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2018 Chevrolet Traverse Problems & Owner Complaints

453 NHTSA owner complaints
9 crash 2 fire 7 injury

Age-normalised, this year draws ~50.3 complaints per year on the road — ranking 1 of 15 Chevrolet Traverse years we track (1 = most complaints per year).

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What owners report

Power Train is the most-reported problem area on the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse, cited in 190 of 453 filed complaints (42%).

Electrical System is next (100 complaints, 22%), followed by Engine (83), Service Brakes (36), Fuel/Propulsion System (29).

Across all complaints, 9 report a crash, 2 report a fire, 7 report injuries.

The most safety-critical cluster is Unknown Or Other: 2 crash, 1 fire, 6 injury report(s).

Complaints by vehicle system

Owner complaints filed with the U.S. NHTSA for the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse, grouped by the vehicle system each cites. A single complaint can name more than one system, so the group totals can add up to more than 453.

Power Train 190 1 crash

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 CHEVROLET TRAVERSE. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO PARK THE VEHICLE, IT SUDDENLY ACCELERATED INDEPENDENTLY, DROVE FORWARD, AND CRASHED INTO A BUILDING. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED AND THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE VEHICLE DAMAGE WAS REPAIRED. ON ANOTHER OCCASION, WHILE DRIVING AT A LOW SPEED, THE TRANSMISSION SUDDENLY FAILED AND THE VEHICLE WOULD NO LONGER DRIVE FORWARD OR BACKWARDS. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN UNKNOWN DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE TRANSMISSION SOLENOID WAS FAULTY AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED, BUT THE PARTS WERE N…”
NHTSA complaint #11139948, 2018 · crash

“Transmission shuddering when gear changing as accelerate.”
NHTSA complaint #11753379, 2026

“Front passenger tire was losing air, on the way to bring it to tire shop dashboard displayed tire pressure sensor, power steering system, TCM notification, Electronic brake control. Got it to the tire shop bought a new tire and they did a diagnostic test it showed TCM passed and failed, lost communication with power steering passed and failed, lost communication with inflatable restraint passed and failed. Once tire was replaced vehicle was jerking with TCM notification coming on and off like the vehicle was sliding.”
NHTSA complaint #11749157, 2026

Unknown Or Other 102 2 crash 1 fire 6 injury

“2018 Chevy Traverse purchased from Carvana caused carbon monoxide exposure to my family in military housing. Vehicle locked itself while running in the garage (garage door open), and CO entered the home where my children were standing near the interior door. Fire dept forced entry into the vehicle and cleared the home. All family members required oxygen at the hospital; all 3 children had elevated COHb levels. Mechanic confirmed catalytic converter failure and exhaust defect. Full Description: On 6/7/26, our Traverse turned on and locked itself while running in our garage (door open) as we…”
NHTSA complaint #11745280, 2026 · 5 injury(ies)

“MY WIFE HIT A TELEPHONE POLE HEAD ON, VEHICLE WAS A TOTAL LOSS. VEHICLE HAD 3000 MILES ON IT. MY WIFE HAD A SEAT BELT ON BUT WAS STILL INJURED. . ALSO ON STAR NEVER CAME ON. AN INVESTIGATOR FROM GM WAS HERE TODAY,AND SAID I SHOULD GET A COPY OF HIS REPORT.”
NHTSA complaint #11091612, 2018 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“I was driving and just passed a vehicle while accelerating when I heard a pop noise, saw a lot of white smoke through my rear view mirror, had the engine light go on and the vehicle stopped working. I slowly pulled over to the side of the road and placed the vehicle in park followed by turning off the car. A person driving by stopped and advised me my vehicle was on fire under the undercarriage. I popped the hood and the engine was also in flames. I was unable to put out the fire with a fire extinguisher and the local fire department and law enforcement agencies helped to put out the fire. The…”
NHTSA complaint #11580277, 2024 · fire

Electrical System 100 1 crash 5 injury

“2018 Chevy Traverse purchased from Carvana caused carbon monoxide exposure to my family in military housing. Vehicle locked itself while running in the garage (garage door open), and CO entered the home where my children were standing near the interior door. Fire dept forced entry into the vehicle and cleared the home. All family members required oxygen at the hospital; all 3 children had elevated COHb levels. Mechanic confirmed catalytic converter failure and exhaust defect. Full Description: On 6/7/26, our Traverse turned on and locked itself while running in our garage (door open) as we…”
NHTSA complaint #11745280, 2026 · 5 injury(ies)

