Are you wondering if there are certain years of the Chevy Trax you should avoid? If you’re thinking about buying a used Trax, you should know that the 2015-2019 models have some common problems.
Owners of these years have often reported issues with the transmission, like jerking and rough shifting.
There have also been complaints about engine problems and wheel alignment issues. These problems can lead to expensive repairs and can make driving less enjoyable and safe. It’s important to know why these particular years to avoid might not be the best choice before you decide to buy.
Key Takeaways
- Stay away from 2015-2019 Chevy Trax models because they often have problems with the transmission and engine.
- The 2015 model has issues like transmission failures, rattling noises, and wheel alignment problems.
- The 2016 model has engine troubles, rattles, and problems with the infotainment system.
- The 2017 model has major wheel alignment issues that affect how it handles and its safety.
- Transmission issues like jerking, slipping, and rough shifting are common in the 2015-2017 models.
Common Chevy Trax Issues
If you’re thinking about getting a Chevy Trax, keep in mind that some common problems include transmission issues, rattling noises when driving over bumps, and engine problems like stalling or losing power.
The build quality can sometimes be lacking, with panels and trim pieces not lining up right or making noise on rough roads. This can make the ride less comfortable.
Some models also have engines that struggle, especially when going uphill, which can affect performance. All these issues together can make the Chevy Trax less reliable and smooth to drive.
Transmission Problems
If you’re thinking about getting a Chevy Trax, watch out for the 2015 to 2019 models because they’ve big transmission problems. Owners have noticed issues like jerking, slipping, and rough shifting.
These problems not only make driving uncomfortable but also lead to pricey repairs. Plus, these transmission issues can be dangerous and might mean you’ll have to visit the mechanic a lot.
Common Transmission Failures
Chevy Trax models from 2015 to 2019 often have transmission problems, which can cause rough shifting, slipping gears, and even complete breakdowns. These issues usually lead to expensive repairs. Common problems include gears not shifting smoothly and slipping out of place, which can be dangerous.
Many owners have reported that their vehicles are unreliable because of these transmission issues. If you’re thinking about buying a Chevy Trax, it’s probably best to avoid these model years to avoid potential problems and costs. Knowing about these issues can help you make a better choice and ensure a smoother driving experience.
Impact on Driving Experience
If you drive a 2015-2019 Chevy Trax and have transmission problems, your driving experience can get pretty bad. Everyday commutes might become frustrating and even dangerous. These transmission issues can cause jerky shifts, slipping gears, or even complete failure, making it hard to drive smoothly and safely.
You might experience:
- Slow acceleration, making it stressful to merge onto highways.
- Trouble keeping a steady speed, which can be risky in traffic.
- Sudden jerks or lurches, giving you a rough ride.
These issues not only mess up your driving experience but also put your safety at risk. If you’re thinking about getting a Chevy Trax, avoiding these model years can help you have a more reliable and enjoyable drive.
Repair Costs and Frequency
If you’re dealing with transmission problems in certain years of the Chevy Trax, you could end up paying between $1,500 and $3,500 for repairs. These issues might start as early as 20,000 miles and can include slipping gears, rough shifting, or even a complete transmission failure. Often, fixing these problems means replacing the entire transmission, which is both expensive and time-consuming. To avoid these headaches and high costs, it’s best to steer clear of these problematic years.
| Problem | Emotional Impact |
|---|---|
| Slipping Gears | Frustration |
| Rough Shifting | Anxiety |
| Complete Failure | Desperation |
| High Repair Costs | Financial Stress |
Picking a more reliable model year can help you avoid these common transmission issues and save money.
Rattles and Squeaks
Owners of Chevy Trax models from 2015 to 2019 often complain about constant rattles and squeaks when driving over bumps. These problems can make your drive less enjoyable and more annoying. The rattling sounds are usually consistent and tough to fix, leading to a less comfortable ride.
To sum it up, the main issues with these models are:
- Constant interior rattles that are hard to figure out and fix.
