According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2011 Chevrolet Traverse has 14 documented known issues, with 7 rated critical. The most serious are 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), Timing Chain Stretch and Failure (3.6L V6 LLT/LFX) ($1,500-$3,500 repair), 6T70/6T75 3-5-Reverse Wave Plate Fracture — Loss of 3rd, 5th and Reverse Gears ($1,800-$4,500 repair), Hydraulic Steering Gear (Rack and Pinion) Internal Seal Leak — Fluid Loss and Groaning Assist ($900-$1,950 repair), Camshaft-Driven High-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure (Direct-Injection 3.6L) — Long Crank, No-Start, Low Rail Pressure ($600-$1,400 repair) and Loss of Power Steering Assist from Hydraulic Power Steering Pump Wear.
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.
Campaign #21V81700018/10/2021
AIR BAGS:SENSOR:FRONTAL IMPACT
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.
Campaign #21V47200024/06/2021
AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN
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.
Campaign #22V210000
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What are the most common Chevrolet Traverse problems?
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2011 Chevrolet Traverse has 14 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Side Curtain (Roof-Rail) Airbags May Not Be Properly Attached (Recall 21V246000), Front Seat Belt Flexible Steel Cable Fatigue and Separation (Recall 14V266000), Timing Chain Stretch and Failure (3.6L V6 LLT/LFX). Of these, 7 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Chevrolet Traverse reliable?
The 2011 Chevrolet Traverse has 14 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 7 issues are rated critical: 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 Timing Chain Stretch and Failure (3.6L V6 LLT/LFX) and 6T70/6T75 3-5-Reverse Wave Plate Fracture — Loss of 3rd, 5th and Reverse Gears 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 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 $4,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Side Curtain (Roof-Rail) Airbags May Not Be Properly Attached (Recall 21V246000), typically costs $0-$0 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
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.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
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On the 2010-2019 Chevrolet Traverse, 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 deploy along its intended path in a side impact or rollover, or can deploy out of position, so the occupants it exists to protect are not covered. Nothing about this is visible or detectable to an owner during normal use; there are no warning lights and no symptoms, which is precisely why it is worth checking. This is separate from the later 22V210000 roof rail airbag harness connector recall on 2020-2022 vehicles and from the 20V446000 diffuser recall on 2020 models.
Common Symptoms
No owner-detectable symptom
Airbag warning light in some cases
Curtain airbag may not deploy in a side impact or rollover
How to Fix
Free safety recall — enter the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or contact any Chevrolet dealer referencing NHTSA campaign 21V246000. Dealers inspect the roof-rail curtain airbag attachment and secure or replace as necessary at no charge. Because the vehicles in this range are now old enough to have passed through several owners, many have never been presented for the repair — run the VIN even on a well-maintained example, and re-run it after any headliner, roof or A-pillar trim work, since improper reassembly reproduces the same condition. Owners of 2020-2022 vehicles should check 22V210000 instead.
On the 2009-2014 Chevrolet Traverse, 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 occupant is effectively unrestrained in a crash even though the belt latched normally and the vehicle showed no warning. The cable fatigues through repeated seat adjustment and normal belt loading over years of use, so failure rates climb with age and with how often the seat is moved. This is one of the largest and most consequential campaigns in the Traverse's history and, because it affects vehicles now well into the used market, remains substantially unrepaired.
Common Symptoms
Fraying or broken strands at the front seat belt lower anchor cable
Seat belt anchor feels loose
No warning light — failure is silent
How to Fix
Free safety recall — check the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or with a Chevrolet dealer under NHTSA campaign 14V266000. The dealer inspects the front outboard seat belt anchor cables and repairs or replaces them at no charge. Owners can perform a rough self-check by inspecting the anchor cable at the base of each front seat for fraying or broken strands, but a visually intact cable does not clear the vehicle — only the recall inspection does. Have this verified on any used first-generation Traverse before purchase; the repair is free but a separated anchor is not survivable to discover in a crash.
