2016 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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Common 2016 Chevrolet Traverse problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse, several common problems have been reported:
- Bluetooth Connectivity Issues: Some owners have faced Bluetooth connectivity problems within the first 10,000 miles of owning the vehicle. A software update for the stereo system can improve the reliability of the Bluetooth connection, with installation costs usually under $100 at Chevy dealerships.
- Burning Oil: Burning oil has been reported by Traverse owners at around 60,000 miles. While most engines consume some oil, the Traverse's V6 engine may burn more than normal in certain cases. Replacing seals for this issue costs around $1,200, but regular oil checks can help avoid this expense.
- Recalls: The 2016 Traverse has had several recalls, including issues with the third-row seat frame welds, airbags, and windshield wiper motor overheating. These recalls have addressed safety concerns and have been managed by Chevrolet through inspections and necessary replacements at no cost to owners.
- Steering and Suspension: Complaints have been made regarding shocks, struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage, power steering, wheel balance, springs, and bushings. Owners have reported issues such as leaking hoses, shocks not rebounding, and clunking noises, which required replacements and repairs costing hundreds of dollars.
These problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance and prompt attention to any warning lights or unusual sounds to ensure the longevity and reliability of the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse.
What are the known problems with 2016 Chevy Traverse?
Owner Reported Trouble Spots
- Steering And Suspension. ...
- Transmission Major. ...
- Noises And Leaks. ...
- Electrical Accessories. ...
- Climate System. ...
- Transmission Minor. ...
- Brakes. ...
- Fuel System/Emissions.
What is the most common 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.
Is the 2016 Chevy Traverse a good car?
Edmunds says
Do you need a big SUV that can shuttle lots of people and cargo? The 2016 Chevrolet Traverse is made for you. Besides its utilitarian abilities, it's also pleasant to drive and will make the most of your money with its abundant features.
How many miles does a 2016 Chevy Traverse last?
200,000 miles
The expected lifespan of a Chevrolet Traverse is 200,000 miles. However, many Traverse owners have kept their vehicles for more than that, with some reaching 250,000 miles with only minor issues. Older models are more inclined to rust, which can cause damage to the undercarriage and other components.
Is 2016 Chevy Traverse problems?
Common problems found on the 2016 Chevy Traverse include stabilitrak warning lights, Bluetooth connectivity issues, as well as burning oil. Overall, these problems are average compared to other large SUVs with similar repair costs, too. Stabilitrak warning lights show up on some Traverse models at around 40,000 miles.
Is the 2016 Chevy Traverse a good car?
Edmunds says
Do you need a big SUV that can shuttle lots of people and cargo? The 2016 Chevrolet Traverse is made for you. Besides its utilitarian abilities, it's also pleasant to drive and will make the most of your money with its abundant features.
What is the most common problem with a Chevy Traverse?
On the nhtsa's. Website one complaint says while at a traffic light the engine Auto Stop engaged. As usual but upon releasing the brake the vehicle restarted. And wouldn't run properly.
How many miles does a 2016 Chevy Traverse last?
200,000 miles
The expected lifespan of a Chevrolet Traverse is 200,000 miles. However, many Traverse owners have kept their vehicles for more than that, with some reaching 250,000 miles with only minor issues. Older models are more inclined to rust, which can cause damage to the undercarriage and other components.
