Chevrolet Traverse research: recalls, reliability and buyer's guide

The Traverse is one of the roomiest three-row crossovers, with an adult-usable third row and a big cargo area. 2011-2017 models use a 281- to 288-hp V6 and 6-speed automatic; the 2018-2023 redesign brought a 310-hp V6, a 9-speed and much more modern tech; and 2024-on models use a 328-hp turbo four, a 17.7-inch screen and available Super Cruise. Check early V6s carefully for timing-chain and transmission wear.

Model years covered: 2011–2026. The Traverse is in production; verify 2026 trims, features and specifications against current Chevrolet data and the window sticker.

Last updated 2026-10-15.

Strengths

Very roomy third row
Large cargo area
Seating for up to eight
Smooth V6 power 2018 2023
Comfortable highway ride
Available AWD
Modern tech and super cruise 2024 and later

Things to know before you buy

First generation timing chain and transmission checks
Air bag recalls check by VIN
2018 and 2024 are redesign years
2022 refresh adds standard safety features
Large size for city parking
Fuel economy typical of large crossovers
Recall status should be checked by VIN

Generations

Generation 1 (2009–2017)

The original Traverse (2009-2017; 2011-2017 in this file) shared GM's Lambda platform with the Acadia and Enclave. It used a 3.6L V6 (281 hp, 288 hp with dual exhaust) and a 6-speed automatic. The 2013 refresh added new styling, MyLink and a front-center air bag; 2014 added forward collision and lane departure alerts; 2017 renamed LTZ as Premier.

Buyer takeaway: Best as a budget three-row hauler; favor 2013-2017 models with records showing regular oil changes, and check the timing chain, transmission and air bag recalls.

Generation 2 (2018–2023)

The 2018-2023 Traverse is larger inside, lighter and more modern, with a 310-hp 3.6L V6 and 9-speed automatic, a 257-hp 2.0L turbo on the 2018-2019 front-drive RS, and new RS and High Country trims. The 2022 refresh brought new styling and more standard safety features. A fleet-only 2024 Traverse Limited extended this design.

Buyer takeaway: The sweet spot for many families: a smooth V6 and huge interior. Choose 2022-2023 for standard safety features, and confirm recall completion on 2018-2020 models.

Generation 3 (2024–present)

The 2024-on Traverse has a 328-hp, 326 lb-ft 2.5L turbo four and 8-speed automatic, a 17.7-inch touchscreen, available Super Cruise, and new Z71 and RS trims; Premier and High Country returned for 2025.

Buyer takeaway: Best for buyers who want the newest tech and strong turbo torque; confirm software updates and recalls on early builds.

Chevrolet Traverse by model year

2026 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2026 Traverse continues the third generation with the 328-hp, 326 lb-ft 2.5L turbo four and 8-speed automatic, the large 17.7-inch touchscreen and available Super Cruise. Trim and feature details can change during the year, so verify the exact equipment against current Chevrolet data and the window sticker before buying.

Engines: 2.5 liter turbo I4 328 hp 326 lb ft
Transmissions: 8 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 4 door three row SUV

What changed:

Continues the third generation
Verify trim and feature changes against current chevrolet data

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine trim and drivetrain by VIN; Turbo engine operation and oil level; 8 speed automatic shift quality; Large touchscreen and software updates; Super cruise operation if equipped; Driver assistance sensors and cameras; AWD system operation if equipped; Third row seat mechanisms; Power liftgate; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

2025 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2025 Traverse keeps the 328-hp 2.5L turbo and 8-speed automatic, with front- or all-wheel drive depending on trim. The lineup shifts upmarket: the base LS was dropped and Premier and High Country luxury trims were added alongside LT, Z71 and RS. Confirm equipment and drivetrain by VIN, as features vary widely by trim.

Engines: 2.5 liter turbo I4 328 hp 326 lb ft
Transmissions: 8 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 4 door three row SUV

What changed:

Premier and high country trims added
Base ls trim dropped

2024 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2024 Traverse is all new, with a 328-hp, 326 lb-ft 2.5L turbo four and 8-speed automatic replacing the V6, a huge 17.7-inch touchscreen, and available Super Cruise. Launch trims were LS, LT, the rugged Z71 (about an inch more ground clearance, all-terrain tires) and the sporty RS. A fleet 'Traverse Limited' is the old V6 model, so check the VIN.

