2016 Chevrolet Traverse Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The 2016 Traverse is rated below average for reliability, with significant concerns about airbag system integrity.
- Numerous recalls, totaling 6, focus heavily on airbag components, requiring careful verification of completed repairs.
- Common complaints include issues with airbags, the powertrain, engine performance, electrical systems, and steering.
- Safety ratings are strong, with an overall 5-star score from NHTSA, but airbag recall status is paramount.
2016 Chevrolet Traverse
Critical Failure Risk
Frequent 'Service Air Bag' warnings and issues related to airbag inflator modules and side curtain airbag fasteners are common. This is a critical safety concern, often linked to recalls.
Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$3,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Families prioritizing passenger and cargo space over long-term mechanical certainty.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Drivers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2016 Chevrolet Traverse Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Transmission
- Automatic 6-spd
- Drivetrain
- All-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 17
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Most Common Issues
1. Airbags
Most reportedUsage: 158 reports
2. Powertrain
Usage: 34 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Check (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering)
Est. shop cost: $100 - $175
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FAQ
Is the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse is 7.4/10. Reliability score is 7.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 6. Owner complaints: 376.
How practical is the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 17 MPG.
What is the overall score for the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse is 6.7/10. Overall score is 6.7/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.9/10. Practicality 5.0/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Chevrolet Traverse?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Check (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Air Bag System (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,500).
What engine is in the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse?
Engine specs list 6 • 3.6.
What transmission does the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse, transmission is Automatic 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse?
EPA combined estimate is 17 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
What body style is the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 6-spd.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
What are the most common air bags problems on the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse?
Top complaint category: air bags (158 reports, 42% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse?
This model year has 6 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2016 Toyota Highlander and 2016 Honda Pilot.