- Tip 1: Air conditioner problems
- Tip 2: Lighting
- Tip 3: Recalls
- Tip 4: Powertrain trouble
- Tip 5: Warranty and diagnostics
- Final thought
Model year 2015 marked the introduction of a new, second-generation version of GM’s mid-sized pickups—the GMC Canyon and Chevrolet Colorado. At the time, smaller vehicles were enjoying a surge in popularity, and pickup trucks were no exception. According to GM, these mid-sized trucks were geared towards a shopper after a capable pickup that was easy to navigate in congested spaces, or to fit in a smaller garage.
The 2015 GMC Canyon short-bed crew cab is 212.7 inches long—some 17 inches shorter than a comparable Sierra 1500. An overall width of 74.3 inches is five inches narrower than the Sierra, and just two inches wider than the GMC Terrain compact SUV of the same year.
Shoppers can consider gasoline-powered versions with four- or six-cylinder options including a 2.5 litre Ecotec four; or a 3.6 litre V6. For model year 2016, a 2.8-litre Duramax turbodiesel engine was added. Three cab configurations were on offer, as was two- or four-wheel-drive.
An available EZ Lift-and-Lower tailgate employed an internal torsion bar to make raising the tailgate easier with one hand; and a damper for softer and more controlled lowering. Towing capacity varied by model and powertrain, with some units offering maximum towing capacity approaching 7,000 lbs. For a closer look at GM’s trailering and towing charts for more.
2018 Chevrolet Colorado Diesel Photo by Chevrolet
Note that many models included an Eaton locking rear axle as standard, which helps boost traction in slippery conditions and winter driving, with less need to engage the 4×4 system.
Look for OnStar, premium audio systems, lane-departure alert, automatic lights and climate control, a sunroof, and both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which were added for 2016. If you’re set on having either of these smartphone connectivity features in your truck, be sure both are present and functional in the Canyon or Colorado you’re considering. Both systems could be added to older trucks with a software update, but you’ll have to contact your dealer for more information.
Shoppers after the best infotainment and connectivity experience from this generation of GM’s mid-size pickups, consider a 2019 or later unit. For model year 2019, improved infotainment systems were added to the lineup with expanded functionality, and upgrades like enhanced voice recognition, an HD rearview camera system, and improved on-board microphone performance for phone calls.
2021 GMC Canyon AT4 Off-Road Performance Edition Photo by GMC
Tip 1: Air conditioner problems
Some owners of GMC Canyon and Chevrolet Colorado models have experienced trouble with freezing, poorly-performing, or non-functional air conditioners. Most have not. These issues seem more likely on earlier units from this generation, for instance, model years 2015 and 2016.
On your test drive, be on the lookout for a few warning signs. First, check the front footwell carpeting where it meets the front firewall for signs of dampness, mould, or moisture, which could be evidence of a leak from the air conditioner caused by a buildup of ice. Second, confirm that the cabin air filter is fresh and clean, noting that a failure to properly replace the cabin air filter in a timely fashion is a leading cause of air conditioner and heater performance issues.
Stress-test the air conditioner by parking the vehicle for a few minutes after your test drive, in the sun, and running the A/C on its strongest setting. Confirm that the system is able to provide a strong and steady stream of cold air, cycling through each available vent to confirm proper air flow.
Generally, performance issues with the air conditioner can be fixed with a software update or refrigerant top-up, though other problems may be at play. If in doubt, have a dealer technician investigate. Check the engine coolant level as well. A low coolant reading can be a sign of several problems—including a not unheard-of leaking heater core, which can affect heater performance.
2018 Chevrolet Colorado Z71 Photo by Chevrolet
Tip 2: Lighting
Some owners of Canyon and Colorado models from this generation have complained of disappointing performance from the factory-installed headlights. Many have not. On your test drive, confirm that the headlight housings are in good shape, are clear, and are un-damaged. Look for signs of moisture or condensation buildup inside of the headlight housings, and note that any haze or discoloration of the lenses can reduce after-dark lighting performance.
If you’ll do a lot of driving after dark, budgeting for a set of upgraded headlight bulbs might be just the ticket to enhance after-dark confidence, according to the owner’s community.
2018 GMC Canyon SLT Diesel Photo by General Motors
Tip 3: Recalls
Canyon and Colorado models from this generation were subjected to various recalls that intend to address latent safety defects. Recall work is performed free of charge by the dealership to make your vehicle safer, so you’ll want to be sure that any outstanding recall work has been performed, if applicable.
Some models were affected by recalls, others were not. With your new truck’s VIN in hand, visit GM’s recall site to see which, if any, recalls apply to the specific vehicle you’re considering. For more details on recalls, check out Transport Canada.
After your purchase, contact GM Canada to register as the truck’s new owner and provide your contact information. This will help make sure you’re notified of any future recalls in a timely fashion. Vehicles that have been regularly dealer-serviced, or models sold as part of a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program, are likely to have had outstanding recall work performed already.
The 2.8-litre Duramax diesel in the 2017 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Photo by Chevrolet
Tip 4: Powertrain trouble
Some owners have reported engine and driveline trouble from their Canyons and Colorados. Most have not.
On your test drive, note that 2017 and newer models used a new 8-speed automatic transmission. Some owners complained of rough shifting, poor throttle response, and a notable wait for gears to switch when changing from Drive to Reverse. GM released Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) to help dealers correct issues like these.
According to the owner’s community, problems with gear shift quality may be affected by moisture content within the transmission fluid. This is why switching to a revised fluid formulation can often fix issues.
If you notice any unwanted behaviour from the transmission during your test drive, especially in the form of an unusual shuddering sensation, solutions commonly involve a software update and transmission flush, though pricier hardware issues may also be at play. You’ll want to know before you buy, so be sure to have a professional investigate if you notice anything you don’t like.
Owners of diesel-powered models commonly report a trouble-free ownership experience, though some have experienced trouble with electronics or sensors that control the diesel engine’s emissions system. The most reliable Duramax-powered models tend to be the ones that have been regularly dealer-serviced, updated, and religiously maintained.
Test-driving shoppers should also check for warning messages while shifting between two- and four-wheel-drive, and have the vehicle inspected for signs of leakage or fluid seepage from the axles and differentials.
The 2019 Chevrolet Colorado Z71 Trail Runner Photo by Chevrolet
Tip 5: Warranty and diagnostics
If the Colorado or Canyon you’re considering is still covered by factory warranty, you’ll want to be sure to have all service records showing consistent and timely maintenance throughout the vehicle’s life. Remember that a failure to properly maintain the vehicle as outlined in the owner’s manual, whether by you or a previous owner, can lead to damage and wear that’s not covered by warranty. Even a single skipped or stretched fluid change or inspection and servicing can put remaining warranty in jeopardy.
A pre-purchase diagnostic scan is an excellent idea, too. Even if there’s no Check Engine light or error message illuminated, the computer in the truck you’re considering may be storing one or more ‘trouble codes’ that can provide insight into a potential problem. These trouble codes can be accessed using specialized equipment, ideally in a dealer setting. A diagnostic scan takes a few minutes and is one of your single best defences against buying a secondhand truck with concealed problems.
Final thought
These tips are designed to help test-driving shoppers more easily identify possible trouble areas reported by some owners. An attentive test drive and shopping process that focuses on the areas above can help you find a first-class example of a second-hand GMC Canyon or Chevrolet Colorado.
Keyword: Used Guide: 2015-2021 GMC Canyon and Chevrolet Colorado