If a 2017-2020 Colorado or Canyon model will not move or the transmission slips when shifted into any gear range immediately after flat towing the vehicle, inspect the internal components of the transmission for any signs of severe overheating due to a lack of lubrication. Repair the vehicle as needed.
The dinghy towing (Fig. 19) procedure may not be clear in the Owner’s Manual of the 2017-2020 Colorado and Canyon. If the vehicle is not towed correctly, damage may occur to the transmission.
Fig. 19
Dinghy Towing
Two-wheel drive vehicles should not be towed with all four wheels on the ground (dinghy towing). If a two-wheel drive vehicle is towed with all four wheels on the ground, drivetrain damage may occur.
Four-wheel drive vehicles can be dinghy towed if the vehicle has a Neutral and Four-Wheel Drive Low setting.
Before dinghy towing a four-wheel drive vehicle, with the parking brake applied and the engine running, shift the transfer case to Neutral (N). Check that the vehicle is in Neutral by shifting the transmission to Reverse and then to Drive. There should not be any movement of the vehicle while shifting. Shift the transmission to Park.
Also disconnect the negative battery cable at the battery and cover the negative battery post with a non-conductive material to prevent any contact with the negative battery terminal. Keep the ignition in the Accessory position to prevent the steering column from locking. The steering column may be damaged if it is locked.
Refer to #PIP5699 for additional information.
– Thanks to Steve Schipansky