On the 2009-2012 Chevrolet Traverse, separate from the well-known power steering pump wear, the first-generation Traverse's hydraulic rack and pinion assembly itself leaks. The internal rack seals and the upper input shaft seal weep power steering fluid, often visible as fluid running down the rack boots or dripping from the crossmember. Because the leak starves the pump, many owners replace the pump first and are back at the dealer weeks later. Traverse Forum threads document owners with as little as 23,000 miles being quoted $1,500-$1,750 for a steering gear, and GM ran a special service coverage extension to 100,000 miles on 2009-2011 power steering pump and rack components. Vehicles with the NV7 variable-assist steering option use a rack with an integral solenoid, which complicates parts sourcing.
Common Symptoms
Power steering fluid puddle under front of vehicle
Chronically low power steering reservoir
Groaning or whining when turning
Heavy or intermittent steering assist
Fluid on steering rack boots
How to Fix
Confirm the source of the leak before buying parts — clean the area, dye the fluid, and drive it, because a leaking pump, a leaking high-pressure hose, and a leaking gear all present as the same low-fluid groan. If the gear is the source, the only durable repair is replacement of the rack and pinion assembly (reseal kits are not serviceable on this unit); match the NV7 variable-assist part if the vehicle is so equipped, then flush the system and bleed it fully. Check whether the VIN falls under GM's power steering special coverage extension to 100,000 miles before paying out of pocket. Replace the pump at the same time only if it is also noisy or leaking.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Power steering rack and pinion (steering gear) assembly — WITH variable-effort steering (RPO NV7)
OEM23271562Cross-refCardone 22-1042 (reman, NV7, supplied without EVO solenoid), Cardone 22-1042E (reman, NV7, supplied with EVO solenoid), TerrePower 1030255 / 1030255P (reman, NV7)$115–$521
GM 23271562 supersedes 20817770, 20843950, 25876162, 20964165, 25971331, 25789067 and 22902260 — any of those numbers found on the old gear confirms this variant.
Use this variant if the RPO/SPID label does NOT list NV7. GM 23271566 supersedes 25789066, 25876163, 25971332, 20843951, 22902261, 20964166 and 20817771.
On the 2009-2011 Chevrolet Traverse, 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 is internal flow-control-valve/seal wear in the pump that causes a loss of hydraulic pressure; the vehicle can revert to a manual-effort state. GM issued Special Coverage Adjustment #14329 for this pump-wear condition on 2009-2011 Traverse (and 2008-2011 Enclave, 2007-2011 Acadia, 2007-2010 Saturn Outlook), extending pump coverage to 10 years / 150,000 miles. NOTE: this is NOT the electric-power-steering (motor/column/control-module) issue found on some other GM cars.
Common Symptoms
Steering suddenly becomes hard/heavy
Intermittent loss of power steering assist
Whining noise from power steering pump
Increased effort at low speed / parking
Assist returns after restart
How to Fix
Diagnose the hydraulic power steering system for pressure loss; the fix is typically replacement of the power steering pump (and repair of any leaking high-pressure line or rack). Check eligibility for GM Special Coverage #14329 (10yr/150k on 2009-2011) before paying out of pocket.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Power steering pump (hydraulic, engine-driven; pump only, no reservoir)
OEM19540637Cross-refGM 85112727 (prior number, superseded by 19540637), ACDelco/GM 20954812 (original number, superseded), GM 25939259 / 25897549 / 25775403 (earlier numbers in the sa$77–$250
The pump is the part Special Coverage 14329 replaces (dealers also flush the system and, if not already done, install a new steering-gear valve housing). Current GM number is 19540637, which supersedes 85112727 -> 20954812 (the number mo…
On the 2009-2017 Chevrolet Traverse, 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 capacity, causing the engine timing to slip. Symptoms progress from a rattle on cold start to a check engine light with camshaft correlation codes. If ignored, the stretched chains can skip teeth, causing catastrophic engine damage. The issue typically manifests between 80,000-120,000 miles.
