As you navigate the used car market, beware of the potholes that can derail your search for the perfect Chevrolet Trax. The model’s history is like a roadmap, with some routes leading to trouble and others to tranquility. You’ll want to steer clear of the 2015 and 2016 models, which are plagued by engine failure, transmission woes, and A/C issues. But don’t lose hope – there are safe havens to investigate, and we’ll guide you through the best and worst years of the Chevy Trax to guarantee a smooth ride.
Quick Navigation
Key Takeaways
- Avoid 2015 and 2016 Chevy Trax models due to common issues like engine failure, transmission problems, and A/C problems.
- The 2019 Chevy Trax is a safe year to buy used, with fewer reported issues and better reliability.
- 2020 Chevrolet Trax is a good used car option, boasting good reliability in areas like body hardware, exhaust systems, in-car electronics, and engines.
- Researching and comparing prices can help find the best deal, and it’s worth paying more for a reliable model year.
- Focus on 2019 and 2020 Trax models to get a reliable compact SUV with fewer reported mechanical and electrical issues.
Worst Chevy Trax Years to Avoid
Several model years of the Chevrolet Trax have garnered negative reviews and poor reliability ratings, making them worth avoiding.
You’ll want to steer clear of the 2015 and 2016 Trax model years, which are considered the worst Chevy Trax years.
These Trax years to avoid are plagued by common issues like engine failure, transmission problems, and A/C problems.
In fact, there was a recall regarding faulty airbag sensors in the 2015 model.
If you’re in the market for a used Trax, it’s best to skip these model years to avoid costly repairs down the line.
Safe Chevrolet Trax Years to Buy Used
If you’re in the market for a used Chevrolet Trax, you’ll want to focus on model years that have proven to be reliable and issue-free.
The 2019 Chevy Trax model is a safe year to buy used, with fewer reported issues and better reliability compared to other model years.
The 2020 Chevrolet Trax is also a good used car option, boasting good reliability in areas like body hardware, exhaust systems, in-car electronics, and engines.
These two model years have fewer complaints and are more dependable choices for those looking to buy a used compact SUV.
Reliability, Pricing, and Purchase Considerations
When shopping for a used Chevrolet Trax, it’s essential to weigh reliability against pricing considerations.
You’ll find that some model years are more dependable than others, with fewer reported issues like engine performance problems, electrical issues, and infotainment system glitches.
The 2019 and 2020 Trax models are considered safer bets, with better reliability and advanced safety features.
Pricing varies, with a first-year Chevy Trax averaging $13,148 and a 2021 model going for $20,672.
Researching and comparing prices can help you find the best deal, and it’s worth paying more for a reliable model year to guarantee years of trouble-free driving.
Is the Chevy Trax a Good Car to Purchase?
The Chevrolet Trax can be a solid purchase decision if you’re willing to do your research and choose the right model year.
By focusing on model years 2019 and 2020, you’ll get a reliable compact SUV with fewer reported mechanical and electrical issues. These models have proven to have better reliability, avoiding common problems like transmission problems, faulty air conditioning systems, and engine failures.
Researching and test-driving the car before buying is vital to guarantee you get a trouble-free Trax. With the right model year, you’ll enjoy a blend of efficiency and versatility, making the Trax a competitive option in the compact SUV segment.
Chevy Trax Years to Avoid and Their Issues
You’re likely wondering which Chevy Trax model years to steer clear of.
According to data and owner feedback, certain years stand out for their higher incidence of problems.
Let’s take a closer look at the worst model years, common complaints filed, and the mechanical and electrical issues that plague them.
Worst Model Years
Faulty electronics, transmission issues, and poor engine performance plague certain model years of the Chevrolet Trax, making them ones to avoid.
You’ll want to steer clear of the 2015 and 2016 Trax models, considered the worst model years.
Owners reported issues with the Trax’s air conditioning system, including refrigerant leaks, causing the check engine light to come on.
Additionally, some owners experienced their Trax rolling back when parked on an incline.
The underpowered engine and low-quality cabin materials only add to the list of problems.
These worst model years are best avoided to guarantee a hassle-free ownership experience.
Common Complaints Filed
Common complaints filed against the Chevrolet Trax reveal a pattern of issues that plague certain model years.
You’ll find a slew of NHTSA complaints related to the front suspension, which can cause uneven tire wear and affect the vehicle’s overall handling.
Climate control and A/C systems are also major concerns, with many owners reporting that they stopped working altogether.
While these issues aren’t necessarily mechanical or electrical in nature, they’re still significant problems that can impact your driving experience.
It’s worth noting that some of these issues led to recalls, so it’s essential to research the specific model year you’re interested in to avoid potential headaches.
Mechanical and Electrical
Beyond issues with front suspension and climate control, some Chevrolet Trax model years are plagued by mechanical and electrical problems that can leave you stranded or dealing with costly repairs.
The 2015 Trax engine, for instance, has been known to stall or hesitate, often due to faulty fuel injectors or a malfunctioning throttle position sensor.
A recall was issued for the 2017 Trax’s electrical system, which could cause the vehicle’s lights to malfunction.
Owners have reported reliability issues with the Trax’s mechanical system, citing problems with the transmission and drivetrain.
Common Issues Faced by Chevy Trax
You’ve likely fallen in love with your Chevy Trax’s versatility and feature-packed interior, but as with any vehicle, some issues may arise over time.
While the Trax has a good reliability record, some common problems have been reported.
- Underpowered engine: Some owners have complained that the Trax’s 1.4L turbocharged engine lacks power, especially when merging onto highways or climbing steep hills.
- Transmission issues: There have been reports of the Trax’s six-speed automatic transmission slipping or hesitating to shift gears, leading to poor fuel economy and uneven acceleration.
- Infotainment system glitches: Some owners have experienced problems with the Trax’s MyLink infotainment system, including frozen screens, unresponsive touchpads, and poor Bluetooth connectivity.
- Recall notices: Certain model years of the Trax have been recalled due to faulty seatbelt pretensioners, which can increase the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet captiva, Chevrolet Impala and Chevrolet Suburban. Knowing which model years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Our expert reviews break down these models, providing insights into the years that are celebrated for their engineering excellence and driving satisfaction, as well as those that are best to avoid due to potential issues.