Engines: 2.5 liter turbo I4 328 hp 326 lb ft; 3.6 liter V6 on fleet traverse limited
Transmissions: 8 speed automatic; 9 speed automatic traverse limited only
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 4 door three row SUV

What changed:

All new third generation
2.5 liter turbo four replaces the V6
17 7 inch touchscreen
New off road flavored z71 with extra ground clearance
Available super cruise hands free driving

2023 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2023 Traverse is the last retail year of the second generation, with the 310-hp V6, 9-speed automatic and the 2022 refresh's standard safety features. A carryover 'Traverse Limited' was built for fleets as a 2024 model while the new generation ramped up. Buyers wanting V6 smoothness should look here, since later models use a turbo four.

Engines: 3.6 liter V6 310 hp 266 lb ft
Transmissions: 9 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 4 door three row SUV

What changed:

Last retail year of the second generation
Fleet only traverse limited followed for 2024

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine trim and drivetrain by VIN; 9 speed automatic shift quality; Start stop operation; Driver assistance sensors and cameras; Infotainment and smartphone integration; AWD system operation if equipped; Third row seat mechanisms; Power liftgate; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

2022 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2022 refresh gave the Traverse a new grille and front end in the style of the Tahoe and Suburban, revised LED lighting, and more standard driver-assistance features (confirm the exact list by trim). The 310-hp 3.6L V6 and 9-speed automatic carry over. A 2022-2023 is the most modern second-generation Traverse.

Engines: 3.6 liter V6 310 hp 266 lb ft
Transmissions: 9 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 4 door three row SUV

What changed:

Refreshed front styling and LED lighting
More standard driver assistance features
Updated grille inspired by tahoe and suburban

2021 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2021 Traverse is little changed: a 310-hp V6, 9-speed automatic, FWD or AWD, and seating for up to eight. The rear-seat entertainment option was dropped. It is the last year before the 2022 refresh that made more safety features standard, so compare equipment carefully.

Engines: 3.6 liter V6 310 hp 266 lb ft
Transmissions: 9 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 4 door three row SUV

What changed:

Rear seat entertainment discontinued
Largely carryover

2020 Chevrolet Traverse

For 2020 the 2.0L turbo was dropped, so every Traverse has the 310-hp, 266 lb-ft 3.6L V6 and 9-speed automatic, with front- or all-wheel drive. Trims still range from L to High Country. Some 2018-2020 models were recalled for missing transmission accumulator bolts that can leak fluid, so verify the fix by VIN.

Engines: 3.6 liter V6 310 hp 266 lb ft
Transmissions: 9 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 4 door three row SUV

What changed:

2.0 liter turbo dropped
V6 becomes the only engine

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine trim and drivetrain by VIN; 9 speed automatic shift quality; Start stop operation; Driver assistance sensors and cameras; Infotainment and smartphone integration; Transmission accumulator recall completion; AWD system operation if equipped; Third row seat mechanisms; Power liftgate; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

2019 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2019 Traverse continues with the 310-hp V6 and 9-speed automatic (about 18/27 mpg with FWD) and adds a Blackout appearance package. It is the last year EPA lists the 257-hp 2.0L turbo on the front-drive RS. Seating for seven or eight and a large cargo area make it one of the roomiest crossovers of its time.

Engines: 3.6 liter V6 310 hp 266 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo I4 257 hp 295 lb ft rs FWD only
Transmissions: 9 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 4 door three row SUV

What changed:

Blackout appearance package
Last year of the 2.0 liter turbo

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine trim and drivetrain by VIN; 9 speed automatic shift quality; Start stop operation; Driver assistance sensors and cameras; Infotainment and smartphone integration; Transmission accumulator recall completion; AWD system operation if equipped; Third row seat mechanisms; Power liftgate; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

2018 Chevrolet Traverse

The redesigned 2018 Traverse is roomier, lighter and more upscale, with a 310-hp 3.6L V6 and a 9-speed automatic (about 18/27 mpg city/highway with FWD). A 257-hp, 295 lb-ft 2.0L turbo four was offered on the front-drive RS. New trims run L, LS, LT, RS, Premier and High Country. Some 2018-2020s had a transmission-bolt recall; check the VIN.

Engines: 3.6 liter V6 310 hp 266 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo I4 257 hp 295 lb ft rs FWD only
Transmissions: 9 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 4 door three row SUV

What changed:

All new second generation
New 310 hp V6 with 9 speed automatic
2.0 liter turbo offered on FWD rs
New rs and high country trims
More cargo and third row space

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine trim and drivetrain by VIN; 9 speed automatic shift quality; Start stop operation; Driver assistance sensors and cameras; Infotainment and smartphone integration; Transmission accumulator recall completion; AWD system operation if equipped; Third row seat mechanisms; Power liftgate; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

2017 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2017 Traverse is the last of the first generation; the LTZ was renamed Premier. It keeps the 3.6L V6 (281 hp, 288 hp with dual exhaust) and 6-speed automatic. The 2018 redesign is lighter, more powerful and much more modern, so a 2017 should be priced well below it.

