Owners of the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon trucks may encounter a distinct moaning or howling noise emanating from the rear of their vehicle. This issue has been formally recognized in the recent Technical Service Bulletin (23-NA-208), aiming to guide vehicle owners and technicians through diagnosing and resolving this concern.

Vehicles Affected

Identifying the Noise

The noise in question is described as a growl or howl, most noticeable at the vehicle’s rear. It’s a sound that can cause discomfort and concern for drivers, as it is not typical of standard vehicle operation.

A manufacturing defect on the rear axle assembly of the 2023 Colorado and Canyon
The outer bearing surface on the rear axle shafts of these vehicles may exhibit machining chatter, a form of surface imperfection that occurs during the machining process.

Investigating the Cause

After a thorough investigation, it has been determined that this noise issue may be attributed to a specific manufacturing irregularity. The outer bearing surface on the rear axle shafts of these vehicles may exhibit machining chatter, a form of surface imperfection that occurs during the machining process. This chatter can lead to uneven contact and increased friction with the bearings, thus producing the howling noise that vehicle owners have reported.

The Corrective Procedure

Addressing this issue involves a few key steps. Firstly, it’s crucial to rule out differential carrier bearings as the noise source. If these are not the cause, inspecting the axle shafts is next. This inspection aims to identify the presence of chatter marks on the axle shafts.

If such marks are found, the resolution involves replacing the axle shaft and the associated bearing and seal. This comprehensive approach ensures that any components potentially affected by the machining imperfection are renewed, restoring the vehicle’s rear axle assembly to optimal condition.

See Your Dealer For Help With This Problem

For owners of the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon experiencing this issue, it is recommended to consult with a dealership to address this concern. The replacement process, as outlined in the Technical Service Bulletin, is a straightforward solution to what could be a perplexing and concerning noise for drivers. The repair will be covered under warranty, and a loaner vehicle should be provided if you ask for one.