2016 Chevrolet Traverse car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Chevrolet Traverse problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Air bags problems
- Power train problems
- Engine problems
- Steering problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2016 Chevrolet Traverse vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2016 Chevrolet Traverse
The NHTSA has received 266 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2016 Chevrolet Traverse vehicles.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-19
- VIN: 1GNKRFED2GJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Nothing has happened currently but I have reported this issue to have it serviced and was told that since the status is stuck in limbo there is nothing I can do, this isn’t safe for me nor my family taking that risk every day as a every day driver.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-03
- VIN: 1GNKRGKD5GJ
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: We had breaker replaced in May of 2023 and less then a year later we had to have our front breaks replaced again. Only to have to replace them again 3 months later. We have been told the brake system on the Chevy traverse that they are the size of a Honda accord why that is a car size? What the heck this should not be allowed something needs to be done.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-17
- VIN: 1GNKRFED2GJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I have been given multiple warnings about a recall on the airbags for almost a year now. The recall claims that if the airbags go off, metal shards could fly out and could kill me. They say to go to a service center and have it repaired immediately. I have called several service centers and GM twice, and all they can tell me is that the parts are not available, and I will be notified when they are. IT'S BEEN A YEAR!!!!! I guess they are waiting for people to die before they will do anything. I do not feel safe driving my car and am considering getting rid of it for my own safety, and I will NEVER buy another Chevrolet if they cannot assure that their vehicles are safe.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-29
- VIN: 1GNKVFED0GJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 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. The local dealer was contacted. 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. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-10
- VIN: 1GNKVFED6GJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: As of 10May2023 the Driver Front Airbag Inflator May Rupture and could cause death to occupants of the car. All in my car are at risk for metal parts flying in the cabin of the SUV if the airbag inflator ruptures. This could cause death per recall notice. I called all the dealers near me and GM no one can get the parts to fix this potentially life threatening defect. Please help them get the parts for fix my SUV. I am really not comfortable driving knowing my airbag could kill all in my car. No warning signs for this, but there would not be. I gained knowledge of this from the manufactures notice. Please help Rudy from Lester Glenn Chevrolet of Freehold NJ 18334350597 get the part for my 2016 Traverse, if possible by Saturday. Thanks
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-19
- VIN: 1GNKRFED2GJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 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. The local dealer was contacted. 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. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-07
- VIN: 1GNKVHKD0GJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: It is not safe for me to drive this SUV. After one year of visiting the Chevrolet car dealer, calling them many times and trying my best to get them to help me with this Takata airbag problem (since I got the recall notice); GM said they don't have the part. They also said they don't have another vehicle to give me until they get it fixed. We are very disappointed and we feel unsafe, my family members and I.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-13
- VIN: 1GNKVFED9GJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet Traverse. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number:23V334000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. 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 confirm parts not available.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-10
- VIN: 1GNKVGKD0GJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 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. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-10
- VIN: 1GNKVHKD1GJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 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 not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-01
- VIN: 1GNKVHKD5GJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I was notified over a year ago of a manufacturer defect in the airbag of my 2016 Chevrolet Traverse that could potentially cause the airbag to explode when deployed. There have been incidents of people dying from this defect, yet no fix is available more than a year later.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-23
- VIN: 1GNKVGKD2GJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Unresolved recall
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-23
- VIN: 1GNKRGKD9GJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet Traverse. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V334000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The local dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the part was not yet available. 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. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-22
- VIN: 1GNKVHKD6GJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 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. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-22
- VIN: 1GNKRGKD2GJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Recall for defective air bag was issued May 10, 2023. Over one year later, there is still no remedy available. Manufacturer Recall Number: N232404980. NHTSA Recall Number: 23V334
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-19
- VIN: 1GNKVHKD3GJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 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. The local dealer was contacted. 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. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-15
- VIN: 1GNKRHKD7GJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 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. The local dealer was contacted. 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. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-16
- VIN: 1GNKVGKD8GJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I would like the recall defect fixed on my vehicle. It’s been a year since the recall came out. It’s a serious recall involving possible loss of life and no consumer should be exposed to this deadly risk. Make GM move forward and quickly fix this defect in its cars.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-15
- VIN: 1GNKVGKD6GJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 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. The contact stated that the air bag warning light was occasionally illuminated but had since remained illuminated. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 180,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-16
- VIN: 1GNKRGKD1GJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Concerned that the airbag recall has been a known death threat for over a year with still no replacement parts. If the parts can't be procured I should be provided a new equivalent car, shouldn't I? It's anxiety inducing to know I could be killed by supposed safety features in my vehicle.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-12
- VIN: 1GNKRGKD0GJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 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. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-10
- VIN: 1GNKRGKD6GJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 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. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-05
- VIN: 1GNKRGKD5GJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 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. The local dealer was contacted. 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. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-10
- VIN: 1GNKRGKD5GJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 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. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-30
- VIN: 1GNKVJKD8GJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Can't trade vehicle in due to recall not being fixed by GM
2016 Chevrolet Traverse recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2008-2017 Buick Enclave and 2013-2017 Chevrolet Traverse 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. Interim owner notification letters were mailed on November 3, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on January 10, 2022. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N212349040.
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:CRITICAL FASTENERS
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2010-2015, 2017 Buick Enclave, 2010-2019 Chevrolet Traverse, and 2011-2016 GMC Acadia vehicles. The side curtain air bags may not be properly attached.
- Consequence: Unsecured side curtain air bags may not perform as intended, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, realign or replace the weld nuts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 24, 2021. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, and GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N202321200.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2016 Chevrolet Traverse, GMC Acadia, and Buick Enclave vehicles manufactured November 6, 2015, to November 12, 2015. The affected vehicles have a the third row left lower seat frame that may have welds that are not in the correction location.
