Chevrolet Traverse problems
The Chevrolet Traverse is a full-size crossover SUV with three-row seating built by General Motors. It is built on the same platform as the GMC Acadia and Buick Enclave, known as the Lambda platform for the first generation, and the C1XX for the second generation. It also shares the C1XX platform with the Cadillac XT6. It is the successor to the TrailBlazer body-on-frame SUV and the Uplander minivan.
The second-generation model debuted in showrooms in the summer of 2017. Starting with the 2019 model year, the Traverse was slotted above the new mid-size Chevrolet Blazer as part of Chevrolet's plans to expand its SUV lineup.
The Traverse name was originally used for a concept car at the 2003 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, but that concept gave way when the Equinox launched for the 2005 model year.
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Chevrolet Traverse model years
Common Chevrolet Traverse problems
The Chevrolet Traverse, a popular midsize SUV, is known for its spacious interior and robust performance. However, it has faced several issues over the years, as reported by its owners.
One of the most common problems with the Chevrolet Traverse is transmission failure. This issue began with the 2015 Chevrolet Traverse.
Another problem area for the Chevrolet Traverse is engine issues. The 2010 Chevrolet Traverse has been reported to have engine problems that can leave drivers stranded. The engine can stop working while in use, which can also be a safety issue.
Steering issues have also been reported for the 2009-2011 Chevrolet Traverse models. Drivers have reported difficulty turning and steering their vehicles, which can increase the risk of accidents. This issue has been reported to occur around 80,000 miles on the odometer, with an average repair cost of $1,000.
Airbag problems have been reported for the 2014-2017 Chevrolet Traverse models. The inflator in some airbags has been known to rupture, which can cause injury to the driver and/or passengers. This issue led to a recall for the defective airbags.
In summary, the Chevrolet Traverse has faced several issues over the years, including transmission failure, engine problems, steering issues, and airbag problems. While the Traverse is a popular and capable midsize SUV, potential buyers should be aware of these issues and consider them when making their purchasing decision.
What is the main problem with the Chevy Traverse?
And even vehicle fires. On the nhtsa's. Website one complaint says while at a traffic light the engine Auto Stop engaged.
Are Chevy Traverse a reliable car?
The Chevrolet Traverse has been deemed to be a reliable vehicle. According to JD Power, the 2021 Traverse scored 85 out of a possible 100 for reliability. Some models have better reliability than others. For instance, the 2009 Chevrolet Traverse had more issues because it was the introductory year for this model.
What are the bad years for traverse?
Owners of 2009-2011 Chevrolet Traverses encountered steering problems on their SUVs. Stories of drivers struggling to turn and steer their vehicles are posted on CarComplaints.com. A few of these affected owners said that this steering issue almost put them in dangerous situations.
Do Chevy Traverses have transmission problems?
If you pick the right year for the Chevy Traverse, they are an excellent selection. Although they can struggle in the engine department, there aren't drastically worse transmission troubles in this system than in similar cars. It's a solid mid-size SUV choice.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Chevrolet Traverse years
We have researched Chevrolet problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Chevrolet Traverse cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Chevrolet Traverse model years:
- Chevrolet Traverse 2010
- Chevrolet Traverse 2011
- Chevrolet Traverse 2014
- Chevrolet Traverse 2009
- Chevrolet Traverse 2012
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Chevrolet Traverse model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Chevrolet Traverse years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Chevrolet Traverse car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Chevrolet Traverse , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Air bags problems
- Engine problems
- Steering problems
- Power train problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Chevrolet Traverse vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Traverse model years
A total of 133 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Traverse model years
There were a total of 25 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Traverse model years
There were a total of 154 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Traverse model years
There were a total of 3 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 4405 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Chevrolet Traverse . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Chevrolet Traverse vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Chevrolet Traverse 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
- VIN: 1GNEVGKW0LJ
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: After getting my suv back i been notice that ticking sound while driving over 40 mph can't pin point were it coming from the dealership or anybody cannot locate it it happens with speeds.over 40 not exxeced over 60 mph
Chevrolet Traverse 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
- VIN: 1GNEVGKW0LJ
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: While taking off after being stop the alclenton the tramssmion slip into gear late and you can notice it while foot on pedel after u take off oil was.change but still the same delership says it comon with this suv
Chevrolet Traverse 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: 1GNEVFKW6KJ
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The shift to park constantly appears when you go to park the vehicle only to be resolved with shaking the stick and clicking the button to get it to park fully. Additionally this car has had to have the alternator replaced after only 4 years of having it which I find to be ridiculous and have heard many other customers have had the same issue of it failing early on I think there must be something deeper to that.
