TOP 5 Problems With The Chevy Traverse SUV (1st Generation 2009-2017)

Hey Good People,
In this video I go over the top 5 problems with this 1st Generation Chevrolet Traverse. I go over the problems that a consumer may run into if they were to buy this particular SUV or if they already own it.
I hope this video helps you out. Comment below if you own this SUV and have experienced some of these issues or tell us about issues that I may not have named in this video.
Your favorite Mechanic,
Alex

[@donovanchilton5817]

#1 it’s a Chevy traverse #2 it’s a Chevy traverse #3 it’s a Chevy traverse #4 it’s a Chevy traverse #5 it’s a Chevy traverse If any of these are unclear to you, see the pinned message above.

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

I shall pin this comment to the top! ☝🏽

[@emilionarvaez1415]

Lol that is awesome

[@MrGabriel916]

It’s hard now a days to find a honest mechanic , we need more people in this world like this mechanic

[@charlesbryant5917]

That is true

[@charlesbryant5917]

I don’t trust dealers

[@downshiftingisfun7046]

I just put an engine in an awd Traverse a few weeks ago! I see a ton of these with timing chain failures and or locked up engines. I can pull an engine/trans out the bottom or out the top on these. The traverse I had recently done I removed the front bumper, headlights, core support, rad and condenser and then I removed the engine trans and transfer case out the top/through the front of the vehicle. Been watching y’all videos for awhile I enjoy your videos a lot and it’s a blessing that your wife is so supportive of you and your business love y’all’s videos!

[@Mr.NyCiTy]

I have a 2011 Traverse and the only real issues I had was the purge valve, wheel steering rack and the power steering pump and they was all replaced. Outside of that everything else was of little convenience. I get my oil change every 5 to 6 months at the Chevy dealership with full synthetic oil and I have never had any transmission issues. People say the Traverse is a bad vehicle and complain about it but I see lots of these vehicles on the road🤷🏿‍♂️. You need to do more videos with " top 5 problems ".

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

I’m working on it!

[@Manil-hx5xd]

I agree I have had my traverse for 7 years now I haven't had any major issues with it the only thing I've had to change was the fuel pump the starter the alternator purge valve and other little small sensors but otherwise in that I've had no major problems with mine majorly either so I agree with you these are some great running trucks. Oh yeah and the power steering and rack but I didn't replace them yet.. and I've also changed the throttle body. But once again this is normal wear and tear on any car. So once again I would definitely purchase another one. Mine is a 2011 as a well.

[@titovaldes3435]

I own a 2012 traverse, and I had the same knocking noise when it started and went away within a minute, then when you accelerated the car, the knocking would return. It had 141k miles. It had oil, I never ran it dry, never overheated on me. and came to find out my cylinder #3 was broken from the cam shaft. The mechanic took pictures and sent me everything as they worked on my car. Now, it has a remanufactor motor in it since my extended warranty covered my motor 😀😀. But other than that, I haven't had any other problems with my car. It drives awesome, very comfortable, and i still have it.

[@alisharamsey2731]

What kind of extended warranty do you have?

[@julieknight8967]

I own the 2010 Chevy traverse and yes I agree with him 💯 percent I'll never own another one they are a pain to work on

[@ricebike]

Thanks for taking time from your busy shop for the educational video 👍 That coolant fitting 😮

[@matolittleelkwells5377]

That's very adorable of your family to help another family this is why we all keep coming back because aside from the vast knowledge you share you and your family are just good people

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Thanks for your comment, we try to help when we can. I’ll never know when I need help, and need someone to be there for me.

[@Evdath]

He's correct on everything. Change those fluids frequently. The coolant line problem could be fixed with a hose clam A direct connection to the rubber to nozzle like it should be.

[@lendavidhart9710]

Thank you for your time, you put into, and information in the video.

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

No problem 👍 I appreciate your support

[@doglegjake6788]

Excellent video

[@michaelm_713]

Thank you for this video my wife drives a 2017 Traverse and it’s been giving issues especially with sucking up gas like it’s water and when cold starting it makes a weird rattling sound but you don’t here it once it’s running not when you turn it off and on again after it’s been driven for a while but every morning cold start it makes that noise Thanks again for all your helpful videos

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Could be an early sign of the timing chain.

