2014 Chevrolet Trax Problems: 1 Issues Every Owner Should Know
2014 model year · 0+ owner reports · Updated April 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 0+ owner reports, the 2014 Chevrolet Trax has 1 documented known issues. No issues are rated critical, indicating generally reliable ownership. Across all issues, repair costs range from $400 to $1,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
All 1 Known Issues
On the 2014-2020 Chevrolet Trax 1.4L Turbo, the 1.4L turbocharged engine in the Trax (shared with Cruze, Sonic, and Buick Encore) develops wastegate actuator failures. The wastegate seal degrades, allowing exhaust gases to bypass the turbine wheel and reduce boost. The wastegate actuator arm design has a known mechanical weakness. GM TechLink bulletin noted many returned turbochargers had no fault and emphasized proper diagnosis before replacement.
Common Symptoms
- Check engine light with P0299 (underboost)
- Reduced power and sluggish acceleration
- Clanking or rattling noise near turbo
- Loss of turbo boost at higher RPMs
- Turbo whistle changes tone or disappears
How to Fix
Confirm the fault before replacing parts by scanning for P0299, logging commanded vs. actual boost, and inspecting the turbo wastegate lever/actuator for excessive play, sticking, or a loose flapper; also smoke-test the intake/charge-air system and check the bypass valve, PCV system, and vacuum/pressure control plumbing so a boost leak is not mistaken for turbo failure. If the wastegate arm or flapper is worn, GM typically services this as a complete turbocharger assembly rather than the actuator alone; replace the turbo assembly with new gaskets, oil feed/return seals, and related hardware, then clear codes and verify boost on a road test. Typical repair cost is about $1,200-$2,000 at an independent shop or $1,800-$2,800 at a dealer depending on labor rates and whether the catalytic converter fasteners/oil lines also need replacement.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
- UpgradeTurbo gasket kit prevents boost leaks and oil seepage at the turbo flanges (Dorman Turbocharger Gasket Kit)
- UpgradeBoost gauge helps monitor turbo performance and catch problems early (AutoMeter Mechanical Boost Gauge)