2020 Chevrolet Colorado Problems
Compared with other Chevrolet Colorado years
Typical for this model
47/100 0.9× a typical year · 50 = typical
- Complaint rate is 0.9× that of a typical Chevrolet Colorado year, weighted for crashes, fires, injuries, recalls and mileage, and allowing for the era and for how long each year has had to collect complaints.
- 20 of its 88 complaints were filed by the end of 2022.
- Most reported problem: Transmission shudder at steady speeds (23 complaints, median 40,000 mi).
Nearby years with a typical complaint level and no open NHTSA investigation: 2022
Based only on NHTSA complaints, recalls and investigations. Not adjusted for how many vehicles were sold, and not a reliability rating. How this is calculated
- Complaints
- 88filed with NHTSA
- Median mileage
- 24,000miles, 23 complaints with mileage
- Recalls
- 0campaigns on record
- Trend
- RisingComplaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are at least 25% higher than in the 3 years before.
- NHTSA crash rating
- 4 / 5stars overall, 4 rated versions
- EPA fuel economy
- 22 mpgcombined, 2.5L 4-cyl RWD · 20 city / 26 hwy
Sources: NHTSA records for the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado (complaints, recalls, investigations), NHTSA crash tests, EPA fuel economy. Report an error
What owners report
Owners of the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado most often describe a shudder or shake while driving at steady speeds, which they attribute to the eight-speed automatic transmission, along with check engine lights traced to camshaft-related parts. Many complaints are filed at relatively low mileage, and several owners report that interim fixes such as a transmission fluid flush did not last.
- Transmission and drivetrain
Transmission shudder at steady speeds
- 23 complaints (26%)
- median 40,000 mi at 4.0 yrs old (5 state mileage, few)
- filed 2020–2026
Complaints describe a shake or shudder that feels like driving over rumble strips, typically while accelerating lightly or holding a steady speed rather than during a gear change. Several owners say a dealer flushed and refilled the transmission fluid, sometimes under warranty, and that the vibration returned months later; some were then told a torque converter replacement was needed. A few owners note the shudder eases in tow/haul mode and that prior model years appear to share the same behavior. Mostly reported between roughly 25,000 and 80,000 miles, often at 35-60 mph under light throttle.
What to check: Test drive at a steady 35-60 mph with light throttle and feel for vibration, and ask for service records showing whether the transmission fluid was replaced and whether a torque converter was ever replaced.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“The vehicle is experiencing a shake and/or shudder during light throttle acceleration between 25 and 80 MPH steady state driving when transmission is not actively shifting gears. The condition is as if I were driving over rumble strips. Tsb 18-na-355 addresses this issue in 2017 - 2019 chevy Colorado pickup trucks with the 8 speed transmission. The 2020 model should be added as it does not appeared to be fixed at this time. I purchased this vehicle brand new from the factory with only 5 miles on it. …”
NHTSA complaint #11385950, filed 2020-12, 10 miles“My new chevy Colorado truck (10000 miles) has experienced vibration issued between 30-60 MPH. Typically it happens when in cruise control between 50-60 MPH and I transition from going downhill to uphill and the engine is starting to re-engage and accelerate to maintain speed. It feels like I am going over rumble strips and items in my glove box can be heard vibrating around. Apparently it is common enough that on the internet it is known as the chevy shake . I am worried about premature transmission failure. …”
NHTSA complaint #11407391, filed 2021-04, 10,000 miles - Engine
Camshaft position actuator / solenoid failures
- 9 complaints (10%)
- median 74,000 mi at 4.8 yrs old (5 state mileage, few)
- filed 2024–2026
Owners describe the check engine light coming on, sometimes with reduced power or sluggish response, and diagnosis codes pointing to camshaft position actuator or solenoid faults on one or both banks. Some complaints mention a manufacturer special coverage program for this part and that their vehicle identification number did not qualify; others report being told the vehicle needed the part replaced at their own cost. Reported from roughly 36,000 to 120,000 miles, with several around 65,000-75,000 miles.
