Chevrolet Traverse Reliability by Year
Best & Worst Years, Problems & Recalls — NHTSA Data
Comparing used Chevrolet Traverse options? We analyzed 10 model years (2017–2026) using real NHTSA complaint and recall data so you can spot stronger years, avoid riskier ones, and know what to inspect before buying.
Model-year trends show patterns. Run a VIN check for the exact Chevrolet Traverse you plan to buy.
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the Chevrolet Traverse has 1,944 owner complaints and 23 safety recalls across model years 2017–2026. The most reported issue area is POWER TRAIN. 2018 drew the most complaints; 2026 drew the fewest.
- Make
- Chevrolet
- Model
- Traverse
- Model years analyzed
- 2017–2026 (10 years)
- Total NHTSA complaints
- 1,944
- Safety recall campaigns
- 23
- Crash-related complaints
- 62
- Fire-related complaints
- 7
- Worst model year (by complaints)
- 2018 (442 complaints)
- Best model year (fewest complaints)
- 2026 (14 complaints)
- Top reported issue area
- POWER TRAIN
- Reliability signal
- Poor
Chevrolet Traverse: Which Years to Avoid & Which to Buy
Based on total NHTSA owner complaints per model year. Higher complaint counts indicate a riskier year to buy used — lower counts suggest a cleaner reliability record.
These years have the most owner complaints. Inspect carefully and always run a VIN check.
These years have the fewest owner complaints on record — lower risk starting points.
⭐ NHTSA NCAP Crash Test Ratings
New Car Assessment ProgramNCAP crash tests measure how well a vehicle protects occupants in controlled frontal crash, side crash, and rollover scenarios. Stars are awarded per category (5 = safest). These laboratory results are independent of owner complaints and are performed by NHTSA engineers on new production vehicles.
What the Complaint Data Suggests
PoorThe CHEVROLET TRAVERSE has 1,944 NHTSA complaints and 23 recalls on record. 62 complaints involve crash-related incidents. This data reflects owner-reported issues submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
- 1,944 total complaints filed with NHTSA
- 23 federal recall campaigns
- 62 crash-related complaints on record
- Review NHTSA complaint history for the most-reported components
- Check recall completion status at nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Verify service records for frequently complained components
Consult the by-year breakdown to identify model years with elevated complaint rates.
Consult the by-year breakdown to identify model years with fewer reported issues.
- Run a VIN check on the specific vehicle you are considering
- Verify all open recalls are completed at nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Request service records for the most-reported complaint components
- Have a certified mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase
🔔 NHTSA Safety Recalls
23 recalls foundSafety recalls are mandatory repair campaigns ordered by NHTSA when a vehicle defect poses an unreasonable risk to safety. Manufacturers are required to fix recalled vehicles free of charge. Always verify open recalls before buying a used car.
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
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Safety Recall
Source: NHTSA Recalls Database. Data covers model years 2017–2026. Always run a VIN-specific check below for the most up-to-date open recall status.
🔧 Most-Reported Problem Areas
Based on component keywords extracted from all 1,944 NHTSA complaints.
📋 NHTSA Complaint Reports
1,944 totalThese are consumer-submitted safety complaints filed directly with NHTSA. Each complaint describes a real owner's experience. Complaints flagged as crash-related or fire-related are highlighted.
While driving on the freeway, the vehicle’s battery shut down. I received the following text as this happened, so there was no way I could react in a timely manner as to exercise safety and any precautions: “Diagnostic Alert: Low 12V battery detected in your vehicle. To recharge, try and start in a well-ventilated area. If it won't turn on, try to jump start or call 1-888-4-ONSTAR. Text STOP to cancel.” This situation was life-threatening and scary. I was scared for my life.
The weight detection is failing to recognize a child in the passenger seat.
Brakes have been squeaking since purchasing the vehicle brand new. Have been told that “this is a known issue but it’s “normal””.
