2018 Chevrolet Colorado Safety Report
2018 Chevrolet Colorado Safety and Reliability Report
Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado
This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado. It connects recall campaigns, owner complaint patterns, service bulletins, sibling model years, component issue hubs, and the model buying guide so a shopper or owner can move from a single report into the wider safety graph.
| Signal | Value | What to inspect next |
|---|---|---|
| Recall burden | Moderate (1) | Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below. |
| Owner complaints | High (173) | Scan complaint narratives for recurring symptoms, mileage, crashes, fires, injuries, and dates. |
| Crash and fire reports | 8 | Treat any crash, fire, injury, or fatality-linked pattern as a priority pre-purchase inspection item. |
| Primary component hub | Power Train | Compare power train issues across vehicles. |
| Cleaner nearby model year | 2021 | Compare against the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado with 61 complaints and 1 recalls. |
| Riskier nearby model year | 2016 | Check the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado before buying across this generation. |
Chevrolet Colorado Year-by-Year Comparison
The safest purchase decision usually comes from comparing neighboring model years, not reading a single page in isolation. The table below uses only validated Chevrolet Colorado years already present in the cleaned NHTSA dataset, so each comparison links to a real vehicle safety report rather than a generated combination.
| Model Year | Complaints | Recalls | Use case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 Chevrolet Colorado | 140 | 0 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2017 Chevrolet Colorado | 210 | 1 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2020 Chevrolet Colorado | 74 | 0 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2016 Chevrolet Colorado | 681 | 4 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2021 Chevrolet Colorado | 61 | 1 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2015 Chevrolet Colorado | 473 | 7 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
2018 Chevrolet Colorado Complaint Theme Map
Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado, these are the component areas with the clearest NHTSA complaint signals. Use each link to jump from this single vehicle into broader component hubs and make-specific issue pages.
Power Train
59 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Power Train issues Chevrolet onlyUnknown Or Other
19 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Unknown Or Other issues Chevrolet onlyElectrical System
14 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Electrical System issues Chevrolet onlySteering
10 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Steering issues Chevrolet onlyFuel/Propulsion System
6 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Fuel/Propulsion System issues Chevrolet onlyEngine
4 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Engine issues Chevrolet onlyAI Safety Analysis for the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado
Reliability Score
The 2018 Chevrolet Colorado receives a reliability score of 55 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
NHTSA Safety Ratings for the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) evaluates vehicles through controlled crash tests and assigns star ratings from 1 to 5, with 5 being the safest.
Known Issues for the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fuel System Recall General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015-2018 GMC Canyon, 2016-2017 Buick Envision, and 2016-2018 Chevrolet Colorado models due to a fuel pump issue. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Transmission Shuddering Transmission shuddering and loss of power are frequent issues, especially at higher speeds and during acceleration. |
High | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Touch Screen Issues Touch screen unresponsiveness and Apple CarPlay unavailability are reported, affecting the driving experience. |
Medium | Common | N/A miles |
| Electrical System Malfunctions Sensor failures and touch screen unresponsiveness are common, impacting vehicle functionality. |
Medium | Common | N/A miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado:
Transmission issues, including shuddering and loss of power, are the most common problems.
Fuel system issues, such as fuel pump recalls, are frequent.
Electrical system malfunctions, including sensor failures and touch screen unresponsiveness, are reported.
Touch screen unresponsiveness and Apple CarPlay unavailability are common issues.
Recall Details for the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado
The following 1 recall has been issued for the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado by NHTSA:
Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015-2018 GMC Canyon, 2016-2017 Buick Envision, 2016-2018 Chevrolet Colorado and Malibu, 2017-2018 GMC Acadia, 2018 Buick LaCrosse, Cadillac ATS, Chevrolet Equinox, and GMC Terrain vehicles. The high pressure fuel pump may detach from its mounting flange, possibly resulting in the pump damaging the high pressure fuel line.
Consequence: A damaged fuel line can create a fuel leak, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the high pressure fuel pump, and high pressure fuel pipe, free of charge. The recall began July 2, 2018. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 18188.
NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado
Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 1 complaint involved crashes. 1 involved fires.
