The Chevrolet Traverse has been a mainstay in the midsize SUV market for over a decade, offering families and adventure-seekers alike a spacious and reliable ride.
With each passing year, Chevrolet has made improvements to the Traverse, enhancing its performance, technology, and overall appeal.
There are many best & worst Chevrolet Traverse years, not all model years are created equal, but each model helps you make an informed decision when searching for your next SUV.
Chevrolet Traverse Generations
The Chevrolet Traverse has evolved significantly through its generations, with each iteration bringing notable improvements.
It was introduced in 2009 and offered a spacious and practical SUV with ample seating and versatile cargo space. It was criticized for its lacklustre interior quality and outdated technology.
Let’s quickly glance at the table that offers a comprehensive summary of every Traverse model from 2009 to the present day.
| Generation | Years |
| 1st generation | 2009-2017 |
| 2nd generation | 2018-Present |
Chevrolet Traverse Best, Neutral, and Worst Years
When categorizing the Chevrolet Traverse model years as top, neutral, or worst, we consider numerous factors. These factors encompass a wide range of considerations, including but not limited to:
- Reliability information provided by the owner
- Evaluations from Edmunds’s owners
- Owner contentment scores from Consumer Reports
- Ratings from JD Power owners
- Reliability scores from Consumer Reports
- Safety evaluations
- Recalls, investigations, and complaints from NHTSA
- Yearly upkeep expenses
The graph presented here offers a comprehensive perspective by combining ratings from the previously mentioned sources.
The table provided classifies Chevrolet Traverse model years into the categories of top, middle, and bottom performers.
| Generation | Best Years | Neutral Years | Worst Years |
| 1st generation | 2013 2017 | 2015 2016 | 2009 2010 2011 2012 2014 |
| 2nd generation | 2023 | 2021 2022 | 2018 2019 2020 |
It’s essential to consider how NHTSA recalls and consumer complaints impact its overall reliability. A high number of recalls and complaints can erode confidence in a vehicle’s dependability, leading to a decrease in its overall score.
Potential buyers should closely monitor these factors when considering which year model to purchase.
Best & Worst Years for Chevrolet Traverse 1st Generation (2009-2017)
The first generation chevy traverse reliability by year from 2009 to 2017, had its best year in 2013.
This was the year when Chevrolet made significant improvements to the vehicle’s transmission and suspension, resulting in better overall performance and ride quality.
The Best Years for Chevy Traverse: 2013, 2017
In 2013, the Traverse received high marks for its spacious interior, smooth ride, and impressive cargo capacity.
It also had good safety ratings and a comfortable seating layout, making it an attractive option for families and those needing extra space.
2017 best year Chevy Traverse received a significant refresh, including updated styling, improved technology features, and enhanced safety equipment.
The addition of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay made the infotainment system more user-friendly, while the available Surround Vision camera system provided added convenience and safety.
The Neutral Years: 2015, 2016
The 2015 and 2016 Chevrolet Traverse can be considered the neutral years for this model. These years saw no significant changes or updates, making them a good option for those looking for a reliable and consistent SUV.
The Traverse continues to offer spacious seating, ample cargo room, and a smooth ride, making it a practical choice for families or anyone in need of extra space.
The Worst Years: 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2014
The 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2014 Chevy Traverse years to avoid and face significant challenges due to faulty side-impact airbag wiring, which posed serious safety risks for drivers and passengers.
The potential danger was so severe that it led to extensive recalls of the affected models. Particularly concerning were the side-curtain airbag issues that impacted the 2009-2012 models.
Despite only a relatively small number of units being directly affected, this problem raised concerns about the overall safety and reliability of Chevrolet Traverse vehicles during these years.
Alongside the specific airbag issues, multiple other recalls during these years had massive implications for Chevrolet Traverse owners.
With recall numbers ranging from 691,144 to a staggering 1,339,355 vehicles affected in various instances across those years, it became clear that maintaining confidence in the brand’s reliability was an ongoing challenge for both customers and Chevrolet alike.
Best & Worst Chevrolet Traverse Years 2nd Generation (2018-Present)
It’s no secret that the second-generation Chevrolet Traverse has had its share of ups and downs since its debut in 2018.
The Best Year for Chevy Traverse: 2023
The introduction of the 2023 Chevrolet Traverse marks a significant leap forward in the model’s evolution.
Boasting a sleek new design and an array of cutting-edge features, this vehicle demonstrates Chevrolet’s commitment to excellence.
The addition of advanced safety technologies such as adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking ensures that drivers can enjoy peace of mind on the road while also setting a new standard for safety in the crossover SUV segment.
The Neutral Years: 2021, 2022
During these years, Chevrolet Traverse has maintained its position as a reliable choice for families seeking safety and comfort.
While not marked by revolutionary changes, these years signify a period of refinement for the Traverse, solidifying its reputation as a steadfast option in the competitive midsize SUV segment.
The Worst Years: 2018, 2019, 2020
The Chevrolet Traverse had a rough ride over the years 2018, 2019, and 2020. Despite its spacious interior and smooth ride, it suffered from transmission issues that plagued many of its models.
Owners reported enhancements to technology, safety features and even complete transmission failure in some cases. This not only led to a decrease in customer satisfaction but also raised concerns about the long-term reliability of the vehicle.
Persistent problems with electronic glitches and faulty infotainment systems added to the frustration of owners, tarnishing the once-solid reputation of this family-friendly SUV.
This became increasingly problematic as consumers began prioritizing efficiency and eco-friendliness when making purchasing decisions.
With competitors offering improved gas mileage and hybrid options, the lacklustre efficiency of the Traverse further contributed to its decline in popularity during these years.
Chevrolet Traverse Average Resale Values
When it comes to average resale values, the Chevrolet Traverse stands out as a solid performer in the competitive midsize SUV market.
Boasting a reputation for reliability and versatility, the Traverse holds its value well, making it an attractive choice for both new car buyers and pre-owned shoppers alike.
With its spacious interior, smooth ride quality, and advanced tech features, the Traverse commands attention in the resale market.
Below is a visual representation of the average resale prices for different model years of the Chevrolet Traverse.
Conclusion
The Chevrolet Traverse has seen its best & worst Chevrolet Traverse years in the 2009 to 2023 models, offering a winning combination of performance, comfort, and technology.
These years have proven to be reliable and efficient, with fewer reported problems compared to earlier models.
The worst years for the Traverse are generally considered to the models due to various mechanical issues and lower overall satisfaction ratings from owners.