Chevrolet Traverse Years to AvoidThe weakest years — and the one you should buy instead
After reviewing every Chevrolet Traverse we've analyzed (17 years), these are the 5 weakest. Each one has either an absolute low KeepScore, chronic repair issues, or unusually high ownership costs relative to other Traverse years.
Proceed with caution
2009 Chevrolet Traverse
The 2009 Chevrolet Traverse offers a spacious and comfortable ride, but it's held back by significant known mechanical weak points that demand careful consideration. While it excels in family hauling, potential buyers must be prepared for the financial implications of common engine and transmission issues. This vehicle can serve a family well, but only with proactive maintenance and a buffer for major repairs.
Why this year scores low
The 3.6L LLT V6 engine is notorious for premature timing chain stretch due to oil degradation and extended oil change intervals. This causes engine performance issues, check engine lights (P0008, P0016), and can lead to catastrophic engine damage if ignored.
The 6-speed automatic transmission is prone to 3-5-R clutch wave plate failure, leading to loss of reverse or specific forward gears. Solenoid body issues can also cause harsh shifting or slipping. This often requires a costly transmission rebuild or replacement.
Failures of the power steering pump and leaks from the steering rack are common. This results in difficulty steering, groaning noises, and fluid loss, necessitating expensive component replacement.
Proceed with caution
2010 Chevrolet Traverse
The 2010 Chevrolet Traverse offers vast family space and a comfortable ride at an attractive used price, but it comes with notable risks to its powertrain longevity. While a fantastic value proposition for large families on a budget, potential owners absolutely must perform thorough pre-purchase inspections to avoid significant, costly repairs to the engine's timing chain or the automatic transmission.
Why this year scores low
The 3.6L LLT V6 engine is prone to stretched timing chains due to premature wear of the chain and guides. This leads to diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs P0016, P0017, P0008, P0009), reduced engine performance, and eventually engine damage if left unaddressed.
The 6-speed automatic transmission is a known weak point. Common issues include hard shifting, delayed engagement, slipping, and complete failure due to wave plate fracture or solenoid issues, often requiring a rebuild or replacement.
The power steering system is susceptible to leaks from hoses, lines, and the pump itself. This can lead to groaning noises, difficult steering, and eventual pump failure if fluid levels are not maintained.
Proceed with caution
2012 Chevrolet Traverse
The 2012 Chevrolet Traverse offers substantial space and family utility, but it comes with a notable risk of significant mechanical failures. Specifically, the transmission and timing chain issues can lead to expensive repairs, making careful pre-purchase inspection and a robust repair fund essential. This vehicle is a calculated risk, best suited for those who prioritize passenger and cargo volume over absolute long-term reliability.
Why this year scores low
The 6-speed automatic transmission is prone to wave plate failure, leading to erratic shifting, slipping, or complete loss of forward gears. This is a common and expensive repair.
The 3.6L V6 engine (LLT) can suffer from timing chain stretch, causing P0016/P0017 codes, reduced power, and eventually catastrophic engine damage if not addressed. This is often linked to insufficient oil change intervals or oil consumption.
Premature failure of the power steering pump and associated lines is common, leading to groaning noises, fluid leaks, and heavy steering feel.
Proceed with caution
2013 Chevrolet Traverse
The 2013 Chevrolet Traverse offers a spacious and family-friendly package but is plagued by several well-documented and costly issues, notably with its transmission and engine timing chain. While comfortable, prospective owners must be prepared for potential significant repairs, pushing this model into a 'proceed with caution' territory rather than a confident recommendation.
Why this year scores low
The 6-speed automatic transmission is prone to internal failures, particularly the 3-5-R wave plate, leading to harsh shifting, slipping, or complete loss of gears. Solenoid failures are also common, requiring significant transmission work or replacement.
The 3.6L LLT V6 engine can suffer from premature timing chain stretching due to extended oil change intervals or oil degradation, leading to P0008/P0016/P0017/P0018 codes, reduced performance, and potential engine damage if neglected. Repair is labor-intensive and expensive.
Common failures include A/C evaporator leaks, condenser leaks, and blend door/actuator malfunctions, resulting in no cold air, intermittent cooling, or poor airflow. Evaporator replacement requires extensive dashboard disassembly.
Proceed with caution
2015 Chevrolet Traverse
The 2015 Chevrolet Traverse offers immense practicality and family-friendly features, but it's a vehicle that demands diligence in maintenance and carries a moderate risk of expensive repairs. While spacious and comfortable, expect a higher potential for significant mechanical issues, particularly in the powertrain, making a thorough pre-purchase inspection crucial.
Why this year scores low
The 6-speed automatic transmission is prone to wave plate failures, solenoid issues, and harsh shifting, often leading to full transmission replacement or costly rebuilds. Neglecting early warning signs can escalate costs significantly.
The 3.6L V6 engine can suffer from timing chain stretch, especially if oil change intervals are extended or incorrect oil is used. This can cause illuminated check engine lights, misfires, and potentially severe engine damage if ignored.
Many owners report premature failure of the AC evaporator core, leading to a complete loss of cooling. Repair requires extensive dashboard disassembly, resulting in high labor costs.
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