Luggage and shudders at cruise speed, seems like auto transmission is coming apart. Paid $500 for the trans flush the service bulletin suggests but didn’t help, shop quoted a $8000 replacement on a vehicle with 60k miles. This should be a recall
7.5 amp to fuel injectors has blown 2 times unknow reason causing loss of power 1st time on country road then 2nd time on a highway it's a common problem from the Chevy Colorado forums regarding the 2.8l lwn engine
Highlighting a materials defect with the rear crankshaft reluctor ring on the 2.8 LWN Duramax, installed in the Army Infantry Squad Vehicle and the 2015-2023 Chevrolet Colorado, from which it is based. When the ring delaminates, due to age, the vehicle engine shuts off and no start, rendered dead lined, as the ECU can no longer "see" the crank position. Requiring the transmission to be removed to ...
transmission is not shfting properly.Truck losses speed and shutters when trying to accelerate.Difficulty climbing hills.Especially dangerous when merging with traffic.Only 33,000 miles on my truck.GM should recall to address this much complained about issue.
All the sensors seem to not be functioning correctly. Doesn't tell me the right measurements for the wheels, gas, over heating. Right front passenger door locks/unlocks when it wants. It chokes up when trying to accelerate. Theres a rattling noise that comes from under the car. First time I took it to the dealership, they stated it was a bolt that had come loose on the exhaust pipe. They placed a ...
Transmission oil leak with only 60,000 miles just bought from a dealership as is 3 days ago and was not informed of the issue
Saturday July 12, 2025: My truck got an ACTION Required notice: "Exhaust fluid Quality Poor See Owners Manual NOW 100 miles until 65MPH Max speed" I turned around and returned home to get a different vehicle to do what i needed to do. Monday, July 14 My mechanic hooked it up to the vehicle scanner and got the code information: "P11D5: NOx Sensor 2 Exceeded Minimum Learning limit (Symptom 00) - Cu...
The problem started two months ago, with a loss of engine power and a stability track warning on the dashboard. This happened occasionally while driving, often going away on its own by turning off the vehicle. Two weeks ago, I took it to Chevrolet for an inspection. They did a general inspection and said it was a factory defect. Now, the vehicle has the problem constantly, and there are times when...
Clunking sound coming from rear end upon normal acceleration. When I take my foot off of the brake pedal, and depress the gas pedal, A loud clunk appears to come from the differential. If I coast first and then depress the gas pedal, it is not as pronounced. When you slow down to make a corner, and resume speed exiting the corner it is also pronounced. It should be noted that I am a safe adult dr...
The issue is with the transmission not shifting as should. The issue is called Shuddering and seems to be a know isuue. If you google search issues with 2018 Chevy Colorado this is the first issue that comes up. This could cause an accident. If gears aren’t shifting properly and I cannot excel as needed I could be rear ended or cause me not to be able merge into traffic if once accelerating it shu...
The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Colorado. The contact stated that upon arriving to his destination, he observed gasoline leaking underneath the vehicle near the fuel filler neck. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the fuel pump seal. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mile...
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2018 Chevrolet Colorado. The contact stated that while attempting to service the vehicle, it was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a dealer sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was approximately 47,000 and at the time of registration, it was discovered that the mileage was 162,000.
Touch screen not responsive, apple carplay unavailable can’t connect phone, will randomly tap apps and puts calls on hold. Will flip pages on its own and even turn the back up camera on when driving down the road
P2738 Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 6 Control Circuit Low Voltage. Whenever you drive, the transmission will go into limp mode every now and then. It will say low oil pressure and throw another code of P0700 MIL Request From TCM. This is a common issue that I have researched and would like to know a way forward. I've only had the vehicle for 6 months. Within city limits as long as you don't push...
The ignition switch will frequently lock when turning off and not allow the electrical system to fully turn off and prevent you from removing the key. It happens randomly but has been increasing in frequency.
The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Colorado. The contact stated that while his daughter was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost power and the driver observed a high pitch sound coming from the engine compartment. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was steered to the side of the road and turned off. The vehicle was not able to restart. The vehicle was towed to ...
Fuel system leak and yes, it is available for inspection. My safety was at risk while I was driving the truck and smelled a very strong odor of gasoline enter the cab of the truck while I was driving with the windows rolled up. I immediately stopped the truck and got out and noticed flames coming out from underneath the bed in front of the left rear wheel, then the gas tank ignited shooting flames...
Suddenly losing power, shifting hard, slipping between gears, causing shuddering while driving, and surging forward while accelerating.
Key can't be removed when the truck is in park. Locks go up and down when vehicle is moving. Transmission stuck in 3rd gear. Stabilitrack and traction control indicator lights appear on dashboard. Exhaust brake and traction control switches don't work.
