What year Chevrolet Traverse is the most reliable?

Reliability varies across model years of the Chevrolet Traverse. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 2009-2026 Chevrolet Traverse with 37 documented issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports.

What is the 2010-2019 Chevrolet Traverse Side Curtain (Roof-Rail) Airbags May Not Be Properly Attached (Recall 21V246000)?

GM recalled 2010-2019 Chevrolet Traverse — a span covering essentially the entire first generation and the first two years of the second — because the side curtain airbags may not be properly attached or secured to the roof rail. An improperly retained curtain airbag can fail to… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

What is the 2009-2014 Chevrolet Traverse Front Seat Belt Flexible Steel Cable Fatigue and Separation (Recall 14V266000)?

GM recalled roughly 1.3 million vehicles including 2009-2014 Chevrolet Traverse because the flexible steel cable that anchors the front outboard seat belt to the seat frame can fatigue and separate. A separated anchor cable means the belt has no lower attachment point — the occup… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

What is the 2009-2017 Chevrolet Traverse Timing Chain Stretch and Failure (3.6L V6 LLT/LFX)?

The 3.6L V6 (LLT and LFX variants) in the first-generation Traverse is notorious for premature timing chain stretch. The engine uses three timing chains — one primary and two secondary chains driving the variable valve timing actuators. The chains stretch beyond the tensioner cap… Repairs typically run $1,500-$3,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2019 Chevrolet Traverse Airbags May Not Deploy - SDM Left in Manufacturing Mode (Recall 18V774000)?

NHTSA recall 18V774000 (GM campaign 18365) covers certain 2019 Traverse vehicles (and sibling Encore/Spark/Trax) whose Sensing Diagnostic Module (SDM) was never switched out of factory 'manufacturing mode' before shipment. With the SDM in this state the airbags will not deploy in… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

What is the 2018-2020 Chevrolet Traverse Intermittent No-Crank / No-Start from Connector X203 and Wake-Up Faults?

Many second-gen Traverse owners experience random no-crank / no-start events, sometimes after the engine shuts off while driving. GM service bulletins identify two patterns: bent or backed-out terminals at body connector X203 causing loss of communication on the HSLAN data bus wi… Repairs typically run $150-$900. Severity: high.

What is the 2009-2012 Chevrolet Traverse 6T70/6T75 3-5-Reverse Wave Plate Fracture — Loss of 3rd, 5th and Reverse Gears?

First-generation Traverse models built with the 6T70/6T75 six-speed front-drive automatic use a 3-5-R clutch cushion (wave) plate that on early production was improperly heat treated and left too brittle. Repeated compression cycles during 2-3 and 4-5 shifts crack the plate; once… Repairs typically run $1,800-$4,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2024-2026 Chevrolet Traverse 2.5L Turbo LK0 Engine Stalling Under Investigation (GM Bulletin PIP6102)?

GM issued Preliminary Information bulletin PIP6102 in February 2026 covering unexpected engine stalling on 2024-2026 Traverse, Acadia and Enclave models built with the turbocharged 2.5L LK0 four-cylinder paired to the MF8 eight-speed automatic. A Preliminary Information bulletin… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

What is the 2009-2011 Chevrolet Traverse Loss of Power Steering Assist from Hydraulic Power Steering Pump Wear?

First-generation Traverse owners report an intermittent or sudden drop in power-steering assist, with heavy/hard steering especially at low speed and parking, often preceded by a whine from the pump. This is a HYDRAULIC power steering system (engine-driven pump), and the failure… Repairs typically run $500-$1,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2018-2020 Chevrolet Traverse 9-Speed Automatic (9T65) Torque Converter Shudder on Low-Speed Shifts?

Second-generation Traverse models paired the 3.6L LFY V6 with GM's 9T65 9-speed automatic, which exhibits a noticeable shudder/shake felt during 1-2, 2-3 and 3-4 upshifts at speeds below ~40 mph under light-to-moderate throttle. GM traced it to torque converter clutch (TCC) re-ap… Repairs typically run $250-$2,500. Severity: medium.