Replace all three timing chains, tensioners, guides, and VVT actuator solenoids. This is a major repair requiring 10-15 hours of labor because the engine must be partially removed or the front cover fully disassembled. Parts cost $300-$600 for a complete timing kit; labor runs $1,200-$2,500. Total cost: $1,500-$3,500. GM extended warranty coverage to 10 years/120,000 miles on some model years (Special Coverage 14311). Always replace all three chains together — replacing just one is false economy as the others will fail soon after.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Timing chain kit WITH VVT cam phaser sprockets and VVT solenoids (full 'replace everything' kit)
Cross-refCloyes 9-0753SVVT (3 chains, 3 tensioners, 4 guides, 2 tensi, Melling 3-753SVVT (same scope plus new tensioner bolts and g, Cloyes 9-0753SK3 / Melling 3-753SK3 (SVVT contents plus wate$560–$1350
Use this variant if you want to do the whole documented fix in one purchase: the SVVT kits add the four VVT cam phaser (actuator) sprockets and four VVT solenoids on top of the chains, tensioners and guides. This is the kit that matches …
On the 2009-2023 Chevrolet Traverse, the 3.6L V6 in the Traverse consumes oil at a rate that many owners find unacceptable, particularly on 2009-2017 models with the LLT and LFX engine variants. Owners report consuming 1 quart every 2,000-3,000 miles. The oil consumption is related to piston ring design and the PCV system routing oil vapor back into the intake. The issue is not accompanied by visible external leaks. GM has acknowledged elevated oil consumption on the 3.6L but considers up to 1 quart per 2,000 miles within their acceptable range.
Check oil level at every fuel stop and top off as needed. Use the GM-specified dexos1 Gen 3 approved 5W-30 synthetic oil. An oil consumption test at the dealer involves measuring consumption over a set mileage interval — if it exceeds GM limits, warranty coverage may apply. For out-of-warranty vehicles, using a slightly heavier 5W-40 European-spec oil can reduce burn-off. Severe cases may require piston ring replacement ($2,500-$4,000) or valve stem seal replacement ($1,000-$2,000).
On the 2009-2023 Chevrolet Traverse, every direct-injected 3.6L V6 in the Traverse runs a cam-driven high-pressure fuel pump mounted in the valley that steps rail pressure up past 2,000 PSI. The pump's internal plunger seal and check valve wear, and the follower/cam lobe interface can wear as well, so rail pressure falls below the commanded value. Owners see progressively longer crank times, then a hot-restart no-start, then a hard stumble and reduced power under load. A failing pump can also dilute the engine oil with fuel, which accelerates every other wear item on an engine already known for timing chain and phaser trouble. Traverse Forum carries multi-page HPFP replacement threads across the LLT, LFX and LFY.
Do not replace the pump on the code alone. First verify low-side supply pressure from the in-tank module (roughly 50-70 PSI); a weak lift pump produces the same low-rail codes and will destroy a new high-pressure pump. With supply confirmed, replace the high-pressure fuel pump, its seal and the pump-to-rail line, and inspect the camshaft lobe and pump follower for wear before assembly. Change the engine oil and filter afterward if the oil smells of fuel. Because the pump sits under the intake in the engine valley, plan on significant labor. No recall or special coverage exists for this failure — it is a wear item and is billed as one.
On the 2009-2017 Chevrolet Traverse 3.6L V6 (LLT), the fuel level sender inside the tank (part of the fuel pump module) can give false readings: the gauge sticks, reads full or empty regardless of actual level, or fluctuates by 1/8 to 1/4 tank as the resistor card contacted by the float wears. Reported across first-gen (2009-2016) Traverse. Separately, GM issued NHTSA recall 14007 for certain 2014 Traverse/Enclave/Acadia built Mar 26-Aug 15, 2013, where defective ECM calibration could misreport the fuel level by up to a quarter tank at both high and low ends, risking an unexpected stall.