“VEHICLE WAS STOPPED ON A STEEP CITY STREET BEHIND ANOTHER VEHICLE TURNING LEFT. VEHICLE WENT TO MOVE FORWARD AND TURN LEFT AND IT SHUT OFF AND ROLLED BACKWARDS DOWN THE STEEP HILL. WHEEL COULD NOT BE TURNED, BRAKES COULD NOT BE PRESSED, WHEN GAS WAS PRESSED IT DID NOT GO FORWARD, IT ROLLED BACKWARDS IT WAS LIKE IT SHUT OFF AFTER BEING IN AUTO STOP MODE. PARKING BRAKE ASSIST CAME ON AUTOMATICALLY AND VEHICLE ROLLED INTO A CEMENT POLE. VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO BE RESTARTED. PARKING BRAKE WOULD NOT RELEASE. HAD TO SHUT OFF VEHICLE, RESTART AND TRIED TO RELEASE PARKING BRAKE 5 MORE TIMES BEFORE…”
NHTSA complaint #11276883, 2019 · crash

“Front passenger tire was losing air, on the way to bring it to tire shop dashboard displayed tire pressure sensor, power steering system, TCM notification, Electronic brake control. Got it to the tire shop bought a new tire and they did a diagnostic test it showed TCM passed and failed, lost communication with power steering passed and failed, lost communication with inflatable restraint passed and failed. Once tire was replaced vehicle was jerking with TCM notification coming on and off like the vehicle was sliding.”
NHTSA complaint #11749157, 2026

Engine 83 1 crash

“VEHICLE WAS STOPPED ON A STEEP CITY STREET BEHIND ANOTHER VEHICLE TURNING LEFT. VEHICLE WENT TO MOVE FORWARD AND TURN LEFT AND IT SHUT OFF AND ROLLED BACKWARDS DOWN THE STEEP HILL. WHEEL COULD NOT BE TURNED, BRAKES COULD NOT BE PRESSED, WHEN GAS WAS PRESSED IT DID NOT GO FORWARD, IT ROLLED BACKWARDS IT WAS LIKE IT SHUT OFF AFTER BEING IN AUTO STOP MODE. PARKING BRAKE ASSIST CAME ON AUTOMATICALLY AND VEHICLE ROLLED INTO A CEMENT POLE. VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO BE RESTARTED. PARKING BRAKE WOULD NOT RELEASE. HAD TO SHUT OFF VEHICLE, RESTART AND TRIED TO RELEASE PARKING BRAKE 5 MORE TIMES BEFORE…”
NHTSA complaint #11276883, 2019 · crash

“Corrosion of the exhaust pipes lead to an exhaust leak.”
NHTSA complaint #11744668, 2026

“Engine light came on. Car started shaking and making noise when shifting. Speed would not increase while driving. When shifting into park the car does not recognize that’s it’s in park and had to jiggle the gear shift. Took it to an independent mechanic and they said it’s probably the transmission. Have to take it to a transmission shop.”
NHTSA complaint #11743964, 2026

Service Brakes 36 3 crash

“The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Traverse. The contact stated that the driveway was on a slope, and his wife was attempting to reenter the vehicle while it was in parked and the engine was running, and in the process the vehicle began to roll forward down the contacts driveway, the contacts wife was injured in the process receiving bruises to her left leg and right hip, medical attention was required for the contacts injuries. The vehicle was brought to a stop upon crashing into a lawn mower trailer and the contact's garage with the vehicle's front passenger side quarter panel. Property damag…”
NHTSA complaint #11670496, 2025 · crash

“WE PARKED AND EXITED THE VEHICLE (TURNING IT OFF) ON A SLIGHT GRADE AS WE NORMALLY DO IN THE FRONT OF OUR HOUSE ON A PUBLIC STREET. WE AWOKE THE NEXT MORNING TO DISCOVER THAT THE VEHICLE HAD ADVANCED OR SLID FORWARD APPROXIMATELY 15' COMING TO REST AGAINST A TELEPHONE POLE ADJACENT TO OUR CORNER PROPERTY. IF THE TELEPHONE POLE WAS NOT IN THE PATH OF THE VEHICLE IT WOULD HAVE CROSSED A SIDE STREET AND COME TO REST IN OUR NEIGHBORS FRONT YARD. UPON VIEWING THE VEHICLE AFTER THE DRIFT FORWARD, BEFORE ENTERING THE VEHICLE WE COULD SEE THAT THE VEHICLE WAS CLEARLY IN PARK AND TURNED OFF. THE VEHIC…”
NHTSA complaint #11388652, 2021 · crash