I am reporting a serious safety concern involving my 2026 Chevy Traverse that occurred on May 9, 2026 at 6:46pm. While driving at freeway speed in the carpool lane with adaptive cruise control and gap assist engaged, my vehicle suddenly applied the brakes unexpectedly even though there were no vehicles directly in front of me. The nearest visible vehicle was a significant distance ahead, and there was no apparent reason for the braking event. This was not a gradual deceleration. The vehicle actively braked. I was passing under or near an overpass at the time, which makes me wonder whether the sensors misread something. Regardless, the sudden braking created a dangerous situation because vehicles were behind me, and the driver behind appeared to think I was brake checking them. This could have easily caused a rear end collision. As a result of this incident, I no longer feel I can trust these safety/driver assistance systems and have since disabled those features because I do not feel safe relying on them until this issue is properly investigated and addressed. I am requesting that this issue be formally documented, that the vehicle be inspected for any malfunction related to adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, or related sensor systems, and that I be advised whether this is a known issue with the 2026 Traverse. If there are any software updates, technical service bulletins, recalls, or corrective actions available, please let me know. This is a serious safety concern, and I would appreciate guidance on the next steps.
What is causing the problem is unknown. Vehicle was at a complete stop at red light when releasing brake vehicle lunged forward hitting vehicle in front from behind so yes there has been an accident.. 2nd time was when first starting vehicle in the morning and putting vehicle in Drive when brake is released vehicle lunged forward at 7 miles an hour without touching the gas pedal. Dealer claims they cannot reproduce problem. This is a safety hazard the problem does not give you warning it just lurches forward.
While driving 65mph, the vehicle’s engine shut off, a ‘Reduced Acceleration Drive with Care’ message showed up and I had to coast to the side of the freeway. Engine would not restart and dealer confirmed a piston contacted a valve and a new engine is needed.
Windshield making creaking noises. Windshield has split down the middle and now continuing off to the side. Dealership states no know recalls and refusal to fix it. No rocks have been hit. Damage is directly down center and all the way to the top.
I’m reaching out for help with a frustrating situation. I purchased a brand new 2026 Chevrolet Traverse in New York, but after moving to Texas, I'm having trouble registering it. The car can't pass the state inspection due to emissions issues, and local dealerships aren't providing any assistance. The only advice I've received is to drive it around for a bit, hoping the problem resolves itself. However, I'm concerned about the safety of myself and my 4 children, and it seems like Chevrolet isn't taking this issue seriously. What steps can I take to resolve this situation?
My car is available for inspection upon request. AWD Service and 4WD Service messages appeared at 389 miles and 2104 miles on the odometer. Messages appeared during operation of the vehicle, shutting down AWD as an option and defaulting to 2WD. Messages would go away and AWD would come back online after a few hours of leaving the car off. AWD system was in use when error messages appeared and deactivation of the AWD/4WD system increased risk during icy road conditions. When taken to the Houston Mac haik Chevy dealership service center, I was refused at the door, stating that the messages needs to be on for them to take a look. No warning lamps or other messages appeared prior to failure. Message first appeared during normal operation with AWD on at 389 miles on the odometer. The components have not been inspected by anyone.
This vehicle is unsafe for two reasons. First, it slams you on brakes and puts you in park at random times. Middle of road, parking lots, etc. This puts you at higher risk of someone hitting you. The second thing is when pressing the gas when taking off after a stop, the rpm’s jump up and the engine revs up, but the car is barely going. Not safe when crossing intersections along with many other times. Both of these puts mine and my families safety at risk along with others on the road. No warning signs, lights, etc. Car is in shop for second time. First time on November 28, second time on December the 11. Still no answer on a fix. Just that they think they may know the cause. The dealer has gotten the car to reproduce these issues.