What is the 2018-2025 Chevrolet Traverse 9-Speed Automatic Transmission Shudder (9T65)?

The second-generation Traverse (2018+) uses the GM 9T65 9-speed automatic transmission that suffers from a shudder during light acceleration in the 25-50 mph range. The torque converter clutch chatters during lockup, producing a vibration that feels like driving on a rumble strip… Repairs typically run $150-$2,500. Severity: medium.

What is the 2009-2017 Chevrolet Traverse AC Compressor Premature Failure?

The Traverse has one of the highest rates of AC compressor failure among midsize SUVs. Compressors seize or lose capacity often before 70,000 miles. When the compressor fails, it can send metal debris through the entire AC system, requiring replacement of the condenser, expansion… Repairs typically run $800-$2,000. Severity: medium.

What is the 2018-2022 Chevrolet Traverse A/C Condenser / Refrigerant Line Leak Causing Loss of Cooling?

Traverse owners widely report the air conditioning blowing warm air after only a year or two of use, caused by refrigerant escaping the system. GM bulletin PIT5710 instructs dealers to leak-check the condenser and, if no external leak is found, inspect the rear auxiliary A/C evap… Repairs typically run $500-$1,400. Severity: medium.

Chevrolet · Known Issues

2009-2026 Chevrolet Traverse Problems & Issues

2009-2026 model years · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated September 2026

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According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2009-2026 Chevrolet Traverse has 37 documented known issues, with 16 rated critical. The most serious are Incorrect Transmission Sun Gear Causing Half-Shaft Disengagement (Recall 23V172000) ($0-$0 repair), Side Curtain (Roof-Rail) Airbags May Not Be Properly Attached (Recall 21V246000) ($0-$0 repair), Front Seat Belt Flexible Steel Cable Fatigue and Separation (Recall 14V266000) ($0-$0 repair), Recall 09V073000: Traverse Shift Cable Clip May Be Unseated (FMVSS 102/114 Noncompliance), Timing Chain Stretch and Failure (3.6L V6 LLT/LFX) ($1,500-$3,500 repair), Airbags May Not Deploy - SDM Left in Manufacturing Mode (Recall 18V774000) ($0-$0 repair), Intermittent No-Crank / No-Start from Connector X203 and Wake-Up Faults ($150-$900 repair), . at .

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Chevrolet Traverse problems?

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2009-2026 Chevrolet Traverse has 37 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Incorrect Transmission Sun Gear Causing Half-Shaft Disengagement (Recall 23V172000), Side Curtain (Roof-Rail) Airbags May Not Be Properly Attached (Recall 21V246000), Front Seat Belt Flexible Steel Cable Fatigue and Separation (Recall 14V266000). Of these, 16 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Chevrolet Traverse reliable?

The 2009-2026 Chevrolet Traverse has 37 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 16 issues are rated critical: Incorrect Transmission Sun Gear Causing Half-Shaft Disengagement (Recall 23V172000) and Side Curtain (Roof-Rail) Airbags May Not Be Properly Attached (Recall 21V246000) and Front Seat Belt Flexible Steel Cable Fatigue and Separation (Recall 14V266000) and Recall 09V073000: Traverse Shift Cable Clip May Be Unseated (FMVSS 102/114 Noncompliance) and Timing Chain Stretch and Failure (3.6L V6 LLT/LFX) and Airbags May Not Deploy - SDM Left in Manufacturing Mode (Recall 18V774000) and Intermittent No-Crank / No-Start from Connector X203 and Wake-Up Faults and Start/Stop Accumulator Missing Bolts Causing Transmission Fluid Leak / Loss of Propulsion (Recall N202313440) and Radiator Inlet Hose Quick-Connect Coolant Leak on the 2.5L Turbo LK0 — Overheating and Limp Mode and 6T70/6T75 3-5-Reverse Wave Plate Fracture — Loss of 3rd, 5th and Reverse Gears and 2.5L Turbo LK0 Engine Stalling Under Investigation (GM Bulletin PIP6102) and Phantom Automatic Emergency Braking and False Forward Collision Alerts (Third Generation) and Hydraulic Steering Gear (Rack and Pinion) Internal Seal Leak — Fluid Loss and Groaning Assist and Camshaft-Driven High-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure (Direct-Injection 3.6L) — Long Crank, No-Start, Low Rail Pressure and Over-Cured Continental Tires Can Break in the Sidewall or Lose Tread (Recall 21V115000) and Loss of Power Steering Assist from Hydraulic Power Steering Pump Wear. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Chevrolet Traverse problems?

