2018 Chevrolet Tornado

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints associated with the 2018 Chevrolet Tornado, presented in the requested format. The Chevrolet Tornado is a rebadged version of the Chevrolet Montana sold in Mexico and other Latin American countries. It’s a small pickup truck known for its fuel efficiency and versatility as a work vehicle. Engine options typically include a 1.8L inline-4 engine, producing around 105 horsepower and 123 lb-ft of torque. While liked for its compact size and cargo capabilities, owners often express concerns about its overall build quality and some mechanical issues.

Category

Engine

1.8L I4 Engine

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report higher than normal oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. This can manifest as blue smoke from the exhaust, a burning oil smell, and low oil level warnings.
  • Solution: A compression test and leak-down test can help determine the source of the oil consumption. Depending on the results, the fix could range from replacing valve stem seals to piston rings, or even a complete engine overhaul or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+ depending on the severity and repair needed
  • Recalls: None Found
• Check Engine Light - Various Causes
  • Description/Symptoms: The check engine light illuminating can be triggered by a wide array of issues, from a loose gas cap to more serious problems with the emissions system or engine sensors. Symptoms depend on the specific fault code.
  • Solution: Diagnosing the underlying cause requires a scan tool to retrieve the diagnostic trouble code (DTC). Common fixes include replacing faulty oxygen sensors, mass airflow sensors, or addressing issues with the evaporative emissions system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the sensor or component needing replacement
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Difficulty Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report difficulty shifting, especially into first or reverse gear. This can be accompanied by grinding noises.
  • Solution: Possible causes include a worn clutch, damaged synchros, or low transmission fluid. The repair may involve replacing the clutch assembly, rebuilding the transmission, or simply changing the fluid and adjusting the shift linkage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1500+ depending on the severity and repair needed.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The car’s battery can be mysteriously drained when the vehicle is left parked. Symptoms include a dead battery and inability to start the car.
  • Solution: The solution is to perform a parasitic draw test to identify the circuit that is causing the draw. Once you know which circuit is having the draw, you can unplug different devices to see which one is causing the draw. Then you can replace that device.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the part that needs to be replaced.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Failing Sensors
  • Description/Symptoms: Various sensors, such as ABS sensors or crankshaft position sensors, may fail prematurely. Symptoms vary depending on the specific sensor, but can include warning lights, erratic engine behavior, or difficulty starting.
  • Solution: Diagnosis requires scanning for trouble codes. Replacing the faulty sensor is the typical fix.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 per sensor replacement
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported that suspension bushings, particularly in the front control arms, wear out quickly. This can result in clunking noises, loose handling, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn bushings or the entire control arm is the recommended fix.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per side, depending on whether bushings or entire control arms are replaced.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust Issues (Specific Regions)
  • Description/Symptoms: In regions with heavy road salt use, some owners report rust developing on the undercarriage and body panels, especially around wheel wells and seams.
  • Solution: Addressing rust requires professional rust removal and repair, followed by rust prevention treatments.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ depending on the severity and extent of the rust.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Air Conditioning Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Weak or non-existent air conditioning performance. Can be caused by refrigerant leaks, a faulty compressor, or a clogged condenser.
  • Solution: Diagnosis involves checking refrigerant levels, inspecting the compressor and condenser, and looking for leaks. Repairs may include recharging the system, replacing the compressor or condenser, or repairing leaks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $800+ depending on the component needing replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Chevrolet Tornado, while a practical and affordable compact pickup, does suffer from some common issues. Engine oil consumption and electrical problems seem to be a frequent cause for concern. Suspension bushing wear and potential rust issues (especially in colder climates) are also points to watch. Repair costs can range from relatively inexpensive sensor replacements to more substantial engine or transmission work. Potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and thoroughly inspect a used Tornado before purchasing.