Chevrolet Traverse
3.6-liter High Feature V6 with Active Fuel Management and Stop/Start, 310 hp. Timing chain issues from the LLT are largely fixed. Water pump remains a known wear item between 80,000 and 130,000 miles, expensive due to buried location. Unlike the 5.3L V8, the AFM implementation in this V6 shows no lifter problems.
The 9-speed and the AC will test your patience
The 2018 redesign made the Traverse a better family hauler — more space, 310 hp V6, real 8-seat capacity, 5,000 lb tow rating. But the 9T65 9-speed shudders and judders enough that GM ran a pilot replacement program. AC evaporator leaks are common. Shift-to-park errors haunt 2018–2019. 2021+ cars got quieter and the software was mostly fixed. Nobody buys a Traverse because it's fun — you buy it because it hauls three rows of people and a boat.
Engine Weaknesses 1
Water pump is a known wear item on the 3.6 platform, typically failing around 80,000–130,000 miles. Located in a labor-intensive spot. RepairPal lists $1,080–$1,668.
Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, coolant under engine
Vehicle Weaknesses 7
The 9T65 9-speed automatic introduced in 2018 Traverse shows torque converter clutch shudder on reapply. Owners also report locked-out 5–9th gears, 1-2 flare, and flashing 'D'. GM launched a pilot replacement program in late 2020.
2018–2020 Traverse: missing bolts on the start-stop transmission accumulator end cap cause ATF leak, loss of propulsion, and fire risk near ignition sources.
NHTSA 2018 recall: Sensing Diagnostic Module on some 2019 Traverse left in 'manufacturing mode,' preventing airbag deployment in a crash.
2018–2019 Traverse displays 'Shift to Park' warning when already in Park, preventing vehicle shutdown. One documented rollaway crash. GM TSB PIT5616, Special Coverage N192273510.
2018–2023 Traverse have recurring A/C refrigerant leaks: AC hose rubbing on power steering bracket, rear evaporator lines damaged by road debris, pinhole leaks in rear evaporator itself. A/C blows warm.
NHTSA 2020 recall: fuel pump jet nozzle plastic burr may block nozzle, causing insufficient fuel supply and stall risk.
2018–2023 Traverse show MyLink/infotainment freezes, spontaneous reboots, and CarPlay dropouts. Typical software issue on this platform.