[@geomadrigal6857]

Great content! Keep it up doc

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Thanks, will do!

[@Damon22420]

thank you man!!. I just got a 2012. the speakers are blown I heard that's normal for these. but I'm more concerned about extending the life of my vehicle. I need to save this and when I get this check from my new job I'm a start getting my ride all way together. this is nicest thing I ever owned. it must be decent if the car doctor drives one!! lol appreciate ya

[@Kswiss8879]

Look and sound like Marlon Wayons😁 Appreciate the info brotha definitely helped me understand better about mine (2017 standard Traverse) bought brand new, and still have.. Your #1 problem is exactly what is wrong with mine, Purge Valve.. Also I have (what I believe) is a bad ECT part... My temp gage is showing that my car.is cold when it really isn't, the fan comes on and A/C doesn't work when the gage is not working... turn car off and fan continues to run for a little bit... so gotta do something fast I live in HOT FLORIDA 😓😓 😂

[@drivewaygarage1561]

Thanks for the video. I've been doing research because I have a chance to buy one cheap that has a transmission shudder. I'm going to test drive it and try adding an additive to fix the shudder. If it fixes it, I'll buy it and flip it.

[@shadowlord5574]

Thank you for posting these informative videos that educate people. I do have a question for you. You mentioned GDI in this video, I have heard nothing good about GDI engine's. What is your opinion on GDI ?

[@MM-cp4mi]

Good vid and I agree with your comments

[@montb3878]

I have the Enclave and I definitely had to change my timing chain. Good thing it was still running before I changed it though

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Right! 💯

[@alexandergunaka666]

I never really see trans issues but with it having a dipstick I see people change it. I would switch it out for AC line leaks. Good video

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Yes, I forgot about that. Those dang AC lines.

[@DaBuGzLiFe]

You should make a top 5 vehicles, one for SUVs, compact vehicles, trucks, etc. Youll definitely get the views and will make your channel grow.

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

I like it! Let me see what I can cook up!

[@sheerwillsurvival2064]

Another great video

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

I appreciate that

[@djdivinenine]

Thank you so much for your review. I've been thinking about buying a used Traverse for business...No way.

[@23zaee]

It was the “ knocking like the 👮‍♂️ for me 😂😂💀

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

😂😂😂

[@Damon22420]

me too I bout died 😂

[@davkime1]

You hit this right on 💯 everybody I talk to I steer them away from the equinox 2.4 Ecotec also. Also junk. All GM 3.6. Even some Cadillac’s have it. The Chrysler Pentastar 3.6L is actually awesome and very reliable if synthetic oil changes every 5k and change out the plastic oil cooler. Agreed that the stupid Motorad t’stat housing can be junk, but overall our 219K mile example doesn’t burn oil and is great power too! This is one instance where I praise the 3.6L Pentastar.

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

The Pentastar definitely get a bad rep! But it’s the best affordable option.

[@mds2465]

Yeah I agree with your assessments. I would stay away from those vehicles unless you're mechanically inclined and can work on them yourself it's really not a wise investment to buy one of these vehicles second hands. Too risky IMO!

[@PatrickJago]

You are an honorable man for giving the customer his money back. You surely didn’t have to.

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Nope, I didn’t have to at all. But somehow, he still got made at me. Can’t please everyone

[@zackneuffer]

you should do a top five problems with the 09-12 ford escapes. Just bought a used one not to long ago curious to know what I should specifically look out for thanks!

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Will do

[@ricebike]

Ooh, you have that infamous battery under the wiper cowl?😢 Then, havecto do a battery BCM reset?

[@tracker335]

I have a 2012 Acadia , with 150,000 all i replaced was tie rods and one ignition coil and the every day stuff like brakes . Been a pretty good car . Change the oil every 5,000 and Transmission oil about 30,000 all is good.

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Good maintenance will take you far!

[@THETOPGLOCK]

Like you said. The 3.6 isn’t for the faint of heart. It requires a lot of love. Our 2016 Acadia has been a phenomenal car since new. Regular Transmission drain and fills and I change the oil every 4K with pennzoil platinum 5/30 with oem filter. Every timing chain failure I see is either due to extended OCI or the engine literally has no oil in it. These 3.6s love to eat oil.

