Do 2018 Chevy Traverse have transmission problems?
The 2018 Chevy Traverse is a popular midsize SUV known for its spacious interior and family-friendly features. However, like many vehicles, it has not been without its share of reported issues. One of the most discussed concerns among owners and automotive experts is related to its transmission. In this article, we’ll explore whether the 2018 Chevy Traverse has transmission problems, what symptoms to watch for, and how to address them.
Common Transmission Issues in the 2018 Chevy Traverse
While the 2018 Chevy Traverse generally performs well, some owners have reported transmission-related problems. These issues are not universal but are worth noting if you own or are considering purchasing this vehicle. Here are some of the most commonly reported transmission problems:
- Hard Shifting: Some drivers have experienced hard or jerky shifting, particularly when accelerating or decelerating. This can make the driving experience less smooth and may indicate a deeper issue with the transmission system.
- Delayed Engagement: A delay in the transmission engaging when shifting from park to drive or reverse has been reported. This can be frustrating and potentially dangerous in certain driving situations.
- Transmission Slipping: In some cases, the transmission may slip out of gear, causing a loss of power while driving. This is a serious issue that requires immediate attention.
- Check Engine Light: Transmission problems can trigger the check engine light. If this happens, it’s important to have the vehicle diagnosed by a professional mechanic to determine the root cause.
Possible Causes of Transmission Problems
Transmission issues in the 2018 Chevy Traverse can stem from a variety of factors. Some of the most common causes include:
- Software Issues: The transmission control module (TCM) may require a software update to resolve shifting problems.
- Fluid Levels: Low or contaminated transmission fluid can lead to poor performance and damage over time.
- Mechanical Wear: Over time, components within the transmission can wear out, especially if the vehicle has high mileage or has not been properly maintained.
How to Address Transmission Problems
If you suspect your 2018 Chevy Traverse is experiencing transmission issues, it’s important to take action promptly. Here are the steps you should follow:
- Check the Transmission Fluid: Ensure the fluid is at the correct level and is clean. If it’s low or dirty, a fluid change or flush may resolve the issue.
- Update the Software: Visit a Chevrolet dealership or a trusted mechanic to check if your vehicle’s TCM software is up to date.
- Schedule a Diagnostic Test: A professional mechanic can use diagnostic tools to identify the exact cause of the problem and recommend the appropriate repairs.
- Consider Warranty Coverage: If your vehicle is still under warranty, transmission repairs may be covered. Check with your dealership for details.
Preventing Future Transmission Issues
To minimize the risk of transmission problems in your 2018 Chevy Traverse, follow these maintenance tips:
- Regularly check and change the transmission fluid as recommended in the owner’s manual.
- Address any warning signs, such as unusual noises or shifting issues, as soon as they arise.
- Keep up with routine maintenance and inspections to catch potential problems early.
Conclusion
While the 2018 Chevy Traverse has been a reliable vehicle for many owners, transmission problems have been reported by some. By staying vigilant and addressing issues promptly, you can ensure your vehicle remains safe and dependable. If you’re experiencing transmission problems, don’t hesitate to reach out to a trusted auto repair shop like Kevin’s Autos for expert assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What years did Chevy Traverse have transmission problems?
Owners of model years 2009- 2014, and 2016 wrote in about their transmissions, with many messages coming from 2009 owners. The manufacturer issued a recall for 2009 FWD and AWD models for possible roll-aways (if the car didn't fully shift into park), but not for the problems mentioned above.
What is the warranty on the 2018 Chevy Traverse transmission?
The 2018 Chevrolet Traverse comes with a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
What is the recall on the 2018 Chevy Traverse transmission?
Vehicles Affected:
Missing bolts on the start-stop accumulator endcap could result in a transmission oil leak and may progress to a loss of propulsion, increasing the risk of a crash. A transmission fluid leak in the presence of an ignition source may increase the risk of fire.
Which Traverse has transmission problems?
The Chevy Traverse transmission problems appeared most often in the 2009, 2010, 2011, and 2012 years. Other years are much better when considering the transmission.
How much does it cost to replace a catalytic converter on a 2018 Chevy Traverse?
Labor costs are estimated between $131 and $165 while parts are typically priced around $3,305. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location.
Is GM discontinuing the Traverse?
Is Chevy discontinuing the Traverse? No. Quite the contrary, actually: Chevrolet is putting its resources in the next-generation Traverse. Schedule a 2024 Traverse test-drive to learn how this new Chevy SUV is leading the way.
What is the most common problem with the 2018 Chevy Traverse?
A shift to park message is the most widespread complaint from 2018 Traverse owners at around 25,000 miles. There are two sources of the problem including a parking switch failure so the body control module doesn't know it's in park, or transmission software issues.
Is it worth fixing a transmission?
Repairing your transmission has several benefits. It can significantly extend the life of your vehicle, improve fuel efficiency, and enhance overall performance. Additionally, addressing transmission issues promptly can prevent further damage to other components, potentially saving you money in the long run.
How much does it cost to replace a transmission in a 2018 Traverse?
2018 Chevy Traverse Transmission Cost
The cost of a new 2018 Chevy Traverse transmission could be over $3,500 depending on the vehicle, however, transmission services such as fluid changes and a transmission fluid flush are considerably less expensive, in some cases costing less than $150.
Which car has the worst transmission problems?
6 Cars With Notoriously Bad Transmission Problems
- Ford Focus. Ford. The Ford Focus is considered fairly dependable, but the 2012-2016 models equipped with the automatic DCT (dual-clutch transmission) are notorious for their quality.
- Nissan Altima. Nissan.
- Ford Mustang. Ford.
- BMW M5 E60. BMW.
- Nissan Rogue. Nissan.
- Ford Fiesta. Ford.