“VEHICLE WAS STOPPED ON A STEEP CITY STREET BEHIND ANOTHER VEHICLE TURNING LEFT. VEHICLE WENT TO MOVE FORWARD AND TURN LEFT AND IT SHUT OFF AND ROLLED BACKWARDS DOWN THE STEEP HILL. WHEEL COULD NOT BE TURNED, BRAKES COULD NOT BE PRESSED, WHEN GAS WAS PRESSED IT DID NOT GO FORWARD, IT ROLLED BACKWARDS IT WAS LIKE IT SHUT OFF AFTER BEING IN AUTO STOP MODE. PARKING BRAKE ASSIST CAME ON AUTOMATICALLY AND VEHICLE ROLLED INTO A CEMENT POLE. VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO BE RESTARTED. PARKING BRAKE WOULD NOT RELEASE. HAD TO SHUT OFF VEHICLE, RESTART AND TRIED TO RELEASE PARKING BRAKE 5 MORE TIMES BEFORE…”
NHTSA complaint #11276883, 2019 · crash

Fuel/Propulsion System 29

“Special coverage programs for the 2018 Chevy Traverse front exhaust pipe mounting bracket failure. GM has focused on coverage specifically on 2019-2021 models, but 2018 models are affected as well. I'm being forced to pay for a new exhaust when 2018 models should have been included for the Specific special coverage (e.g., N212356540, N222385510) exists for 2019–2021 vehicles, offering repairs (sometimes for 15 years or 150,000 miles) when the front mounting bracket breaks.”
NHTSA complaint #11737069, 2026

“The vehicle shudders and it very slow to shift from park to drive.”
NHTSA complaint #11736108, 2026

“My engine light came on, so I took it the mechanic. According to the reading it says it was my purge valve, they replaced. After driving 30 miles it came back on. I took it back and they thought it was a defected part so they replaced it again. After 30 miles, it came back on. The mechanic searched online and showed me this issue was for 2019 for a recall. I contacted GM to see if there is a recall for 2018. They said no. At this time the engine lights stays on, but it gives a evap engine light. I can't pass smog due to the issue. The gas tank does not have a cap, it's open. This is how it was…”
NHTSA complaint #11734037, 2026

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Engine And Engine Cooling 16

“The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Traverse. The contact stated that while driving at 25 MPH, there were exhaust fumes entering the cabin of the vehicle. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, and the mechanic was notified of a failure with the exhaust manifold. The local dealer was contacted and informed that there was no warranty coverage on the vehicle for the failure. The vehicle was diagnosed, and it was determined that the exhaust manifold weld needed to be re-welded. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, b…”
NHTSA complaint #11714978, 2026

“The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Traverse. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the check engine warning light remained illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle with catalytic converter failure. The contact was informed that the catalytic converter needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The contact stated that the catalytic converter was previously replaced for the same failure. Additionally, after shifting to park(P), the message "Shift to Park" was displayed. After several attempts, the contact was able to turn…”
NHTSA complaint #11689894, 2025

“The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Traverse. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle was making an abnormally loud sound that became louder over time. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed and determined that the exhaust system needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the dealer for assistance. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the exhaust system needed to be replaced and provided the contact an estimate for the repair. The vehicle was n…”
NHTSA complaint #11688078, 2025

Steering 14

“While driving going home to Deming,NM together with my daughter and son on [XXX] . I was driving over a bridge over path on [XXX] and without warning my electrical power steering gave out on the traverse I could not turn my steering wheel left or right I thought I was going to be in an accident because there was semi trucks going 80 miles an hour behind me we almost got hit by semi’s. Thank God I forced my steering wheel to the right with all my strength. I had to call the towing company we waited 3 hours until he got there even he said we could of had an accident. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUA…”
NHTSA complaint #11721577, 2025

“The power steering shut off suddenly while driving and I could not move my steering wheel.”
NHTSA complaint #11670099, 2025