[@JG-yd8so]

Check the adjusting cam sprocket for internal failure.

[@ganeshnarayan5505]

Anyone that has 2007-2014 Tahoe has the same problem with the coolant hose from the water pump over time it will break get it from Dorman made with Aluminum works very well.

[@Mohamedddd7890]

Great video man ,how much do you think the timing chain would cost on average?

[@Mames5537]

Around $5000

[@Mames5537]

Just changed out my high Pressure pump , fuel rail sensor, bank 2 sensor 2 02 sensor, and cleaned out my clogged fuel injectors. It was causing my car to jerk/ stutter smoke out the tail pipe. kept getting the stability tracked and limp mode

[@unclemarksdiyauto]

Ah man! So sorry this vehicle has been a bad purchase for you and the one you sold it to. I guess don't touch another one to buy, don't be tempted! But darn, I feel sad for you. Nice you did the right thing and bought it back. You are good people! Also nice your going to use some of the good parts to help others in need.

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

I promise I’m not buying another one EVER!

[@DANNYN224]

5 problems without watching the video are purge valve issues intake manifold gaskets leaking transmission issues timing chain issues plastic fittings breaking loose or possible leakage

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Nice

[@anthonyross2059]

My woman has the same car were getting rid of right now.. kind of the kind of car to run away from in the market 💯 timing chains common all day as well.. especially with lack of maintenance..

[@gemeinschaftsgeful]

Dang! That's loud knocking in that engine. If rack and pinion seals leak, try AT 205 seal conditioner. It really works. It's not just snake oil. It'll fix the seals for about a year. Then you'll have to add some more.

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

👀 I’m gonna try that on my Honda!

[@ricebike]

​@@AlexTheCarDoctorHonda? So you already changed out the pressure & suction o rings that infamous to these Hondas Acuras?

[@BravoZulu1416]

I've got a 2010 Buick enclave. It definitely made me into a better mechanic. ;)

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

👨🏽‍🔧👨🏽‍🔧👨🏽‍🔧💯

[@sherita4404]

Mine broke down right in front of GM head quarters 😒 🙄 😑 😤 I really liked that SUV burning oil between oil changes Trans began to slip the timing chain I could hear slip brought it home on AAA flat bed several times.

[@elmayimbe_the_amateur_mechanic]

'18 Traverse I had just enough room to do the rear plugs.

[@blackericdenice]

6:30 the transmission fail because you can't change the filter. New fluid will not go through a dirty filter.

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Great input! Thanks for the info!

[@MistaHoffinata]

What’s your thoughts about the newer Toyota highlanders? Maybe from about 2019-2023 , v6 engines

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

I haven’t heard anything bad about them, and I rarely see them in my shop so that’s a good thing.

[@pricetagcitrus]

Alex can you tell a lifter noise from a rod bearing noise just with your stethoscope or do you have to open it up to diagnose? Thanks so much for all your help!

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

I can tell the difference

[@user-gz5yf1ns6m]

I have an old pontiac G5 with a parasitic draw. Battery ground was redone, as well as the alternator replaced. But yet still kills the battery after 2 days or so. Any ideas where to look next??

[@ricebike]

Gotta roll up your sleeves and do a "parasitic draw test" Various videos on it to find which circuit is the problem

[@MM-cp4mi]

You can change all plugs with out pulling intake... Ive done it on an enclave

[@ricebike]

How you reach the back 3 plugs against the firewall?

[@MM-cp4mi]

@@ricebike my arm fits to reach plugs as is

[@MM-cp4mi]

You do have to remove the purge solenoid on front side of engine to get plug under it... its one bolt and electric connection.

[@annettemassey2633]

We have a 2015 traverse. It’s been parked outside in 96-110 degree weather for over a week and now I can’t access the DIC. We are preparing to sell and I need the odometer reading. Is there a work around to access or am I out of luck?

[@darrylldavisii158]

What about the idle control valve? Where is that?

[@matthewmastrangelo3020]

2011 Chevy traverse 235kmi. Timing chain ✔️ Transmission ✔️ Control arms ✔️ No AC ✔️ New window control board ✔️ No wiper fluid pump ✔️ And now:stabilitrac light, abs light, traction control light, misfire in 3 and 5 cylinder ✔️ When do i send it to the back 40?

