2018 Chevrolet Traverse: common problems and reliability
The 2018 Chevrolet Traverse has 449 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 2 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are power train and electrical system. Owners most often flag transmission failures and problems — includes complete failure, fluid leaks, rough shifting, stalling, and speed sensor issues. affects multiple generations. frequency: very frequent.
Safety record for the 2018 model year
449
Owner complaints
2
Recalls
9
Crash reports
2
Fire reports
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2018 Chevrolet Traverse vehicles (US, public record).
Where owners report problems
power train
187
electrical system
99
engine
83
service brakes
36
fuel/propulsion system
29
Recalls affecting the 2018 Traverse
power train:automatic transmission
Campaign 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, Ca…
air bags:critical fasteners
Campaign 21V246000
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.
What owners say across generations
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 mec
Transmission failures and problems — includes complete failure, fluid leaks, rough shifting, stalling, and speed sensor issues. Affects multiple generations. Frequency: very frequent.
Electrical 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. Frequency: very frequent.
Engine timing chain issues — a known concern for the 3.6L V6 engine in older models (2009-2012 mentioned), requiring costly repair. Frequency: recurrent.
Poor 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. Frequency: recurrent.
Turbo four-cylinder performance (2024+) — criticized for being slower (7.3 seconds 0-60 mph) and noisier than the previous V6, with sluggish throttle response. Frequency: recurrent.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Traverse.
Typical used price
Used Traverse listings typically run $20,631–$46,865 across 2009 to 2026 model years.