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Chevrolet Trax
SUV · Gas · 4 versions · owner report
Ranked #8 of 10 subcompact SUVs on owner data, price and fuel economy
Every generation
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (186 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2026
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation.
10 problems reported (3 very frequent, 3 recurrent, 4 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentTurbocharger failure
Requires replacement, often linked to other engine damage. Cost reports range from $2,100 to $6,000.
- Very frequentEngine failure
Catastrophic failures including melted cylinders, holes in engine blocks, and complete replacements. Often occurs under 100,000 miles.
- Very frequentTiming chain issues
Causes persistent check engine lights (P0016, P0017 codes) and requires expensive replacement.
+ 7 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentOil consumption/burning
Significant oil loss, leading to engine damage. Linked to PCV valve and valve cover issues.
- RecurrentCooling system failures
Radiator cracks, water pump failures, and sudden coolant loss.
- RecurrentElectrical & ancillary issues
Recurrent battery drain problems, faulty blower motor resistors, failing oxygen sensors, and evap system leaks.
- IsolatedTransmission/AWD driveline issues
Jerking, banging noises from rear end during acceleration in AWD models.
- IsolatedEngine failure
Isolated but severe report of a complete engine failure (hole in engine block) requiring replacement under warranty.
- IsolatedInfotainment/electronic glitches
Radio bass blaring at certain speeds, auto high-beam malfunctions, infotainment screen glitches.
- IsolatedBuild quality/initial quality issues
Windshield wipers leaving residue, overly sensitive braking feel.
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available to identify a "best" version. For the new generation, an owner notes the LT trim offers a good balance of features. For older models, no specific trim is recommended; feedback is uniformly critical across all trims.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Buick Encore, Honda HR-V, Toyota Corolla Cross, Subaru Crosstrek and Mazda CX-30.
Is the Trax right for you?
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation. For the first-generation models (approximately 2014-2022), owner feedback is overwhelmingly negative, characterized by very frequent and severe mechanical failures leading to high repair costs and widespread distrust. Common catastrophic issues include turbocharger failures, timing chain problems, and complete engine failures, often occurring before 100,000 miles. Owners of these models frequently express regret and advise against purchase. In stark contrast, feedback on the redesigned second-generation model (2024+) is sparse but more positive in initial discussions, focusing on its value proposition, modern features, and low entry price. However, there are isolated but severe reports of engine failure in the new 1.2L turbocharged three-cylinder engine, raising early concerns. The consensus indicates the previous generation is considered highly unreliable, while the new model's long-term durability remains an open question.
Positioning vs competitors
The first-generation Trax is positioned as an unreliable budget option, frequently described as inferior to Japanese competitors (Toyota, Honda, Subaru) in longevity and cost of ownership. It is often compared unfavorably to its platform-mate, the Buick Encore, which shares many mechanical components. The redesigned 2024+ model is positioned as an aggressively priced, value-focused subcompact crossover, noted for offering substantial interior space and modern technology at a price point significantly lower than rivals like the Honda HR-V. It is seen as a practical, budget-conscious choice over more expensive hybrids or electric vehicles like the Bolt EUV for upfront cost, though with a noted fuel economy and maintenance trade-off.
Recommended configurations
For the new generation (2024+), one owner recommendation suggests changing oil more frequently than the manufacturer's interval (every 4,000 miles vs. 7,500-10,000 miles), using high-quality fuel, allowing the engine to warm up before aggressive driving, and disabling the auto start-stop system. An extended warranty is strongly implied as a prudent measure. There is no consensus on drivetrain or specific trim recommendations.
General recommendations
First-generation models (2014-2022) are NOT recommended due to pervasive reliability issues and high repair costs. For the redesigned 2024+ model, it may be suitable for budget-focused buyers prioritizing low monthly payments, new-car warranties, and modern features over proven long-term reliability. It is suggested for low-mileage drivers or those who plan to trade the vehicle before the powertrain warranty expires. Prospective buyers should be aware of early, severe failure reports and factor in the potential cost of an extended warranty. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is critical for any used first-generation model.
Remarks
The Chevrolet Trax represents two distinct vehicles: a problematic first generation and an unproven second generation. The 1.4L turbo engine in the first generation has a notorious reputation for expensive, premature failures. Owner discussions suggest meticulous maintenance (frequent oil changes with quality filters) may mitigate but not eliminate risk. The new 1.2L three-cylinder engine, while praised in some professional reviews, has an early failure report that mirrors severe issues from the previous generation, causing significant concern within the owner community. The vehicle's major selling point is its low purchase price, which for many owners appears to come with a high potential long-term cost of ownership. Analysis based on approximately 35 substantive owner discussions spanning both generations.
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 | 16 | 0 | service brakes |
| 2025 | 86 | 1 | electrical system |
| 2024 | 169 | 1 | electrical system |
| 2022 | 9 | 0 | engine |
| 2021 | 24 | 0 | electrical system |
| 2020 | 94 | 0 | electrical system |
| 2019 | 134 | 2 | engine |
| 2018 | 101 | 2 | suspension |
| 2017 | 113 | 3 | engine |
| 2016 | 117 | 5 | engine |
| 2015 | 96 | 7 | 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 notices21 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2025 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 26V539000
General Motors, LLC is recalling certain 2024-2025 Buick Envista, 2024-2026 Buick Encore GX, Chevrolet Trailblazer, and 2025 Chevrolet Trax vehicles. The rearview camera screen may display a distorted or blank image.