“The vehicles fails to recognize it’s in park and does not shut off. Shift to park indicator turns on. Frequently have to park on incline and worried the vehicle will roll. The vehicle will not completely turn off and this has caused the steering to lock. When the vehicle finally turned off, then turned it back on we couldn’t get the steering wheel to unlock. Had to drive it with what felt like no power steering for a period of time. Shift to park indicator blinks and warning light appears that says no remote is detected, yet the remote is in the vehicle. Been in a situation where had to quickl…”
NHTSA complaint #11664488, 2025

Exterior Lighting 12

“The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Traverse. The contact stated while his daughter driving at an undisclosed speed and attempting to stop at a traffic light, the vehicle lost automotive power. No warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that a dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the hazard lights were also inoperable. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer or an independent mechanic to be diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and opened a case. The contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 108,316.”
NHTSA complaint #11670254, 2025

“The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Traverse. The contact stated that the driver’s side taillight was blown due to water entering the taillight assembly. While driving approximately 40-45 MPH, the battery failure warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the following day while driving approximately 40-45 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power. The battery warning light remained illuminated along with the check engine warning light. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware…”
NHTSA complaint #11600573, 2024

“Passenger tail light kept getting moisture in it causing it to stop working. Local Dealer,GM,Chevrolet and 3rd party show sold out or discontinued. I have a vehicle I am paying for that I can't drive or risk getting a ticket or rear ended everytime I go to work. Item is on backorder with no date for deliveries to start.”
NHTSA complaint #11592277, 2024

Seat Belts 11

“The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Traverse. The contact stated that while attempting to use the second-row middle seat buckle, the contact became aware that the buckle was inoperable. The contact stated that the failure was related to Customer Satisfaction Program: N192223110-01. There were no warning lights illuminated. The local dealer was contacted, and the vehicle was diagnosed, and it was determined that the buckle needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, and confirmed there was no coverage on the vehicle and referred the contact to the NHTSA Ho…”
NHTSA complaint #11673328, 2025

“Regarding the vehicle's functionality, the horn activated unexpectedly on or around May 2, 2025, sounding continuously for approximately 10-15 minutes while the vehicle was occupied. Subsequently, the horn has ceased to function. Furthermore, on or around May 10, 2025, the powertrain system indicator illuminated, leading to a diagnosis on May 18th that identified code P0455, indicating an EVAP system leak. Concurrently, the driver's side seat belt buckle has exhibited a tendency to detach and fall between the seat components, failing to remain in its intended position.”
NHTSA complaint #11671342, 2025

“Drivers side seatbelt, wont stay latched. On several occasions seatbelt just released. Seatbelt button was not engaging.”
NHTSA complaint #11534439, 2023

Structure 11

“I work full time in an auto body repair shop and a fire chief. I am coming across more and more white GM vehicles where the paint is not stuck where the windshield is glued in. A couple real hard pushes and the windshield will about come completely out.”
NHTSA complaint #11749614, 2026

“Had my traverse for two years, second owner. When I received the car, it had to immediately go into the shop as they couldn’t figure out why all sorts of dash lights where coming on. My car was at the dealership for three weeks and ultimately they replaced the chip, stating that was the issue. Two months down the road, I get the shift to park error message starting. Fast forward to 4 months ago when the stability error message starts to intermittently come on and off. 30 days ago I got the first of the service charging system message and the battery saver mode. My car shut itself down while I…”
NHTSA complaint #11618260, 2024

“The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Traverse. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact heard a rattling sound coming from under the front passenger’s side seat. The vehicle was taken to the independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with a detached exhaust pipe bracket. The contact was informed that the bracket needed to be welded back onto the front of the exhaust pipe. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The contact was informed that the repair was not covered under an unknown special coverage adjustment program. The cont…”
NHTSA complaint #11609645, 2024

Suspension 10

“While driving going home to Deming,NM together with my daughter and son on [XXX] . I was driving over a bridge over path on [XXX] and without warning my electrical power steering gave out on the traverse I could not turn my steering wheel left or right I thought I was going to be in an accident because there was semi trucks going 80 miles an hour behind me we almost got hit by semi’s. Thank God I forced my steering wheel to the right with all my strength. I had to call the towing company we waited 3 hours until he got there even he said we could of had an accident. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUA…”
NHTSA complaint #11721577, 2025

“For the past few months now my 2018 Chevy Traverse has had a weird shimmy when changing lower gears. Got it looked at and they said one of the 9 clutches are going out and needs to be replaced for a total of $6664.63. After doing my own research, this is a common problem with the 2018 Chevy Traverse after reading all the complaints on Social Media and a few Chevy enthusiasts websites. I’ve called the dealership and they refuse to help out at all with the pricing or do anything without a recall issued. If I’d had to calculate the amount of cars effected that already had work done and cars that…”
NHTSA complaint #11694922, 2025

“To the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), I am writing to inquire about an issue recently encountered with my 2018 Chevrolet Traverse. On July 21, 2025, my vehicle was at Riverview Chevy for its state inspection, during which the rear toe links were identified as failed and required replacement. This service, including the necessary alignment, resulted in an out-of-pocket expense of approximately $750. I recall previous discussions regarding a potential recall concerning failing rear toe links on 2018-2020 Chevrolet Traverse models. While my vehicle is a 2018 model and exp…”
NHTSA complaint #11675303, 2025

Electronic Stability Control (Esc) 8

“AUTO WILL NOT SHUT OFF WHEN PUT IN PARK. MESSAGE INDICATES 'PUT IN PARK'. TRIED SEVERAL TIMES. ENGINE WILL GO OFF, ELECTRONICS STAY ON. WOULD DRAIN BATTERY IF LEFT ON. ALSO, BLUETOOTH CONTINUES TO DISCONNECT. BRAKES SQUEAK CONSTANTLY, FROM THE TIME IT WAS DRIVEN OFF THE LOT. CAR STUTTERS WHEN YOU ATTEMPT TO ACCELERATE. CAR HAS BEEN TO DEALER MANY TIMES, SUPPOSEDLY 'FIXED'. I WAS TOLD TO TRY HIGHER OCTANE GAS. THIS SHOULD NOT BE NECESSARY. ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS ARE INCREASING. WE HAVE PURCHASED SEVERAL CHEVROLETS, THIS IS THE ABSOLUTE WORST VEHICLE AS FAR AS PROBLEMS WHICH, AFTER 2-1/…”
NHTSA complaint #11329767, 2020

“WHEN YOU PUT THE CAR IN PARK AND GO TO SHIFT IT OFF THE CAR DOESN'T SENSES THAT IT'S PARKED. WILL NOT SHUT OFF COMPLETELY AND CAN'T LOCK OR ARM CAR. RESTARTED CAR SEVERAL TIMES AND STILL SIGNALS THE CAR IS NOT IN PARK. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #11319356, 2020

“POWER STEERING FAILED ON VEHICLE WHILE IN MOTION. ELECTRIC POWER STEERING MODULE FAILED CAUSING EXTREME DIFFICULTY GETTING THE VEHICLE PARKED. STEERING RACK HAD TO BE REPLACED AND COMPUTER RE-PROGRAMMED. VEHICLE IS BACK AT THE DEALER WITH A SIMILAR TROUBLE CODE FOR A FOLLOW UP TO THE ORIGINAL REPAIR. IT TOOK GM OVER 4 MONTHS TO GET THE REPLACEMENT PART MAKING US DRIVE OUR VEHICLE WITH A FAULTY STEERING RACK NEVER ONCE PROVIDING A LOANER VEHICLE OR BUYBACK OPPORTUNITY. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #11324957, 2019

Fuel System 8

“The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Traverse. The contact stated while driving 10 MPH, while depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle failed to respond as needed. A dealer was contacted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed, and it was determined that the purge valve needed to be replaced. The contact stated that the failure had occurred on several occasions. The purge valve was replaced, and the vehicle was repaired. The vehicle was towed back to the place of employment. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 84,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11654610, 2025

“The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Traverse. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, there was an abnormal sound coming from the exhaust and smelled a gasoline odor. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was 50,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11592421, 2024

“The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Traverse. The contact stated that the vehicle was emitting a vibrating and rattling noise while driving. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed and attempting to accelerate, the vehicle lost motive power. The contact stated while driving uphill and accelerating, the engine backfired. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who diagnosed that there was an EVAP leak. The vehicle received an undisclosed repair however, the failure persisted. The contact stated that the vehicle occasionally failed to im…”
NHTSA complaint #11630946, 2023

