The Chevrolet Traverse Issues and Reliability. In 2009, Chevrolet debuted the Traverse as the successor to the popular Trailblazer. Chevy wanted to create another cheap large to mid-size SUV to build on the success of past similar models when it first debuted at the 2008 Chicago auto show. The Traverse, now in its second generation, has established popularity in the American automotive market for drivers looking for a practical everyday vehicle. However, with the introduction of a new Blazer in 2019, will the Traverse’s sales be sufficient to keep it in the Chevrolet lineup?
In terms of design, the Traverse may not be regarded unusual or dynamic. Nonetheless, the Traverse appears to match some of the characteristics that many SUV drivers demand. Chevrolet needed to fill a hole in the mid-size SUV market by creating what the country demanded. As a result, the Traverse was invented. But how does the Traverse compare to some of its competitors? We will study and debate the Chevrolet Traverse’s overall worth throughout this guide. In addition, the Traverse is being compared to similar models in the automotive market. No car, including the Traverse, is perfect or flawless. This investigation will go over some of the model’s design problems and possible weak areas in further depth.
Let’s go through some of the model’s advantages and disadvantages, hopefully answering any queries readers may have regarding Chevrolet’s popular mid-sized SUV. With that out of the way, let’s get into the basic engine specs for the second-generation Chevrolet Traverse below.
Chevrolet Traverse Engine Specifications
The following are the fundamental engine specifications for the second generation Chevrolet Traverse:
Chevrolet’s goal was to create a well-balanced SUV with affordability, practicality, and plenty of performance value. The Traverse is powered by a V6 direct-injection engine with 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. Furthermore, the engine features a cast aluminum block and head with iron liners to reduce total weight. The Traverse’s overall curb weight is 4,310 pounds, with a towing capacity ranging from 1,500 to 5,000 pounds depending on the configuration type. Because the 2022 Traverse is available in five different configurations, we’ve included them all below, along with their respective beginning prices:
- LS – $33,700
- LT (Cloth or Leather) – $36,200/$39,900
- RS – $44,200
- Premier (46,600)
- $51,200 High Country
Expectations for the Traverse can vary because to the many options and pricing ranges. However, the engine quality appears to leave a lot to be desired. The Traverse appears to have a variety of issues when compared to many SUVs on the market today, regardless of configuration type. So, in the following sections, we’ll look at some of those issues as well as the Chevrolet Traverse’s general dependability.
Common Chevy Traverse Issues
- Transmission Problems
- Failure of the Air Conditioning
- Air Bag Issues
- Failure of the Timing Chain
Unfortunately, the Chevrolet Traverse is rated on the low end of the reliability and longevity scale. Engine design flaws are not especially common. However, when difficulties do develop, they are more severe than in comparable sized SUVs from the present age. This is not to say that the majority of Traverse drivers will encounter difficulties that cause catastrophic damage or necessitate costly repairs. However, this means that time-consuming and costly maintenance are more common than in mid-size SUVs from other manufacturers. With that said, let’s look at some of the Traverse’s most typical issues before reaching a conclusion about the model’s general dependability.
1) Chevrolet Traverse Transmission Problems
From its original introduction in 2009 to some of its most recent production years, the Chevy Traverse has been plagued by transmission troubles. Such problems can result in complete transmission failure. This issue is at the top of our list due to its ubiquity and severity.
Many drivers describe issues with weak acceleration and inability to sustain speed, particularly after crossing the 75,000-mile mark. Many of these related issues necessitated transmission replacement or wave clutch plate replacement. Regardless, both problems necessitate exceedingly expensive and time-consuming remedies. Chevrolet responded by issuing technical service bulletins (TSBs) and extending the service warranty on specific models. However, certain older models or secondhand automobiles may be out of warranty and hence susceptible to transmission defects.
Despite extended warranties and dealership caution, some drivers report transmission failure or related difficulties before reaching 5,000 miles. To summarize, the Traverse’s transmission does not have a stellar reputation. As a result, it is critical to diagnose any transmission faults before they worsen or leave you stuck and out of money!
2) Air Conditioning Issues
Many Chevy Traverse drivers have reported air conditioning troubles, primarily with the a/c compressor, much sooner than expected. Drivers specifically describe a/c compressor difficulties that arise with time and wear at greater mileages. Around 100,000 miles, the Traverse’s a/c compressor can begin to fail, necessitating a pricey repair of $1,000 or more. This issue appears to be most prevalent in Traverse model years 2012-2016.