- Consequence: If the seat frame is not welded in the correct places, the seat may not perform as intended, and in the event of a crash, the seat occupant could be at an increased risk of injury.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the third row left side lower seat frame, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on January 29, 2016. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782 or Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300. GM's number for this recall is 21930.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:MOTOR
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2016 Chevrolet Traverse, GMC Acadia, and Buick Enclave vehicles manufactured August 18, 2015 to September 24, 2015. Due to a manufacturing defect, the windshield wiper motor may overheat when used.
- Consequence: A wiper motor that overheats increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: GM has notified owners, and dealers will replace the windshield wiper motor cover assembly, free of charge. Owners are advised not to use their front windshield wipers until the wiper cover has been replaced. If weather conditions prevent operation of the vehicle without using the windshield wipers, GM will make arrangements to pick up the vehicle for servicing. The recall began on September 30, 2015. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, and GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 15780.
Negative 2016 Chevrolet Traverse car reviews
Positive 2016 Chevrolet Traverse car reviews
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I needed a vehicle that could handle all seasons, so I decided to look for one with all-wheel drive to help me navigate through the winter, especially after heavy snowfall. After some research, I found a used 2016 program car that saved me a lot of money compared to buying new. I initially considered the Equinox, but the newer models only have MP3, and I prefer to have my CDs on long trips. I've only had the car for two months, but so far, I'm happy with it. The performance is excellent, and the 3.6 engine has plenty of power to accelerate and maintain highway speed. The only downside is that it's a bit slow when first accelerating, but that's only because of the weight of the vehicle. The fuel economy is pretty much as advertised, which is expected for a vehicle of this size, although I'm pleasantly surprised that I'm getting that with AWD. On my first long trip, I averaged about 22-24 miles per gallon in highway driving, which was much better than I had expected. The transmission shifts smoothly, and the steering is comfortable. The only downside is the turning radius, which can be a bit of a problem in tighter spaces. The entertainment center is somewhat disappointing, as the touch screen is on the smaller side, and it doesn't have the MyLink feature. I would expect that to be standard on the LT trim, as I had it on my previous vehicle. Linking up my smartphone with the car was a challenge and not very user-friendly. Unfortunately, you can't use voice commands to dial, and when talking, the number displays where the odometer is instead of on the touch screen. The touch screen features are slow to respond, and it takes a bit of time to get used to them. Also, the buttons/functions that are normally separate are integrated into the touch screen. They also went with cheaper speakers on the LT, which normally would have the Bose speakers. Overall, the entertainment system is adequate but not impressive. The seating is comfortable and made driving long distances easier.It's roomy enough for both the driver and passengers. However, it's better to put smaller people in the 3rd row seat due to more limited legroom. I really appreciate the rear seat environmental controls in the back of the armrest for passengers riding in the back. The heated seats are a great addition, especially in the middle of winter. When the third-row seating is folded down, there's plenty of cargo space, and I've been able to carry bulky items with ease. The gate lifts high enough to get oversized boxes into it, making it very convenient. Overall, this is a fantastic vehicle that gets me around comfortably, and I didn't feel worn out on either of my long trips. The only downside is that the entertainment center could be much easier to use, and the fuel economy could be a bit better. However, it's still a great value, and I got a lot of features for the money.
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You'll love the Traverse! I recently traded in my Toyota Sienna for it after doing a lot of research and comparing it to the Hi Lander and Honda Pilot. The Chevy Traverse won out by far. It's perfect for vacations with plenty of room for passengers and luggage. The 3.6 engine has plenty of power for highway driving and the third row seating has ample room for adults, unlike the Hilander where it's pretty much useless. I have the 2 LT which has a few more bells and whistles, such as heated seats, my link Chevy radio with Bose speakers, and ambient lighting below the dashboard - a really nice touch. The technology features are the best. I highly recommend this SUV. GM has come a long way and the quality shows.
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The 2016 Traverse has a lot of great features, but there are a few areas that could use some improvement. While I understand that I have a basic model, I do wish that lumbar support was a standard feature on all seats. Additionally, the seat belts in the second row can be uncomfortable for adults, and the buckle placement behind the driver's seat is not adjustable. It would be great if this could be addressed in future models. I also miss having outside mirror defrosters, as I believe they are an important safety feature. On the plus side, the cargo room is huge and the stereo system is really nice. Although I have had some trouble playing music through the speakers via Bluetooth, I appreciate having the option. Finally, the gas mileage could be better, but I understand that having AWD may contribute to this. Overall, I am enjoying my Traverse and look forward to seeing how it evolves in the future.