For sender wear, replace the in-tank fuel sender / fuel pump module assembly (sender is not sold separately on most years). For the recalled 2014 build window, an ECM reprogram (recall 14007, free of charge) corrects the software-caused inaccuracy. Verify with a scan tool that reported level tracks actual fill.
On the 2009-2012 Chevrolet Traverse 3.6L V6 LLT, 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 it fractures, the vehicle loses 3rd, 5th and reverse, and the debris migrates through the transmission, plugging the filter and scoring other components so what began as one $50 plate becomes a full rebuild. GM acknowledged the condition with Special Coverage Adjustment #14404, extending coverage to 10 years/120,000 miles for affected build ranges. Owners on Traverse Forum describe the classic progression: a late or flared 2-3 shift for weeks, then an abrupt no-reverse.
On vehicles still inside Special Coverage #14404 (10 years/120,000 miles from in-service date, transferable regardless of ownership), the dealer replaces the 3rd/5th/reverse clutch plate at no charge. Outside coverage, the correct repair is transmission removal and replacement of the 3-5-R wave plate with the updated (correctly heat-treated) part number along with the 3-5-R clutch pack, a full fluid and filter service, and inspection of the pump and valve body for debris. If the plate has already shattered and metal has circulated, a rebuild or reman unit is the only durable fix. Do not simply add fluid or a friction modifier — the failure is mechanical.
On the 2009-2017 Chevrolet Traverse, the engine-driven water pump on the 3.6L V6 develops a leak at the shaft seal, weeping coolant from the pump 'weep hole' at the front/side of the engine. GM acknowledged the condition with Customer Satisfaction Program #13079 covering 2009-2013 Traverse (and Lambda-platform siblings Enclave/Acadia/Outlook) with the HFV6 engine (LY7, LLT), noting that operating with a low coolant level shortens shaft-seal life. Water-pump leaks are widely reported across first-gen years through 2017. Left unaddressed the pump can lose enough coolant to cause overheating.
Coolant drips or crusty residue at front of engine
Overheating / high temp gauge
Coolant puddle under vehicle
How to Fix
Replace the water pump (and thermostat/gaskets while accessed), pressure-test the cooling system, and refill with DEX-COOL. Keeping coolant topped to spec extends seal life. #13079 (a coolant-level check/top-off program, not a free pump replacement) applied to eligible 2009-2013 cars until April 30, 2015; otherwise owner-pay.
On the 2009-2017 Chevrolet Traverse, the first-generation Traverse (2009-2017) develops A/C evaporator leaks that cause loss of refrigerant and warm air from the vents. The evaporator core, located inside the dashboard HVAC housing, corrodes internally due to moisture and acid buildup from the refrigerant-oil mixture. The leak is slow enough that the A/C may work fine early in summer but gradually loses cooling as refrigerant escapes over weeks. The evaporator is extremely labor-intensive to access, making this one of the most expensive A/C repairs.
Common Symptoms
A/C blows warm air gradually over weeks
A/C works after recharge but fails again
Musty smell from vents (moisture from leak)
Water dripping inside passenger footwell
A/C low pressure reading with no visible leak
How to Fix
The evaporator core must be replaced, which requires removing the entire dashboard assembly to access the HVAC housing — 8-12 hours of labor ($800-$1,500). The evaporator core itself costs $100-$300. Also replace the expansion valve and receiver/drier while the system is apart ($50-$100 additional). Total repair: $1,200-$2,500. As a temporary fix, a refrigerant recharge with UV dye ($100-$200) will restore cooling for weeks to months, but the leak will return. Always check for evaporator leaks before spending money on other A/C diagnostics.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Front A/C evaporator core (2013-2017 Traverse)
OEM22816158Cross-refACDelco 15-63771 (GM Genuine), Four Seasons 64106 (cross-lists 22816158)$109–$390
Front (dash) evaporator for the 2013-2017 refreshed first-gen Traverse, 3.6L V6, 2WD/AWD. Different core from 2009-2012 (22804121) — check your model year.
