Chevrolet Trax
1.3-liter turbo three-cylinder with 155 hp and 184 lb-ft. Paired with 6-speed auto in the Trax, 9-speed with AWD in the Encore GX. Stronger and smoother than the 1.2L LIH sibling. Early engine grenades and fuel rail defects show GM still has quality work to do.
Three cylinders, $21k, and surprisingly not bad
A 1.3L three-pot making 155 hp through a 6-speed auto sounds like penalty-box territory, and it kind of is — but for the money the new Trax drives more grown-up than it has any right to, looks sharp and packs more room than most rivals. No AWD at any price, and early engine grenades plus infotainment blackouts show GM still has quality work to do.
Engine Weaknesses 3
2024–2025 NHTSA complaints: owners report 'explosive bang,' smoke, total loss. Documented 2025 case with rod failure at 11,000 miles. Too new for final verdict but warning sign.
Symptoms: Loud bang, smoke, complete engine failure
2025 model year: check engine light at 156 miles, fuel rail replacement required, parts backordered late 2024.
Symptoms: Check engine light, rough running, power loss
Multiple 2024/2025 units show squeaking and ticking noises, matching GM TSB. Dealers calling it 'normal.'
Symptoms: Squeak on cold start, ticking at idle
Vehicle Weaknesses 7
GM TSB PIP6095C for 2025–2026 Trax and Buick Envista: TEHCM solenoid valve over-travel, valve contacts or ruptures protective screen. Shift quality impacted.
NHTSA 23V744000 November 2023: VCU module software can black out the entire dashboard while driving. 2025 units show blackouts within first months.
Recurring NHTSA complaint: rearview camera activates without reverse gear or freezes.
Forward collision system and adaptive cruise trigger false warnings, sudden phantom braking with no obstacle.
NHTSA complaints on 2025 Trax: air conditioning stops cooling, evaporator issues suspected.
2024 Trax units show humming and growling from the torque converter between 28 and 53 mph on torque converter clutch reapply.
2024/2025 NHTSA complaints: Trax owners report flickering headlights in operation.