Chevrolet Traverse 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-19
- VIN: 1GNERFKW1JJ
- Components: POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: Transmission issues :hard shifts, shift delays , hesitation upon acceleration, trouble on reverse gear. Engine issues: grinding noises , ticking noises ,check engine light turning on, loss of power engine Vibrating in steering wheel when braking.
Chevrolet Traverse 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
- VIN: 1GNEVGKW7LJ
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: On 10/12/24, I received an error code that my charging system needed serviced. I was about an hour from my house when I saw the error. I immediately turned on the voltage display and it said the voltage was 11.8. As I was driving home I had an additional error message that said entering battery saver mode. Luckily, I made it home before I was left stranded on the side of the road in the middle of the night. With only 57,323 miles on my car, I had NO idea it would be the alternator. I took my car to Auto Zone to have the battery tested and they said it was fine. I had my mechanic check on Monday 10/14/24, and it turns out the alternator was indeed bad. S
Chevrolet Traverse 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
- VIN: 1GNKRGKD8HJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Chevrolet Traverse. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V334000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Chevrolet Traverse 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
- VIN: 1GNKRFKD6EJ
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Chevrolet Traverse. The contact stated while driving approximately 75 MPH and depressing the brake pedal, the vehicle unintendedly decelerated to 40 MPH. The message "Engine Power Reduced" was displayed. The contact pulled to the side of the road and allowed the vehicle to cool down. The contact stated that as he resumed driving, the failure recurred several times. The contact replaced the brake position sensor; however, the failure recurred while driving. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the steering angle position sensor and the BCM were replaced; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V614000(Electrical System); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 170,000.
Chevrolet Traverse 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-16
- VIN: 1GNERHKW7KJ
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2019 Chevrolet Traverse. The contact stated that while stopped at red lights and stop signs on several occasions, the vehicle began jerking. Additionally, when the vehicle was in park (P), a "shift to park message" appeared. The contact stated the gear shift had to be forcibly moved to the park (P) position for the gear to register. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 128,100.
Chevrolet Traverse 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-16
- VIN: 1GNERFKW6KJ
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: When shifting into park I get a message on my dash to shift into park and the car will not shutoff. I have to jiggle the shifter knob a few times for it to shutoff again and again. It's a real problem and should have a recall on it.
Chevrolet Traverse 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-16
- VIN: 1GNKRHKD6FJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Chevrolet Traverse. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V334000(Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. No further information was provided. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Chevrolet Traverse 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: 1GNERKKW1JJ
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Traverse. The contact stated while parking the vehicle, the shift gear was shifted to park, however, the contact stated that the vehicle did not turn off as intended. The contact stated that when turning the engine off, a warning light illuminated indicating shift to park instead. In addition, the contact stated that the vehicle did not turn off. The contact stated that the failure began a year ago, however the failure has become persistent. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline and report the failure. The failure mileage was 80,000.
Chevrolet Traverse 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-10
- VIN: 1GNKRHKD8HJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Chevrolet Traverse. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V334000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was contacted. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Chevrolet Traverse 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-10
- VIN: 1GNERFKW8LJ
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Special coverage for 2019 and 2021 model traverses for front exhaust pipe - but not for 2020 models and it’s the exact same issue.
Chevrolet Traverse 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-09
- VIN: 1GNKRHKD1EJ
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: My car started lagging while driving and the power was low. And vehicle started shaking. Traction Tire keeps automatically shutting off and through investigation I found it was from TCM or EMC. But when looking at fuse box all fuses look burnt. I noticed there were other recalls on this year of vehicle that could possibly match up with my issue however my specific vehicle only has one incomplete recall. I’d like to know there were any other recalls that were “fixed” I’m not the first owner of this vehicle. I want to know what else I can do before going and buying a part. Electrical is not included in my warranty.