What to check: Ask whether the camshaft position actuator or solenoid has been replaced and whether any special coverage program applies to the vehicle's identification number; scan for stored codes before purchase.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“The component that failed is the camshaft position actuator. My check engine light came on. Had my vvt solenoids replaced and the mechanic told me the actuator needs replacing. GM has issued a special bulletin to fix this part for the same year make and model as my truck but my vin doesn’t meet the criteria. I have only owned this vehicle for 8 months.”
NHTSA complaint #11671114, filed 2025-07“The component that’s failing on my truck is the Apple car play and a check engine light (CODE P0024) which indicates Exhaust Camshaft Position, Bank 2. My safety and others safety is put at risk while having these issues: 1.) The Apple Car Play, having to take my focus off of driving to try and unplug my phone and plug it back in to HOPEFULLY fix the issue of using the navigation or phone calls while I’m driving during long road trips is extremely dangerous for myself, my loved ones and others on the road around me. …”
NHTSA complaint #11621866, filed 2024-10 - Steering
Power steering assist loss or binding
- 8 complaints (9%)
- median 13,500 mi at 2.2 yrs old (2 state mileage, few)
- 1 mention a crash, fire or injury
- filed 2021–2026
Complaints describe the steering becoming intermittently hard to turn, or the wheel binding or pulling during right-hand turns, sometimes with a stability-control warning light. Owners report being told that corrosion in the power steering electrical connections, or a leaking sensor cover allowing wiring damage, was the cause, with repair estimates in the thousands of dollars. Reported from about 11,000 to 40,000 miles, though several complaints list no mileage.
What to check: Turn the wheel slowly at low speed with the engine running and listen or feel for binding, and ask whether the steering gear sensor cover or harness has been inspected or replaced.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“Within the last 2 months, I have had momentary steering problems at low speed. They continue to become worse with time, no longer safe to drive. Dealer has vehicle now and informs me that it will cost $3000 for a known/existing corrosion of electrical connections in the power steering assembly. Via the internet, the steering gear torque sensor cover assembly needs to be replaced. Because this cover assembly has leaked, the wiring harness also has to be replaced. 7 hours of labor, front end alignment, etc! …”
NHTSA complaint #11623464, filed 2024-11“While driving at any speed when steering wheel is at the 1 to 2 o' clock position on a right turn, steering wheel wobbles and regardless of road condition. Stabitrack warning light comes on occasionally.”
NHTSA complaint #11738340, filed 2026-05 - Brakes
Reduced power and hard brake pedal
- 12 complaints (14%)
- median 101,200 mi at 3.8 yrs old (2 state mileage, few)
- 2 mention a crash, fire or injury
- filed 2020–2026
Complaints describe the brake pedal going hard or to the floor while the vehicle loses normal power assist, sometimes together with a drop in engine power and heavy steering. Owners report using the emergency brake to stop, and some say a dealer pointed to a faulty vacuum pump or damage around the brake booster and camshaft-driven pump. Reported across a wide mileage range, from around 50,000 miles up past 100,000 miles.
What to check: With the engine running, press the brake pedal several times and confirm it stays firm and does not sink; ask whether the vacuum pump, brake booster and hydraulic lines have been inspected.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“Driving on the highway speed limit 65-70 my truck started decelerating and breaks got hard and could not use break. Had to get home using emergency petal break and drive. My truck is only 2020 model for this type of problem. Want to see if I can get this fixed with the manufacture defect warranty. Took my truck to a Chevy dealer and they are saying it can be a faulty vacuum pump.”
NHTSA complaint #11649928, filed 2025-03“the power brake booster was found broken on 1/29/2026. Through repairs, i've found vacuum pump race being completely damaged and exhaust camshaft end that linked with vacuum pump is also damaged.”
NHTSA complaint #11730626, filed 2026-04 - Other or unknown
Key stuck or ignition not turning
- 5 complaints (6%)
- median 11,000 mi at 1.3 yrs old (1 states mileage, few)
- filed 2023–2024
Owners describe the key refusing to turn in the ignition or failing to release after the vehicle is shifted into park and shut off, sometimes requiring minutes of jiggling the wheel and shifter. Some complaints say a dealer replaced the shifter assembly to address the connection, while others report no resolution and towing costs. Reported at low to moderate mileage, including vehicles under 30,000 miles, on trucks bought used.
