Chevrolet Traverse Won't Start!?! Fixed!!!

Going through the repair process on a 2009 Chevrolet Traverse which Won't start.
The Chevrolet Traverse is one of the vehicles built on the "Lambda Platform " that GM designed, which also encompasses The Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia, And Saturn Outlook. The 3.6L VVT GDI Engine used in these has some unique problems that show themselves on this particular vehicle.
Come along as James Troubleshoots the problems causing the vehicle not to start, repairs the Clogged Catalytic Converters, and finally gets to the root of the problem by Cleaning massive intake valve deposits as a result of Lack of maintenance.
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my CashApp $JBAutomotive1
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[@edwinperez7118]

You’re an outstanding mechanic. Excellent video thanks.

[@ninefingerstrucking5735]

Nice catch! I just did timing chains on a 2009 that I bought not running. Got done, fired it up, ran great. Five minutes later, lost power, died. Very hard starting, sometimes ran slowly. Not developing high fuel pressure. Swapped out high pressure pump, no change. Checked a whole LOT of other things, no luck. Started searching the net for info, found your video. Smacked myself in the head (twice) for not thinking of plugged exhaust. Pulled the front O2, it started and ran just fine. Now to pull all the cats and inspect. Thanks for the inspiration!

[@FLJAMESFL]

Great outcome. Loving the channel.

[@1974webby]

I think you just wrote the story of my problem. We shall see working on it this week THANK YOU!!!

[@whowho7969]

Did it work out for you I’m in the same boat ?

[@druwilliams9821]

Good video.. same problem with a 2009 acadia.. the dealership couldn't even figure out the problem.. Nice work. Up and running thanks to your video

[@S.R.1981]

Did you fixed your car ?? I have same problem...

[@Rb-te3ou]

Dealerships suck

[@user-hw2dh4zy8z]

Best mechanic video ever.handsdown 😂😂😂

[@dukex9269]

Thanks man. I think this video will help my 11 Acadia

[@amid9299]

Great video I have a 10 traverse I’m trying it myself tomorrow wish me luck

[@JorgeAlvarado-ob7qq]

Thank you for your knowledge much respect !!!!!!

[@dinos9378]

Great job!

[@AzMurphy2022]

This channel gave me a idea, I have 2011 traverse and it’s doing the same problem, now I’m gonna try what you did , thanks for sharing this video…

[@JBAutomotive794]

How did things work out?

[@buddaclayton9292]

I used the seafoam version on my 2012 traverse ltz. I did it through the throttle and got the engine up to 2000 rpms and spray the cleaner in and after that I let it heat soak and drove it and it clean my valves

[@michaele1975]

Thumbs up on this. I'll be doing this on my 2012 Traverse. It has about the same amount of miles. I also have an Enclave with fewer miles that I will also be running over with this same procedure. I'm pretty sure the bad catylics helped to produce some of the issue as well. Maybe they are what initially spawned it? idk. Conjecture and Tito's. I'll try to follow up. Thanks to JB Automotive and Marine for putting this out to us amateur wrenchers.

[@michaele1975]

I forgot to mention that I'm having similar issues with my Traverse. I can get it to start, but it's a hard start. It begins to stall and puke out. Remind me to follow up.

[@michaele1975]

Follow up is the motor is toast. I sent it to the dealership because I could not pinpoint it. They were happy to look at it for a fee and send me on my way. It started puking out about 1 mile down the road. She's a beautiful yard ornament at the moment.

[@JBAutomotive794]

​@@michaele1975big sad face 😢

[@josephschrader4047]

That cracked me up when he drank the "gas".

[@SidneiPoeta]

thank you!!! after several weeks i solved my car problem with your video!!!

[@JBAutomotive794]

Awesome!

[@SidneiPoeta]

@@JBAutomotive794you were incredible in this video, the only difference is that the problem in my case was in the middle catalyst, the second ...

[@SidneiPoeta]

Apreciedd!!!

[@SidneiPoeta]

Hey buddy csn you help me again? Now i have issues with my transmission, code p0700... :/

[@qrs3658]

thanks for you video. so basically the crank no start was cause by a plug cat?