On the 2009-2017 Chevrolet Traverse, 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 valve, and system flush. Some owners report repeat failures within 8 months of repair.
Common Symptoms
AC blows warm air
Clicking or grinding noise from compressor
AC works intermittently
Compressor clutch not engaging
Burning smell from AC system
How to Fix
Confirm the failure by checking static and running refrigerant pressures, verifying compressor clutch command/power and ground, and inspecting for noise, seizure, or metal contamination in the oil and lines. If the compressor has failed internally, replace the compressor, receiver/drier or condenser assembly (the drier is integrated on many GM systems), expansion valve/orifice components as applicable, thoroughly flush any reusable lines and evaporator, evacuate the system, and recharge with the exact specified refrigerant and PAG oil; also inspect cooling fan operation and high-side pressures so an overpressure condition does not destroy the replacement unit. If debris is present, a simple compressor swap often leads to repeat failure, so a full system cleanout is the correct repair. Typical cost is about $1,200-$2,500 for a complete repair depending on how many contaminated components must be replaced.
On the 2009-2023 Chevrolet Traverse, the Traverse is a heavy three-row crossover on a front-drive-biased platform, and the front wheel bearing/hub assemblies are a recurring wear failure across both the Lambda and C1XX generations. The bearing develops a speed-dependent hum or growl that changes pitch when the vehicle is loaded into a turn. Because the wheel speed sensor is integrated into the hub unit, a failing bearing frequently damages or de-tunes the sensor, so the first symptom many owners see is an ABS and StabiliTrak warning light rather than a noise. There is no recall for this on any model year — it is a maintenance-grade failure that arrives earlier and more often than owners expect on this nameplate.
Vibration felt in the steering wheel at highway speed
Play at the wheel when jacked up
How to Fix
Diagnose by road-testing with weight transfer: swerve gently side to side at 40-50 mph and note whether the noise increases when the suspect corner is loaded. Confirm with a dial indicator for lateral play at the hub flange. The repair is replacement of the complete hub/bearing assembly (the bearing is not separately serviceable), including a new axle nut torqued to spec. Seat the wheel speed sensor connector carefully — improperly seated sensors after a hub job are a well-documented cause of ABS lights that were not there before. Replace in axle pairs if both sides have comparable mileage.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Front wheel hub and bearing assembly (with integrated ABS wheel speed sensor) — 2009-2017 Traverse (Lambda platform)
Fits 2018-2023 Traverse (2.0L turbo and 3.6L V6, FWD and AWD; 6-lug, 3-bolt flange, ABS). NOT interchangeable with 2009-2017 — different bolt circle and pilot diameters.
On the 2009-2025 Chevrolet Traverse, the Traverse power liftgate struts lose gas pressure over time, causing the liftgate to drop slowly when opened or slam shut unexpectedly. On models with power liftgate, the electric motor can also fail, leaving the liftgate inoperative via the button. The struts typically fail between 5-8 years, with cold weather accelerating the failure as the gas charge loses pressure faster at low temperatures. A dropping liftgate is a safety concern, especially when loading cargo or with children nearby.
Common Symptoms
Liftgate drops slowly when opened
Liftgate slams shut unexpectedly
Have to hold liftgate up manually
Power liftgate button does not work
Liftgate opens only partway in cold weather
How to Fix
Replace both liftgate struts as a pair ($50-$120 for a pair of gas struts). This is a simple DIY repair — the struts have ball-socket ends that pop off with a small pry tool (15-minute job). For power liftgate models, if the electric motor has failed, the motor assembly costs $200-$500 and requires 1-2 hours of labor to replace. StrongArm and Sachs/Stabilus are quality aftermarket strut brands. Always replace both struts at the same time — they wear at the same rate.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Rear liftgate gas strut (lift support), 2009-2017 Traverse — sold individually, replace as a pair
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.
