2018 Chevrolet Traverse Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
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.
2018 Chevrolet Traverse
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.
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 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.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Drivetrain
- AWD/All-Wheel Drive
- EPA Combined MPG
- 20
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Most Common Issues
1. Powertrain
Most reportedUsage: 167 reports
2. Electrical System
Usage: 84 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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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.