[@princesswatkins5421]

This her husband thank you alot 💯💯💯

[@daviddotson2432]

Subscribed

[@dinos9378]

Turns out my issue was a bad fuse for the FSCM! Replaced it for kicks and car started right up. Even my check engine light which has been on for a couple years went away.

[@maurice6288]

where is that fuse located thar diagram is confusing asf

[@BrickGarage]

Did yours turn over like this one did? Or was it just dead?

[@jackarmstrong7802]

You da man ,, Like the video's

[@sirandlatrecehervey1482]

So overall the intake needed to be clean trying to fix the same issue on my traverse I've changed coils,plugs, cats and 02 sensors

[@jerzeeal3368]

which bank sensor did you remove? and what part number or area of the exhaust did you replace?

[@christopherross2921]

Going to do this today. Wife Buick has a extended crank. It had a plug pcv and coated everything with oil too.

[@TJones-bf1rj]

What was the problem?

[@karinaac.7865]

Do you happen to know where the inertia switch is located on this model?

[@robsimmons4571]

Another one knocked out!

[@jsgaguilera]

I have a 2010 AWD LT that I swapped both catalytic converter’s and O2 sensors and it gives me the 02 codes when I put cheap gas on it. I also own a 2012 LTZ front wheel drive that I have to swap out the Purge valves about every 2 years cause Sometimes the Purge Valve will cause “NO Start!”…. weird designs. I yearly Clean the oil that coughs up your the intake cause of its design on both and swap out EGR valves & Solenoids.

[@Noturavgjo143]

I’m at 3 min in and I’m going to take a guess fuel purge valve. Could be wrong but it’s likely. Anxious to see if correct or not.

[@mushroomon]

Man I can use ya help .I'm having problems with mines .same thing ya video help me on what to start with

[@ronwashingtonjr.712]

I have a 2012 Chevy Traverse LS and my issue is that my brakes feel as if they are tightened and I have to pull to the side and wait for hrs for the brakes to loosen up. The Traction Control off, Service Traction off and Service Stabilitrak lights flash on the dashboard. Car cranks but won’t start.

[@kycatfishguy671]

My cousin has an 09 traverse and her ol man changed the plugs and coil packs because it was bogging out and hard to start and now it won't start at all. I'm stumped on what it could be and just want to help them if anyone has any advice

[@Guzzor2]

Im gonna try get mine tested for pressure in the rail, cause it would start okay, then start to lose power until I couldn't not even accelerate. Got scanned for codes and it showed low pressure on the rail, and I pushed the valve for the rail and it doesn't squirt, I could see my finger would be wet but I never felt a squirt. Imma cointue checking on Monday, it's a. 2009 traverse lt same color and wheels as the one shown on the video. I replaced the fuel pump and I hear it working but now it doesn't start. I'm gonna add another gallon of fuel on Monday but idk what could be. Some say there's another pump on these vehicles.

[@bretb8799]

Nice. I think mechanics are smarter than engineers these days because they have to diagnose and fix their crappy designs. :)

[@daniellewis1257]

Good video im having the same problem it does smell smokes from the engine when trying to turn over, but won’t turn over

[@JBAutomotive794]

Do a compression test to verify that timing chain hasn't jumped, which will be not good.

[@tiffaniebail6609]

I have a 2012 Chevy traverse the timing chain went out. We were placed it, but found out we had to replace the motor. Did that and then tried to start it it started. Everything sounded great and then shut off hasn’t started since replace the starter. When you turn it on, it won’t turn over. We checked all fuses all grounds and all wires. We are at a dead end

[@JBAutomotive794]

Is the motor still able to turn by putting a wrench or socket on the crank pulley? A locked up motor will do that same thing

[@Mickey2xx]

I have the same problem can u help please 😭 2011 chevy traverse lt fwd

[@user-sw4dm1qj2x]

That's just what mine is doing too

[@dasauce25]

Good morning here from San Antonio. I’ve been having issues with my Chevy traverse. For some reason just haven’t been able to find out the issue. The code I’ve been getting is P1682, I’ve changed out my ignition switch and also changed out the throttle body, still having the same issue. Any thoughts on what it could be?

[@JBAutomotive794]

P1682 can be set by a low voltage condition caused by several things. The circuit being monitored is rhe the same circut as the one that runs through the ignition switch, since you replaced the switch to no avail, it may be a sign of a damaged wiring circuit ( like a mouse chewing a wire or a faulty relay) or a high resistance point somewhere ( corroded connection or something). You may have to get access to a wiring diagram and then use a multimeter to check voltages at places and determine where the problem is.

[@dasauce25]

@@JBAutomotive794 ok. Thanks for the information sir. I really appreciate you replying back to me. Have an amazing evening and an even better life.

[@shawnsavage9015]

Im not 100 percent sure but there is rumors of bad fuse boxes causing this problem.

[@My_secret_is_i_pray]

@@JBAutomotive794yea wiring is the issue we are having. My man doesn’t know cars well. I figured it out last time but this time I wiggled the fuse box well he started and it finally would turn over and start. I am going to try the relays first and test the starter is getting power. Idk it has a lot of issues and he just wants to get a new starter without even knowing if it’s even an issue 😂😅

[@daviddotson2432]

Got a 2010 buick enclave went into the grocery store come back out no crank no start new starter new battery fuel pump runs checking grounds relays any suggestions

[@nickie7nicole7]

Did you ever find out what the problem was??

[@randybrening9528]

I've had nothing but problems with my 09. Already replaced plugs, coils, and fuel injectors.

[@JBAutomotive794]

Definitely not a big fan of the platform personally

[@TariqTashtoush]

Hi I need your help please, I got a 2008 Buick Enclave with a 3.6 engine. It was driving fine, but out of nowhere, while pulling the driveway to park the car, it died on me. The vehicle had been maintained with oil changes every 5K miles. I thought it was security system as I got a new key cut but I used the original one and it cranks but no start. Then I thought it might be a fuel pump but I can hear it and I tested the fuel rail pressure, and it was 50-52. I did scan the car before I took the battery for replacement, and I can share the scan report. I checked all fuses and relays under the hood, and nothing was wrong. I need to ask you for guidance to figure out the car is not starting, please. Thank you in advance.

[@HuskerRed11]

Did you find out what it was?

[@Fiestas808]

Did you remove the upstream os2 sensors or replaced them when it started?

[@JBAutomotive794]

They were replaced once the exhaust restrictions were cleared.

[@ak-pulkaal-kuwait7743]

Hi, dear. I gonna change my car, which one is better for your opinion 1) traverse 2013, approx 130000 km. 2) outlander 2017 approx 50000 km. reliability, repair cost. Thanks for your video.

[@JBAutomotive794]

I would probably go with the Outlander myself, as a mechanic ive done much more repairs on Traverse vehicles than I have Outlanders.

[@Thumper68]

I’m a Chevy guy but when it comes to this platform go with the outlander

[@stevenwashington8860]

Mines did that after running out of gas then after putting gas in its not doing tht it just dies

[@whowho7969]

Any info on this same 3.6 150xx miles Out of the blue it won’t go over 40mph. Pulled over shut it off for 5 mins tried to start it back up just turns over then I held the gas pedal to the floor got it to start. But still wouldn’t go over 40mph all the way home.

[@JBAutomotive794]

Would not be surprised if it was a similar situation to this one was.

[@tellyboo2455]

I hope I can fix this my 2017 won’t start even with my battery starter 😫

[@cozmo2727]

Did you get it fixed?

[@dawinner777]

I’ve got a 2010 traverse with an battery drain issue. Got any ideas.?

[@bigonaka8159]

Let me tell you about the Chevy CONtraverse. I had a battery draining proble, replaced the battery and like clock work, the car started having issues. It started chugging then no start. I checked the codes and now I'm getting fuel codes. Needs a fuel pump. Which fuel pump I don't know. It's best to get rid of that car. Your life will be much better with out that vehicle.

[@cfrygirl]

2014 Traverse - need help bad. I put gas in it then pulled out of the gas station - traction control off and stabiltrak came on - could smell gas bad pulled over turned it off waited a few turned it back on was ok for about 1/2 a mile then did it again. The engine was bogged down bad. Got it home barely. Gas was in the exhaust. Got online saw tons of stuff about the throttle body - we cleaned it out etc. was running good for few then started bogging down stabiltrak and traction control came on again. Was thinking it’s the fuel pump but idk. Please point me in the right direction!

[@JBAutomotive794]

What codes does the computer show?

[@cfrygirl]

@@JBAutomotive794 I don’t think the guy who was reading the computer knew how to read it. He said one of the cylinders was misfiring. After cleaning the throttle body, changing the oil, and filling up the gas I got about 3 miles and it did it again

[@JBAutomotive794]

@@cfrygirl the 3.6L engine uses individual coil on plug coils. You could possibly have a bad one.

[@diamondmclean647]

It's yo pedal sensor which connects to throttle body i had the same issue nobody knew wat it was it was throwing me a code of my acceleration pedal i fixed it and been fine for about a month it would actually come on for me everytime i pressed the gas more than 20 mph

[@cfrygirl]

@@diamondmclean647 sadly it ended up being my engine. My warranty won’t cover it either. I thought it was still good because it said 6 years OR 100,000 miles. - keyword being OR). My car was only 80k but it was a 2014 so the it was over 6 years! I’ve been looking at a Jasper rebuilt but they are almost $6K. Jasper motors do come with the fuel injection system, which I’m told has to be replaced when you do the motor. In total with the motor, fluids, wires, hoses etc probably looking at $7K. I took it to a shop and they said over $11K LOL. I’ve had a lot of Chevys but I’ll tell you after this 3.6 lemon or a motor I’m angry. I was also told I’m lucky I even made it to 80K miles because a lot of people only made it to 30! That car cost a lot of money man! It also went out 2 days before my moms funeral in November. I guess when it rains it pours ya know… just don’t know if I’ll ever drive a Chevy again after this

[@abercioabrahamacunaacuna8435]

HI, I’m from chile, why was my query throwing white smoke ?? What was the cause and how was it solved. Thanks.

[@abercioabrahamacunaacuna8435]

Please help help

[@JBAutomotive794]

White smoke can be a sign of several things, such as contamination of the fuel (eg. Diesel or E85) or possibly something as severe as a blown head gasket. How is it running?

[@abercioabrahamacunaacuna8435]

Not! 02 injectors were replaced becauce they hard remained open the injector 01 and injector 03, Also the crankshaft position sensors, the 04 VVT Valves, knock sensor and PCV valve were replaced. Then I started for 20 minutes in relanti a little white smoke care out but not too much, then I tried to accelerate and stopped before stopping reduced Engine Power care out. I do not know what else to do.

[@luistapia9608]

Nice! I have a question. Did you replace the cats or did you just clean out the clogs?

[@JBAutomotive794]

They were replaced. they were unclogged just to make sure engine could run before spending all the money for the cats

[@luistapia9608]

Understood. Thanks for the reply👍@@JBAutomotive794

[@luistapia9608]

I guess I should have also asked what brand you use? @JBAutomotive794

[@JBAutomotive794]

@@luistapia9608 it's been a while but I believe we used walker brand

[@denisefree67]

I have a 2010 Traverse, had the engine rebuilt but it won't stay started. It dies out in 3secs of starting it, I changed so many things on the engine and now I'm stuck trying to figure it out can you help me with some suggestions please?

[@JBAutomotive794]

The timing chains are known to be a failure prone design on the 3.6L engine. When something goes wrong like a tensioner or guide it can jump time a tooth or so. The engine will usually start but when the ECU sees the Sync of the Cam sensors and the crank sensor off it will shut the engine off. I have 2 3.6L engines here at my shop at the moment for timing chain replacement

[@denisefree67]

@@JBAutomotive794 I had all of those things done, so do you think it's not lined up right? My mechanic said he did but I don't know if he did it right! Do I need to start there first to have him check it again?

[@JBAutomotive794]

Well someone with a decent scan tool with scope abilities would be able to tell if the cam sensors and crank were not synced up just by watching the data as the engine starts and shuts off

[@TheEllison757]

Clean the battery terminals under the hood, under the car and in between the seats....just try it

[@emilycummings7540]

would this problem cause the traverse to make a Da da. da da da vibration almost like its not shifting untill you press on the gas and make her go she don't like riding at 30- 35 or 60 - 65 the noise I'm describing is a vibration feeling not a knock off sound when setting at a red light the idel has a slight miss in the rpm gage. the car gets regular oil changes at dealer Dealer can fix issue unless it can be duplicated and it never want to do it when they drive it. The car throws no codes.

[@JBAutomotive794]

Yes, when the buildup around the valves gets to be bad enough it will definitely cause a misfire.

