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Owners of the the 2009, 2010, and 2011 model years of the Traverse reported issues with the engine, power steering and other important components.

Engine and transmission problems tarnish the 2011, 2010, and 2009 model years’ reliability and value on the used market.

The Chevrolet Traverse is one of the more reliable midsize SUVs on the market. With many modern tech and safety-related features, it has become one of the most loved SUVs among customers. This has led to Chevrolet manufacturing different iterations of this popular vehicle.

The Chevrolet Traverse offers several long-lasting, great features, making it one of the best options in the used SUV market. However, just like any other vehicle, the Traverse has had its own flaws and problems through the years.

So it’s better to get more detailed and know everything there is to know about the Chevy Traverse before trying to buy a used one. Let’s delve deeper and take a look at the Traverse’s worst years, reliability, longevity, and all the little details necessary to know before purchasing one.

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According to the CarComplaints website, despite the 2010 Chevy Traverse having the highest number of complaints, the 2011 model year is dubbed the worst Traverse model year, considering factors such as repair cost and low mileage problems.

The 2011 model year suffers massively from engine problems, specifically engine failure. A large number of customers have submitted complaints regarding the 2011 model’s engine failure problem. “No warning! The engine stalled in the middle of a busy intersection. I got the car towed to a garage, where it was diagnosed as a blown engine. After talking to the dealer found out there is currently two other Chevy traverse in the shop with blown engines. These are very expensive engines because demand is high. GM should be ashamed. Up until now, I believed in Chevrolet. I will have to reconsider.” Stated one Traverse owner on CarComplaints. Most technicians consider replacing the engine as the solution to this problem which is a very costly procedure averaging around $5,210.

Another major problem regarding the 2011 Chevrolet Traverse is power-steering-related issues. It seems that this problem becomes notable between 80k miles and 110k miles. That is beyond the standard warranty of the vehicle (73+), so it can be an annoying experience considering the difficulties and repair cost.

Engine problems are staple issues among Traverse model years, and the 2010 model is no exception. Alongside the engine failure problem, several owners have complained about the timing chain code issue. This also is a high-cost issue where you have to pay around $2680 to replace the timing chain and its related parts to solve the issue. With over 300 complaints on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website, the 2010 model also suffers from power steering issues.

The 2010 model also hosts several non-engine-related problems. According to many owners, the heater tends not to blow hot air, and the same with the A/C blowing cold air. Several solutions have been issued, like replacing the hose or the temperature actuator.

Last but not least on the worst Traverses list is the 2009 model. The 2009 Chevy Traverse’s major problem is its excessive oil consumption. No particular data is available on how to solve the problem and how much it costs. This model also has a severe transmission failure problem where the transmission dies unpredictably. This is a very costly issue and requires around $3200 to rebuild the transmission or any other prescribed solution.

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On average, a Chevrolet Traverse tends to last anywhere between 200,000 and 250,000. That is around 13.5 years worth of driving if you drive 15,000 each year as the average American driver does. There are several factors to consider concerning the lifespan of a car. Most importantly, the habits of the owner and maintenance of the vehicle.

Performing the suggested maintenance schedule by the manufacturer is a must if you want to get the most out of your vehicle. Following are some of the most critical stages in taking care of a Chevy Traverse:

The average yearly repair cost of a Chevy Traverse is $656, which is higher than the midsize SUV average of $573. Additionally, the probability of a repair being a severe problem for Chevy Traverse is 18%, 5% higher than the midsize SUV average.

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Chevy Traverse offers plenty of great features and is a reliable vehicle with great value. Having said that, it’s very crucial to keep up with the recommended maintenance schedules to keep it up and running for a more extended period of time.

To be on the safe side, it’s better to avoid 2011, 2010, and 2009 model years as they are the most problematic Traverses available with many engine and transmission problems. Also, ensure that a trusted mechanic inspects the vehicle you’re trying to purchase.

Hamed is a literature student, writer, musician, and car enthusiast. His favorite topics to write about are cars, tech, and gaming. When he's not writing, he's either playing music or listening to it.