2004 Chevrolet Colorado

The 2004 Chevrolet Colorado marked the beginning of a new generation of mid-size trucks for Chevrolet, replacing the long-running S-10. It was available in multiple cab configurations (regular, extended, and crew cab) and with two engine options: a 2.8L inline-4 engine producing 175 hp and 185 lb-ft of torque and a 3.5L inline-5 engine producing 220 hp and 225 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were available with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praised the Colorado for its maneuverability, fuel economy (relative to larger trucks), and car-like ride. However, common complaints included issues with the interior plastics, some reliability concerns, and the somewhat underpowered base engine, depending on usage.

Engine

2.8L Inline-4 Engine

• Cylinder Head Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking externally from the cylinder head. Overheating. Low coolant level. White smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replacement of the cylinder head.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rough Idle/Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine idles roughly, especially when cold. Check engine light illuminates with misfire codes.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and replacing faulty ignition coils, spark plugs, or fuel injectors. Cleaning the throttle body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L Inline-5 Engine

• Oil Pressure Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil pressure gauge reads incorrectly or fluctuates erratically. Check engine light may illuminate.
  • Solution: Replacement of the oil pressure sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Actuator Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine rattles, especially at startup. Check engine light illuminates with codes related to camshaft position.
  • Solution: Replacement of the camshaft actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4L60E)

• Slipping/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slips between gears or shifts harshly. Delayed engagement.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush, repair/replacement of valve body, or complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, especially when accelerating. Transmission overheating.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual Transmission (New Venture 3500)

No Issues Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Knocking or clunking noise from the front suspension. Excessive play in the front wheels.
  • Solution: Replacement of the upper and/or lower ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Leaf Spring Sagging/Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the truck sits lower than normal. Visible cracks in the leaf springs.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Body Control Module (BCM) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent issues with power windows, door locks, interior lighting, or other electrical components. Battery drain.
  • Solution: Replacement or reprogramming of the BCM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges malfunction or stop working. Warning lights illuminate incorrectly.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Outer door handle breaks or becomes difficult to operate.
  • Solution: Replacement of the door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Blower motor stops working or only works on certain settings.
  • Solution: Replacement of the blower motor or blower motor resistor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2004 Chevrolet Colorado has a mix of potential issues, with engine and electrical problems being among the most concerning. Cylinder head cracks on the 2.8L and oil pressure sensor issues on the 3.5L can lead to significant repair costs. Electrical gremlins related to the BCM can be frustrating to diagnose and resolve. While some suspension and interior issues are relatively inexpensive to fix, transmission problems can be a major expense. The severity of these issues varies, but potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and inspect any prospective purchase thoroughly.