Chevrolet Traverse 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-08
- VIN: 1GNERFKW5MJ
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: 2021 Chevy Traverse went out in September, it would shutter causing take off to jerk so hard and cause traffic to stall, hurting passengers necks, and almost causing accidents
Latest 5 recalls Chevrolet Traverse
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 66 recalls for different components of the Chevrolet Traverse.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Chevrolet Traverse 2015
- Report Received Date: 2023-05-10
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2014-2017 Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse, and GMC Acadia vehicles. The driver's air bag inflator may explode during deployment, due to a manufacturing defect.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the driver's air bag module, free of charge. GM began mailing final owner letters February 23, 2024. Owner notification letters were mailed September 25, 2024. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N232404980.
- Model: Chevrolet Traverse 2017
- Report Received Date: 2023-05-10
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2014-2017 Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse, and GMC Acadia vehicles. The driver's air bag inflator may explode during deployment, due to a manufacturing defect.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the driver's air bag module, free of charge. GM began mailing final owner letters February 23, 2024. Owner notification letters were mailed September 25, 2024. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N232404980.
- Model: Chevrolet Traverse 2014
- Report Received Date: 2023-05-10
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2014-2017 Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse, and GMC Acadia vehicles. The driver's air bag inflator may explode during deployment, due to a manufacturing defect.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the driver's air bag module, free of charge. GM began mailing final owner letters February 23, 2024. Owner notification letters were mailed September 25, 2024. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N232404980.
- Model: Chevrolet Traverse 2016
- Report Received Date: 2023-05-10
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2014-2017 Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse, and GMC Acadia vehicles. The driver's air bag inflator may explode during deployment, due to a manufacturing defect.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the driver's air bag module, free of charge. GM began mailing final owner letters February 23, 2024. Owner notification letters were mailed September 25, 2024. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N232404980.
- Model: Chevrolet Traverse 2023
- Report Received Date: 2023-03-16
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2023 Cadillac XT6, GMC Acadia, Chevrolet Blazer, Traverse, and 2022-2023 Cadillac XT5 vehicles. The transmission may have been built with an incorrect sun gear, which can result in the driver-side half-shaft disengaging from the transmission.
- Consequence: A half-shaft disengaging from the transmission can result in a loss of drive power or vehicle rollaway when the vehicle is placed in park. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the sun gears, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 27, 2023. The remedy is expected to become available August 31, 2023. Owners may contact 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. GMC's number for this recall is N222389310.
Latest negative Chevrolet Traverse car reviews
Latest positive Chevrolet Traverse car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2023
The Chevy Traverse LS entry-level trim offers a plethora of features at an unbeatable price. It provides an exceptionally smooth ride, akin to that of a high-end luxury car, and boasts plenty of seating. Being an American car with the popular 3.6 engine and drivetrain, it is easy to service and ensures years of reliable use. Additionally, the front-wheel drive provides excellent traction in both rain and snow. After test driving dozens of cars, I found that the Traverse was by far the best choice in terms of value and quality.
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Vehicle year: 2009
I hope you're doing well! I wanted to share my experience with this car. Initially, I absolutely loved it! It has the best interior layout in its class, with captain's chairs in the back, leather seats, and a DVD player with Bose 5.1 surround sound. However, after driving it for 9000 miles, we noticed a hesitation issue and took it back to the dealer. Unfortunately, they couldn't find anything wrong. The issue continued to worsen, and on the third visit at 18K miles, they finally replaced the coil pack on cylinder #1. Unfortunately, the issue persisted and at 32K miles, they had to replace it again for the same issue.
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Vehicle year: 2016
This is great to hear! It sounds like you've had an amazing experience with your vehicle. It's always wonderful to have a reliable and spacious car for long trips.
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Vehicle year: 2014
I recently purchased a new Traverse and overall, I'm quite pleased with it. However, I have noticed that the headrest can be a bit uncomfortable as it sticks out quite far and causes some neck pain. It doesn't seem to be adjustable, so it's important to make sure you're comfortable with the seat before taking it for a test drive. Just something to keep in mind!
