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Chevrolet Traverse
SUV · Gas · 16 versions · owner report
Ranked #3 of 11 full-size SUVs on owner data, price and fuel economy
Every generation
Power
Combined, EPA 2027
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is sharply divided and heavily dependent on model year and generation.
7 problems reported (2 very frequent, 3 recurrent, 2 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentTransmission failures and problems
Includes complete failure, fluid leaks, rough shifting, stalling, and speed sensor issues. Affects multiple generations.
- Very frequentElectrical and infotainment system failures
Encompasses "Service Driver Assist System" errors disabling all ADAS features, complete failure of the myChevrolet app and connected services (remote start, lock/unlock), screen freezes, and Bluetooth connectivity problems with high latency. Particularly severe in 2024-2025 models.
- RecurrentEngine timing chain issues
A known concern for the 3.6L V6 engine in older models (2009-2012 mentioned), requiring costly repair.
+ 4 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentPoor build quality and dealership service
Reports of vehicles delivered with defects (exploding wiper blades, cut steering wheels), repeated failed repair attempts for simple issues like parking sensors, and poor customer service from both dealers and manufacturer support.
- RecurrentTurbo four-cylinder performance (2024+)
Criticized for being slower (7.3 seconds 0-60 mph) and noisier than the previous V6, with sluggish throttle response.
- IsolatedOil consumption
Noted as an issue with the 3.6L V6 engines over time.
- IsolatedBland/interior quality
Described as monotone, dark, and using low-rent materials with excessive hard plastic.
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" trim or package. Feedback is focused on generations and powertrains. For the 2018-2023 generation, the 3.6L V6 powertrain is the noted configuration, despite its associated transmission concerns. For the 2024+ generation, the new turbocharged four-cylinder engine is criticized for being slower and noisier than the previous V6, and the Enhanced Driving Package (Super Cruise) is specifically mentioned as problematic and non-functional for some owners.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander/Grand Highlander, Ford Explorer, Volkswagen Atlas and Mazda CX-90.
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is sharply divided and heavily dependent on model year and generation. For the 2018-2023 generation, owner feedback is mixed, with many reporting trouble-free, spacious, and practical family vehicles, while others report significant and recurring mechanical and electrical failures. The 3.6L V6 engine is frequently praised for its smoothness and power, but the associated transmission is a major source of criticism, with reports of failures, leaks, and shifting issues. Newer 2024+ models, representing a redesign, are met with deep skepticism and numerous reports of severe quality control problems, including catastrophic transmission failures, widespread electrical/ADAS system malfunctions, and persistent connectivity issues, often within the first few thousand miles. Long-term owners of older models (2009-2017) acknowledge known issues like timing chain problems and oil consumption but often consider them manageable for the price. The consensus indicates the vehicle is valued for its class-leading interior space and can be a good value when heavily discounted and when reliability expectations are tempered, but newer models are viewed as particularly risky.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a value-oriented, spacious three-row crossover. It is consistently noted as a class leader for interior passenger and cargo space, often cited as larger than key competitors like the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Subaru Ascent. It is generally considered less reliable and refined than Japanese rivals (Pilot, Highlander) but offers more space for the money, especially when purchased with significant discounts. Compared to body-on-frame SUVs like the Tahoe, it is seen as a more fuel-efficient and car-like alternative for those not needing heavy towing. Against minivans (Sienna, Odyssey), it is chosen for styling preference over ultimate practicality and reliability. The Volkswagen Atlas is noted as a direct competitor with a similarly spacious third row but is also flagged for poor reliability.
Recommended configurations
AWD is recommended for improved traction and resale value. For the 2018-2023 generation, following the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule (not more frequent fluid changes as sometimes suggested online) is advised. Purchasing an extended warranty is frequently suggested due to transmission and electrical reliability concerns. For new purchases, negotiating significant discounts (e.g., 20% off MSRP) is considered essential to offset perceived reliability risks and depreciation.
General recommendations
Suitable for families prioritizing maximum interior space on a budget, especially when purchased with substantial dealer discounts. Not recommended for buyers prioritizing long-term reliability or low cost of ownership over initial purchase price. For used models (pre-2024), a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is critical, with specific attention to the transmission and for signs of excessive oil consumption in older V6 models. For new 2024+ models, extreme caution is advised; extensive test drives to check all electronic features (Super Cruise, app connectivity, ADAS sensors) are mandatory, and a maximum factory warranty is strongly recommended. Owners should be prepared for potential dealership service challenges for complex electrical issues.
Remarks
The model year and generation are critical differentiators for owner experience. The 2018-2023 generation, while having known transmission issues, has a base of owners reporting satisfactory, reliable service. The redesigned 2024+ model is in its first years and is generating a high volume of severe complaints related to fundamental powertrain and electronic systems, suggesting potential widespread early-production quality problems. The vehicle's value proposition is almost universally tied to securing a significant transaction price discount relative to MSRP, with owner satisfaction often correlating directly with the depth of that discount. Analysis based on approximately 40 substantive owner discussions and inquiries across multiple model years.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearNo year grades F. Best year: 2022Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score.