- Squeaks over bumps that ruin the driving experience.
- Overall frustration because these issues don’t get resolved.
Wheel Alignment Issues
Besides the annoying rattles and squeaks, Chevy Trax models from 2015 to 2019 also struggle with serious wheel alignment problems. You might notice your tires wearing out too quickly, uneven tire tread, and your steering wheel vibrating. These issues can make driving harder and lower your gas mileage. Wheel alignment problems aren’t just a hassle—they can be dangerous and lead to higher maintenance costs.
| Issue | Impact |
|---|---|
| Wheel alignment problems | Poor handling and lower fuel economy |
| Premature tire wear | Higher maintenance costs |
| Steering wheel vibration | Less comfortable driving experience |
| Uneven tire tread | Safety concerns |
Regular checks and alignments can help fix these issues, making sure your Chevy Trax runs smoothly.
Engine Troubles
When it comes to engine problems in the Chevy Trax, the 2015, 2016, and 2018 models are particularly bad. Common issues include engine failures, turbocharger problems, and noticeable power loss, which can really mess up your driving experience.
These problems aren’t just expensive to fix; they can also be quite dangerous.
Common Engine Failures
Dealing with engine problems in some Chevy Trax models can be really frustrating. The 1.4L turbocharged engine in particular has issues like rough idling and stalling. The 2015 and 2016 models often suffer from engine overheating and coolant leaks, which can cause big problems if not fixed quickly.
The 2017 models have their own issues, such as oil leaks and early engine wear, which can affect both performance and reliability.
Here are some key problems to watch out for:
- Coolant leaks, which can cause the engine to overheat
- Oil leaks, which can lead to engine wear
- Rough idling and stalling with the 1.4L turbocharged engine
Knowing about these problems can help you make a better decision.
Turbocharger Issues Identified
Turbocharger problems in Chevy Trax models from 2015 to 2019 can cause serious engine issues and expensive repairs. If you own or are thinking about buying one of these models, you should know about the risk of turbocharger failure. These problems can lead to engine stalling, strange noises, and other major issues. Fixing turbocharger problems often costs a lot and can be a safety concern.
Here’s a quick look at the affected years and common issues:
| Model Year | Common Issues |
|---|---|
| 2015 | Turbo failure |
| 2016 | Engine stalling |
| 2017 | Unusual noises |
| 2018 | Costly repairs |
| 2019 | Safety hazards |
Avoiding these years can help you avoid the hassle and expense of turbocharger problems.
Power Loss Symptoms
If your 2015-2019 Chevy Trax is losing power, it could mean serious engine problems that need fixing right away. Here are some warning signs to look out for:
- Engine misfires: Your engine might stutter or shake, making it run poorly.
- Reduced acceleration: You may feel a delay or sluggishness when you press the gas.
- Poor fuel efficiency: If you’re filling up your gas tank more often, there could be an engine issue.
Fixing these problems quickly can save you money and keep you safe on the road.
Uphill Driving Challenges
If you’re thinking about getting a Chevy Trax from 2015 to 2019, be aware that these models often have trouble driving uphill. Many owners have reported that the engine lacks power and the transmission doesn’t work well, making it hard to keep up speed on slopes.
The engine struggles to provide enough power, leading to poor acceleration when climbing hills. On top of that, there are also issues with steering and traction that make driving on hilly roads even harder.
These problems affect the car’s reliability and how well it drives. If you often drive in areas with steep hills, you might want to consider other cars to avoid these common issues.
Worst Model Years
If you’re thinking about getting a Chevy Trax, avoid the 2015 to 2019 models. These years have a lot of problems with their transmissions and infotainment systems.
The transmissions often break down and can be expensive to fix. Plus, the infotainment systems in these models don’t work well and can be very frustrating.
Common Transmission Issues
When thinking about buying a Chevy Trax, it’s best to avoid the 2015, 2016, and 2017 models since they’re known for having bad transmission issues. These years have lots of problems that make them less reliable.
