2016 Chevrolet Trax Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The 2016 Chevrolet Trax has a 'Below Average' reliability verdict, driven by frequent engine and electrical system problems.
- Critical safety concerns include air bag non-deployment and steering lock-up, as highlighted by owner complaints and recall data.
- Despite its strong crash test scores, the Trax's overall dependability is questionable, demanding a meticulous pre-purchase inspection.
- Fuel economy is a strong point, with a combined 29 MPG, making it efficient for city driving.
2016 Chevrolet Trax
The 2016 Chevrolet Trax presents a mixed bag for used car shoppers. While it boasts excellent NHTSA safety ratings with overall scores of 5 out of 5, its reliability record raises concerns. With 11 recalls and 172 complaints logged, potential buyers should be aware of recurring issues, particularly with the engine, electrical system, and air bags. The Trax offers respectable fuel economy, achieving a combined 29 MPG, making it an economical choice for daily commuting. However, the significant number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs), totaling 607, suggests potential quality control issues that warrant thorough inspection.
Critical Failure Risk
The engine is the most frequent complaint area, with issues ranging from stalling and power loss to misfires and turbocharger failures. These problems can manifest at various mileages, suggesting potential quality concerns.
Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$3,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and strong safety ratings over long-term reliability.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers seeking a dependable vehicle with minimal unexpected repair costs.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2016 Chevrolet Trax Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2016 Chevrolet Trax.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Transmission
- Automatic (S6)
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 29
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Most Common Issues
1. ENGINE
Most reportedUsage: 39 reports
2. Electrical System
Usage: 20 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Multi-Point Inspection
Est. shop cost: $80 - $150
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FAQ
Is the 2016 Chevrolet Trax reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Chevrolet Trax is 7.9/10. Reliability score is 7.9/10. NHTSA recalls: 11. Owner complaints: 172.
How practical is the 2016 Chevrolet Trax for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.0/10. EPA combined economy is 29 MPG.
What is the overall score for the 2016 Chevrolet Trax?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Chevrolet Trax is 7.8/10. Overall score is 7.8/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Chevrolet Trax?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Multi-Point Inspection at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $800 • Max: $3,000+).
What engine is in the 2016 Chevrolet Trax?
Engine specs list 4 • 1.4.
What transmission does the 2016 Chevrolet Trax use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Chevrolet Trax, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 Chevrolet Trax?
EPA combined estimate is 29 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Chevrolet Trax?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
What body style is the 2016 Chevrolet Trax?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Chevrolet Trax, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2016 Chevrolet Trax use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Chevrolet Trax, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2016 Chevrolet Trax?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
What are the most common engine problems on the 2016 Chevrolet Trax?
Top complaint category: engine (39 reports, 22.7% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 Chevrolet Trax?
This model year has 11 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2016 Chevrolet Trax?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2016 Honda HR-V and 2016 Mazda CX-3.