Does the 2016 Chevy Colorado have transmission problems?
In general, the 2016 Chevy Colorado does not suffer from a widespread, chronic transmission failure, but some owners have reported transmission-related issues with the model year. The most commonly cited problems involve shift quality and responsiveness in certain driving conditions.
This article examines what owners have observed, what GM has publicly addressed through service bulletins or recalls, and how reliability evaluations of the vehicle stack up. It also offers guidance for prospective buyers and current owners on diagnosing and addressing transmission concerns.
What drivers are seeing in the field
Below is a snapshot of the kinds of transmission symptoms reported by Colorado owners. These observations come from owner forums, independent reviews, and consumer safety databases.
- Harsh or abrupt shifts between gears, especially during cold starts or low-speed driving.
- Delayed engagement when shifting from Park or Neutral into Drive, or noticeable lag before the vehicle moves.
- Rough or irregular downshifting, sometimes accompanied by a brief shudder or surge in RPM.
- Transmission slipping or unexpected changes in gear selection under load or while cruising at highway speeds (less common).
While these reports exist, they do not indicate a universal defect affecting all 2016 Colorado trucks. They tend to be more common in higher-mileage vehicles, those with towing or heavy workloads, or units that haven’t received updated software or service interventions when due.
GM’s response, recalls, and what to watch for
Automakers regularly issue service bulletins to address shift quality and transmission control software. For the 2016 Colorado, some owners have benefited from updates to the transmission control module (TCM) software, recalibrations, or other refinements designed to improve shift smoothness and responsiveness. In some cases, dealers have recommended or performed transmissions fluid changes and related maintenance to restore optimal behavior. There have also been recalls and campaigns in the broader GM midsize-truck family that touch on driveline and powertrain components, which can influence transmission performance. Vehicle history and VIN-specific recall status should be checked for accuracy and current fixes.
Keep in mind that while updates can mitigate certain symptoms, they may not resolve every issue. If a transmission problem is persistent or progressive, it’s advisable to pursue a formal diagnosis under warranty or with a trusted independent shop, and to verify whether any TSBs (technical service bulletins) or recalls apply to the specific vehicle.
What to do if you’re shopping for a used 2016 Colorado
Before buying, consider these practical steps to assess the transmission and overall reliability, especially for a used truck with unknown maintenance history.
- Check the vehicle’s service history for transmission-related maintenance, including fluid exchanges and any software updates performed by a dealer.
- Ask the seller for any documented TSBs or recalls related to the transmission, and verify them with a VIN lookup at NHTSA or GM’s service portals.
- Test-drive the truck in a variety of conditions (cold start, parking lot maneuvers, highway acceleration) to observe shifting behavior and note any slipping, shudder, or delayed engagement.
- Have a trusted mechanic inspect the transmission fluid condition and check for codes or faults stored in the vehicle’s computer system.
If you decide to proceed with a purchase, prioritize a vehicle with a clean maintenance record and, if possible, a recent transmission software update or a completed service bulletin that addresses shift quality. Warranty coverage, including powertrain protection, can provide important peace of mind given the potential for later repair costs.
Summary
Overall, the 2016 Chevy Colorado does not display a universal transmission defect, but there are credible reports of transmission-related symptoms in some examples. Issues most often involve shifting quality, engagement, and occasional roughness, with software updates and routine maintenance helping to mitigate problems. Prospective buyers and current owners should verify recall status, ensure timely transmission maintenance, and seek professional diagnosis if symptoms appear, especially on high-mileage trucks or those used for towing. With careful evaluation, the 2016 Colorado can still be a solid mid-size pickup, but due diligence on the transmission history is prudent.