At around the 105k mile range the truck would make a gear whine sound and shudder between gears at around the 50mph range, speeding up or slowing down a bit would fix the issue. By 110k miles the truck was making the gear whine sound at speeds over 10 miles an hour studdering at every gear change. I took it to a mechanic who said there were no TSB's for the truck and suggested doing a trans oil du...
Showing 20 of 173 complaints. Additional complaints are available via the NHTSA database.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado
Has the 2018 CHEVROLET COLORADO been recalled?
Yes, the 2018 CHEVROLET COLORADO has 1 recall on record with NHTSA. Each recall addresses a specific safety defect identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA.
How many complaints does the 2018 CHEVROLET COLORADO have?
The 2018 CHEVROLET COLORADO has 173 complaints filed with NHTSA. Of these, 3 involved crashes. 3 injuries and 0 deaths have been reported.
What is the safety rating for the 2018 CHEVROLET COLORADO?
The 2018 CHEVROLET COLORADO received an overall NHTSA safety rating of good (4/5). Frontal crash: 4/5. Side crash: 5/5. Rollover: 3/5.
What are the most common problems with the 2018 CHEVROLET COLORADO?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2018 CHEVROLET COLORADO involve power train (59 complaints), unknown or other (19 complaints), electrical system (14 complaints). Other affected components include steering, fuel/propulsion system, engine.
How many crash reports does the 2018 CHEVROLET COLORADO have?
There are 3 crash reports associated with the 2018 CHEVROLET COLORADO out of 173 total complaints (1.7% of complaints involved crashes).
How many fire reports does the 2018 CHEVROLET COLORADO have?
There are 5 fire reports for the 2018 CHEVROLET COLORADO out of 173 total complaints. Fire reports are among the most serious safety concerns tracked by NHTSA.
Are there any deaths reported for the 2018 CHEVROLET COLORADO?
No deaths have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2018 CHEVROLET COLORADO.
How many injuries are reported for the 2018 CHEVROLET COLORADO?
3 injuries have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2018 CHEVROLET COLORADO. These are self-reported by vehicle owners as part of their safety complaints.
Should I buy a 2018 CHEVROLET COLORADO?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2018 CHEVROLET COLORADO is acceptable with caveats. It has 173 complaints, 1 recalls, and a good (4/5) safety rating. Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.
What components fail most on the 2018 CHEVROLET COLORADO?
The components with the most failures on the 2018 CHEVROLET COLORADO are: 1. POWER TRAIN (59 complaints), 2. UNKNOWN OR OTHER (19 complaints), 3. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (14 complaints), 4. STEERING (10 complaints), 5. FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (6 complaints). POWER TRAIN is the single most-reported problem area with 59 complaints.
What should I know before buying a 2018 CHEVROLET COLORADO?
Be aware of potential transmission and fuel system issues, as well as electrical system malfunctions, when considering a 2018 Chevrolet Colorado. The 2018 CHEVROLET COLORADO has 173 NHTSA complaints and 1 recalls on record. NHTSA rates it good (4/5).
How reliable is the 2018 CHEVROLET COLORADO?
The 2018 CHEVROLET COLORADO receives a reliability score of 55/100, indicating average reliability. This is based on 173 owner complaints, 1 recalls, and 8 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include Fuel System Recall and Transmission Shuddering.
What are the known issues with the 2018 CHEVROLET COLORADO?
Known issues with the 2018 CHEVROLET COLORADO include: Fuel System Recall, Transmission Shuddering, Touch Screen Issues, Electrical System Malfunctions. These are based on patterns found across 173 NHTSA complaints. 1 of these patterns resulted in formal recalls.
What are the most common issues with the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado?
The most common issues are transmission shuddering, fuel system problems, and electrical system malfunctions.
Are there any recalls for the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado?
Yes, there is a recall for fuel pump issues affecting certain models.
What should I do if I experience transmission shuddering?
Have the transmission checked by a professional mechanic to diagnose and address the issue.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Be aware of potential transmission and fuel system issues, as well as electrical system malfunctions, when considering a 2018 Chevrolet Colorado.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2018 Chevrolet Colorado
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado. The data includes 173 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 1 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 3 reported crashes, 5 fire incidents, 3 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 3 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.
Disclaimer: This analysis is AI-generated from NHTSA public data and does not constitute professional automotive or safety advice. Always verify recall status at NHTSA.gov and consult a qualified mechanic.
Analysis last updated: 2026-05-14