Owners have reported common issues like:
- Jerking and slipping
- Rough shifting
- Transmission failing too soon
These problems often lead to expensive repairs, making these years less reliable than others.
By not choosing a 2015-2017 Chevy Trax, you can avoid these common problems. Picking a different model year will help ensure a smoother and more reliable driving experience.
Infotainment System Problems
Besides transmission problems, the Chevy Trax models from 2015, 2016, and 2018 also have major issues with their infotainment systems. Owners have complained about touchscreens freezing, radios not working, and flashing lights on the infotainment systems in these years. These problems have left many Chevy Trax users unhappy. Dealerships often struggle to fix these software issues quickly, which leaves many drivers feeling frustrated.
| Model Year | Infotainment Issues |
|---|---|
| 2015 | Frozen touchscreens |
| 2016 | Malfunctioning radios |
| 2018 | Flashing lights |
If you’re thinking about getting a Chevy Trax, be careful with these years, as the ongoing infotainment system problems can really impact your driving experience.
First-Generation Trax
Looking at the first-generation Chevy Trax, especially the 2015 to 2019 models, it’s important to know about some common problems they have.
- 2015 Model: Had big issues with the transmission, which can be expensive to fix.
- 2016 Model: Known for making rattling noises when driving over bumps, which can make the ride less comfortable.
- 2017 Model: Had issues with wheel alignment, which can affect how the car handles and cause the tires to wear out faster.
Knowing about these issues can help you decide if a used Chevy Trax is right for you. These older models are often seen as less reliable compared to the newer ones, which have fewer problems.
2015 Chevy Trax Problems
Let’s take a look at the five most common problems that have affected the first-generation Chevy Trax.
First, many owners have reported transmission problems, like jerky shifts.
Second, there are frequent complaints about rattling noises when driving over bumps, which point to a noisy suspension system.
Third, some drivers have experienced engine performance issues, especially a lack of power when driving uphill.
Fourth, wheel alignment issues can cause uneven tire wear and make the car handle poorly.
Finally, various mechanical and electrical problems have been noted, which can hurt the overall driving experience and satisfaction.
Because of these recurring issues, the 2015-2019 Chevy Trax models mightn’t be the best choice if you’re looking for a reliable vehicle.
2016 Chevy Trax Problems
When looking at the 2016 Chevy Trax, there are a few common problems to keep in mind. These include issues with the transmission and engine, constant rattling noises, alignment problems, and failures with the infotainment system.
Knowing about these issues can help you make a better decision and save money on repairs.
Transmission and Engine Issues
Several Chevy Trax models have had ongoing transmission and engine problems that can impact the car’s dependability and performance. If you’re thinking about getting a Chevy Trax, it’s crucial to know about the common issues found in different model years.
Transmission problems can cause jerking, slipping, and trouble shifting gears, making driving unpredictable and potentially unsafe. Engine issues might show up as stalling, losing power, or making strange noises.
Here are some specific problems to watch out for:
- Jerking and slipping with the transmission
- Engine stalling and losing power
- Frequent engine misfires that hurt performance
Knowing about these issues can help you make a smarter buying decision.
Rattles and Alignment Problems
In addition to problems with the transmission and engine, Chevy Trax models from 2015 to 2019 often have rattling noises when driving over bumps and issues with wheel alignment. These rattles can make driving less pleasant and more annoying. Plus, the wheel alignment problems can cause the tires to wear out unevenly and make the car less safe to drive.
These issues not only hurt the performance of your Chevy Trax but also can lead to expensive repairs and maintenance. If you’re thinking about getting a Chevy Trax, it’s a good idea to avoid the 2015 to 2019 models. Choosing a different year could help you avoid these problems and make your driving experience better and more reliable.
Infotainment System Failures
Infotainment system problems are a big issue for Chevy Trax models. Many owners have dealt with touchscreens that freeze up and radios that don’t work right. Software glitches often make the system stop responding, which makes driving really frustrating.