Vehicle Speed Control 8 1 crash

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 CHEVROLET TRAVERSE. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO PARK THE VEHICLE, IT SUDDENLY ACCELERATED INDEPENDENTLY, DROVE FORWARD, AND CRASHED INTO A BUILDING. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED AND THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE VEHICLE DAMAGE WAS REPAIRED. ON ANOTHER OCCASION, WHILE DRIVING AT A LOW SPEED, THE TRANSMISSION SUDDENLY FAILED AND THE VEHICLE WOULD NO LONGER DRIVE FORWARD OR BACKWARDS. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN UNKNOWN DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE TRANSMISSION SOLENOID WAS FAULTY AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED, BUT THE PARTS WERE N…”
NHTSA complaint #11139948, 2018 · crash

“I’ve had this vehicle for about a year or less the car ran fine with minor problems that come with having a vehicle. Up until last week the car never showed any signs of a failing transmission, it went from running fine to shuttering and suddenly I wasn’t able to reverse. The check engine light never came on, I’ve did all my routine checks and more with the dealership I bought it from and was never told anything when the vehicle was brought in for inspections.”
NHTSA complaint #11688232, 2025

“The transmission on my 2018 Chevy Traverse went out per the mechanic that recently inspected it. It was just purchased from a Chevy dealership not even 8 months ago. I first noticed the problem a couple weeks ago when my car hit about 25mph getting on the highway then wouldn’t go any faster as I would try to accelerate speed, then it was jerking and was harshly engaging from time to time. Then it finally felt like someone crashed into the back of my car it jerked so hard and then accelerated but only went up to 40mph and wouldn’t go any faster. It would hit 40 mph and then idol at the speed wh…”
NHTSA complaint #11582031, 2024

Lane Departure 7 1 crash

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 CHEVROLET TRAVERSE. WHILE DRIVING 70 MPH AND ATTEMPTING TO CHANGE LANES, THE BLIND SPOT DETECTION SYSTEM FAILED TO OPERATE AS INTENDED. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS A DELAY IN THE BLIND SPOT WARNING INDICATOR NOTIFYING THE DRIVER OF A VEHICLE TO THE LEFT OR RIGHT SITUATED IN THE BLIND SPOT. THERE WERE NO INJURIES AND A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 3,500.”
NHTSA complaint #11120976, 2018 · crash

“Hello this particular vehicle often gives us a message stating that side detection is temporarily unavailable and the main issue is the transmission seems to have severe shufdering issues and sometimes gives a shift to park message ive read others having this same issue being recalled but my vin is not listed! The car is available upon request for any inspections necessary”
NHTSA complaint #11709038, 2026

“I purchased a 2018 Chevy Traverse with 6 miles on it. I keep my vehicle in mint condition and maintenance as needed and required. Recently in the past few months my car has been bucking when shifting gear engages in an automatic transmission. I took to dealership, and they stated it was the torque converter, and my vehicle has exactly 20,270 miles only. Not even passed the 36,000 marks but over 36 months. I bought an extended warranty thru Dealership which now sending someone to dealership to verify that this is infact a torque problem which were found 2017 and 2019 but not 2018 is hard to b…”
NHTSA complaint #11691687, 2025

Forward Collision Avoidance 6

“Had my traverse for two years, second owner. When I received the car, it had to immediately go into the shop as they couldn’t figure out why all sorts of dash lights where coming on. My car was at the dealership for three weeks and ultimately they replaced the chip, stating that was the issue. Two months down the road, I get the shift to park error message starting. Fast forward to 4 months ago when the stability error message starts to intermittently come on and off. 30 days ago I got the first of the service charging system message and the battery saver mode. My car shut itself down while I…”
NHTSA complaint #11618260, 2024

“The parking brake came on as I was driving and would not allow me to turn it off. It caused my brakes to smoke and they were radiating heat. It is currently at the shop Kelley Buick GMC Bartow, FL”
NHTSA complaint #11586220, 2024

“When driving on a right hand curve with traffic in the opposite direction lane, the forward collision warning system flashed a large red warning flash on the instrument panel near the speedometer. This was alarming and caused me to put on the brakes immediately, although there was no impending crash. This cause the cars behind me to take evasive action and apply their brakes in an emergency fashion and almost cause several collisions. [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).”
NHTSA complaint #11443922, 2021

