So My 2019 Chevy Colorado Z71 Stood at The Dealership Nearly 3 Weeks for a One-Day Job, on The Way Back Gets Check Engine Light and The Dealer Wants $1,300 To Fix It

Buying a new vehicle comes with an expectation of reliability, especially when you take extra steps to maintain it properly. But what happens when, despite your best efforts, your truck still runs into issues, and the dealership you rely on makes the experience even worse? This experience is similar to what happened to Steve S., a Chevy Colorado Z71 owner, who shared his frustrating ordeal after taking his well-maintained truck to the dealership for repairs.

Two days ago Torque News senior reporter Denis Flierl published an interesting article about a Toyota owner taking a chance on a Silverado and experiencing some problems at 5,000 miles. Steve was one of the many readers who shared his experience and wrote the following comment.

"I have a Chevy Colorado Z71 (2019), bought new with a couple thousand miles on it. I always serviced this truck at the dealer. I have done all maintenance, including oil changes, ahead of recommendations. So you know, I also changed the transmission fluid at about 49,000 miles. Then at 55,422 miles the transmission control mod code came out, 75 days outa warranty by time, not miles. The dealer replaced the valve body in transmission. It was supposed to be a one-day job, but took nearly 3 weeks, and more than $2500. On the way home from picking it up, the truck gets check engine light (code for coolant temperature sensor). And now the dealer wants another $1300 to replace it. Long story short, I traded that thing in for different vehicle, and just took the loss."

Steve’s story highlights a crucial issue that many vehicle owners face—not just the mechanical problems that arise but also how dealerships handle repairs. In this case, while it’s easy to blame the truck itself, the real problem might be the dealership’s service quality. The three-week delay for a one-day repair raises serious questions about the competence or efficiency of the service center. And then, having another problem immediately after picking up the truck, followed by a costly repair quote, makes one wonder if Steve was dealing with an inept dealer rather than an inherently unreliable vehicle.

Common Issues With the 2019 Chevy Colorado Z71

Steve’s transmission control module failure is not an isolated case. Some 2019 Chevy Colorado owners have reported similar issues, particularly with the 8-speed automatic transmission, which has been known to suffer from hard shifting, torque converter shudder, and occasional electronic faults. However, GM has issued service bulletins to address these problems, and many owners have had positive experiences after following recommended maintenance procedures, like early transmission fluid changes.

Another issue, as Steve encountered, is the coolant temperature sensor failure. This sensor plays a critical role in regulating engine performance, and its failure can lead to erratic temperature readings, reduced fuel efficiency, or even limp mode activation. While $1,300 for a replacement might seem high, some owners have opted for independent mechanics or DIY fixes to lower the cost significantly.

Still, it’s worth noting that Chevrolet has been making strides in improving the Colorado. The latest model, the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado has already racked up awards, proving that GM continues refining and improving the midsize truck lineup.

Why the Chevy Colorado Still Holds an Edge Over Its Competitors

Despite Steve’s frustrating experience, the Chevy Colorado Z71 remains a strong contender in the midsize truck segment. It offers a more comfortable ride than many of its rivals, thanks to its well-tuned suspension. The Z71 off-road package adds capabilities that trucks like the Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road and Ford Ranger Tremor struggle to match in terms of ride smoothness.

Additionally, the Colorado's available diesel engine option provides excellent fuel economy and torque, making it an attractive option for those who need a midsize truck for towing. Compared to the Tacoma, which often receives criticism for its outdated transmission and interior, the Colorado provides a more refined driving experience. The Ford Ranger, while powerful, has been noted for its stiff ride and less engaging handling. So, while the Chevy Colorado has its fair share of issues, it also brings a lot to the table that makes it worth considering.

For off-road enthusiasts, the 2024 Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison is another exciting upgrade that offers some of the best-in-class features, making it a top choice for rugged terrain.

Another area where the Colorado shines is mountain driving. The 2024 Chevrolet Colorado has proven itself as one of the best midsize trucks for handling steep grades and rough terrain, something that adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate.

Even in GM’s own lineup, the battle between the Chevrolet Colorado and other models like the Silverado EV is heating up. If you’re wondering how the Colorado compares in the broader Chevrolet lineup, check out this in-depth look at the 2024 Chevrolet Colorado vs. 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV to see how these models stack up against each other.

What’s Your Experience With Dealership Repairs?

Steve S.'s story raises an important question: was the real problem his truck or the dealership's poor service? Have you had a similar experience with long repair times or expensive post-repair issues? Also, if you own a Chevy Colorado, how has it performed for you compared to other midsize trucks? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Armen Hareyan is the founder and the Editor in Chief of Torque News. He founded TorqueNews.com in 2010, which since then has been publishing expert news and analysis about the automotive industry. He can be reached at Torque News Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin, and Youtube. He has more than a decade of expertise in the automotive industry with a special interest in Tesla and electric vehicles.

Image source: Chevrolet Pressroom.