[@nosoymecanicoperoleintento4521]

I have the same problem but no spark

[@clifftayliam8030]

One question. Did it start right up, or did it start after a few tries?

[@JBAutomotive794]

It started right up once the exhaust could breathe

[@clifftayliam8030]

@@JBAutomotive794 thanks, I’ve already removed them but my starter got hot, I even think I’ve burned it lol, but truly I was barking at the wrong tree too. It already showing signs it wants to start.

[@miguelgarcia529]

Which comvertor did you check first, the front or back

[@JBAutomotive794]

The Upstream Converters failed and then shot into the down stream units and also broke them as well. If you are suspicious of an exhaust clog, temporarily remove the upstream Oxygen sensors (which are located above the upstream catalysts) and try to start the vehicle with them out. If vehicles starts better and revs better, its usually conformation of exhaust clogging. The emmissions systems on these vehicles are very susceptible to failure when the engines develop a misfire condition. Misfires should be corrected immediately.

[@miguelgarcia529]

@@JBAutomotive794 thank you, i'll try this because i have the same problem with my traverse i check fuel presure spark and compresión everything works good so thats my next step i'll try and see if it works

[@Wheelhouseprojects]

I totally regret purchasing a Lambda platform. I’m a lifetime GM guy minus one gorgeous Mercedes (flawless vehicle). My enclave granaided the engine after 58k miles with a maintenance schedule that was more aggressive than what GM recommends via the oil life monitor. Terrible suspension components, drivetrain and electronic gremlins make this thing a PIA yo own. If you have one - change your oil every 3-4K - the timing chains need oil to cool and lubricate - once they stretch your engine is done as well as the cats and every sensory downstream.

[@cultureexperience4602]

2009 Chevy traverse Loss power while driving No lights won’t crank

[@kufam100]

We say that same thing in Ohio

[@oscarjackson670]

He did not just drink the gas 🤦🏾‍♂️🤣🤣

[@Transient901]

I have some fuel I need tested...

[@williemarthaler2130]

Mine doesn't start & it doesn't do anything

[@cultureexperience4602]

Same here Also no lights at all

[@S.R.1981]

I have same problem I'm my chevy traverse 2009, can you help me ?

[@JBAutomotive794]

Sure, I'll be right over.

[@SidneiPoeta]

thank you!!! after several weeks i solved my car problem with your video!!!

[@hollisvaughn4020]

Im glad you can joke while people are stressing over a non running car😕😡

[@JBAutomotive794]

Me too. I work on non running cars and trucks everyday. Joking around keeps me sane.

[@williammize8270]

Blame FORD there the ones that made GM upset ruin there quality control this is your proof 1st year of these too new model car

[@JBAutomotive794]

Thats a little bit of a stretch there bro

[@williammize8270]

Drinking water thinks it gas running on water no wunder it won't start😳😁🤪🥴🔚😜🙄

[@geniecejacobs9271]

Worst car ever made..I keep routine Maintainence and i still have problem after problem

[@tashabennor6209]

YESSS ME AS WELL!! I WILL NEVER BUY ANOTHER CHEVY PRODUCT EVER AGAIN!! I am CURRENTLY $18,000 on repairs on mine, owned it for only 3yrs now. 😣😒😭😭😭😭😡😡😡

[@geniecejacobs9271]

I’m at roughly $6K- $7k and this is just the beginning. absolutely horrible

[@JBAutomotive794]

I would say this is definitely not one of the best platforms GM has ever made for sure.

[@tashabennor6209]

@@geniecejacobs9271 If you have the option, get rid of it as soon as possible and accept your losses!! I HATE my traverse with a passion. This entire car is a NIGHTMARE. we affectionately call ours the "he'll b*tch". She has a mind of her own!!

[@tashabennor6209]

@@JBAutomotive794 My mechanic has a love hate relationship with us... Is it a good or bad thing to be on first names basis with the OWNER of your mechanic shop?!... 🤦😫😭 I have heard that the early models (09-12) are the WORST. Do you think that is true? What brand of car do you recommend that takes LEAST maintenance? I have heard great things about the hondas. I loved my Buick as well before this junk heap!

[@juliodinsmore508]

He is a fool

[@daviddotson2432]

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