Air Bags 5 4 crash 1 fire 2 injury

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2018 CHEVROLET TRAVERSE. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH, THE CONTACT WAS STRUCK ON THE DRIVER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE AND WAS TOTALED; UPON IMPACT NO AIR BAGS WERE DEPLOYED AND ONSTAR DID NOT FUNCTION. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO BILLY BECK TOWING AND RECOVERY (2455 HIGHWAY 70 MOREHEAD CITY NC 28557 252-728-2571). A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE HOSPITAL FOR MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE MANUFACTURER HAS BEEN INFORMED OF FAILURE AND THE CONTACT WAS AWAITING A RESPONSE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 71,887. *LN*JB”
NHTSA complaint #11387244, 2021 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“MY WIFE HIT A TELEPHONE POLE HEAD ON, VEHICLE WAS A TOTAL LOSS. VEHICLE HAD 3000 MILES ON IT. MY WIFE HAD A SEAT BELT ON BUT WAS STILL INJURED. . ALSO ON STAR NEVER CAME ON. AN INVESTIGATOR FROM GM WAS HERE TODAY,AND SAID I SHOULD GET A COPY OF HIS REPORT.”
NHTSA complaint #11091612, 2018 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“2018 CHEVROLET TRAVERSE. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO AFTER GETTING INTO A MINOR ACCIDENT THE VEHICLE WAS ENGULFED IN FLAMES. *AS *TR”
NHTSA complaint #11174174, 2018 · crash · fire

Wheels 4

“My 2018 Chevrolet Traverse, has unresolved safety defects that endanger occupants and other road users. These include transmission failure with loss of acceleration, “Shift‑to‑Park” malfunctions preventing engine shut‑off, inoperative blind‑spot/cross‑traffic sensors, faulty tire pressure monitoring, and an active oil leak from the timing gasket cover. These issues occur unpredictably during normal driving and parking, creating an immediate risk of collision, roll‑away, or engine fire. All of these issued happened within a very short time frame. June 2025 and I took my car into Crews Chevy, t…”
NHTSA complaint #11683915, 2025

“PURCHASED A YEAR AGO IN FL. MY WINDSHIELD CAME LOOSE TWICE ALREADY WHERE YOU CAN SEE THE PADDING IN THE DASHBOARD AREA AGAIN. THE TIRE ON DRIVER SIDE HAS TO HAVE AIR IN IT SEVERAL TIMES AFTER DRIVING ABOUT 20 MINS. PRESSURE KEEPS READING AT 26 AND ALARM GOING OFF WITH THE PROBLEM. HUSBAND REFILLS AND THREE DAYS LATER I MOVE THE VEHICLE AND IT HAPPENS AGAIN. WINDSHIELD YOU CAN HEAR AIR LEAKING FROM IT. SEVERAL TIMES WHEN I STARTED MY CAR IT HAD A WEIRD ENGINE NOISE LOUD ACCELERATION EVEN WHEN SITTING IN MY DRIVEWAY. I READ NO RECALLS BUT POSSIBLE CLASS ACTION PENDING IF YOU REFUSE TO FIX TH…”
NHTSA complaint #11316475, 2020

“STEERING, TURN EITHER WAY, BACKING OUT OF SPACE THERE IS A STRANGE CLICK NOISE, HAS 4631 MILES ONLY. BLUE TOOTH WON'T COME ON ALL OF SUDDEN EITHER FOR HANDS FREE SPEAKING.”
NHTSA complaint #11183682, 2018

Visibility/Wiper 3

“1. WINDSHIELD WIPERS STOPPED WORKING WHILE RAINING AND 2. NOW, THE SHIFTER IS NOT WORKING PROPERLY, WHEN YOU SHIFT INTO PARK YOU GET AN ERROR MESSAGE THAT THE CAR IS NOT IN PARK AND CAR WILL NOT TURN OFF UNTIL YOU JIGGLE THE SHIFTER”
NHTSA complaint #11403702, 2021

“PURCHASED A YEAR AGO IN FL. MY WINDSHIELD CAME LOOSE TWICE ALREADY WHERE YOU CAN SEE THE PADDING IN THE DASHBOARD AREA AGAIN. THE TIRE ON DRIVER SIDE HAS TO HAVE AIR IN IT SEVERAL TIMES AFTER DRIVING ABOUT 20 MINS. PRESSURE KEEPS READING AT 26 AND ALARM GOING OFF WITH THE PROBLEM. HUSBAND REFILLS AND THREE DAYS LATER I MOVE THE VEHICLE AND IT HAPPENS AGAIN. WINDSHIELD YOU CAN HEAR AIR LEAKING FROM IT. SEVERAL TIMES WHEN I STARTED MY CAR IT HAD A WEIRD ENGINE NOISE LOUD ACCELERATION EVEN WHEN SITTING IN MY DRIVEWAY. I READ NO RECALLS BUT POSSIBLE CLASS ACTION PENDING IF YOU REFUSE TO FIX TH…”
NHTSA complaint #11316475, 2020

