The third-generation Colorado (2023 and newer) is a big step up from the old truck, and the 2.7L turbo makes plenty of torque. The 8-speed automatic behind it is where most drivability complaints land. Here's the short version of what GM has told dealers so far.
What owners describe
- Hard 1-2 or 2-1 shifts, often on the first drive of the day
- Flaring (revs jump between gears)
- A shudder or vibration at light throttle on the highway, like driving over rumble strips
- Abrupt downshifts when slowing down
- In worse cases, limp mode with transmission codes
NHTSA complaints from 2023 and 2024 Colorado owners include a truck that shifts "very hard from first to second" on the first shift of the day (and a dealer that called it normal), another that started banging from 2nd to 1st around 3,000 miles, and one with codes P0700 and P2796 after several repair attempts.
What GM's bulletins say
| Bulletin | Covers | What it says |
|---|---|---|
| PIP5987 (June 2024) | 2023-2024 Colorado and Canyon, 2024 Silverado and Sierra with the Gen II 8-speed | Hard/harsh shifts or flare, with or without codes. Cause may be software or an internal fault. Dealers capture data logs and open an engineering case. GM says the shifts are unpleasant but don't damage the transmission. |
| PIP6060A (2025) | Certain 2023-2026 Colorado and Silverado | Surge or shudder at light throttle on the highway. Check the torque converter first, but an oxygen sensor can also cause it. Other suspects: EVAP canister, injector wiring, crankcase pressure. |
| PIP6127 | Certain 2023-2026 Colorado | Shudder, vibration or surge. Dealers flush the transmission fluid, then the truck is driven 200 miles. If it persists, the dealer contacts GM before a torque converter can be ordered. |
Things you can do yourself
- Write down exactly when it happens. Cold or warm, speed, throttle, uphill or flat. Bulletins ask dealers to recreate the conditions, and good notes help.
- Take a phone video (passenger filming, never the driver) with the tach visible.
- Get the codes read. Any parts store scan helps you know whether it's a code-setting fault or a drivability complaint.
- Don't pay for a third-party flush during warranty. Let the dealer do the GM procedure so it's documented.
What it can cost
| Situation | Who does it | Likely cost |
|---|---|---|
| Bulletin work under powertrain warranty | Chevy dealer | Usually $0 |
| Routine transmission fluid change, 2023-2024 Colorado | Shop (RepairPal) | $315 to $400 |
| Routine transmission fluid change, 2025-2026 Colorado | Shop (RepairPal) | $271 to $356 |
| Torque converter or valve body out of warranty | Dealer or transmission shop | Get a written quote, this is the expensive end |
Readers commenting on GM Authority mentioned paying around $2,200 for a dealer torque converter replacement on related GM trucks. That's an anecdote, not a price list, but it shows why you want this fixed under warranty.
Recalls to check while you're there
These aren't transmission recalls, but they're free and worth clearing: 24V133 (2023 Colorado, front camera can trigger automatic emergency braking unexpectedly, software fix) and 24V237 (2023 Colorado, front wheel hub bolts may be over-tightened). Run your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What to ask the dealer
- "Does my VIN match PIP5987, PIP6060A or PIP6127?"
- "Did you check the oxygen sensor data before blaming the transmission?"
- "Was a GM engineering (TAC) case opened, and what's the number?"
- "Please write my complaint on the repair order exactly as I described it." (That paper trail matters if it comes back after warranty.)
Is it worth fixing?
Yes, and the sooner the better. A 2023+ Colorado is still inside or close to its powertrain warranty, and GM's first steps are cheap: data logs, a fluid flush, sensor checks. Push for documented visits now so you're covered if it needs hardware later.
More Colorado info is on the Chevrolet Colorado page. Check engine light flashing too? See our Colorado 2.7L misfire guide. Bulletin details checked October 14, 2026.
