What transmission comes in a Chevy Colorado?

The Chevrolet Colorado has used different transmissions across its generations and powertrains. In the latest models, automatics are standard with each engine, while earlier generations offered at least a manual option in some trims. Here’s a clear guide to what you might find, depending on year and configuration.

First-generation Colorado (2004–2012)

In the original Colorado, buyers could choose between a traditional manual gearbox and an automatic transmission, depending on the engine and trim level. This generation offered two primary options to suit different driving styles and workloads.

• 5-speed manual transmission


• 4-speed automatic transmission

For this generation, the manual option was commonly available with the gasoline engines, while the 4-speed auto provided a simpler, conventional alternative for everyday use.

Second-generation Colorado (2015–present)

The current generation leans more toward automatic transmissions across the engine lineup, with different automatics paired to each powertrain. A diesel option uses a six-speed automatic, and gasoline engines are matched to six- or eight-speed automatics depending on configuration and year.

• 2.5L inline-4 gasoline: typically a 6-speed automatic (early models sometimes offered a 6-speed manual)


• 3.6L V6 gasoline: 8-speed automatic


• 2.8L Duramax turbo-diesel: 6-speed automatic

While manual transmissions were available in some early second-generation configurations, modern U.S. models generally do not offer a manual option in the current lineup.

Summary

Transmission options for the Chevy Colorado depend on the model year and powertrain. The latest configurations use automatic transmissions: 6-speed automatics for the 2.5L I4 and the Duramax diesel, and an 8-speed automatic for the 3.6L V6. Manual transmissions were present in older generations, but are not common in the current market. Always verify the exact transmission with the specific model year and trim you’re considering.

What years to stay away from Chevy Colorado?

The Chevy Colorado years to avoid are primarily the 2004-2006 first-generation models and the 2014-2019 second-generation models due to common issues like transmission problems, engine misfires, and power steering loss. The 2015 model is often cited as the worst year due to widespread transmission and power steering failures. Other years with notable complaints include 2017 for electronics and 2018 for transmission shuddering. 
This video discusses the worst Chevy Colorado years to avoid, focusing on the 2015 model's transmission and steering issues: 1mEveryman DriverYouTube · Dec 23, 2019
Problematic generations and years 

• First Generation (2004-2006):
  • 2004-2006: Early years are prone to engine misfires and worn-out valve seats. 
• Second Generation (2014-2019):
  • 2015: This is frequently called out as the worst year due to numerous complaints about the transmission and a high number of power steering system failures. 
  • 2017: Issues with the display screen freezing and phone pairing problems are frequently reported. 
  • 2018: Transmission shuddering and other transmission-related problems were common. 
  • 2014-2019: This period saw many transmission and engine issues, as well as problems with power steering and the HVAC system. 
• Other years:
  • 2004-2012: These years can have problems with the A/C blower motor and fuel level sensors. 

You can watch this video to learn about potential problems with different generations of the Chevy Colorado: 56sTech TriumphYouTube · Apr 14, 2025
Common issues by category

• Transmission: Shuddering, sluggish shifting, and premature failure were common, particularly in the 2015-2019 models. 
• Engine: Misfires and worn-out valve seats were reported in the 2004-2009 and 2016 models. 
• Steering: A significant number of 2015 models experienced power steering loss, which is a major safety concern. 
• Electronics: The 2017 model is known for issues like freezing display screens and problems with phone pairing. 
• HVAC: Malfunctioning A/C blowers were a complaint in the 2004-2010 and 2012 model years. 

What year did the Chevy Colorado have transmission problems?

The Chevy Colorado experienced significant transmission problems, particularly with its 8-speed automatic transmission, in model years 2017-2019 and later, with some issues also reported in 2023 models. The most common complaint was a shudder, vibration, or slipping sensation, often traced back to the transmission fluid not providing adequate lubrication. Some earlier models, like the 2016, also experienced issues, such as leaks and shifting problems. 
Common years and issues

• 2017-2019: These years were most affected by the 8-speed automatic transmission shudder, slipping, and vibrations. The problem is linked to a need for a special transmission fluid flush and replacement, which was a known issue and a dealer-available repair. 
• 2016: Some 2016 models also experienced transmission problems, including shifting issues and leaks. 
• 2023: Some newer models have reported similar issues like hard downshifts and delayed engagement, indicating the problem may have persisted or resurfaced in new transmissions. 

What you can do

• For 2017-2019 models: A professional transmission fluid flush and replacement is often recommended as a solution. 
• For 2016 models: If you experience a 2016 Colorado leaking fluids or having shifting issues, take it to a dealership for inspection. 
• For all models: If you experience any transmission issues, take your truck to a dealer for diagnosis and repair. Be sure to ask about the specific TSBs (Technical Service Bulletins) for your model year. 

What transmission does a Chevy Colorado have?

The Chevy Colorado uses an 8-speed automatic transmission, specifically the second-generation Hydra-Matic 8L45 or 8L90, depending on the engine. Some older models also offered a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. For current models, an 8-speed automatic is standard. 
Current models (2023 and newer)

• Transmission: 8-speed automatic 
• Variants: The 8-speed comes in two versions: 
  • 8L45: Paired with the lower-output 2.7L Turbo engine (standard on WT and LT trims) 
  • 8L90: Paired with the higher-output 2.7L Turbo Plus and High-Output engines (standard on ZR2 and Trail Boss) 

Older models

• Transmission: 6-speed automatic or manual 
• Example: The 2016 model year offered both a 6-speed manual and the Hydra-Matic 6L50 automatic transmission. 
• Note: Earlier models also offered a 4-speed automatic transmission, according to Wikipedia. 

Does the Chevy Colorado have a CVT transmission?

The 2025 Chevy Colorado also doesn't feature a CVT. As a midsize truck, the Colorado is designed to handle tough tasks like off-roading and towing. It uses a standard automatic transmission to give drivers the power they need for work and play.