2018 Chevrolet Colorado

The 2018 Chevrolet Colorado is a mid-size pickup truck offering a blend of practicality and capability. The 2018 model year offers three engine choices: a 2.5L inline-4 producing 200 horsepower and 191 lb-ft of torque, a 3.6L V6 generating 308 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.8L Duramax turbodiesel inline-4 rated at 181 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The 2.5L engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, while the 3.6L V6 and 2.8L diesel use an 8-speed automatic transmission (though some earlier V6 models may have the 6-speed). Owners often praise the Colorado for its maneuverability, fuel economy (especially with the diesel), and available technology. Common complaints include the sometimes rough shifting of the 8-speed transmission and some concerns regarding infotainment system glitches.

Engine

2.5L Inline-4

• No Issues Found

3.6L V6

• Excessive Fuel Odor
  • Description/Symptoms: Strong smell of gasoline, especially after refueling.
  • Solution: The most likely culprit is the fuel tank pressure sensor, which can cause the fuel system to over pressurize, leading to potential fuel leaks or vapor leaks that result in a strong odor. Replacing the fuel tank pressure sensor should resolve the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rocker Arm Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or knocking noise from the engine, especially at idle or low speeds. Can lead to misfires and reduced engine performance.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected rocker arm(s) and lifter(s). In some cases, the camshaft may also need to be replaced if it’s damaged.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ (depending on the extent of the damage and labor rates)
  • Recalls: None Found

2.8L Duramax Diesel

• Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: “Service Exhaust Fluid System” message, reduced engine power, difficulty starting, or the engine entering limp mode. Often related to a faulty DEF injector, DEF quality sensor, or DEF pump.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to pinpoint the failing component (injector, sensor, pump). Replacement of the faulty part. It is crucial to use high-quality DEF fluid to prevent future issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+ (depending on the component needing replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• No Issues Found

8-Speed Automatic (8L45/8L90)

• Harsh Shifting/Shuddering
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifts, particularly between 1st and 2nd gear, and sometimes a shuddering sensation at low speeds.
  • Solution: There are several potential solutions.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, becomes unresponsive, reboots randomly, or exhibits other glitches (e.g., Bluetooth connectivity problems, navigation issues).
  • Solution: A software update can often resolve the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (if software update is available and performed by the owner) - $150+ (if dealer diagnosis and software update are required)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Loss of Power Steering Assist
  • Description/Symptoms: Sudden loss of power steering assist, making the vehicle difficult to steer. This can occur intermittently.
  • Solution: Replacing the power steering assist motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Cracked Dash (Especially in Hot Climates)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, often occurring in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Replacement of the entire dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ (due to the labor involved)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Chevrolet Colorado can be a reliable truck, but it’s important to be aware of potential issues. The 3.6L V6 engine can suffer from rocker arm failure and fuel odors. The 8-speed transmission is the most problematic area, exhibiting harsh shifting and shuddering symptoms. Electrical issues, particularly with the infotainment system and power steering, are also worth noting. Finally, the interior, specifically the dashboard, can be prone to cracking. The cost to repair these issues varies greatly, from relatively inexpensive software updates to potentially thousands of dollars for engine or transmission repairs. It is important to note that not all Colorado trucks will experience these issues and proper maintenance can help prevent them.