CARFOCAL

2016 Chevrolet Traverse Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026Ryan Davis4 Critical Recalls
2016 Chevrolet Traverse Report

Overall Score

Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

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.
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Overview

2016 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2016 Chevrolet Traverse offers substantial passenger and cargo space, making it a practical choice for families. However, its appeal is tempered by a history of significant reliability concerns, particularly surrounding safety systems. With a robust 3.6L V6 engine and available all-wheel drive, it provides adequate power for daily driving and hauling. Despite its utility, potential buyers must be aware of the numerous complaints and recalls, especially those impacting the airbag system, which warrant thorough inspection and verification of completed repairs.

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.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Reliability

Practicality

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

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.

Specs

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 reported

Usage: 158 reports

2. Powertrain

Usage: 34 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

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

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
6 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse is 6.4/10. Reliability score is 6.4/10. 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 6.4/10. Overall score is 6.4/10 (Mixed). 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.