What to check: Start and shut off the truck several times, shift in and out of park, and confirm the key turns and releases freely; ask whether the shifter assembly has been replaced.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“2020 Chevrolet Colorado: Purchased truck in February 2023 w/25000 miles. Since purchasing truck, key would get stuck in ignition. Key gets stuck in ignition frequently and would take several minutes to release, very frustrating. Was told I was not pushing key in to release. After several months and repeated key release issues, I called dealership and was told problem was due to shifter assembly(connection issue). Appointment made(August 12,2023) and issue confirmed and replacement of shifter assembly done. …”
NHTSA complaint #11539411, filed 2023-08“IGNITION LOCKED UP. This situation is the same as another complaint posted earlier this year by another owner. Ignition key will not turn in the igntion switch. Tried all the internet fixes. Turning steering wheel, bumping transmission lever, tried spare key, etc. Nothing worked. $225 to tow to the dealer. Still waiting to hear from back from dealer.”
NHTSA complaint #11630795, filed 2024-12
Buying note. A thorough test drive at highway speed and a brake-pedal check will surface the two most commonly described problems on this model year, so budget for possible transmission fluid or torque converter work and ask for documentation of any engine, steering or brake repairs already done.
Summary written with AI from a sample of 60 NHTSA complaints for this model year (picked at random, with complaints that state a mileage and recent ones taken first), then checked automatically against the source records. Where a problem shows a complaint count, every complaint for this model year was matched with fixed keyword rules (written with AI and tested against the sample), and the mileage, age and repair figures are calculated from those complaints; owners' figures are as stated, not verified. Other counts refer to the sample. The excerpts come from NHTSA's public complaint records and are unverified; capitalisation is normalised, NHTSA staff notes are removed, and shortened text ends with “…”. Something wrong? Request a correction.
NHTSA recorded 88 consumer complaints for the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado. 23 of the complaints include a mileage, and 65% of those were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles; the median is 24,000 miles. Of all complaints, 1 involved a crash, 3 a fire, 4 an injury, according to the filers. NHTSA lists 0 recall campaigns and 882 technical service bulletins for this model year. Compared with the other 13 Chevrolet Colorado model years that have at least 25 complaints and are old enough to compare, this one scores 47 out of 100, where 50 is a typical year for the model (typical for this model). The comparison allows for the era and for how long each year has had to collect complaints, but not for how many vehicles were sold.
Which parts are reported most
Complaints can name more than one part, so the counts add up to more than the total. Select a part to see its complaints, recalls and bulletins.
- Engine20 23%
- Other or unknown15 17%
- Brakes13 15%
- Steering10 11%
- Electrical system6 6.8%
- Engine cooling3 3.4%
- Exterior lighting3 3.4%
- Seat belts3 3.4%
- Fuel system2 2.3%
Also reported: Air bags (1), Electronic stability control (1), Forward collision avoidance (1), Suspension (1), Visibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors) (1).
Example complaints
Transmission and drivetrain: “Transmission shuttering mostly at interstate speeds but as slow as 35 mph. Under light to medium light pedal acceleration. Truck feels as if it's going over Road ripples. I'm disappointed to find out this is a common problem with Chevy 8-speed Transmissions. It happens every time I drive it. From time to time it'll shake the truck a little violently”
NHTSA complaint #11686682, filed 2025-09Engine: “Engine temperature gauge runs in red after 30-40 minutes of driving. After 10-15 minutes the gauge will go back to normal then will go back to hot. This is both city and highway driving.”
NHTSA complaint #11397405, filed 2021-02, 7,654 milesOther or unknown: “While beginning to accelerate after starting the vehicle, I noticeable sound that is best described as 'water rushing' is heard from behind the passenger-side dash area. After conducting some research I have narrowed it down to the issue of air trapped in the coolant system. Issue is isolated to the area of the heater core. Have also seen mentions of service bulletins where, if the vehicle is under warranty, it can be brought in and the tank can be drained and refilled properly.”
NHTSA complaint #11362139, filed 2020-10, 27 milesBrakes: “Gushing sound of liquid when start. Rattling when accelerating noisy suspension screen turned black once or twice clunking noise when shifting noise in brakes”
NHTSA complaint #11378048, filed 2020-12, 8,000 milesMileage when problems were reported
65% of the 23 complaints with a mileage were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles; the middle half falls between 9,100 and 67,000 miles.