There are currently no recalls for air conditioning or compressor issues associated with these model years. Drivers must stay alert for any strange signs that may signal a malfunctioning air conditioner. Unfortunately, this appears to be yet another annoying issue on our list of Chevy Traverse issues.
3) Traverse Air Bag Issues
The Chevy Traverse also has issues with some airbag components. Fortunately, this issue is most frequently associated with the 2014 Chevrolet Traverse. Having said that, airbag issues are particularly important due to the safety risk that they may represent. So, if an airbag indication light appears on your dashboard, please fix it right away rather than going farther and endangering yourself or any passengers.
Furthermore, Chevrolet filed further TSBs acknowledging problems with malfunctioning Traverse airbags. Fortunately, this issue should not be as costly as some of the other faults on our list. However, because it concerns your safety, this may be one of the most serious issues. As a result, it is always critical to repair any discovered airbag components as soon as possible.
4) Failure of the Chevy Traverse Timing Chain
Timing chain problems can be disastrous for the Chevrolet Traverse. Again, this is an issue that is most closely associated with one model year, the 2012. Aside from the fact that it is most common in the 2012 Traverse, timing chain issues have also been documented in newer Traverses. Faulty timing chains can cause a variety of symptoms, including:
- Engine performance/acceleration issues
- Misfires in the engine
- Sounds of an engine rattling
- Failure to start the engine
- Engine oil contaminated with metal shavings
Because timing chain faults can be linked to other engine components, some drivers have experienced traction control difficulties. Check the status of your timing chain on your 2012 Chevrolet Traverse and schedule any necessary repairs or replacements as soon as possible before more engine damage occurs.
Related : The Honda F20C Engine Manual
Other Significant Issues
In conclusion, the Chevrolet Traverse has a number of other engine difficulties worth mentioning. The faults listed below can be found in both generations of the Traverse and may indicate issues that could lead to further serious engine damage.
Brake squeal
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has identified four concerns with the Chevrolet Traverse’s brakes. Certain braking components are prone to failure, resulting in abnormally loud brake noise. Again, if you have braking issues or hear a noise, prioritize correct repairs before driving farther and putting yourself in danger.
Problems with steering
Various steering issues have been reported in Traverse models from 2009 to 2011. Most drivers online are reporting steering or turning troubles after 75,000 miles. Steering repairs might cost up to $1000 due to a variety of potential causes. This is just another reminder to properly maintain and prioritize repairs before causing hazardous driving conditions or further serious engine system damage.
Excessive reliance on oil
Finally, we must address the Chevrolet Traverse’s oil leaks and excessive oil usage. The first 2009 Traverse model, in particular, had obvious concerns with excessive oil use. These difficulties became more obvious as the car approached 100,000 miles. Chevrolet filed another another TSB in December 2020, warning drivers and mechanics of potential oil consumption issues. This issue may not be common for most current-generation Traverse drivers, but it is reported much too frequently for older Traverse models to be ignored. Having said that, we just cannot offer the Chevrolet Traverse a dependability grade higher than below average due to its numerous problems and the possibility of their occurrence.
Chevrolet Traverse Dependability
Because of the large number of widely reported difficulties and the possibility of severe concerns, it is difficult to respect the Chevrolet Traverse’s overall dependability. Furthermore, major review organizations continue to give the Traverse a low rating in its category/class. For example, Repair Pal evaluated the Traverse 3.0/5 in terms of dependability, ranking it 22nd out of 26 mid-size SUVs made in 2022.
Before reaching high mileage, the difficulties stated above are too numerous and prevalent to ignore. Because Chevrolet has reintroduced the Blazer alongside the TrailBlazer, some may wonder if the Traverse will become obsolete soon. Regardless, it’s important to note that many Traverse drivers may never encounter these concerns, especially if proper maintenance and repairs are followed. However, the later iterations of the Traverse have received outstanding safety ratings. For example, Car and Driver gave the 2022 Traverse a 9.8 out of 10 for overall safety. This may seem contradictory given that many of the issues we investigated revolved around safety. Nonetheless, the Traverse has qualities and a good value, which will help it succeed in the present American automobile market.
What the Traverse lacks in general dependability and durability, it appears to compensate for in usability. Only time will tell whether the Traverse’s dependability and durability improve or deteriorate.