On Monday, December 15, 2025, I was "creeping" into my garage when the brakes failed and I ran into my garage wall damaging my wall and the front of the vehicle. On Tuesday, December 16 ,2025, while slowly pulling into a parking spot at Sam's Club in OKC, the brakes again failed, and the forward crash system prevented running into another vehicle. On that same date while stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic, the brakes again failed, and I was able to pull into the median rather than hitting the car in front of me. That same evening, while backing out of a parking spot at a restaurant, the brakes failed in reverse and again the vehicle reverse crash avoidance system stopped without hitting another vehicle. Later, as I was leaving the parking lot, the brakes failed at the STOP sign, and I was able to turn right in the Merge Lane avoiding hitting another oncoming car. At the very next STOP sign, the brakes failed again, and I was able to get the car into PARK avoiding another head on collision. All these brake failures happened at speeds under 5 mph or barely "creeping" forward or reverse. I drove the car to Cummins Chevy Dealership in Weatherford, OK, the next day and related the issues to them. They gave me a "Loaner" for use until they fixed my car. The Service Manager did ask me if I had "Tagged" my car yet and I said I had. So far, GM and Cummins have been very helpful and understanding. I had no issues "braking" the car at speeds above 5 mph. I have only had this vehicle for 3 weeks when the issues started. I love the vehicle and hope this is only a minor glitch or some bad part that can be replaced. I file this complaint proactively in case it is a bigger problem with this line of vehicles. Thank you.
The contact owns a 2026 Chevrolet Traverse. The contact stated that while driving at 35 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the residence. The contact stated that while making a right turn into the dealer to have the vehicle diagnosed, the brake warning light illuminated. The vehicle was diagnosed, and determined that the brake master cylinder needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired because parts were on back order. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 500.
The car is equipped with a supercruise feature, which should ideally enhance the driving experience. However, I've encountered a significant issue: even when this feature is not activated, the vehicle tends to oscillate between the lane markers. This problem becomes particularly pronounced under poor road conditions, such as when it's raining. The moisture on the pavement obscures the lane markings, and in these instances, the car automatically drifts toward the right side of the road. As a result, I find myself constantly struggling to maintain control of the steering wheel in an effort to keep the car centered within the lane. When it veers off to the right, I must exert extra effort to correct its direction, which can lead to a hazardous driving situation, regardless of the weather conditions or time of day. The need for constant corrections not only creates frustration but also increases the risk of losing control, making this a serious concern for both my safety and that of other road users.
Purchased the car in August 2025 and have had into service 3 years for the same issues. When driving the car, the RPM will get "stuck" between 5-6 when only driving 20-30 mph. Once I slow down/brake, it will jump into a park effect, but still be in drive. The car has been inspected by Chevy 3 times, but they can't get any fault code on the vehicle, so they can't "fix" the issue. This puts myself and my small children at risk because if it jumps into the park effect, while still in drive, I can not move and someone could rear-end me. I do have video evidence.
Transmission system / engine system
The vehicle jerks/shifts harshly while decelerating and again when accelerating after slowing down. The issue feels similar to the previous transmission shudder concern that was repaired.
The internal structural frame or track assembly of the driver side passenger seat has suffered a mechanical failure, causing severe, high-frequency metal chattering while the vehicle is in motion. The failure persists even with a passenger buckled into the seat. Because the seat frame serves as the structural anchor for both the seatbelt restraint system and the side-impact airbags, an un-diagnosed internal fracture poses a direct risk to occupant safety in the even of a collision. Videos of the issue are available.
I HAVE A CONCERN ABOUTH THE TRANSMISSON I BROUGHT MY CAR TO THE SHOP AND THER E ARE ATLEAST 6 OTHERS WITH TRANSMISSON ISUSSES AND ONLY KELLY BLUE BOOK KIT STATES THAT THERE ARE 2 RECALL DEALING WITH THE SAME PROBLEM I AM HAVING.
