD. CONTINUED TO DRIVE VEHICLE IN CONDITION UNTIL SERVICE DEPARTMENT OPENED FOR THE WEEK. FOUR WHEEL DRIVE BECAME OPERATIONAL INTERMITTENTLY. CUSTOMER INVOICE: AXLE/DIFFERENTIAL, VEHICLE STUCK IN FOUR WHEEL DRIVE ONCE. UNABLE TO VERIFY CUSTOMER CONCERN AT THIS TIME. NO CODES & WORKING AS DESIGNED. ENGAGING A/C & HEATING OPERATION THE AC DIMINISHES BLOWER POWER AND BEGINS BLOWING SMOKE-LIKE COOLANT FROM DASH VENTS. DASHBOARD CONDENSATES EXTENSIVELY. CONDENSATION MUST BE WIPED DRY TO DETER INTERIOR DAMAGE. AFTER RUNNING A/C AT MAXIMUM POWER FOR 20 MINUTES OR LONGER, OPERATIONAL PROBLEMS DISCONTINUE UNTIL VEHICLE IS STARTED 'COLD'. CUSTOMER INVOICE: A/C CUTS OFF AND BLOWS SMOKE OUT OF VENTS ALL THE TIME. WHILE DRIVING. UNABLE TO VERIFY CUSTOMER CONCERN. CHECKED PRESSURES. ALL OK, WORKING AS DESIGNED. *NM
Other / unspecified
Reports whose component NHTSA recorded as unknown, or that do not map to one of the categories above.
From owner reports, verbatim
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CHEVROLET COLORADO. WHILE DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL OR ATTEMPTING TO DRIVE, THE ABS, STABILITY CONTROL, AND TRACTION CONTROL WARNING INDICATORS INTERMITTENTLY ILLUMINATED AND FLASHED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED, BUT A FAILURE CODE COULD NOT BE FOUND. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER AND DEALER WERE NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 62,000.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CHEVROLET COLORADO. WHILE DRIVING, THE CONTACT HEARD AN ABNORMAL NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL WAS TILTED. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE FRAME WAS RUSTED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 204,000.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Steering
Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.
From owner reports, verbatim
WHEN YOU SLOW TO ABOUT 20 MILES ANHOUR AND START TO TURN ON A STREET IT LOCKS UP SOME TIMES. HAVE TO REV IT UP AND JERK ON THE WHEEL TO FREE IT UP. DOES IT WORSE IN COLD WHETHER. WHEN I SLOW DOWN TO TURN A CORNER ON A STREET THE STEERING LOCKS UP...I HAVE TO REV IT UP AND JERK ON THE WHEEL THEN IT LOOSENS UP. DOES IT WORSE IN COLD WHETHER. *TR
THE IGNITION WILL NOT START AT FIRST. IT TAKES MULTIPLE TIMES IN ORDER TO GET THE ENGINE TO TURN OVER. ONCE THE IGNITION DOES CAUSE THE ENGINE TO TURN OVER, THE VEHICLE WILL SUDDENLY LOSE POWER WHILE DRIVING AS THE VEHICLE SHUTS ITSELF OFF (AS IF THE IGNITION HAS BEEN TURNED OFF ALTHOUGH IT HAS NOT BEEN). THIS HAS HAPPENED ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS IN THE COURSE OF NORMAL DRIVING ACTIVITIES, SEVERAL TIMES WHILE CROSSING BUSY INTERSECTIONS WHICH LUCKILY HAS NOT RESULTED IN ANY CRASHES TO DATE, BUT MAY VERY WELL RESULT IN A POTENTIALLY FATAL ONE SHOULD IT CONTINUE TO OCCUR. ENGINE HAS BEEN TESTED AND ALL SYSTEMS CHECK OUT, EXCEPT FOR THE IGNITION SWITCH WHICH -WILL- HAVE TO BE REPLACED. *TR
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Seat belts
Reports naming seat belts, buckles, retractors and pretensioners.
From owner reports, verbatim
WIRES IN THE HARNESS WHICH PASS FROM CAB TO LEFT REAR DOOR BREAK. THE BREAK DISABLES THE SEAT BELT LOCK UP MECHANISM. A BROKEN WIRE CAUSES THE AIR BAG READINESS LIGHT TO ILLUMINATE. THE DOOR OPEN AND CLOSE SWITCH IS INOPERABLE. THE LEFT REAR STEREO SPEAKER DOES NOT WORK.
DT: THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CHEVROLET COLORADO EXTENDED CAB. THE CHILD SAFETY SEAT WILL NOT FIT INTO REAR EXTENDED CAB FOLD DOWN PORTION SEAT. THE DEALER TALKED TO GM, AND GM DID NOT AGREE THAT THIS WAS A PROBLEM. GM CAME AND TOOK PICTURES OF THE SEAT INSIDE THE CAR, AND SAID IT DID COMPLY. THE CONSUMER HAD THE SEAT INSPECTED BY THREE CAR SAFETY SEAT INSPECTORS ,AND THEY TOLD HIM THAT IT DID NOT PASS , AND IT WAS NOT SAFE FOR THE CHILD. THE INFANT SEAT WILL FIT, BUT A LARGER SEAT WILL NOT. FOR A BIGGER SEAT TO EVEN COME CLOSE TO FITTING IN THE BACK SEAT, THE SEAT WOULD HAVE TO BE PUSHED UP SO MUCH THAT IT WOULD ENDANGER THE PERSON SITTING IN THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT BECAUSE THEY WOULD BE SO CLOSE TO THE AIR BAG. THERE WAS NO CUT OFF SWITCH FOR THE AIR BAG IN THIS CAR. *AK
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Heating & air conditioning
Reports naming the heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system.
From owner reports, verbatim
AC SPEED REGULATOR OF MY 2004 CREW-CAB COLORADO OVERHEATED SO MUCH THAT THE ADAPTER BURNT IN THE INSIDE AND CABLES OVERHEATED TO THE POINT THAT IT COULDN'T BE TOUCHED. THIS IS LOCATED UNDERNEATH THE GLOVEBOX COMPARTMEN. IF THIS IS LEFT UNATTENDED COULD CAUSE A FIRE INSIDE THE VEHICLE. *TR
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
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.
Elsewhere on this vehicle
Data sources
- NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation — owner-reported complaints and the components recorded on them
Data on this page last refreshed .