Complaints by year filed
Trend: rising. Complaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are at least 25% higher than in the 3 years before.
Crash test ratings
NHTSA's 5-Star Safety Ratings for the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado. Frontal results are shown driver / passenger; rollover shows the star rating and NHTSA's estimated risk of rolling over in a single-vehicle crash.
| Version | Overall | Frontal | Side | Side pole | Rollover |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado · extended cab 2WD | ★★★★☆ | 5 / 4 | 5 | 5 | 3 · 22.0% risk |
| Colorado · crew cab 2WD | ★★★★☆ | 4 / 4 | 5 | 5 | 3 · 21.9% risk |
| Colorado · extended cab 4WD | ★★★★☆ | 5 / 4 | 5 | 5 | 3 · 21.4% risk |
| Colorado · crew cab 4WD | ★★★★☆ | 4 / 4 | 5 | 5 | 3 · 21.2% risk |
Driver aids listed by NHTSA for the 2020 model year: forward collision warning optional, lane departure warning optional, automatic emergency braking not available.
Neighbouring years: 2019: same overall rating; 2021: same overall rating. A redesign between years can change both the car and the test.
Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program (5-Star Safety Ratings), nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Fuel economy and running cost
EPA ratings for each 2020 Chevrolet Colorado version. Annual fuel cost is the EPA's estimate at its current fuel prices for 15,000 miles a year (55% city driving).
| Version | Engine | Transmission | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel / yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado 2WD | 2.5L 4-cyl | 6-speed automatic | 20 | 26 | 22 | $3,050 |
| Colorado 2WD | 3.6L 6-cyl | 8-speed automatic | 18 | 25 | 20 | $3,350 |
| Colorado 4WD | 2.5L 4-cyl | 6-speed automatic | 19 | 24 | 21 | $3,200 |
| Colorado 4WD | 3.6L 6-cyl | 8-speed automatic | 17 | 24 | 19 | $3,550 |
| Colorado ZR2 4WD | 3.6L 6-cyl | 8-speed automatic | 16 | 18 | 17 | $3,950 |
| Colorado 2WD | 2.8L 4-cyl · diesel | 6-speed automatic | 20 | 30 | 23 | $4,150 |
| Colorado 4WD | 2.8L 4-cyl · diesel | 6-speed automatic | 19 | 28 | 22 | $4,350 |
| Colorado ZR2 4WD | 2.8L 4-cyl · diesel | 6-speed automatic | 18 | 22 | 19 | $5,050 |
Source: U.S. EPA and Department of Energy, fueleconomy.gov. Ratings are for comparing vehicles; real-world mileage varies with driving and conditions.
Recalls and investigations
NHTSA lists no recall campaigns for the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado in the data used here. A recall can apply to some vehicles of a model year and not others, so check a specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Technical service bulletins
TSBs are manufacturer notes to dealers about known repair procedures. They are not recalls and do not by themselves mean a vehicle has a fault. 882 on record; the latest 10 are shown.
- 11037555Sep 26, 2026Other or unknown. This PI provides Diagnostics tips on how the LIN bus works and how to diagnosis it.
- 11037550Sep 21, 2026Other or unknown. This PI communicates the proper part numbers for transmission connectors and internal harness to prevent confusion when ordering
- 11037253Sep 4, 2026Other or unknown. This preliminary information advises a dealer on how to email GDS2 session logs into Technical Assistance.
- 11035340Jul 21, 2026Other or unknown. PI to help diagnose A/C concern
- 11035308Jul 21, 2026Other or unknown. This PI provides diagnostic tips for diagnosing electric trailer brakes issues.
- 11032777May 14, 2026Other or unknown. This PI provides diagnostic tips for diagnosing electric trailer brakes issues.
- 11030974Apr 1, 2026Other or unknown. This preliminary information communicates information about how to determine if a wheel and tires size change is available.
- 11030092Mar 9, 2026Other or unknown. This Preliminary information communicates the steps on how to save a GDS2 Session Log and upload to a Technical Assistance Case in CX Connect.
- 11030091Mar 9, 2026Other or unknown. This preliminary information advises a dealer on how to email GDS2 session logs into Technical Assistance.