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 24 | 1 | electrical system |
| 2025 | 177 | 0 | service brakes |
| 2024 | 146 | 0 | service brakes |
| 2023 | 89 | 2 | power train |
| 2022 | 98 | 1 | power train |
| 2021 | 89 | 3 | electrical system |
| 2020 | 228 | 8 | engine |
| 2019 | 405 | 3 | power train |
| 2018 | 461 | 2 | power train |
| 2017 | 361 | 3 | air bags |
| 2016 | 292 | 5 | air bags |
| 2015 | 313 | 5 | air bags |
| 2014 | 547 | 7 | air bags |
| 2013 | 162 | 4 | electrical system |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices67 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2026 · equipment:other:owners/service/other manualcampaign 26V114000
General Motors has decided that certain 2027 Chevrolet Bolt EV, 2025-2026 Cadillac OPTIQ, Chevrolet Colorado, Equinox EV, GMC Canyon, 2026 Buick Enclave, Envision, Cadillac CT5, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade IQ, Escalade IQL, LYRIQ, VISTIQ, Chevrolet Blazer EV, Corvette Convertible, Corvette Coupe, Corvette Convertible E-Ray, Equinox, Silverado 1500, 2500, 3500, Silverado EV, Suburban 1500, Tahoe, Traverse, GMC Acadia, Hummer EV Pickup, Hummer EV SUV, Sierra 1500, 2500, 3500, Sierra EV, Terrain, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. The radio may not have been set to the correct status to download the electronic owner's manual during production. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, “Occupant Protection.”
2023 · power train:driveline:driveshaftcampaign 23V042000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2023 Chevrolet Blazer and Traverse vehicles. The left-side half-shaft assemblies may be missing a retaining ring.
2023 · power train:automatic transmissioncampaign 23V172000
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.
2022 · air bags:side/window:curtaincampaign 22V210000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Chevrolet Traverse and 2021-2022 Buick Enclave vehicles. The harness connector to the left or right side roof rail air bag may have incompatible electrical terminals, which could prevent the air bags from deploying in a crash.
2021 · power train:automatic transmissioncampaign 21V817000
Braun Corporation (Braun) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Chevrolet Traverse wheelchair accessible vehicles with Power In-floor Ramp conversion. The screw and clip that hold the inner wheel-well plastic shroud in place may chafe against the transmission case, possibly resulting in a transmission fluid leak.
2021 · air bags:sensor:frontal impactcampaign 21V472000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Chevrolet Traverse and Buick Enclave vehicles. During service by dealers, certain vehicles may have received incorrect air bag calibration software that may affect frontal airbag deployment.
2021 · air bags:side/window:curtaincampaign 22V210000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Chevrolet Traverse and 2021-2022 Buick Enclave vehicles. The harness connector to the left or right side roof rail air bag may have incompatible electrical terminals, which could prevent the air bags from deploying in a crash.
2020 · tirescampaign 21V115000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT4, XT5, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, Traverse, GMC Yukon, Yukon XL, 2018-2021 Chevrolet Express, GMC Savana, 2019-2020 Chevrolet Blazer, Silverado 1500, GMC Acadia, Sierra 1500, and certain Continental tires sold to the aftermarket for various model year 2018-2021 vehicles. The affected tires were cured for too long during production.
2020 · power train:automatic transmissioncampaign 21V817000
Braun Corporation (Braun) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Chevrolet Traverse wheelchair accessible vehicles with Power In-floor Ramp conversion. The screw and clip that hold the inner wheel-well plastic shroud in place may chafe against the transmission case, possibly resulting in a transmission fluid leak.
2020 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 20V639000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT5, Cadillac XT6, Chevrolet Traverse, and GMC Acadia vehicles. The fuel pump's jet nozzle may have a plastic burr remaining from the manufacturing process, possibly causing a blocked nozzle and an insufficient fuel supply to the engine.
2020 · tirescampaign 20V684000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT5, GMC Acadia and Chevrolet Traverse vehicles and 2020-2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles. The vehicles may have been manufactured with Continental tires that were overcured.
2020 · air bags:side/window:curtain:inflatorcampaign 20V446000
General Motors, LLC. (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT5 and XT6, Chevrolet Blazer, Silverado 1500, 2500 and 3500 and Traverse and GMC Acadia and Sierra 1500, 2500 and 3500 vehicles. The diffuser component of the Roof-Rail Air Bag (RRAB) inflator may not have been properly crimped to the inflator and could separate from the inflator during air bag deployment.
2020 · power train:automatic transmissioncampaign 20V668000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Cruze and Buick LaCrosse, 2018-2020 Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Terrain, 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, 2019-2020 Buick Encore, Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT4, Chevrolet Blazer and GMC Acadia, and 2020 Cadillac XT6 vehicles. The start/stop accumulator endcap may have missing bolts.
2020 · structure:frame and memberscampaign 19V643000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Buick Enclave and Chevrolet Traverse vehicles. The right-hand frame rail in the engine compartment may be cracked.
2020 · air bags:side/window:curtaincampaign 22V210000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Chevrolet Traverse and 2021-2022 Buick Enclave vehicles. The harness connector to the left or right side roof rail air bag may have incompatible electrical terminals, which could prevent the air bags from deploying in a crash.
52 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
Z71 2.5 Turbo
2.5L 4-cylinder · 328 hp · AWD · automatic
Built 2024–2026