Does a Chevy Traverse have a full size spare?
Most Chevy Traverse models do not include a full-size spare. In recent years, GM has largely replaced a conventional full-size spare with a compact temporary spare or a Tire Mobility Kit, depending on year and trim. The exact configuration for your vehicle is confirmed by checking the owner's manual or inspecting the underfloor cargo area.
In this article, we break down what spare setups you can expect on current and recent Traverse models, where those spares or kits live in the vehicle, what to do if you get a flat, and how things have evolved across generations.
What you typically get in modern Traverses
Chevrolet's modern approach favors space efficiency and weight savings. The spare configuration you get depends on model year and trim. Here are the common possibilities you may encounter:
- Temporary spare tire (donut) that fits in the usual spare well and is intended for short-distance driving.
- Tire sealant and inflator kit (Tire Mobility Kit) used to seal small punctures and reinflate a tire for temporary travel.
- No spare at all in some trims or markets, with roadside assistance or a tire-repair kit included instead. Always verify your exact model’s contents in the owner's manual or by physically checking the cargo area.
In all cases, you should verify your exact configuration in the owner's manual or by inspecting the spare well in the cargo area. If you’re planning trips in remote areas, you may want to confirm you have a spare option that suits your needs.
Storage location and how to access
Where the spare or kit lives varies with whether your Traverse has a spare wheel or a repair kit. In most modern Traverse models, the storage location is in the rear cargo area under a floor panel or within a dedicated organizer. Here’s what you typically find and how to access it:
- If a spare is present (temporary donut or full-size in rare cases), it is usually stored under the rear cargo floor, beneath a removable panel. You’ll also find the jack and lug wrench in the same area or in a nearby storage bag.
- If a spare is not included, the Tire Mobility Kit or tire-repair tools are stored in a dedicated organizer in the cargo area, with the inflator, sealant, and necessary accessories easy to reach.
Accessing the storage area is straightforward: fold down or lift the cargo floor panel and remove the cover to reveal the spare or kit. Always follow the vehicle’s instructions when removing and reinstalling equipment to avoid damage.
What to do if you have a flat
Having a plan helps you respond quickly to a flat tire. If you encounter a puncture or blowout, follow these steps based on whether you have a spare or a tire mobility kit.
- Pull over safely, turn on hazard lights, and assess the situation with your surroundings.
- If you have a temporary spare, refer to the owner’s manual for speed and distance limits and replace only with the spare; replace or repair the original tire as soon as possible.
- If you have a Tire Mobility Kit, follow the kit's instructions to seal the puncture and reinflate the tire; the kit is intended for minor punctures and limited travel.
- Call roadside assistance if the puncture is severe, the tire cannot be repaired, or you do not have a spare or kit.
- Once the tire is addressed, have the tire repaired or replaced promptly and ensure the spare kit or tire is ready for future use.
Flat tires vary in severity; having a spare or a kit provides a temporary fix that buys you time to reach a tire professional. Always check the kit contents and expiration dates, and replace components as needed.
Recent generations (2018–present): spare types
In the current generation and its refreshes, GM moved away from a traditional full-size spare in most configurations, favoring a temporary spare or a Tire Mobility Kit. The exact setup depends on year and trim; check your manual for your vehicle.
Earlier generations (2009–2017): spare configurations varied
Across the earlier generation, spare configurations varied by trim and market. Some models used a traditional underfloor spare, others relied on a donut or a repair kit. If you’re buying used, verify the spare contents and storage location before traveling far from home.
Summary
For the modern Chevy Traverse, do not expect a full-size spare in most configurations. Most trims include either a compact spare or a tire-sealant kit, with the option to rely on roadside assistance or repair services. Always verify your specific model’s spare setup by consulting the owner's manual or inspecting the cargo area storage. If you routinely travel in remote areas, consider adding a spare or a larger repair kit to your preparation plan.
What's the most common problem with a Chevy Traverse?
The most common problems with the Chevy Traverse include transmission issues, engine troubles like excessive oil consumption and timing chain problems, and steering and electrical system malfunctions. These issues are more prevalent in earlier models, with transmission and engine problems being a frequent complaint across various model years.
Common problems by system
This video explains the common reliability issues and problems with the Chevy Traverse: 59sNexologyYouTube · Oct 28, 2025
- Transmission: Owners report a range of problems, including rough shifting, slipping gears, and complete transmission failure. Some models have issues with a "Shift to Park" message, especially after shutting down the vehicle.
- Engine:
- Excessive oil consumption: Some owners have reported that their engines consume a lot of oil.
- Timing chains: Earlier models are prone to timing chain issues, which can lead to a ticking noise and potential failure.
- Other issues: Some models experience engine stalling, shuddering, and a check engine light.
- Steering: Problems include power steering fluid leaks, noisy steering, and a general lack of power steering feel.
- Electrical: Issues can include a malfunctioning infotainment system, battery drain, and various error messages. In some cases, components like alternators and starter motors have failed prematurely.
- Other:
- Brakes: Unusual brake noises have been reported.
- Climate control: Air conditioning system problems, such as compressor failure and refrigerant leaks, are also common.
- Exhaust: Exhaust leaks and other issues with the exhaust system have been noted.
Can you fit a 4x8 sheet of plywood in a Chevy Traverse?
Board any heavier wood material. That is in this 4x8 sheet size the first huge thing here is widthwise. It's going to fit that is usually the first limiting factor with a lot of these SUVs.
Does the Chevy Traverse come with a spare tire?
Yes, the Chevrolet Traverse has a spare tire, but its location varies by model year. For newer models, the spare tire is typically stored under the cargo area, accessed by lifting the floor panel.
This video shows how to access the spare tire in a Chevrolet Traverse: 42sPhillipsChevyYouTube · Feb 17, 2023
- For most models from 2017 to 2025: The spare tire is located beneath the cargo area floor. You will need to lift the rear cargo floor panel and remove any storage bin to access the spare, jack, and lug wrench.
- For older models (e.g., 2009-2017): The spare tire is often in the left rear quarter panel, behind a cover.
- Accessing the spare: You may need to remove some plastic covers, twist off a few knobs, or unlatch a cover to get to the spare tire and tools.
Which cars come with a full-size spare wheel?
While full-size spare tires are becoming less common, they are still found on many trucks, larger SUVs, and specific trim levels of various vehicles, including the Jeep Gladiator, Toyota Tacoma, 4Runner, Ford Bronco Sport, Subaru Outback Onyx Edition XT, and Kia Telluride. It's essential to verify the specific trim and options, as some models may have a spare tire only on certain versions or may require a modification to fit a full-size spare.
Trucks and larger SUVs
- Jeep Gladiator
- Toyota Tacoma, Toyota Tundra, Toyota Sequoia, and 4Runner
- Ford Expedition
- Chevrolet Tahoe and Chevrolet Suburban
- GMC Yukon
- Land Rover Defender and Land Cruiser
- Jeep Grand Cherokee (2022)
- Genesis GV80