We experienced power steering failure. Our steering wheel control was taken over while backing out of our driveway and while driving on a highway. When this happens, you can’t turn the wheel. It becomes locked and then you become stuck. It is extremely unsafe and put our whole family at risk of getting in an accident. It is currently sitting at the dealership and has been there for weeks. We have documents confirming the problem. The dealer even had a problem pulling it into the garage for the diagnostics. We have been out of a car for weeks because the steering rack part is impossible to get and is in very high demand which leads us to believe we are not the only ones experiencing this. Again I stress, this was very scary for our family and it really puts people at risk. It is a new car and we should not have experienced this.
The contact owns a 2023 Chevrolet Traverse. The contact stated while attempting to accelerate the vehicle experienced severe engine shuttering. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the torque converter needed to be replaced. The vehcle was not repaired. The manufacture was notified of the falure but no assistance was offered. The local dealer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 125,000.
Showing 20 of 1,944 total NHTSA complaints. Source: NHTSA Complaints Database
Before You Buy, Check the Exact Chevrolet Traverse
These pages show model-year patterns across 10years. Enter a VIN to verify the exact vehicle's accident history, title brands, odometer records, and open recall status before purchase.
📖 Understanding This Data
What is an NHTSA Complaint?
An NHTSA safety complaint is a report filed directly by a vehicle owner or driver describing a safety-related issue. Anyone can submit a complaint at NHTSA.gov. The number of complaints is a signal of how common a problem is — but complaints per model-year matter more than raw totals, since popular vehicles naturally receive more reports. The Chevrolet Traverse has 1,944 complaints on record across 10 model years.
What is a Safety Recall?
A safety recall is a mandatory campaign issued by NHTSA when a vehicle component poses an unreasonable risk to safety or does not comply with federal motor vehicle safety standards. Unlike complaints (which are owner-reported), recalls are formally investigated and confirmed by regulators. Manufacturers must fix recalled vehicles free of charge. The Chevrolet Traverse has 23 recall campaigns in the NHTSA database.
What Are Crash Complaints?
Crash complaints are NHTSA filings where the owner indicates a crash occurred as part of the incident. 62 of the Chevrolet Traverse's 1,944 complaints involved a crash. This metric is particularly important because it indicates how often defects resulted in actual collisions — a key safety signal beyond general reliability.
How Is the Reliability Verdict Calculated?
The reliability verdict (Poor) is generated by analyzing the vehicle's total complaints, recall history, crash complaint ratio, fire complaint ratio, and top component failures relative to class averages. This verdict gives buyers a quick interpretation before they review year-level details and VIN-level history. It should be treated as one decision input, not a substitute for a VIN-specific report.
Why Do Newer Years Have Fewer Complaints?
Newer model years appear to have fewer complaints because there has been less time for owners to file them. Complaints accumulate over years of ownership. A 2020 model year vehicle will typically show fewer complaints than a 2015 model year even if it is less reliable — simply because fewer owners have had time to report issues. Focus on complaints per year of market presence when comparing across model years.
Fleet Data vs. Individual VIN
Everything on this page reflects aggregated data across all Chevrolet Traverse vehicles on the road — not any specific car. Two Chevrolet Traverse vehicles of the same year can have very different histories: one may have been in three accidents and have an open recall; another may be clean. A VIN check gives you the individual car's history: accidents, title brands, odometer records, service history, and real-time recall status.
What Are NHTSA Investigations?
When NHTSA receives a pattern of related safety complaints, it opens a formal investigation. A Preliminary Evaluation (PE) is the first stage — NHTSA determines if a safety defect may exist. If evidence is strong, it escalates to an Engineering Analysis (EA), which can result in a mandatory recall. The Chevrolet Traverse has 0 investigations on record (0 active). Investigations listed above may have already led to the recalls shown on this page.
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📍 Check a Chevrolet Traverse by State
Title-branding rules, flood-damage exposure, and salvage laws vary by state. Run a free VIN check or explore state-specific vehicle history guidance before buying a used Chevrolet Traverse.