Legally reviewed by: Jessica Anvar Stotz, JD, MBA
Common problems: Drivers of the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado frequently report issues with the braking system, transmission, and electrical components.
In December 2020, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recalled the 2021 Chevy Colorado due to a seatbelt bolt issue that could prevent proper occupant restraint during a crash (NHTSA Recall 20V811).
Below, we explore some of the most common problems affecting Colorado drivers.
Common 2021 Chevy Colorado Problems
- Service Brakes: Phantom braking, premature brake pad wear, grinding noises
- Transmission: Chevy Shake, vibration, shuddering, transmission slipping, shaking, shift to park error, difficulty changing gears, fluid leaks
- Electrical System: Blank instrument panel, inoperative start/stop
- Engine: Check engine light, engine shut off, engine failure, poor fuel economy
2021 Chevy Colorado Braking Problems
The 2021 Chevy Colorado may experience early brake pad wear. Worn brake pads can lead to a burning smell, grinding noises, squealing or screeching during braking, and pulsation or vibration in the steering wheel or brake pedal.
The vehicle might also pull to one side when braking. Typically, brake pads last between 30,000 and 70,000 miles- however, this can vary based on driving habits. Frequent braking in heavy traffic, for instance, may necessitate more frequent inspections.
In February 2024, General Motors (GM) recalled over 57,000 2023 Chevrolet Colorado trucks due to problems with their Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) systems.
These systems could activate unexpectedly, causing “phantom braking,” where the vehicle stops or slows down suddenly. Although this recall does not include the 2021 Chevy Colorado, similar braking issues have also been reported in the 2021 model.
2021 Chevy Colorado Transmission Problems
Owners of the 2021 Chevy Colorado have reported various transmission problems, including rough shifting, shuddering, shaking, slipping, leaks, fluid contamination, and more.
If you experience shuddering, rough shifting or slipping, have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. Consumers also note issues when attempting to shift the vehicle into park, leaving them unable to shut off their vehicles.
For those dealing with persistent transmission issues that the dealership cannot fix, consider documenting all repairs and communications with your service provider. This documentation can be crucial if you need to pursue a warranty claim or seek relief under lemon law protections.
2021 Chevy Colorado Electrical System Problems
The 2021 Chevy Colorado is prone to several electrical system issues. Drivers have reported problems such as malfunctioning instrument panels, intermittent failure of the start/stop system, and inconsistent performance of the vehicle’s sensors and warning lights.
Malfunctioning instrument panels can result in blank screens or incorrect readings, making it difficult for drivers to monitor their vehicle’s performance.
The intermittent failure of the start/stop system can cause inconvenience and potential safety concerns, as the vehicle may not start or stop as intended. Inconsistent performance of sensors and warning lights can lead to a lack of critical information about the vehicle’s status, posing a safety risk.
Complaints from 2021 Colorado Owners
“I have had my 2021 Colorado for 7 weeks less then 900 miles. I have had it in for service twice for the same issues. Brakes grind for the first 10 minutes of driving. Took it in they cleaned the brakes, two days later same thing. Took it in again they changed the pads. 3 days later same thing, called and they told me it had a service bulletin for this issue and GM is working on it. Well 3 days later and now it grinds all the time.”
“I have 2021 Chevy Colorado pickup truck. Put the truck in park and unable to turn off and remove the key. This is the third time this has happened this week . The first two times I moved the shifter from park to drive and back and it released. The last time I had to sit in my drive way for twenty minutes with the truck running before I could turn the key to shut off the truck.”
“The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Colorado. The contact stated that the instrument panel went blank while driving. Additionally, the navigation system was inoperable for approximately 15 minutes. The contact turned the system to the off position, but the system failed to regain function. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact called the local dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The approximate failure mileage was 15,000.”
How the Lemon Law Supports Consumers Like You
The lemon law allows consumers to seek compensation for defective vehicles. If your 2021 Chevy Colorado is still under the manufacturer’s original warranty and has a persistent defect that has been repeatedly repaired during the warranty, it may qualify as a lemon, making you eligible for compensation.
Typically, if the vehicle undergoes two to four repeat repair attempts for the same or similar issue, it may be classified as a lemon. In such cases, you are entitled to either a replacement vehicle or a refund from the manufacturer.
A knowledgeable lemon law attorney can assist you throughout this process and effectively represent you if legal action is required. Manufacturers often have strong legal teams to challenge claims, so having an attorney can be crucial for securing the compensation you deserve.
If you succeed in your lemon law claim, you could receive a refund that covers all vehicle-related expenses, such as down payments, monthly installments, interest, taxes, and possibly additional costs like rental fees or registration renewals. Alternatively, you might receive a new replacement vehicle of a similar make and model.
In states like California, where lemon law provisions are particularly favorable for consumers, winning a lemon law case means the manufacturer will pay for your attorney fees and costs, ensuring no out-of-pocket expenses for you.
This makes pursuing a lemon law claim a financially wise choice if your 2021 Chevy Colorado is experiencing unresolved issues under warranty.
Expert Lemon Law Assistance is Just a Phone Call Away
Seeking help from a qualified attorney can help streamline your case by organizing crucial documents, facilitating communication with the manufacturer, and providing representation in court if needed.
In California, consumers who succeed in lemon law cases do not incur attorney fees or costs, ensuring no financial risk with legal representation.
If you need lemon law assistance for a defective vehicle you purchased or leased in California, the Lemon Law Experts are an excellent legal resource. Since 2009, our legal team has secured millions in settlements for thousands of clients who purchased or leased defective vehicles in California.
We have a proven track record of successfully settling lemon law claims against major auto manufacturers like GM. Have any questions about your case? Contact the Lemon Law Experts at (877) 885-5366 or submit an online form for a complimentary, no-obligation case evaluation today.
