2021 Chevrolet Trax Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The 2021 Chevrolet Trax has an average reliability rating, making vehicle history and condition crucial.
- Owners frequently report issues with the electrical system, service brakes, and engine.
- Despite no official recalls, a significant number of owner complaints highlight potential weaknesses.
- NHTSA safety ratings are strong, with a 5-star overall score, but inspect airbags and brakes carefully.
2021 Chevrolet Trax
The 2021 Chevrolet Trax presents itself as a practical subcompact SUV, offering decent fuel economy and a comfortable ride for its class. However, a closer look at owner complaints reveals potential durability concerns that used car shoppers should heed. While it boasts excellent NHTSA safety ratings, including a 5-star overall score, the vehicle is not without its issues. The primary areas of owner dissatisfaction revolve around the electrical system, service brakes, and engine. With 26 complaints logged and 56 Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) issued, a thorough pre-purchase inspection is paramount.
Critical Failure Risk
Complaints include instrument panel blackouts, infotainment system glitches, and connectivity issues like CarPlay problems. These can range from minor annoyances to impacting critical vehicle information display.
Early detection can help you avoid a $1,000-$4,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is dragged down by its weaker day-to-day practicality signals.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Budget-conscious shoppers seeking a small SUV with good safety scores.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Drivers who demand top-tier reliability and minimal unexpected expenses.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2021 Chevrolet Trax Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Chevrolet Trax.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Drivetrain
- All-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 26
CarFocal account required
See the full 2021 Chevrolet Trax buyer report before you decide
Most Common Issues
1. Electrical System
Most reportedUsage: 6 reports
2. Braking System
Usage: 3 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Exhaust System for Leaks
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.
Free • Takes 20 seconds • Saves Thousands $
Already have an account? Log in
FAQ
Is the 2021 Chevrolet Trax reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Chevrolet Trax is 9.3/10. Reliability score is 9.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 26.
How practical is the 2021 Chevrolet Trax for daily use?
Practicality score is 4.7/10. The score is dragged down by its weaker day-to-day practicality signals. EPA combined economy is 26 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.
What is the overall score for the 2021 Chevrolet Trax?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Chevrolet Trax is 8.0/10. Overall score is 8.0/10 (Strong). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.0/10. Practicality 4.7/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Chevrolet Trax?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Exhaust System for Leaks at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Electrical System (typical at 45,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $200 • Max: $1,500).
What engine is in the 2021 Chevrolet Trax?
Engine specs list 4 • 1.4.
What transmission does the 2021 Chevrolet Trax use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Chevrolet Trax, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Chevrolet Trax?
EPA combined estimate is 26 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Chevrolet Trax?
9 standard and 3 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2021 Chevrolet Trax?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Chevrolet Trax, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2021 Chevrolet Trax?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Chevrolet Trax, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2021 Chevrolet Trax use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Chevrolet Trax, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Chevrolet Trax?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
What are the most common electrical system problems on the 2021 Chevrolet Trax?
Top complaint category: electrical system (6 reports, 23.1% of complaints).
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2021 Chevrolet Trax?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2021 Honda HR-V and 2021 Mazda CX-30.