- 11029950Mar 2, 2026Other or unknown. This Preliminary information communicates to the field on how to diagnosis a GPS issue with the Telematic module with no DTC'ss
Other model years of the Chevrolet Colorado
| Year | Complaints | Median mi | Recalls | Crash ★ | MPG | Score (50 = typical) | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 18 | 5,800 | 1 | 4 | 21 | — | Too new |
| 2025 | 28 | 56,106 | 1 | 4 | 20 | Too new to compare | Too new |
| 2024 | 126 | 4,600 | 3 | 4 | 22 | Too new to compare | Too new |
| 2023 | 138 | 6,750 | 3 | 4 | 22 | 100 · More | Too new |
| 2022 | 56 | 20,275 | 1 | 4 | 22 | 46 · Typical | Rising |
| 2021 | 80 | 44,250 | 1 | 4 | 22 | 53 · Typical | Rising |
| 2020 | 88 | 24,000 | 0 | 4 | 22 | 47 · Typical | Rising |
| 2019 | 150 | 7,600 | 0 | 4 | 22 | 73 · More | Stable |
| 2018 | 183 | 14,000 | 1 | 4 | 22 | 86 · More | Rising |
| 2017 | 216 | 25,547 | 1 | 4 | 22 | 84 · More | Falling |
| 2016 | 715 | 43,000 | 4 | 4 | 22 | 100 · More | Rising |
| 2015 | 498 | 52,200 | 7 | 4 | 22 | 100 · More | Falling |
| 2012 | 42 | 43,000 | 2 | — | 21 | 26 · Fewer | Falling |
| 2011 | 42 | 54,000 | 5 | — | 21 | 26 · Fewer | Falling |
| 2010 | 29 | 47,000 | 2 | — | 21 | 0 · Fewer | Stable |
| 2009 | 67 | 54,000 | 3 | — | 20 | 26 · Fewer | Stable |
| 2008 | 81 | 53,000 | 2 | — | 20 | 44 · Typical | Falling |
| 2007 | 140 | 58,750 | 3 | — | 18 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2006 | 236 | 52,600 | 4 | — | 19 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2005 | 356 | 51,000 | 3 | — | 18 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2004 | 361 | 56,500 | 3 | — | 18 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
All Chevrolet Colorado model years · Best and worst years by complaints
Frequently asked questions
What are the most common problems with the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado?
Owners of the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado most often describe a shudder or shake while driving at steady speeds, which they attribute to the eight-speed automatic transmission, along with check engine lights traced to camshaft-related parts. The issues reported most often: Transmission shudder at steady speeds; Camshaft position actuator / solenoid failures; Power steering assist loss or binding.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado have?
NHTSA recorded 88 consumer complaints for the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado as of Oct 31, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
What part of the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado is reported most often?
Transmission and drivetrain is named most often, in 33 complaints (38% of the total), followed by engine with 20.
Has the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado been recalled?
NHTSA lists no recall campaigns for this model year in the data used here. To check a specific vehicle, enter its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
How did the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado do in NHTSA crash tests?
NHTSA's 5-Star Safety Ratings give the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado 4 out of 5 stars overall, across 4 rated versions (body style and drive). Ratings from different model years are only comparable when the vehicle was not redesigned in between.
What gas mileage does the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado get?
The EPA rates the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado (Colorado 2WD, 2.5L 4-cyl) at 22 mpg combined, 20 city and 26 highway, with an estimated annual fuel cost of $3,050 at 15,000 miles a year. Other engine and drive versions are rated differently.
At what mileage are problems with the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado reported?
Among the 23 complaints that include a mileage, the median is 24,000 miles and the middle half falls between 9,100 and 67,000 miles; 65% were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles.
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 31, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate. Crash ratings are from NHTSA’s New Car Assessment Program. Fuel economy is from the EPA and DOE (fueleconomy.gov).
Complaint counts come from NHTSA’s public complaint database; we count each complaint once. The source records for this vehicle are on nhtsa.gov. Scores and trends are our own summaries of that data, described in the methodology. This page is not legal, safety or repair advice: for a specific vehicle, check its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls and ask a qualified mechanic. See an error? Tell us.