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Vehicle year: 2017
As someone who previously owned a 2015 Journey, I can confidently say that I am enjoying my 2017 Chevy Traverse much more. I opted for the mid-range LT1 model, which has proven to be incredibly spacious and comfortable. The ride is smooth and the captains chairs in the middle row provide extra comfort for backseat passengers, while also making it easier to access the 3rd row. The interior has a classy feel with its dual brown/gray color combination. Additionally, the Traverse has better fuel economy and much more storage space, both with the 3rd row up and down. From the driver's perspective, it's also much more fun to drive as it handles very well. However, I do have a few minor complaints. The infotainment center isn't as up to date and user-friendly as the Journey, and it doesn't connect to my iPhone 5s, so I can't use the texting or Pandora features. It also starts with a key instead of a button start, which means I have to get used to having my keys out when I leave. Finally, it doesn't have a digital speedometer, which I've grown accustomed to having since my 2012 Dodge Caravan. Despite these minor issues, I believe that all of these features have been upgraded in the 2018 Traverse. If I were to get another Traverse in two years and those features were upgraded, I would give it 5 stars.
Are you having problems with your Chevrolet Traverse?
Brain Hackett 2025-06-20
Vehicle year: 2010
Has anyone else experienced sudden power loss and acceleration issues with their 2011 Traverse, followed by error messages for both the traction control and stabilitrak systems? This is my fourth trip to the dealer for this issue, and I'm at a loss. There are no warning signs, just a series of dings and a loss of power. The dealer has tried fixing sensor and transmission issues, and now they believe it's a throttle body problem. Has anyone else had this issue, and if so, what finally fixed your car? Thank you for your help! My car has been having this issue for the past 8 months and has about 65,000 miles. Prior to this, there were no major issues or problems with the car. I recently spoke to Gwendolyn at Chevy's main number, and she is personally going to ensure the dealership in Waldorf, Maryland fixes this problem. I told Chevy that this car is not reliable, and I'm afraid to drive it. It's only 5 years old with 67,000 miles and is acting like a 20-year-old car. This issue needs to be investigated for a possible 50-state recall to pay for all repairs from here on out. Today, I was coming from the vet, and the car just powered down. All controls read nothing (no water, no gas, no speed, everything is off the charts). This is scary, and you can't make the car go because the gas isn't going through. Something is stopping everything.
Marquis Haag 2025-06-17
Vehicle year: 2013
We bought our 2013 Traverse pre-owned in January 2016. It was a GM Certified Pre-owned with warranty coverage, which was great. I absolutely love how it drives, especially for such a large SUV. The back-up camera and sensors are also fantastic features. Even on long road trips, we were generally comfortable. My husband, who is 6'5I just wanted to say that the dealership and service I deal with is fantastic. They are currently helping me find a comparable vehicle to do an even trade and are giving me a good value for my car. I am so thankful for their help. Although I may have bought the one truly defective Traverse, it has been nothing but a headache from the get-go.
Lawson Little 2025-06-14
Vehicle year: 2009
I have experienced a number of issues with my vehicle over the past 6 months. Despite the dealer initially stating that there was no problem, the check engine light eventually came on and my car was in their possession for 3 weeks straight. Unfortunately, what started as a timing chain problem turned into transmission issues, which have resulted in poor acceleration due to tire spin, despite the presence of traction control. The dealer has attempted to resolve the issue by replacing the transmission software on 3-4 occasions, but to no avail. Regrettably, I cannot recommend this vehicle to others. It is disappointing that my concerns have not been addressed by GM, and it has led me to reconsider my future purchases from this company.
Mervin Gutkowski 2025-06-13
Vehicle year: 2021
I recently purchased a brand new vehicle and have driven it for less than 1000 miles. However, I have noticed an issue with the brakes. There is a grinding noise throughout the drive, which is louder at first and then lessens as the brakes heat up. The noise can still be heard and felt at mid to higher speeds. I took the vehicle to my local dealership, who informed me that GM is aware of the issue but has not yet found a solution. Even the 2020 models have the same issue and GM has not found a solution yet. Despite this setback, I am confident that GM will find a solution soon.
Jaden Grant 2025-06-13
Vehicle year: 2019
Chevy has a known defect where the message center tells you to shift to park when your car is already in park, preventing you from shutting off the vehicle. Unfortunately, this defect will cost $400 to repair and is not covered if your car has 35k miles. Despite the fact that this issue is present across multiple Chevy models, the manufacturer will not cover the cost. It is clear that this is a maker defect and it is unfair that the consumer must bear the cost. However, it is important to note that this issue can be resolved with a repair, and the car is still a great choice for those who love its look and features.