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2018 Chevrolet Traverse Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller·1 Critical Recall
2018 Chevrolet Traverse Report

Overall Score

6.4/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 'Shift to Park' issue is a recurring problem that prevents the vehicle from shutting off and locking, potentially leading to battery drain and safety hazards.
  • Powertrain complaints, including transmission issues and sudden loss of power, are frequent and can occur at various mileages.
  • Electrical system failures are also a significant concern, contributing to the vehicle's below-average reliability rating.
  • Two recalls were issued, one for transmission bolts and a critical one for improperly attached side curtain airbags.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2018 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2018 Chevrolet Traverse offers substantial passenger and cargo space, making it a practical choice for families. However, its appeal is tempered by a notable number of reported issues. With a 3.6L V6 engine paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, it delivers adequate power for its class. Its safety ratings are strong, but the high volume of complaints, particularly regarding the powertrain and electrical systems, warrants careful consideration for used car buyers. The vehicle achieved a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA.

Critical Failure Risk

The vehicle fails to recognize when it is in Park, preventing shutdown and locking. This is a common and persistent issue affecting the electrical system and power train.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$4,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls2
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

607
Power Train167
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
20
MPG
City
17
MPG
Highway
25
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

6.7/ 10

Practicality

4.6/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Families needing ample passenger and cargo room.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2018 Chevrolet Traverse Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
AWD/All-Wheel Drive
EPA Combined MPG
20

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Powertrain

Most reported

Usage: 167 reports

2. Electrical System

Usage: 84 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 - Inspect Brakes

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

7,500 mi

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

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

FAQ

Is the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse is 6.7/10. Reliability score is 6.7/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 607.

How practical is the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 4.6/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 20 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse is 6.4/10. Overall score is 6.4/10 (Mixed). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.1/10. Practicality 4.6/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 Chevrolet Traverse?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $800 - $1,200. Repair prediction highlight: Transmission (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,500 • Max: $4,000).

What is the MSRP range for the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse?▾

Base MSRP is $45,000.

What engine is in the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.6.

What transmission does the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse?▾

EPA combined estimate is 20 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse?▾

7 standard and 4 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2018 Chevrolet Traverse?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse, seating capacity is 5.

What drivetrain does the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse, drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

What are the most common power train problems on the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse?▾

Top complaint category: power train (167 reports, 27.5% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse?▾

This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2018 Toyota Highlander and 2018 Honda Pilot.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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