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: 2021
I'm so glad I chose the 2021 Traverse LT! My family members have a 2019 Highlander XLE and a 2020 Kia Telluride SX, but I needed a 7 seat SUV with captains chairs under $40k, and the Traverse was the only one that fit the bill. While it may not have the same level of refinement as my family's cars, it also didn't come with the same price tag. The engine is powerful and quiet, and the interior is the quietest of the three. The ride is smooth, with only minimal body roll when turning. The rear seats and room are far superior to the other two cars, with the most comfortable captains chairs and the largest and most accessible rear seat. While the Kia has amazing technology and athleticism, and the Highlander has its own strengths, the Traverse is the best choice for me given the significant price difference. Overall, I'm very happy with my decision!
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Vehicle year: 2023
Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my new 2023 Traverse. As a Chevy girl, this is my third Chevy vehicle and I couldn't be happier with my choice. I went for the RS trim and it feels so luxurious compared to my previous cars. With a blended family of six, including four kids ranging from 4 months to 21 years old, this SUV fits us all comfortably with the captain seats in the second row. I did have to get used to the V6 engine, which is much faster than my previous Equinox, and the braking takes a bit longer due to the larger size. However, the infotainment center is amazing and connects directly to my phone, allowing me to display my maps without using OnStar. The trim upgrade, both interior and exterior, is definitely worth the extra money. I was initially concerned about trunk space, but there is an additional compartment under the back floor between the spare tire. Overall, it has been very easy to get used to and discover all the amazing features that are offered. Thanks for listening!
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Vehicle year: 2018
It's great to hear that your '18 Traverse has been running so well! With almost 20K miles on it, the only repair needed was the replacement of the shifter wiring harness under a TSB for the early production units. It's always reassuring to have a reliable vehicle that runs nice and tight, rattle-free, and trouble-free. It's also impressive that this is your family's 35th GM product in the past 50 years, and the best of the bunch!
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Vehicle year: 2013
I can tell you really love your 2012 Chevy Traverse SUV! It sounds like it has everything you need for your large family, from its great looks to its comfortable ride and smooth handling.
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Vehicle year: 2010
I recently completed work on my fifth Jeep and decided to switch to a GM product for my daily driver. Unfortunately, after only 1,500 miles, I began experiencing issues with the transmission such as revving, difficulty shifting into reverse, and strange noises. I took it to the dealership and they informed me that the computer needed to be re-flashed. However, at 8,500 miles, I encountered another issue where the vehicle would not move from a traffic light. I took it back to the dealership and they informed me that something had broken. It has been in the shop for a week now. Despite these setbacks, I still have a fondness for this vehicle and hope to regain my confidence in it soon.
Are you having problems with your Chevrolet Traverse?
Osborne Kuhlman 2025-08-23
Vehicle year: 2009
I currently have 51K on my Traverse and I really like it. It fits our family of five perfectly with room to spare. Although I didn't give the review 5 stars, it's only because I believe there is always room for improvement. Recently, I had a major problem with my steering column. While driving the vehicle, I suddenly and with no warning had no control of my tires - zero steering! When the vehicle was hauled to the shop, I was told that the steering shaft was completely dismembered and fell 'out of place'. Has this happened to anyone before?
Gilberto Kutch 2025-08-18
Vehicle year: 2020
Chevy may want to tell you otherwise, but those are now cupholders on the 2nd row doors. It can be quite irritating to have a 7 passenger SUV without cupholders. Additionally, it would be nice to have auto up and down windows on all doors and the ability to shut off the auto start feature. These are features that even base model Hyundai cars have. Although the Traverse Premier trim level is a nice ride, the lack of these features can be embarrassing. Overall, I am looking forward to exploring other options.
Carol Kling 2025-08-17
Vehicle year: 2014
Before purchasing this car, I would make sure that there were no other cars available anywhere in the world to buy. Although we bought this vehicle when it was brand new, the manufacturer recalls (4 in the first year) and the ongoing odor problem in the A/C system pretty much ruined it for us. After eight visits to the dealer about the odor, the ninth was the charm - exactly one visit beyond the warranty! Once it was out of warranty, they managed to fix the 3-year-plus odor problem for $1300...and then told us to take our complaints to GM if we didn't like it. GM promptly denied our appeals, and when the engine's transmission became rough between 3rd-4th gears, we traded it for a new Honda Pilot the next week. We had had enough, and this was definitely our LAST GM PURCHASE EVER! UPDATE: We still haven't touched a GM product since the original review and it feels great! Anyone believing all those
Foster Schmitt 2025-08-14
Vehicle year: 2013
We bought this car from a used car dealer with 115k miles on it. Unfortunately, we had to replace the transmission after only 3 months, which cost us $4500. The gas mileage has been lower than expected, averaging around 20 mpg on mostly highway driving and 14-16 mpg around town, despite EPA estimates of 24 mpg. Additionally, the captains chairs are not ideal for our family of 5, especially with 2 car seats. The bench option would have been a better fit for us. With the 3rd row up, storage room is limited. While the engine can feel strained at times, we do appreciate how quiet the car is on the road. Overall, we had a few negatives with this Chevy and will likely consider other brands in the future. However, we are grateful for the quiet ride it provides.
Clovis Tromp 2025-08-13
Vehicle year: 2010
I purchased my Traverse brand new in 2010, trading in my well-used Tahoe. My family and I were looking for a vehicle that was more family-friendly and less 'truck-like' for me to drive. As my husband is in the military and is often away, I do a lot of driving long distances by myself. The car has 37k miles on it, with about 30k of those being highway miles, and is regularly maintained at a Chevy dealer. While I did have to have the steering rack replaced at 35k miles, which was luckily covered under warranty, I am now in need of replacing the o2 sensor, which unfortunately is not covered under warranty. Additionally, I had some issues with the tire sensors. While these are not major repairs, it does feel like I am being 'nickel & dimed' on a $30k car. I can't help but feel like I could have spent less and had fewer troubles!