What are the most common issues with a 2017 Chevy Colorado?
The most frequently reported problems for the 2017 Colorado fall into three broad areas: transmission and powertrain behavior, electrical and electronic system glitches, and comfort-related issues like air conditioning and suspension. This article reviews those common problems, explains likely causes, and offers practical guidance for buyers and current owners.
Powertrain and transmission concerns
Many owner reports center on how the Colorado behaves on the road, particularly around shifting, engine response, and drivetrain reliability.
- Transmission issues such as slipping, hard or delayed upshifts, and rough or abnormal shifting feel, especially as the vehicle ages.
- Engine performance problems like misfires, rough idle, reduced power, or inconsistent acceleration, sometimes accompanied by a check engine light.
- Fuel delivery or ignition concerns that manifest as hesitation during acceleration or stalling under load.
- In 4x4 models, transfer case or driveshaft-related noises or a feel of drivetrain engagement problems.
In many cases, such problems are tied to wear, fluid condition, or sensor/software issues and can often be addressed with maintenance, software updates, or component service under warranty or recalls when applicable.
Electrical and electronics issues
As with many mid-size trucks aging into their second decade of use, electrical and infotainment components are a notable source of trouble for the Colorado.
- Battery or charging system failures that lead to dead batteries or difficulty starting the truck.
- Instrument cluster or gauge problems, including flickering displays or warning lights that may not correspond to actual faults.
- Infotainment glitches such as touchscreen unresponsiveness, Bluetooth disconnects, or navigation and radio instability.
- Sensor or safety-system warnings (airbag/seat belt indicators, ABS, or stability control) prompting warnings or deactivation of certain features.
Electrical problems often require component testing, software updates, or replacement of peripherals like the battery, alternator, or module software. Some issues may be subject to recalls or service campaigns initiated by Chevrolet.
Comfort, HVAC, and chassis concerns
Owners also report issues affecting daily comfort and the vehicle’s ride and braking feel.
- Air conditioning problems, including weak cooling, intermittent performance, or compressor cycling issues.
- Suspension and steering wear symptoms such as clunking noises, rough ride, or alignment changes due to worn bushings or components.
- Brake concerns like premature wear, pulsation, or rotor warping, which can affect stopping performance.
- Steering feel anomalies, including wandering or inconsistent assist, sometimes tied to hydraulic/electric assist systems or tire condition.
Maintenance and timely component replacement—such as brakes, bushings, and suspension parts—can mitigate many of these comfort and handling concerns.
Buying and maintenance tips for a 2017 Colorado
What to check before purchase
Before buying a used 2017 Colorado, use this checklist to assess the most commonly reported trouble spots and overall vehicle health.
- Obtain a full maintenance history and verify key services (transmission service, coolant and brake fluid changes, filter replacements) have been performed as recommended.
- Check for any open recalls or service campaigns using the VIN and confirm completion with the dealer.
- Test drive to observe transmission behavior, engine response, braking performance, and any abnormal noises from the drivetrain or suspension.
- Inspect the HVAC system’s cooling capacity, and verify electrical systems (gauges, infotainment, lighting) operate normally.
- Inspect for signs of electrical drainage or accessory faults, such as persistent battery issues or warning lights that don’t reset after service.
If possible, have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection focusing on transmission health, engine compression, electrical integrity, and the condition of the brake and suspension components.
Summary
The 2017 Chevy Colorado remains a capable midsize pickup, with strengths in towing, payload, and overall utility. The most commonly reported issues tend to involve the powertrain and transmission, electrical and infotainment systems, and comfort-related components like the A/C and suspension. For buyers and owners, proactive maintenance, prompt attention to warning signs, and a careful pre-purchase inspection can help mitigate these problems and extend the truck’s reliability and value.