Campaign #23V04200002/02/2023
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
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.
Campaign #23V17200016/03/2023
Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.
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 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 2009-2012 Chevrolet Traverse Hydraulic Steering Gear (Rack and Pinion) Internal Seal Leak — Fluid Loss and Groaning Assist?
Separate from the well-known power steering pump wear, the first-generation Traverse's hydraulic rack and pinion assembly itself leaks. The internal rack seals and the upper input shaft seal weep power steering fluid, often visible as fluid running down the rack boots or dripping… Repairs typically run $900-$1,950. Severity: high.
What is the 2009-2023 Chevrolet Traverse Camshaft-Driven High-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure (Direct-Injection 3.6L) — Long Crank, No-Start, Low Rail Pressure?
Every direct-injected 3.6L V6 in the Traverse runs a cam-driven high-pressure fuel pump mounted in the valley that steps rail pressure up past 2,000 PSI. The pump's internal plunger seal and check valve wear, and the follower/cam lobe interface can wear as well, so rail pressure… Repairs typically run $600-$1,400. 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 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 2009-2023 Chevrolet Traverse Engine Oil Consumption (3.6L V6)?
The 3.6L V6 in the Traverse consumes oil at a rate that many owners find unacceptable, particularly on 2009-2017 models with the LLT and LFX engine variants. Owners report consuming 1 quart every 2,000-3,000 miles. The oil consumption is related to piston ring design and the PCV… Repairs typically run $0-$4,000. Severity: medium.
What is the 2009-2017 Chevrolet Traverse Water Pump Shaft Seal Coolant Leak (3.6L V6)?
The engine-driven water pump on the 3.6L V6 develops a leak at the shaft seal, weeping coolant from the pump 'weep hole' at the front/side of the engine. GM acknowledged the condition with Customer Satisfaction Program #13079 covering 2009-2013 Traverse (and Lambda-platform sibli… Repairs typically run $700-$1,700. Severity: medium.
What is the 2009-2017 Chevrolet Traverse A/C Evaporator Core Leak?
The first-generation Traverse (2009-2017) develops A/C evaporator leaks that cause loss of refrigerant and warm air from the vents. The evaporator core, located inside the dashboard HVAC housing, corrodes internally due to moisture and acid buildup from the refrigerant-oil mixtur… Repairs typically run $100-$2,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2009-2023 Chevrolet Traverse Front Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly Failure — Highway Growl with ABS and StabiliTrak Warnings?
The Traverse is a heavy three-row crossover on a front-drive-biased platform, and the front wheel bearing/hub assemblies are a recurring wear failure across both the Lambda and C1XX generations. The bearing develops a speed-dependent hum or growl that changes pitch when the vehic… Repairs typically run $300-$800. Severity: medium.
What is the 2009-2017 Chevrolet Traverse Inaccurate / Stuck Fuel Gauge (Fuel Level Sender Wear + 2014 ECM Recall)?
The fuel level sender inside the tank (part of the fuel pump module) can give false readings: the gauge sticks, reads full or empty regardless of actual level, or fluctuates by 1/8 to 1/4 tank as the resistor card contacted by the float wears. Reported across first-gen (2009-2016… Repairs typically run $350-$900. Severity: low.
What is the 2009-2025 Chevrolet Traverse Power Liftgate Strut Failure?
The Traverse power liftgate struts lose gas pressure over time, causing the liftgate to drop slowly when opened or slam shut unexpectedly. On models with power liftgate, the electric motor can also fail, leaving the liftgate inoperative via the button. The struts typically fail b… Repairs typically run $50-$600. Severity: low.