Engines: 3.6 liter V6 281 hp 266 lb ft single exhaust; 3.6 liter V6 288 hp 270 lb ft dual exhaust ltz
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 4 door three row SUV

What changed:

Last year of the first generation
Ltz renamed premier

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine trim and drivetrain by VIN; Timing chain noise and correlation codes on 3.6 liter; 6 speed automatic loss of gears or reverse; Water pump and coolant leaks; Power steering and ac operation; Air bag recall completion; AWD system operation if equipped; Third row seat mechanisms; Power liftgate; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

2016 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2016 Traverse adds OnStar 4G LTE with a Wi-Fi hotspot and keeps the 281/288-hp 3.6L V6 and 6-speed automatic. Some 2016s were recalled for a wiper motor that could overheat and for third-row seat frame welds, alongside the air bag campaigns, so a VIN recall check is essential.

Engines: 3.6 liter V6 281 hp 266 lb ft single exhaust; 3.6 liter V6 288 hp 270 lb ft dual exhaust ltz
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 4 door three row SUV

What changed:

Onstar 4g lte wi fi hotspot
Wiper motor and third row seat recalls on some 2016s

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine trim and drivetrain by VIN; Timing chain noise and correlation codes on 3.6 liter; 6 speed automatic loss of gears or reverse; Water pump and coolant leaks; Power steering and ac operation; Air bag recall completion; Wiper motor and third row seat recall completion; AWD system operation if equipped; Third row seat mechanisms; Power liftgate; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

2015 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2015 Traverse gains Siri Eyes Free and new 18-inch wheels but is otherwise carried over: a 3.6L V6 with 281 hp (288 hp on LTZ), a 6-speed automatic, and seating for up to eight. Later first-generation models tend to be the most sorted; still check recalls and the transmission.

Engines: 3.6 liter V6 281 hp 266 lb ft single exhaust; 3.6 liter V6 288 hp 270 lb ft dual exhaust ltz
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 4 door three row SUV

What changed:

Siri eyes free integration
Revised 18 inch wheels

2014 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2014 Traverse adds available Forward Collision Alert and Lane Departure Warning to the refreshed 2013 design, with the same 281/288-hp 3.6L V6 and 6-speed automatic. Some 2014-2017 Traverses are covered by driver air bag inflator recalls, so run the VIN and confirm every open recall is fixed before buying.

Engines: 3.6 liter V6 281 hp 266 lb ft single exhaust; 3.6 liter V6 288 hp 270 lb ft dual exhaust ltz
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 4 door three row SUV

What changed:

Available forward collision alert and lane departure warning
Driver air bag inflator recall on some 2014 2017

2013 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2013 refresh gave the Traverse new front and rear styling, a nicer interior, the MyLink touchscreen and a front-center air bag between the front seats. Power still comes from the 3.6L V6 (281 hp, or 288 hp on LTZ) with a revised 6-speed automatic. For a first-generation Traverse, 2013 and later is the better buy.

Engines: 3.6 liter V6 281 hp 266 lb ft single exhaust; 3.6 liter V6 288 hp 270 lb ft dual exhaust ltz
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 4 door three row SUV

What changed:

Refreshed front and rear styling
Upgraded interior
Mylink touchscreen infotainment
Front center air bag between front seats
Revised transmission

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine trim and drivetrain by VIN; Timing chain noise and correlation codes on 3.6 liter; 6 speed automatic loss of gears or reverse; Water pump and coolant leaks; Power steering and ac operation; Infotainment operation; AWD system operation if equipped; Third row seat mechanisms; Power liftgate; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

2012 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2012 Traverse carries over: a 281- to 288-hp 3.6L V6, 6-speed automatic, front- or all-wheel drive and seating for seven or eight. It is the last year of the original styling and interior, so it should cost less than a refreshed 2013. Check for timing-chain noise, transmission behavior and coolant leaks.