Fixing these problems can be tough for dealerships, making people question how reliable GM is.
Common problems include:
- Touchscreens freezing
- Radios not working
- Flashing lights related to the infotainment system
These aren’t just small annoyances; they can really affect how you feel about driving the car.
If you’re thinking about getting a Chevy Trax, be aware that these infotainment system issues and software glitches have worried many owners.
2017 Chevy Trax Problems
If you’re thinking about getting a Chevy Trax, you should know about seven common issues that could affect how much you enjoy the car and how long it lasts.
One big problem to watch out for is with the transmission, which can be expensive to fix. Many Trax owners also say the car rattles when going over bumps, making the ride less smooth.
Wheel alignment issues are another concern, often leading to uneven tire wear. Engine problems, such as stalling and misfires, are also common. Plus, the Trax often lacks power when driving uphill, which can be frustrating.
These issues are mostly found in models from 2015 to 2019. To save yourself time, money, and headaches, it’s better to look at more reliable models like those from 2013, 2014, 2021, 2022, and 2023.
2018 Chevy Trax Problems
Knowing which years to avoid is important, but let’s break down the main problems that Chevy Trax owners often report. These issues can really affect how the car runs and your overall driving experience.
- Transmission Problems: Many people have trouble with the transmission, especially in the 2015-2019 models.
- Rattling Noises: A lot of folks hear annoying rattling sounds when going over bumps. It’s distracting and can be a bit worrying.
- Engine Issues: There are reports of the engine losing power when driving uphill and even completely failing.
Other common problems include the wheels getting out of alignment, glitches in the electrical system, and problems with the brakes.
Knowing about these Chevy Trax issues can help you make a smarter choice and avoid potential hassles.
2019 Chevy Trax Problems
Owning a Chevy Trax can come with a few common problems that might affect your driving experience. Many owners report issues with the transmission, which can make shifting gears rough or even lead to complete failure.
You might also hear rattling noises when driving over bumps and face constant problems with wheel alignment. Engine troubles, like stalling or misfiring, and a noticeable lack of power when driving uphill, can also be a hassle. These issues are most common in Chevy Trax models from 2015 to 2019.
Knowing about these problems can help you make better choices and avoid expensive repairs. Checking out specific model years can help you avoid the ones with the most issues, making for a smoother ownership experience.
Best Model Years
After talking about the problems with some Chevy Trax models, let’s highlight the best years you can count on for reliability and performance.
The Chevy Trax models from 2013, 2014, 2021, 2022, and 2023 are known for being more dependable and having fewer issues. These years give you a better ownership experience, making sure you get the most out of your car.
- 2013 and 2014: Early models with good performance and fewer complaints.
- 2021 and 2022: Better features and improved safety.
- 2023: Latest technology and excellent reliability.
Choosing one of these model years can give you more satisfaction and peace of mind because they’ve a solid track record for reliability and performance.
Chevy Trax Reliability
When looking at the reliability of the Chevy Trax, it’s important to note that certain model years have had more problems. The 2015 to 2019 Chevy Trax models are known for issues with the transmission, rattling noises over bumps, and problems with wheel alignment. These years also often have engine troubles, especially with a lack of power when driving uphill. Because of these issues, these models have lower reliability ratings and higher maintenance costs. Owners of these models frequently report more repairs and overall dissatisfaction.
For a more reliable option, consider the Chevy Trax models from 2013, 2014, 2021, 2022, and 2023. These years tend to have fewer common problems, making for a more dependable driving experience. Choose wisely for long-term satisfaction.
When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Chevy Spark, Chevy Tahoe, Chevy Traverse and Chevy Trax. 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.
Conclusion
To sum it up, if you’re thinking about getting a Chevy Trax, avoid the 2015-2019 models. These years have a lot of issues with the transmission, engine, and wheel alignment.
The repairs are costly and can be a safety concern. For a smoother ride and less hassle, go for the more reliable model years.
You’ll be glad you skipped the problematic ones and made a smarter choice.