2024 · electrical system: instrument cluster/panelcampaign 23V744000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2024 Buick Encore GX, Envista, and Chevrolet Trax vehicles. The software in the Virtual Cockpit Unit Module (VCU) may cause the instrument panel display to intermittently go blank at vehicle startup or while driving.
2019 · suspension:front:control arm:lower ball jointcampaign 19V312000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Chevrolet Trax vehicles. A joint in one or both of the front lower-control arms may have been improperly welded. An improperly welded joint may break, resulting in the partial separation of the lower-control arm from the vehicle.
2019 · air bagscampaign 18V774000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2019 Buick Encore, Chevrolet Spark, Traverse, and Trax vehicles. The Sensing Diagnostic Module (SDM) on these vehicle may not have been turned off of "manufacturing mode," preventing the air bags from deploying in the event of a crash.
2018 · suspension:front:control arm:lower ball jointcampaign 19V312000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Chevrolet Trax vehicles. A joint in one or both of the front lower-control arms may have been improperly welded. An improperly welded joint may break, resulting in the partial separation of the lower-control arm from the vehicle.
2018 · suspension:front:control arm:lower ball jointcampaign 19V652000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Chevrolet Trax vehicles. A joint in one or both of the front lower control arms may have been improperly welded. An improperly welded joint may break, resulting in the partial separation of the lower control arm from the vehicle.
2017 · suspension:front:control arm:lower ball jointcampaign 19V312000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Chevrolet Trax vehicles. A joint in one or both of the front lower-control arms may have been improperly welded. An improperly welded joint may break, resulting in the partial separation of the lower-control arm from the vehicle.
2017 · suspension:front:control arm:lower ball jointcampaign 19V652000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Chevrolet Trax vehicles. A joint in one or both of the front lower control arms may have been improperly welded. An improperly welded joint may break, resulting in the partial separation of the lower control arm from the vehicle.
2017 · air bags:frontalcampaign 16V651000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2015-2017 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD, 3500 HD, Tahoe, Suburban, GMC Sierra 2500 HD and 3500 HD, GMC Yukon, GMC Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade and Cadillac Escalade ESV vehicles and 2014-2017 Chevrolet Corvette, Silverado 1500, Trax, Caprice Police Pursuit Vehicle, GMC Sierra 1500, Buick Encore, and 2014-2016 Buick Lacrosse, Chevrolet Spark EV and SS vehicles. In the affected vehicles, certain driving conditions may cause the air bag sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) software to activate a diagnostic test. During this test, deployment of the frontal air bags and the seat belt pretensioners would not occur in the event of a crash.
2016 · suspension:front:control arm:lower ball jointcampaign 19V652000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Chevrolet Trax vehicles. A joint in one or both of the front lower control arms may have been improperly welded. An improperly welded joint may break, resulting in the partial separation of the lower control arm from the vehicle.
2016 · air bags:frontalcampaign 16V651000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2015-2017 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD, 3500 HD, Tahoe, Suburban, GMC Sierra 2500 HD and 3500 HD, GMC Yukon, GMC Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade and Cadillac Escalade ESV vehicles and 2014-2017 Chevrolet Corvette, Silverado 1500, Trax, Caprice Police Pursuit Vehicle, GMC Sierra 1500, Buick Encore, and 2014-2016 Buick Lacrosse, Chevrolet Spark EV and SS vehicles. In the affected vehicles, certain driving conditions may cause the air bag sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) software to activate a diagnostic test. During this test, deployment of the frontal air bags and the seat belt pretensioners would not occur in the event of a crash.
2016 · electrical system:softwarecampaign 16V422000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Chevrolet Sonic and Trax, and 2013-2015 Spark vehicles equipped with a Bring Your Own Media radio. The affected radios may fail to provide an audible warning chime when the driver fails to fasten their seatbelt or if the driver leaves the key in the ignition. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 208 "Occupant Crash Protection" and 114 "Theft Protection."
2016 · air bags:frontalcampaign 17V437000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2014-2016 Buick Lacrosse and Chevrolet Spark EV, Caprice PPV and SS vehicles, 2014-2017 Buick Encore and Chevrolet Corvette, Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles, 2015-2016 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Tahoe, Trax, Suburban and Silverado 2500 and 3500 and GMC Yukon and Yukon XL vehicles, and 2015-2017 GMC Sierra HD 2500 and 3500 vehicles. While being previously remedied for recall 16V-651, the affected vehicles may not have received the complete software update necessary to remedy the recall condition. Without the update, certain driving conditions may cause the air bag sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) software to activate a diagnostic test. During this test, deployment of the frontal air bags and the seat belt pretensioners would not occur in the event of a crash.
2016 · equipment:electrical:radio/tape deck/cd etc.campaign 16V257000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2013-2016 Chevrolet Sonic and Trax vehicles and 2013-2015 Chevrolet Spark vehicles equipped with a Bring Your Own Media radio. The affected radios may fail to provide an audible warning chime when the driver, after turning off the ignition and leaving the key in the cylinder, waits 10 minutes or longer to open the door. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 114 "Theft Protection."
2015 · suspension:front:control arm:lower ball jointcampaign 19V652000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Chevrolet Trax vehicles. A joint in one or both of the front lower control arms may have been improperly welded. An improperly welded joint may break, resulting in the partial separation of the lower control arm from the vehicle.
6 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
1.2 Turbo ECOTEC Hydra-Matic
3-cylinder · 139 hp · FWD · automatic
Built 2022–2026