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Chevrolet · Full-Size SUV · 2009–2017

Chevrolet Traverse GMT968

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
3.0 / 5.0 · Based on 2 engine variants

Generations

Engine Overview

The Chevrolet Traverse GMT968 is available with one engine variant at 286 hp. 1 variants had engine changes — the model year is crucial.

Traverse · Petrol· 281 PS Engine Change
2009 2012
Stay Away! 3 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →
2013 2017
Good Choice 1 weakness
Show all weaknesses →

The Chevrolet Traverse (Petrol, 281 PS) comes with 2 different engines: LLT (2009–2012, Stay Away!) und LFX (2013–2017, Good Choice). Pay attention to the model year for the Traverse!

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
✖6T70/6T75 wave plate failure — total transmission loss

The 6T70/6T75 6-speed automatic in 2009 Traverse suffers wave plate cracking in the 4-5-6 clutch drum, causing complete loss of 3rd, 5th, and reverse gears. GM extended coverage to 10 years/120,000 miles due to widespread failures.

Symptoms: No reverse, harsh or flared 3-5 shifts, slipping, P0776/P0842
from 130,000 km
Ad 6T70 wave plate6T75 clutch drum
 High
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Below Average
3,732 complaints · 2009–2017
Airbags
1011 ⚠ 43
Steering
895 ⚠ 19
Engine
799 ⚠ 9
Electronic Stability Control (Esc)
466 ⚠ 6
Electrical
461 ⚠ 4

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Airbags (1011 complaints)
⚠ Steering (895 complaints)
⚠ Engine (799 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-04

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 10 weaknesses have been documented for the Chevrolet Traverse GMT968 (2009–2017) — 4 engine-related and 6 vehicle-related. One problem engine: LLT (3.6L V6 DI). Typical issues affect Gearbox, Steering, Other, Electronics. Considered reliable: LFX (3.6L V6 LFX).

Traverse (LLT, 2009–2012) — Stay Away!: LLT timing chain stretch — the headliner defect, Delphi high-pressure fuel pump failure, Oil consumption from PCV and valve guide wear (LLT). Power: 281 PS.

What to watch out for with the Chevrolet Traverse? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Chevrolet Traverse GMT968 have? +
The Chevrolet Traverse GMT968 has 4 known engine weaknesses and 6 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Chevrolet Traverse GMT968? +
faq.watch_a_avoid faq.watch_a_rec
Which engine is recommended? +
Good choice: LFX (3.6L V6 LFX). The most reliable engine is the LFX (3.6L V6 LFX) with the lowest risk score. The most fun to drive is the LFX (3.6L V6 LFX). Problem engine: LLT (3.6L V6 DI) — stay away!
Which Chevrolet Traverse GMT968 engine is the most reliable? +
The {code} ({displacement}) is the most reliable engine in the Chevrolet Traverse GMT968. It has the lowest risk score of all available engines and is rated "Good Choice". However, there are 1 known weaknesses to be aware of.
Which Chevrolet Traverse GMT968 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Chevrolet Traverse GMT968 — rated: "Decent". {description} The LFX 3.6 replaced the LLT in 2013 with a revised timing chain and cleaner internals. It's not trouble-free — the Delphi high-pressure fuel pump still fails and water pumps are a known wear item — but it's a different animal from the 2009–2012 disaster. A 2015–2017 Traverse with service records is the sweet spot of the first generation. Three-row family hauler, 5,200 lb tow rating, no surprises if you keep up with fluids.
Is the Chevrolet Traverse GMT968 worth buying used? +
The Chevrolet Traverse GMT968 requires careful consideration — choosing the right engine variant is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Chevrolet Traverse GMT968? +
The Chevrolet Traverse GMT968 is available with engine variants from 286 to 305 hp. Petrol: LFX (3.6L V6 LFX), LLT (3.6L V6 DI).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee