Matija Pinko
Updated on November 18, 2022
The Chevy Traverse is a spacious SUV, great for large families or anyone who needs extra room for cargo. While the Traverse has rave reviews for its towing capacity and comfortable ride, there are some years and models that are notorious for having more problems than others.
Generally speaking, the earlier model years of the Traverse (2009-2012) are more likely to experience problems. Some of the most common problems include transmission issues, steering problems, engine issues, and electrical problems.
We’ll discuss five of the most common Chevy Traverse problems and which years to avoid if you’re in the market for this SUV.
Common Chevy Traverse Problems and Years to Avoid
The Chevy Traverse is a large crossover SUV that has been in production since 2009. Though it’s generally been a reliable vehicle, there have been some common problems reported by owners over the years.
Generally speaking, the earlier model years of the Traverse (2009-2012) are more likely to experience problems. You can expect problems with the model years 2015 and 2018. That said, any vehicle can have issues, so it’s always important to do your research before buying.
Why Should You Avoid These Years?
There are a few reasons why you might want to avoid certain model years of the Chevy Traverse. For one, newer models tend to have more features and better overall quality. Older models may also have a higher chance of having been in an accident or otherwise abused.
Common Chevy Traverse problems may include engine troubles accompanied by excessive oil consumption. Steering problems, strange brake noises, and transmission issues are also quite common.
Electrical issues are also not uncommon, so be sure to have a mechanic check things out thoroughly before buying a used Traverse.
If you’re looking at purchasing a Chevy Traverse, it’s important to do your research first. Knowing which years to avoid can save you a lot of headaches down the road.
Engine Issues
Many Chevy Traverse models, such as the 2010 and 2011 ones have had engine issues. The main problem is engine failure, which has cost customers a lot of money to replace.
The main cause of these engine failures is a faulty oil cooler. The oil cooler is responsible for keeping the engine’s oil at a consistent temperature. If it fails, the oil can overheat and cause serious damage to the engine.
If you’re thinking about buying a used Traverse, be sure to have a mechanic check the oil cooler for any signs of wear or damage.
Steering Problems
Another common problem with the Chevy Traverse is steering issues. Many owners have reported problems with the power steering, as well as strange noises coming from the steering wheel area. This is most common with the 2011 model year.
In some cases, the power steering may fail entirely, making it very difficult to turn the wheel. If this happens, it’s likely due to a leak in the power steering system.
Brake Noises
Many Chevy Traverse owners have also reported strange noises coming from the brakes. In some cases, the brake pads may wear out prematurely, causing a loud squealing noise when braking.
In other cases, there may be a problem with the brake rotors. If they become warped or damaged, they can cause a pulsing feeling when braking. Be sure to have a mechanic check the brakes before purchasing a used Traverse.
Transmission Issues
The Chevy Traverse is also known for having transmission problems. Many owners have reported that their vehicle jerks or hesitates when shifting gears. This is especially true for the Traverse SUV, as we’ve seen plenty of reports from 2009 Traverse owners about transmission issues around 80,000+ miles.
About the Chevy Traverse
The Chevy Traverse is a 7- or 8-passenger crossover SUV that replaced the TrailBlazer in 2009. It’s based on the GM Lambda platform, which it shares with the Buick Enclave and GMC Acadia. All three were built at GM’s Lansing Delta Township Assembly plant in Michigan. The Traverse was nominated for the North American Truck of the Year award for 2009 and won Motor Trend’s Sport/Utility of the Year for that year.
When it was first introduced, reviewers liked the Traverse’s roomy interior and smooth ride but found its handling to be less than athletic. Some also thought its styling was too bland. For 2010, Chevy added a new 3.6L V6 engine with direct injection and updated the exterior with a new grille, headlamps, and taillamps. The 3.6L engine is now the only engine offered in the Traverse.
The Traverse comes standard with front-wheel drive but can be equipped with all-wheel drive. It has a six-speed automatic transmission and is available in three trim levels: LS, LT, and LTZ. The LS and LT come with seven seats, while the LTZ has eight-passenger seating (2-3-3). The second row has captain’s chairs on the LTZ, while the other two trims have a bench seat that can seat three people. All models come with StabiliTrak electronic stability control and traction control.
The Traverse has a lengthy list of safety features that include six airbags, antilock brakes, and tire pressure monitoring. Optional safety features include a rearview camera, forward collision alert, lane departure warning, and GM’s OnStar service.
For 2012, the Chevy Traverse gets a new front grille and headlamps. The LTZ trim level now comes standard with HID headlamps, while all models get new LED taillights. Inside, the Traverse gets a new center stack with an available 8-inch touchscreen display for the infotainment system. A USB port has been added for easier connectivity with portable music players. Bluetooth phone integration is also now standard on all models.
What Are the Pros of Owning a Chevy Traverse?
When it comes to choosing the right SUV, there are a lot of factors to consider. But if you’re looking for an SUV that’s big on space and offers a smooth ride, then the Chevy Traverse should definitely be at the top of your list. Here are just some of the pros of owning a Chevy Traverse:
Spacious Interior
With three rows of seating, the Chevy Traverse can comfortably seat up to eight passengers. And with its spacious cargo area, you’ll have plenty of room for all your gear too.
Smooth Ride
The Chevy Traverse is known for its smooth ride thanks to its independent suspension system. So whether you’re cruising down the highway or taking on some off-road adventures, you can rest assured that you’ll enjoy a comfortable ride.