Repair costs for known Chevrolet Traverse issues range from $0 to $6,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Incorrect Transmission Sun Gear Causing Half-Shaft Disengagement (Recall 23V172000), typically costs $0-$0 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

All 37 Known Issues

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Chevrolet Traverse problems?

Is the Chevrolet Traverse reliable?

How much does it cost to fix common Chevrolet Traverse problems?

When Issues Typically Appear

Side Curtain (Roof-Rail) Airbags May Not Be Properly Attached (Recall 21V246000)#

Front Seat Belt Flexible Steel Cable Fatigue and Separation (Recall 14V266000)#

Airbags May Not Deploy - SDM Left in Manufacturing Mode (Recall 18V774000)#

Phantom Automatic Emergency Braking and False Forward Collision Alerts (Third Generation)#

Over-Cured Continental Tires Can Break in the Sidewall or Lose Tread (Recall 21V115000)#

Recall 09V073000: Traverse Shift Cable Clip May Be Unseated (FMVSS 102/114 Noncompliance)#

Start/Stop Accumulator Missing Bolts Causing Transmission Fluid Leak / Loss of Propulsion (Recall N202313440)#

6T70/6T75 3-5-Reverse Wave Plate Fracture — Loss of 3rd, 5th and Reverse Gears#

9-Speed Automatic (9T65) Torque Converter Shudder on Low-Speed Shifts#

9-Speed Automatic Transmission Shudder (9T65)#

Timing Chain Stretch and Failure (3.6L V6 LLT/LFX)#

2.5L Turbo LK0 Engine Stalling Under Investigation (GM Bulletin PIP6102)#

Excessive Oil Consumption on 3.6L LFY (Worn Rings / PCV)#

Engine Oil Consumption (3.6L V6)#

Camshaft Position Actuator Solenoid Faults on the 3.6L LFY — Over-Advanced Cam Timing and Rough Running#

Hydraulic Steering Gear (Rack and Pinion) Internal Seal Leak — Fluid Loss and Groaning Assist#

Loss of Power Steering Assist from Hydraulic Power Steering Pump Wear#

Intermittent No-Crank / No-Start from Connector X203 and Wake-Up Faults#

Infotainment Touchscreen Blackout / Freezing#

Intermittent "Shift to Park" Message — Faulty Shifter Park Switch#

Service StabiliTrak / Traction Control Warnings with Reduced Power#

Chassis Electronic Module Internal Contamination Causing Electrical Short (Recall 14V614000)#

Radiator Inlet Hose Quick-Connect Coolant Leak on the 2.5L Turbo LK0 — Overheating and Limp Mode#

Water Pump Shaft Seal Coolant Leak (3.6L V6)#

A/C Evaporator Core Leak#

Camshaft-Driven High-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure (Direct-Injection 3.6L) — Long Crank, No-Start, Low Rail Pressure#

Inaccurate / Stuck Fuel Gauge (Fuel Level Sender Wear + 2014 ECM Recall)#

Incorrect Transmission Sun Gear Causing Half-Shaft Disengagement (Recall 23V172000)#

A/C Condenser / Refrigerant Line Leak Causing Loss of Cooling#

HVAC Blend Door Actuator Failure — Warm Air on One Side / Inconsistent Dual-Zone Temps#

Sunroof/Moonroof Drain Clog Causing Interior Water Leak from Headliner#

Power Liftgate Strut Failure#

Front Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly Failure — Highway Growl with ABS and StabiliTrak Warnings#