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I'm so glad you're considering a Traverse! We've had ours since July 2016 and have driven it in every climate and weather extreme. After testing out several other vehicles in its class, including the Honda Pilot, Volvo XC70, Subaru Outback, and Toyota 4runner, we ultimately chose the Traverse for its spacious interior, impressive cargo capacity (over 100 cubic feet!), and top-notch entertainment features. We were able to snag the 2LT trim line, which boasts four captain's chairs and a third row all clad in soft leather. Plus, we got an amazing deal during the 20% off sale - we walked out the door at $28K for a $42K vehicle! If you're active duty military, you'll definitely want to take advantage of Chevy's unbeatable incentives. Keep an eye out for reduced prices on the 2017s as the new 2018s are getting a new body design. We've taken our Traverse on some pretty epic road trips, including a drive from PA to our new home in AR and a trip from AR to FL during a heat wave with heat indexes over 110 degrees. The Traverse kept our whole family comfortable and happy, from our 4-year-old granddaughter to our 15-year-old and 25-year-old. With vents in all three seating areas and second and third row climate control, it's the perfect vehicle for summer months. We also took a winter vacation from AR to MT during a big winter storm that came through before Christmas. Despite encountering whiteout conditions, 50 mph crosswinds in WY, and general winter conditions, the Traverse held up like a champ. I was able to drive over 1,000 miles on our first day without any lower back or leg pain, thanks to the Traverse's comfortable design. The AWD is amazing at keeping traction where it's needed, and the road noise is almost nonexistent. We didn't experience any little creaks or rattles whatsoever, even in the coldest temperatures (ranging from 40 degrees to minus 15).On our return trip through WY, I was able to cruise at 85mph with the Traverse holding at about 2k rpms. It had no problem staying in gear even at high speeds. After 10k, the combined fuel economy is 20.2 MPGs. I purposely did not reset the 'gallons of fuel used' in the driver information center so I could get an accurate number later on. The Traverse has plenty of power at highway speeds for passing. The side blind spot sensor is a big help as the vehicle layout does present a significant blind spot and is tricky when passing. Overall, this is hands down the best family vehicle that we have owned. I cannot find a single negative thing to say about it.
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We purchased our 2016 Traverse in March of 2016 after conducting thorough research and price comparisons. It has been a great ride for us and our five grandkids, with ample rear storage and numerous USB ports throughout the vehicle to charge or plug in phones, gaming devices, or iPads. However, I did bring up three safety concerns to the dealer's attention. Firstly, the headrest and door frames create blind spots. Secondly, the headrest does not lock in place and can be pushed forward by someone in the back seat while driving. Lastly, the temperature controls for the back/rear row can get quite hot to the touch if they are on a different setting than the front temperature controls. I am happy to report that the Chevy dealership was already aware of these issues when I took my Traverse in for its first oil change.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2016 Chevrolet Traverse problems:
2016 Chevrolet Traverse Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
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2016 Chevrolet Traverse Reliability - Consumer Reports
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2016 Chevy Traverse transmission issues!! | Traverse Forum
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Other years of Chevrolet Traverse
Are you having problems with your 2016 Chevrolet Traverse?
Boris Reichel 2025-05-26
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
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.
Bill Franecki 2025-03-19
I am a loyal GM customer and have owned several GM vehicles, including two Saabs, a Tahoe, an Equinox, and now a Traverse. Unfortunately, we recently discovered that the transmission in our Traverse is faulty, just before the warranty expired at 110,000 miles. Despite being told that we are not considered 'loyal' customers, we reached out to GM for assistance. Although the dealership's resolution was not satisfactory, we are still waiting for a response from GM. As a family, we rely heavily on our vehicles, and it is disappointing that we cannot depend on a 5-year-old car. However, I am confident that GM will address this issue and provide a satisfactory solution. After all, I have owned Saabs in the past, and their transmissions never failed.
Julien Oberbrunner 2024-06-21
Avoid the Chevy Traverse, as it has proven to be a disappointing SUV.
Allan Marquardt 2024-05-22
Hey there! If you're looking for a car that's comfortable and fuel-efficient, you might want to consider driving this one for more than just around the block. However, it's worth noting that the handling in snow with AWD might not be the best. Just thought you should know!