Chevrolet Traverse GMT968
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
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.
3.6-liter V6 with direct injection and VVT, 281 hp. One of GM's most notorious engines: timing chain stretch between 60,000 and 100,000 miles, P0008/P0009 codes, cold-start rattle. GM extended coverage to 10 years/120,000 miles due to the massive failure rate. Buying this engine without proof of a replaced chain means buying a ticking time bomb.
- !! LLT timing chain stretch — the headliner defect from 145,000 km
The LLT 3.6L V6 is notorious for timing chain stretch, typically between 60,000–100,000 miles. Chain wear causes P0008/P0009/P0016/P0017 codes, cold-start rattle, power loss, and engine damage if ignored. GM Special Coverage 11340 extended warranty to 10 years/120,000 miles.
Symptoms: Cold-start rattle for 1–3 seconds, rough idle, check engine P0008/P0009/P0016/P0017, sluggish acceleration - !! Timing Chain Stretch LLT (2010) from 80,000 km
Early LLT batch with chain defect. Interference engine: chain failure = valve damage. GM update available but early cars need replacement.
Symptoms: Cold-start rattle, P0008/P0016, power loss - !! Delphi high-pressure fuel pump failure from 160,000 km
The Delphi HPFP on LLT/LFX engines can fail, causing hard starts, extended cranking, rough idle. P0087/P0089/P228C common. Dealer replacement runs $1,400+.
Symptoms: Long crank time especially cold, rough idle, power loss, CEL with P0087/P0089
+ 1 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
3.6-liter High Feature V6 with direct injection, variable valve timing, and 301 hp. Far more durable than the 2.4 Ecotec of the same generation. But requires strict 5,000-mile oil changes (never trust the oil life monitor) or timing chain stretch starts around 85,000 mi.
- !! Premature timing chain wear 3.6L LFX from 140,000 km
Early 3.6L LFX suffers premature timing chain stretch when oil change intervals are stretched. GM Special Coverage SC-10287 applies.
Symptoms: Cold start rattle, P0008/P0009 codes, check engine light
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | High |
Top Reported Issues
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Known Problems and Issues +
A total of 11 weaknesses have been documented for the Chevrolet Traverse GMT968 (2009–2017) — 5 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, Timing Chain Stretch LLT (2010), Delphi high-pressure fuel pump failure. 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? +
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Which engine is recommended? +
Which Chevrolet Traverse GMT968 engine is the most reliable? +
Which Chevrolet Traverse GMT968 engine is the most fun? +
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Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee