Chevrolet Trax reliability: common problems by model year

Across 2 model years, the Chevrolet Trax has 118 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 3 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are engine and electrical system. 2017 drew the most complaints (109), 2022 the fewest (9).

Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Chevrolet Trax vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $21,250–$22,891.

Which Trax years have the most problems?

Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.

Highest: 2017 (109 complaints). Lowest: 2022 (9).

Where owners report problems

What owners say

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

• First Generation (2014-2022 w/ 1.4L Turbo Engine):
• Turbocharger failure: Requires replacement, often linked to other engine damage. Cost reports range from $2,100 to $6,000. Frequency: very frequent.
• Engine failure: Catastrophic failures including melted cylinders, holes in engine blocks, and complete replacements. Often occurs under 100,000 miles. Frequency: very frequent.
• Timing chain issues: Causes persistent check engine lights (P0016, P0017 codes) and requires expensive replacement. Frequency: very frequent.
• Oil consumption/burning: Significant oil loss, leading to engine damage. Linked to PCV valve and valve cover issues. Frequency: recurrent.

Owner insights cover all generations of the Trax. Individual model years are broken down above.