Are there any issues with the 2021 Chevy Trax?
The 2021 Chevy Trax is a budget-friendly subcompact SUV, but it does carry a handful of commonly reported issues and several safety recalls. For most buyers, it remains a practical city-friendly option, but prospective owners should verify maintenance history and any open recalls for the specific vehicle.
What to know about the 2021 Trax
The 2021 Trax is Chevrolet’s small crossover designed for urban use, offering a compact footprint, reasonable interior space for its size, and a turbocharged engine option. It typically comes with front-wheel drive and an available all-wheel-drive system, aiming to deliver affordable daily driving with modest cargo capacity and basic safety features. Like many low-cost utility vehicles, it trades upscale refinement for price and practicality.
Common issues reported by owners
Consumer feedback and reviews highlight several recurring concerns that buyers have raised about the 2021 Trax. These issues span drivetrain behavior, in-car technology, and overall refinement. Reading about these can help potential buyers decide if the Trax fits their needs and budget.
- Transmission behavior: Some owners report occasional rough shifts, hesitations, or a less-than-smooth acceleration feel with the 6-speed automatic.
- Infotainment and connectivity: The MyLink touchscreen can be slow to respond, and Bluetooth or phone pairing may drop connection in some trips.
- Ride and cabin noise: Road and wind noise can be noticeable in urban driving, and the ride may feel firmer compared with some rivals.
- Interior quality and space: Hard plastics and limited rear-seat headroom can be a drawback for taller passengers, and cargo space is modest for a small SUV.
- Real-world fuel economy: Some owners report mpg that trails EPA estimates, especially with all-wheel drive or in city driving conditions.
Not every 2021 Trax exhibits these problems, but they are worth checking during tests or when reviewing a used model’s maintenance history.
Safety recalls and service campaigns
GM and federal safety agencies have issued multiple recalls affecting Trax models across different years. The exact campaigns can vary by vehicle, so it is essential to verify recall status for a specific car using its VIN. Recalls can address critical safety systems and require dealer service to complete.
- Check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall database for active and past campaigns on the exact VIN.
- Use Chevrolet’s Owner Center to see any open recalls or service history associated with the vehicle.
- Ask the seller or dealer for documentation of completed recalls and confirm that all required services are up to date.
Because recall details are VIN-specific, a VIN-based search is the most reliable way to confirm what issues (if any) have been remedied on a particular 2021 Trax.
Tips for evaluating a used 2021 Trax
If you’re considering a used 2021 Trax, use these steps to assess condition, history, and potential issues before buying.
- Request a full vehicle history report (Carfax, AutoCheck) to spot previous accidents, title issues, or repeated service visits for related problems.
- Have the VIN checked for open recalls and confirm that all recalls have been completed at an authorized dealer.
- Test-drive to observe transmission shifting, acceleration response, and traction behavior, especially with AWD if equipped.
- Inspect the infotainment system, navigation (if equipped), and Bluetooth connectivity for reliability and responsiveness.
- Check for excessive road noise, unusual tire wear, or suspension noises that could indicate worn components or alignment issues.
- Review maintenance records for timely oil changes, filter replacements, and recommended service intervals common to small GM crossovers.
Following these steps helps you gauge the car’s current condition and whether any known issues have been addressed in the vehicle you’re considering.
Summary
The 2021 Chevy Trax offers affordable, city-focused practicality but comes with some commonly reported concerns related to transmission feel, infotainment reliability, and overall refinement. It is essential to check for recalls and service history on the exact vehicle you’re buying, and to conduct a thorough test drive and inspection if you’re shopping used. By verifying VIN-specific recall status and maintenance records, you can better assess whether a 2021 Trax fits your needs and budget.
What is the most reliable year of the Chevy Trax?
What Are the Most Reliable Years for the Chevrolet Trax? The most reliable are 2024 and newer. For the first generation, we'd opt for 2020 through 2023.
What are the engine problems with the 2021 Chevy?
Owners of the Chevy Silverado have reported engine problems, including excessive oil consumption, lifter failures, and turbocharger issues in diesel models. Additionally, some 2021 Silverado owners have complained about soft or spongy brakes, which can compromise vehicle safety.
What is the most common problem with Chevy Trax?
In fact, 30% of the complaints on file with NHTSA involve the engine, powertrain, or fuel system. The complaints range from fuel injector failure to a fire in the engine compartment. Turbocharger problems are also among the common Chevrolet Trax problems.
Is the 2021 Chevy Trax reliable?
As a whole, consumers found the vehicle's comfort and styling to be its strongest features and reliability to be its weakest. 44 out of 98 of owners (45% of them) rank the 2021 Trax five out of five stars.