Engines: 3.6 liter V6 281 hp 266 lb ft single exhaust; 3.6 liter V6 288 hp 270 lb ft dual exhaust ltz
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 4 door three row SUV

What changed:

Largely carryover
Last year before the 2013 refresh

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine trim and drivetrain by VIN; Timing chain noise and correlation codes on 3.6 liter; 6 speed automatic loss of gears or reverse; Water pump and coolant leaks; Power steering and ac operation; AWD system operation if equipped; Third row seat mechanisms; Power liftgate; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

2011 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2011 Traverse is a roomy three-row crossover with seating for up to eight and a 3.6L V6: 281 hp in LS/LT form or 288 hp with the LTZ's dual exhaust, paired with a 6-speed automatic and front- or all-wheel drive. Its space is a strength, but early-generation V6 timing chains and transmissions deserve a careful check on high-mileage examples.

Engines: 3.6 liter V6 281 hp 266 lb ft single exhaust; 3.6 liter V6 288 hp 270 lb ft dual exhaust ltz
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 4 door three row SUV

What changed:

Largely carryover
Eight passenger seating standard with available captains chairs

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine trim and drivetrain by VIN; Timing chain noise and correlation codes on 3.6 liter; 6 speed automatic loss of gears or reverse; Water pump and coolant leaks; Power steering and ac operation; AWD system operation if equipped; Third row seat mechanisms; Power liftgate; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

Known issues and what to check

3.6L V6 Timing Chain Stretch (First Generation) (2011–2017)
The first-generation 3.6L V6 is well known for timing-chain stretch, most often on earlier, higher-mileage engines and those with long oil-change intervals. It shows up as a check-engine light with cam/crank correlation codes and a rattle, and the repair is labor-intensive.
What to do: Scan for codes and listen at a cold start; a documented timing-chain replacement is a plus.
6-Speed Automatic Wave Plate Failure (First Generation) (2011–2017)
First-generation Traverses use GM's 6T75 6-speed automatic, which has a reported pattern of 3-5-reverse clutch wave plate failure: the transmission may lose third, fifth and reverse gears. Repairs require a rebuild.
What to do: Test reverse and every forward gear when warm; walk away from a truck that slips or loses gears.
Driver Air Bag Inflator and Side Curtain Recalls (2011–2019)
Several air bag recalls apply to specific Traverse VINs: NHTSA campaign 23V334 (2014-2017) and 21V782 (2013-2017) for driver air bag inflators that may rupture, and 21V246 for side curtain air bags that may not be properly attached on certain 2010-2019 vehicles. Only some VINs are affected.
What to do: Run the VIN at NHTSA or Chevrolet and have any open air bag recall completed before purchase.
Transmission Accumulator Bolt Recall (20V668) (2018–2020)
NHTSA campaign 20V668 covers certain 2018-2020 Traverses whose 9-speed transmission start-stop accumulator end cap may be missing bolts, which can leak fluid and cause loss of drive.
What to do: Confirm by VIN that this recall has been completed.
9-Speed Automatic Shift Quality (Second Generation) (2018–2023)
Some owners of 2018-2023 Traverses report harsh, busy or delayed shifts from the 9-speed automatic, often improved by software updates. Shift behavior should be smooth on a test drive.
What to do: Drive in stop-and-go traffic and ask the dealer whether transmission updates have been applied.
2.5L Turbo Four Maintenance and Early-Model Updates (2024–2026)
The 2024 and later Traverse uses a new 2.5L turbocharged four with an 8-speed automatic and a large software-driven infotainment system. As with any new design, check that software updates and any recalls are complete, and keep up with oil changes.
What to do: Confirm all open recalls and software updates are done and review service records.
Traverse Generation, Engine and Traverse Limited Disambiguation (2011–2026)
The Traverse has three different generations in this range: 2011-2017 (281/288-hp V6, 6-speed), 2018-2023 (310-hp V6, 9-speed, plus a 257-hp 2.0L turbo on the 2018-2019 FWD RS), and 2024-on (328-hp 2.5L turbo, 8-speed). A 2024 'Traverse Limited' fleet model is the older V6 design. Its siblings are the GMC Acadia and Buick Enclave.
What to do: Confirm the generation, engine and trim before comparing prices or features.

Recalls

Recall applicability varies by model year, production date, engine, transmission, equipment, and VIN. Check the VIN for current open recalls and completed remedies. Air bag campaigns affect specific VINs across several model years.

Similar vehicles to consider

Questions this guide answers

Which Traverse generation is this?
Does this Traverse have the V6 or a turbo four?
What changed on the 2018 and 2024 Traverse?
What is the Traverse Limited?
What should I inspect on a 2011-2017 Traverse?
How roomy is the Traverse third row?
Is this Traverse front- or all-wheel drive?
What air bag recalls should I check by VIN?
What fuel economy does the Traverse get?
What similar SUVs should I consider?