[@LegendCampbell]

😂i laughed so hard when it broke, i was like nope don't touch that LMAO SNAP!

[@shannenerydman4187]

What AWD vehicle with room do u suggest?

[@terrellblue357]

Good advice. Can you give any tips and thoughts on a 2014 Buick LaCrosse Premium 3.6 Front Wheel Drive? I rarely see Buicks mentioned in car repair videos, and I don't know if that's a good or bad thing. Lol

[@ricebike]

It's not premium at all except you need a premium salary to maintain it 😅

[@terrellblue357]

@ricebike it's been good to me so far, and the issues I've had I have been able to fix myself.

[@ricebike]

@@terrellblue357 hopefully you stay proactive and fix the issues shown on this video Like they said maintenance and replacing the trouble parts is key to any vehicle

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

I’ve been maintaining a customer’s LaCrosse. She gets her oil changed religiously and aside from regular maintenance or wear and tear items it’s been good to her. She has over 200k miles.

[@terrellblue357]

I have about 207,000 miles on mine. Lol​@@AlexTheCarDoctor

[@bubbles858506]

Ive replaced literally everything in mine,only reason I’ve dropped so much into it is, low miles and my whole family fits in it

[@michaelgrear1979]

What's your thoughts on a 2008 chevy trailblazer with the 4.2 inline 6 i had mine for 6 years when i got it it only had 70k now it has 223k on it don't burn oil in 12:28 between oil changes

[@Fishsticks187]

Those trucks are tanks. I wish I could still buy one new.

[@tedwilliams8766]

its amazing how far dorman has come. years ago, i wouldnt have trusted a license plate holder from dorman if they made one. i prefer going oem with parts unless theyre stupid expensive, depending on what part, ill go aftermarket. dorman is making things that oem has stopped making and making undated parts to fix plastic parts oem made that cause nothing but issues. good on them for that.

[@irenekatacinski9516]

How much does it cost to replace turbocharger on Chevy Cruze 2012?

[@TonyDee-s3n]

I have a 2010 traverse LT why would my radiator fan turn on when I start my vehicle and stay on even when I'm driving until I turn my vehicle off

[@Mames5537]

Power steering hose at 4:51 is completely soaked in my traverse smh

[@yooo2568]

Hello I have a random question. I’m looking at starting a junk removal business and I want a reliable powerful truck to pull. I prefer an older truck. I really like the f250 7.3 but they are hard to come by. In your opinion what wound be my best bet? Could you give me like 3 options. Thank you.

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Hey there my personal favorite is the 7.3 I drive one every day, can’t go wrong with the Cummings the 12v or the 24valve,Chevy truck with the 6.0 or 8.1 liter engine

[@ozzieo5899]

My dad's 2009 traverse died completely.. after 120 miles.. we got rid of it and bought a Toyota highlander..

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Good move! ♟️

[@sherita4404]

Looking at the toyota rave 4 and highlander. I may have brunt out the Toyota Venza transmission. I'm not sure if it is me or if it's more than just oil changes that are required on the vehicles

[@elmayimbe_the_amateur_mechanic]

This is direct injected so what about the carbon builup on the intake valves?

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Yes you are correct. But Id give it an honorable mention because that could be taken care of with proper maintenance.

[@joeyswier6163]

Not to mention the electric problems no charge with new alternator and battery

[@josephdunn1067]

What do you think of the 2018 Ford Escape 4 cylinder 1.5

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

I have not seen to many problems out of it

[@josephdunn1067]

@@AlexTheCarDoctor thank you I greatly appreciate your help on that

[@pepeshopping]

High maintenance is not the same as hard maintenance due to no space available.

[@Dismantledgarage]

Growing up i was always a die hard chevy person had chevettes cavaliers i beat the snot out of them and they kept on running well not no more i had too many bad experiences with traverses abd impalas i took care if them but the people before i got them not so much needless to say it put a bad taste in my mouth switched to ford and never looked back!!!!!

[@Coolcalbbws1]

I wish I lived near your shop nobody would touch my car but YOU 😊 have a great day

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

🙃👨🏽‍🔧

[@mmytacist]

not going to mention that locking wrench holding up the hood strut? 😂 maybe that is waaay down the list

[@drummline869]

Same engine in the Buick lacrosse🤔

[@elmayimbe_the_amateur_mechanic]

*Car Wizard has entered the chat with PTSD* 😂😂😂

[@JG-yd8so]

👍👍👏👏

[@johnnaphier2823]

Definitely problematic model but once u get it right they run great warranty company replaced the transmission in my 09 gmc Acadia. Then I had to replace a motor in it recently. Not cheap at all running great now

[@Damon22420]

oh. i got mine for 2k cash. so i got a pretty good deal. lmao knocking like police!!! dont burn it!! im at like 200k miles. and mine just needs speakers and power steering pump. i need the parts!!! im a persin in need. me and my girl got 2 teenagers. and i need this vehicle ..its our family car we use to take kids eveeywherw cause her car is too small

[@mistaloko7712]

bad transmission. canister purge valve sensor plastic emission hoses thermostat n fly wheel the ring of teeth seperated from the flywheel smh 😂. licence plate light holder amd tai light bulb holders melted n burned up

[@marlinyoung1606]

Transmission fluid change every 30K, naw thats a little extreme. Unless it is a cvt then probably would be best. An automatic transmission every 60K would be fine.

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

We are both right it depends on how you’re driving the vehicle if you’re heavy footed and drive aggressive like most people do these days then every 30k if you’re normal on the vehicle and not towing then every 60

[@ericknoblauch9195]

I had two Chevy Impalas. The transmission fluid was changed every 25,000 miles. At 60,000 to 70,000 the transmissions on both were hot garbage. Both needed to be replaced, and the cost was $3,600.00 each.

[@marlinyoung1606]

OIL BURNER FOR SURE!!!!

[@brotha1984]

Dont let JT the car guy hear you speak about Dorman parts 😂😂🤣

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Oh lord, what JT say about Dorman? 😂

[@brotha1984]

​@@AlexTheCarDoctor Mopar or no car oem guy 🤷🏿‍♂️🤦🏿🤣🤣😂😂

[@antoniomarc7174]

Wow I wonder if someone took the oil out of it on purpose because they didn’t like something about the car seem a bit suspicious if you ask me

[@pepeshopping]

High maintenance is not the same as hard maintenance due to no space available. But a good mechanic would know not to ever buy one of those!

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

I flip cars as well, and I got it at an unbelievable deal, it was worth the risk. The way I see it, there is no limitations on what a “good mechanic” should buy, because a “good” mechanic can and should be able to tackle any problematic car 👨🏽‍🔧 And Hard Maintenance is High Maintenance to the people who can’t afford it.. but that’s just my opinion.

[@doglegjake6788]

It sounds like General motors Hired the CEO from Boeing 😂

[@thisiswhereitsat1624]

I’m doomed just yesterday I got the code p0011 code on my car smh

[@terrencemorris3983]

Its garbage like the acadia. But anyway cool vid

[@jduda1127]

Im sorry man, who ever bought that got that knock from running from the police. They beat the dog shit out of it for a couple days is how that happened.

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

😂😂😂 I wouldn’t be surprised! I promise it was purrring like a kitten when it left us.

[@mariapadron2810]

Mine feels forced 😢

[@mrhighway]

We call them the Chevy Trashverse 😆 🤣 😂

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Trashverse 😂😂😂

[@christopherjones512]

Vvt or vvtec or bad engines Honda has them too😂😂

[@k9under]

See the USA in chevrolet america is asking you to call drive your chevrolet thur the USA america the greatest land of all.

[@GeneG-wk2mz]

I know one thing them lights need headlight restoration 😂😂

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

😂😂😂 man the only type of “rest” this thing is getting is in peace 😩 or pieces lol

[@leonbrooksjr2243]

Overall its 🔥🗑 vehicle it's a pain in the azz to repair straight P.O.S

[@isaiahallen244]

10 enclave. These trucks are a nightmare. Stay away from these vehicles.

[@JDMSwervo2001]

I can’t stand these vehicles

[@robbo219]

Chevy Trashverse

[@CTFinest]

My transmission blew in my 2014 😢

[@yoshis9158]

Chevy should be ashamed they ever made this piece of crap car

[@marijuanapuffs]

This dude tokes 4'sho 🇩🇴

[@AlexTheCarDoctor]

Nah man… I got asthma and I wanna live 😂