Powerful Engine
Under the hood, the Chevy Traverse is powered by a 3.6L V6 engine that’s capable of churning out 281 horsepower. So whether you’re hauling cargo or towing a trailer, you can rest assured that the Chevy Traverse has the power to get the job done.
All-Wheel Drive
If you live in an area with snow and ice, then you’ll appreciate the fact that the Chevy Traverse comes standard with all-wheel drive. This feature will help you maintain traction and stability on slippery roads.
High-Tech Features
When it comes to tech features, the Chevy Traverse doesn’t disappoint. It comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. So you can stay connected even when you’re on the go.
Safety
The Chevy Traverse is also a safe SUV thanks to its plethora of safety features. These include blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane keep assist. So you can rest assured that you and your passengers will be well protected on the road.
What Are the Cons of Owning a Chevy Traverse?
Not the Most Fuel-Efficient SUV
With a V6 engine under the hood, the Chevy Traverse is not the most fuel-efficient SUV on the market. It has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. So if you’re looking for an SUV that’s more fuel efficient, then you might want to consider another option.
Not as Off-Road Capable as Some SUVs
While the Chevy Traverse does come standard with all-wheel drive, it’s not as off-road capable as some other SUVs on the market. So if you plan on doing a lot of off-roading, then you might want to consider another SUV.
Some Higher Trims Can Be Pricy
If you’re looking for all the bells and whistles, then you might have to shell out a bit more money for a higher trim level. For instance, the top-of-the-line Premier trim starts at $46,195. So if you’re on a budget, then you might want to stick with a lower trim level.
No Third-Row USB Ports
If you have passengers in the third row, they might be disappointed to know that there are no USB ports back there. So they won’t be able to charge their devices while on the go.
Thick A-Pillars Can Block Visibility
One of the drawbacks of the Chevy Traverse is that its thick A-pillars can block visibility. So it might be difficult to see around them when making turns or changing lanes.
Is the Chevy Traverse Reliable?
The Traverse has a strong engine with good fuel economy. It’s comfortable and can seat up to eight people.
However, the Traverse has been known to have some electrical and transmission problems. These issues have caused the vehicle to be recalled several times. It has an expected lifespan of 200,000 miles. That’s if you drive the average 15,000 annual miles that most Americans do. In other words, this car will serve you indefinitely without any issues – up to 13 years and six months! If you drive less than that, your vehicle could last even longer.
The Chevy Traverse has a four-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, so in the case of a crash, you can expect you and your family to be safe.
Overall, the Chevy Traverse is a reliable vehicle that should last you many years if properly maintained. However, it’s important to do your research before purchasing a used model, as there have been some reports of reliability issues. It’s a reliable vehicle that has been on the market for many years. It is known for its comfortable ride and its ability to haul large loads. The Traverse is also known for its safety features, which make it a good choice for families. However, there have been some reports of reliability issues with the Traverse, so it is important to research this vehicle before making a purchase.
What to Look for When Buying a Used Chevy Traverse
When shopping for a used Chevy Traverse, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. First, it’s important to get a vehicle history report (VHR) and have a qualified mechanic inspect the SUV before making a purchase. This will give you an idea of what problems the Traverse has had in the past and whether or not they’ve been properly addressed.
It’s also a good idea to test-drive the Traverse yourself. Pay attention to any strange noises or smells, and make sure all the controls feel responsive. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s probably best to move on to another vehicle.
In general, you’ll want to avoid purchasing a used Chevy Traverse that is made in the mentioned years. This will help you avoid some of the common problems that have been reported over the years.
Is the Chevy traverse High Maintenance?
The Chevy Traverse is a large SUV that can seat up to eight people. It’s been on the market since 2009, and it’s been a popular choice for families who need a lot of space. But some people have complained that the Traverse is high maintenance.
There are a few things that you should keep in mind if you’re thinking about buying a Traverse. First, it’s important to know that the Traverse is built on the GM Lambda platform, which is also used for the Buick Enclave and GMC Acadia. That means that it shares a lot of parts with those two vehicles, and those parts can be expensive to replace.
Second, the Traverse has a lot of features that can add to its maintenance costs. For example, the Traverse may have four-wheel drive, which means that it needs regular maintenance on its transfer case and differential. And if you live in an area with a lot of snow and ice, you’ll need to get the Traverse’s underbody rust-proofed every few years.
Third, the Traverse is a big vehicle, and that means that it can be expensive to operate. The Traverse gets just 16 miles per gallon in the city and 22 miles per gallon on the highway. That’s not great fuel economy, and it means that you’ll be paying a lot of money at the pump.
Compared to other midsize SUVs with an average annual maintenance cost of $573, the Chevy Traverse is quite expensive at $656 per year. According to RepairPal, 18% of Chevy Traverse problems are major issues.
Conclusion
If you’re considering purchasing a Chevy Traverse, it’s important to be aware of common problems that have been reported over the years. Engine failure, steering issues, and transmission problems are all quite common, so it’s important to do your research before making a purchase.
The earlier model years of the Traverse (2009-2012) tend to experience more problems. Some of the most prevalent issues include transmission malfunctions, steering difficulties, engine troubles, and electrical glitches.
Of course, every vehicle is different and no single model year is guaranteed to be trouble-free. However, doing your research before buying a used Traverse will help you avoid some of the most common problems that have been reported.
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