The Chevrolet Traverse is a popular choice for families needing a spacious and reliable three-row SUV. However, like any vehicle, some model years are more dependable than others. This guide provides a detailed overview of the Traverse, highlighting the best years to buy and those you might want to steer clear of, helping you make an informed purchasing decision.
Chevrolet Traverse: Model Year Overview
| Model Year | Reliability Score (Consumer Reports) | Notable Pros & Cons |
|---|---|---|
| 2009 | Poor | Pros: Affordable entry point. Cons: Significant transmission issues, engine problems, power steering failures, and electrical issues. High frequency of complaints. |
| 2010 | Poor | Pros: Slightly improved over 2009. Cons: Still plagued by transmission problems, timing chain issues, and HVAC malfunctions. |
| 2011 | Average | Pros: Improved reliability compared to previous years, updated interior. Cons: Some reports of water pump failures and continued transmission concerns, though less frequent. |
| 2012 | Average | Pros: Enhanced interior features. Cons: Still sees some transmission issues, though less prevalent. Some reports of air conditioning problems. |
| 2013 | Above Average | Pros: Significantly improved reliability, refreshed styling. Cons: Isolated incidents of timing chain stretch and some brake issues reported. |
| 2014 | Above Average | Pros: Strong reliability, comfortable ride. Cons: Few reported issues, but some owners mention the infotainment system being slow. |
| 2015 | Above Average | Pros: Continued strong reliability, good fuel economy for its size. Cons: Minor issues reported, such as occasional sensor malfunctions. |
| 2016 | Average | Pros: Spacious interior, comfortable ride. Cons: Some owners report issues with the automatic transmission and the infotainment system. |
| 2017 | Average | Pros: Last year of the first generation, some deals available. Cons: Inherits some of the common issues from previous years, like transmission concerns. |
| 2018 | Poor | Pros: Redesigned model with modern features and updated styling. Cons: First year of a new generation, which often comes with teething problems. Transmission issues, electrical problems, and engine stalling reported. |
| 2019 | Average | Pros: Improved over 2018, more refined driving experience. Cons: Still some reports of transmission problems, though less frequent than 2018. |
| 2020 | Above Average | Pros: Good reliability, updated safety features. Cons: Some owners report issues with the infotainment system freezing. |
| 2021 | Above Average | Pros: Continued strong reliability, comfortable and spacious. Cons: Limited changes from the 2020 model. |
| 2022 | Above Average | Pros: Refreshed styling, updated safety features. Cons: Some reports of electronic glitches and sensor malfunctions. |
| 2023 | Excellent | Pros: Excellent reliability ratings, comfortable and spacious interior, advanced safety features. Cons: Relatively new, so long-term reliability is still being assessed, but initial reports are very positive. |
| 2024 | Not Yet Rated | Pros: Latest model with updated features and technology. Cons: Too early to assess reliability fully, but potential for teething problems with new systems. |
Detailed Explanations
Reliability Score (Consumer Reports): This score, provided by Consumer Reports, is an indicator of how reliable a particular model year is based on owner surveys and reported problems. A higher score generally indicates fewer reported issues.
Notable Pros & Cons: This section summarizes the key advantages and disadvantages of each model year, focusing on aspects like performance, reliability, features, and common problems reported by owners.
Model Year Breakdown:
2009: The 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is often cited as one of the worst years due to a high frequency of transmission problems, engine issues, and electrical malfunctions. Power steering failures were also common, making it a risky purchase.
2010: While slightly improved compared to 2009, the 2010 Traverse still faced transmission issues, timing chain problems, and HVAC malfunctions. The frequency of these issues remained significant, making it a less desirable option.
2011: The 2011 model saw some improvements in reliability and featured an updated interior. However, some owners reported water pump failures and continued transmission concerns, although less frequent than in previous years.
2012: The 2012 Traverse included enhanced interior features but still experienced some transmission issues, though less prevalent than earlier models. Some owners also reported air conditioning problems.
2013: A significant turning point, the 2013 Traverse featured refreshed styling and markedly improved reliability. Isolated incidents of timing chain stretch and some brake issues were reported, but overall, it's a much more reliable choice.
2014: The 2014 model continued the trend of strong reliability and offered a comfortable ride. Few significant issues were reported, although some owners mentioned the infotainment system being slow.
2015: Continuing the positive trend, the 2015 Traverse maintained strong reliability and offered good fuel economy for its size. Minor issues, such as occasional sensor malfunctions, were reported.
2016: The 2016 Traverse provided a spacious interior and a comfortable ride. However, some owners reported issues with the automatic transmission and the infotainment system, impacting overall satisfaction.
2017: As the last year of the first generation, the 2017 Traverse offered potential deals. However, it inherited some common issues from previous years, particularly regarding transmission concerns.
2018: The 2018 model marked the beginning of the second generation with a redesigned look and modern features. However, as a first-year redesign, it experienced teething problems, including transmission issues, electrical problems, and engine stalling.
2019: The 2019 Traverse was an improvement over the 2018 model, offering a more refined driving experience. Still, some reports of transmission problems persisted, though less frequent than in the previous year.
2020: The 2020 Traverse boasted good reliability and updated safety features. Some owners reported issues with the infotainment system freezing, but overall, it's a solid choice.
2021: The 2021 model continued the trend of strong reliability and provided a comfortable, spacious interior. It featured limited changes from the 2020 model, making it a consistent performer.
2022: The 2022 Traverse featured refreshed styling and updated safety features. However, some owners reported electronic glitches and sensor malfunctions, impacting the ownership experience.
2023: The 2023 Traverse received excellent reliability ratings and offered a comfortable, spacious interior with advanced safety features. While long-term reliability is still being assessed, initial reports are highly positive.
2024: As the latest model, the 2024 Traverse includes updated features and technology. It's too early to fully assess its reliability, but there's potential for teething problems with new systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Which Chevrolet Traverse years are the most reliable? The 2013, 2014, 2015, 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023 model years are generally considered the most reliable. These years have fewer reported issues and better owner satisfaction.
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What are the worst years for the Chevrolet Traverse? The 2009 and 2010 model years are generally considered the worst due to significant transmission problems, engine issues, and electrical malfunctions. The 2018 model year also had several reported issues as it was the first year of a new generation.
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What are the most common problems with the Chevrolet Traverse? Common problems include transmission failure, timing chain issues, water pump failures, and infotainment system glitches. The specific issues vary by model year.
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Is the Chevrolet Traverse expensive to maintain? The Chevrolet Traverse has average maintenance costs compared to other SUVs in its class. However, addressing major issues like transmission problems can be costly.
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How long does a Chevrolet Traverse typically last? With proper maintenance, a Chevrolet Traverse can last for 200,000 miles or more. Regular servicing and addressing issues promptly can extend its lifespan.
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Is the Chevrolet Traverse a good family vehicle? Yes, the Chevrolet Traverse is a good family vehicle due to its spacious three-row seating, ample cargo space, and available safety features. It offers a comfortable and practical option for families.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Chevrolet Traverse model year can make a significant difference in your ownership experience. While earlier models like the 2009 and 2010 should be approached with caution due to their reliability issues, the 2013-2015 and 2020-2023 model years offer a much more dependable and enjoyable ride. Always consider a thorough inspection and vehicle history report before making a purchase.