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: 2020
We purchased our new Traverse from Stocker's Chevrolet. We have owned one since 2017 and it continues to provide us with an amazing ride! We absolutely love it!
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Vehicle year: 2015
I wasn't expecting to purchase this vehicle, but after test driving several options and doing some research, I decided on the Chevrolet Traverse. The Pathfinder and Highlander had uncomfortable seats, while the Ram was great but didn't offer as much value. The Durango was my favorite, but ultimately the Traverse was the best value for the money. I was pleasantly surprised to find that the Traverse comfortably seats all 8 passengers, including my 6 kids. Overall, I'm happy with my decision and excited to see how it performs.
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Vehicle year: 2021
The Traverse is an awesome vehicle that offers great value for money. Although there is a known brake noise issue that GM is working on, it does not affect the performance of the vehicle. I traded in my Equinox for the Traverse and found that it handles even better than the smaller Equinox. The interior is spacious and comfortable for all passengers, including myself as a 6'3'' driver. The safety features are great and make long trips much easier. The third row seating is roomy and easily accessible. When the third row is down, there is a huge amount of space that can hold a wheelchair, battery buggy, and luggage without having to cram it in. The vehicle also has a spacious hidden compartment at the tail end that can hold all the extra stuff that we usually put in our vehicles. The captain seats in the second row provide extra room for personal items like backpacks, school bags, purses, and instruments (I have 9 grandkids). The engine is responsive and shifts smoothly. The Traverse handles better than its smaller cousin, the Equinox, and gets just as good gas mileage. We considered other similar vehicles but found that the Traverse was the smartest choice for us.
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Vehicle year: 2023
I bought this vehicle with just over 5,000 miles on it and have had it for almost 2 months now. I really love the space and style of this vehicle. However, I have experienced a few issues with it. The AC has a strange smell at times, and on one occasion, it even smelled like urine blowing through the vents. Additionally, the brakes have made a loud grinding noise on two separate occasions. I also had an issue with the radio turning on but not playing any sound through the speakers randomly. Although the dealership has replaced the radio, there is still some background static when listening to FM or BLUETOOTH, which seems to be coming only from the speakers on the dashboard and usually sounds worse on the passenger side. I have scheduled my fifth appointment with the dealership, but unfortunately, they don't seem to have a game plan for when I bring it back in. They are just going to call to see if there have been any other issues like this. The only new problem since I last brought it in is the issues with the brakes. I have voiced my concerns during all my appointments, but I never get an answer or explanation about anything. I am currently on a waiting list for another dealership to take a look at the vehicle, and they seem to be taking me a lot more seriously than the previous dealership. I love the vehicle and want to tend to every issue possible, not just because it's under warranty, but because I truly want to be intentional about the maintenance so it doesn't domino effect other issues and my vehicle can last as long as possible. I'm honestly more frustrated with the inconvenience of multiple appointments and absolutely nothing actually being resolved.
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Vehicle year: 2015
I really enjoy this vehicle as a fantastic family car with great value. However, I have had some trouble with the MyLink System. I would like to suggest that General Motors consider redesigning the system as it is not very intuitive and can be frustrating to use. It took me a while to figure out how to set a location for the navigation system, which was not a very enjoyable experience. I hope that this feedback can be taken into consideration for future improvements. Thank you.
Are you having problems with your Chevrolet Traverse?
Deshawn Gislason 2025-06-03
Vehicle year: 2011
Our 2011 Chevy Traverse has been extremely problematic. Despite multiple visits to the dealer, the Stabilitrak issue remains unresolved. We have spent a significant amount of money on repairs, but the problem persists. The most recent issue with the throttle body was a major inconvenience, causing us to miss an important meeting. We are currently considering our options for a replacement vehicle.
Flavio Mitchell 2025-06-02
Vehicle year: 2009
I had a great experience with this car initially, enjoying its smooth ride, spacious interior, and decent gas mileage. However, after four years, the radio speakers stopped working, except for the small one in the dash, unless the temperature was at least 85 degrees. Despite contacting Heritage Chevrolet in Chester, Va three times to schedule an appointment, I was informed that there was a short in the speakers, which affected the On-Star, back up alarm, and turn signal volumes. Heritage suggested replacing the radio, but at a cost of $750, which I found unreasonable. I chose to live without a radio for nine months of the year. Unfortunately, eight months after the warranty expired, a plate in the transmission broke, causing the car to stop changing gears. The repair cost was $4500, and Chevrolet did not offer any assistance. While I am disappointed with the quality of the parts, I understand that these things can happen. I have decided not to purchase another Chevrolet product, but I appreciate the positive experiences I had with Heritage in the past. My independent mechanic has also informed me that the power steering will need to be replaced soon, but I am confident that I can handle any future issues with this car.
Nicolas Greenholt 2025-06-02
Vehicle year: 2022
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. I am hopeful that my vehicle will be fixed and I will be able to enjoy it fully.
Boris Reichel 2025-05-26
Vehicle year: 2016
I bought my Traverse new from the dealer and unfortunately experienced some noticeable shifting issues. However, I did not think that the transmission was going to go out. After 1 and a half years of ownership, the transmission went out at 32,000 miles. This was just the start of my issues. The transmission would shutter when I accelerated rapidly from a standstill, which was a safety issue, especially when turning across traffic or changing lanes. In December 2017, my car was in the shop for almost 2 weeks to have the transmission flushed and clutch debris removed, among other things, all under warranty. Although the shutter continued, I brought it back in and the transmission tech couldn't duplicate my issue, so I got it back after a few days. Of course, once I got it back and drove it, the problem was still there, so I brought it back a couple of months later when I got fed up with the issue. The next tech was able to get the transmission to shutter, so they replaced all 4 clutches in December 2018 under warranty again. Unfortunately, it's still doing it! I will be calling Chevy again to bring it back, and I really believe I need a new transmission. I really believe I got a lemon with this one, and I do not have time for all these repairs. I wouldn't buy another one and would warn others!
Brock Wiegand 2025-05-21
Vehicle year: 2016
My 2016 Traverse (base model fwd) experienced a blown transmission at 43K miles. Fortunately, the repairs were covered by the GM 5 year, 60,000 mile power train warranty. While the Traverse was in the shop for two weeks, the dealer provided us with a loaner vehicle. Although there have been some issues with the wave plate in the transmission, I am confident that the dealership will be able to address any concerns. Despite this setback, I remain a loyal Chevrolet customer and look forward to continued satisfaction with their products.