“MANY ISSUES FROM THE DAY THAT I BOUGHT THE VEHICLE. 1) NOTICED FRONT WINDSHIELD AND OR DRIVER SIDE WINDOW HAVING LOTS OF AIR NOISE COMING IN AND WIND CAN BE HEARD AS IM DRIVING. 2) THE AUTO START DOES NOT FUNCTION CORRECTLY WHEN GOING TURNS OFF AND ABOUT TO DRIVE OFF IT TUMBLES/SHAKES. 3) HEARING A NOISE ON THE DRIVER SIDE FRONT PART OF THE VEHICLE THAT CAN BE HEARD ON THE INSIDE AS IM DRIVING. SORT OF A KNOCKING RATTLING SOUND.”
NHTSA complaint #11280491, 2018

Carry Handle 2

“I purchased these Carseats after I was in an accident and needed to replace the 2 that I had, The tethers attached to the carseat were not effective at all, I could not get them anywhere near close to actually securing the Carseats. So I opted to use my vehicles seatbelts, with the seatbelts pulled as far as I could get them and locked the Carseats still moved more than an inch. I had to have my husband help me push the carseat as far down into my seat that I could to get the least amount of movement as possible. One of the Carseats even tipped over while I was driving after all of this. Needl…”
NHTSA complaint #11617150, 2024

“As a CPST, I am very concerned by the failure that I have witnessed on multiple occasions of the Snuglock mechanism of the Graco Turn2Me to secure the seat. The Snuglock mechanism is supposed to serve as a lockoff for the vehicle seatbelt, so that the seatbelt doesn't have to manually be locked. However, it seems that the Snuglock is failing to do so. I first noticed an issue back in October of 2022 when I went to put my rear facing 2yo into the seat and noticed that it was loose/"rocking". Upon taking hold of the seat, I could completely push the seat over, with very minimal force. I chalked…”
NHTSA complaint #11520257, 2022

Chest Clip 2

“I have had this car seat a little over a year and the chest buckle randomly stopped magnetizing. It will appear magnetized but will pop apart. This is absolutely unsafe and these seats need pulled from the consumers.”
NHTSA complaint #11724511, 2026

“The harness is coming loose by just being pulled. It comes loose with out pushing the button to loosen it. No debris in button”
NHTSA complaint #11553575, 2023

Back Over Prevention 1

“when driving my vehicle with the air condition on after about 25 minutes, the audio system completely goes out. no sound from the stereo, the backup camera alert, the blind spot alert, the "clicking" sound from the blinkers, all chimes, everything. The mechanic looked at the car and stated that this is a result of the condensation from the HVAC system entering the Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) module through the module vents. He stated this should have been a recall as it is an extreme safety hazard as it prevents any audio alerts of the blind spot or backup camera warning systems. He states…”
NHTSA complaint #11596554, 2024

Tether 1

“I purchased these Carseats after I was in an accident and needed to replace the 2 that I had, The tethers attached to the carseat were not effective at all, I could not get them anywhere near close to actually securing the Carseats. So I opted to use my vehicles seatbelts, with the seatbelts pulled as far as I could get them and locked the Carseats still moved more than an inch. I had to have my husband help me push the carseat as far down into my seat that I could to get the least amount of movement as possible. One of the Carseats even tipped over while I was driving after all of this. Needl…”
NHTSA complaint #11617150, 2024

Tires 1

“The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Traverse. The contact stated that while in park, there was an alarm beeping. The message “Shift to Park” was displayed. Additionally, the TPMS warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who was unable to duplicate the failure. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 121,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11695840, 2025

How we read this (methodology)

How to read this: raw complaint totals are not a clean reliability score — a model year with more cars sold, or simply more years on the road, accumulates more complaints regardless of how good it is. So this page leans on two signals that are not distorted by sales volume: the share of complaints falling on each vehicle system (the breakdown above) and NHTSA's own crash / fire / injury / death flags. When we compare model years of the same model, we normalise by years on the road (complaints ÷ vehicle age) rather than comparing raw totals. Age-normalised, the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse draws about 50.3 complaints per year on the road, ranking 1 of 15 among the Chevrolet Traverse model years we have ingested (1 = most complaints per year on road).

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