Does the 2022 Chevy Traverse have transmission problems?
The 2022 Chevy Traverse does not appear to have a widespread, officially acknowledged transmission defect. While a minority of owners have reported shifting-related concerns, GM has issued software updates and service bulletins to address intermittent issues, and there are no widely publicized, model-wide recalls targeting the Traverse’s transmission for that year.
To understand the question in depth, this article surveys owner reports, regulatory data, and manufacturer actions to assess how common transmission issues are for the 2022 Traverse, what kind of problems have been reported, and what owners can do to verify reliability or seek remedies.
What the data shows
When evaluating transmission reliability for the 2022 Traverse, researchers rely on consumer feedback, regulator databases, and manufacturer communications. The picture is nuanced: a small share of owners have reported shifting irregularities, but there is no consensus of a systemic defect across all 2022 models.
Below is a roundup of the types of symptoms most frequently mentioned by owners and reported in regulator and service communications.
- Harsh or delayed shifting between gears, particularly at low speeds or during acceleration.
- Shuddering or bucking as the transmission engages a gear or during mid-range speeds.
- Temporary RPM spikes or engine revving without proportional acceleration, described by some as slipping.
- Occasional loss of drive or torque that is intermittent and then returns.
- Unusual noises near the transmission area, such as clunking or whirring.
These reports are not universal, and many owners experience smooth operation throughout their ownership. In several cases, issues were resolved or mitigated through software updates or routine maintenance, rather than major component failures.
Manufacturer and regulatory response
GM has issued service bulletins and, in some cases, software calibrations to improve shifting behavior and torque converter performance in the Traverse and related models with similar transmissions. These actions aim to address shifting quality, hydraulic control, and adaptive learning logic that can affect how the transmission responds over time.
Additionally, recall campaigns occasionally overlap with the Traverse and other GM SUVs, targeting transmission-related components or drivetrains. Eligibility and coverage depend on the specific vehicle’s VIN and build date, so owners should verify recall status with GM, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall database, or their local dealer.
- Software updates and calibration changes delivered by dealers to reduce harsh shifting and improve throttle response.
- Torque converter updates in cases where shuddering or engagement issues were reported.
- Recall campaigns that may address related drivetrain components; check the NHTSA database and GM’s recall site for eligibility.
In practice, the majority of 2022 Traverse owners have not faced a systemic transmission failure, and many reported issues were mitigated by software updates or routine service. However, as with any modern vehicle featuring a 9-speed automatic transmission, ongoing maintenance and timely software updates are important to sustain smooth performance.
What to watch for if you own or are buying
Before buying or when monitoring a 2022 Traverse, consider the following guidance to minimize the risk of transmission inconvenience or misdiagnosis.
- During test drives, note any unexpected shifts, hesitations, or RPM irregularities, and report them to a dealer for a diagnostic check.
- Ask whether the vehicle has any outstanding service bulletins or software updates related to the transmission, and request documentation of completed recalls.
- If you own a 2022 Traverse, ensure your vehicle is up to date on software updates and that any symptoms are logged with the dealer, especially before warranty expiration.
- Maintain regular transmission-related maintenance as outlined in the owner's manual and discuss upgrade options or service programs with an authorized Chevrolet service center.
Owners should be aware that transmission reliability can depend on driving conditions, maintenance history, and software calibration. Prompt diagnostics can prevent minor issues from escalating into more noticeable drivability problems.
Summary
In summary, the 2022 Chevy Traverse does not have a known, widespread transmission defect. While there have been isolated reports of shifting concerns, many of these issues have been addressed through GM service bulletins, software updates, or standard maintenance. Prospective buyers should verify recall status and update history, and current owners should stay current with software updates and document any symptoms with their dealer to ensure coverage under warranty or recall programs if applicable.
Further context
If you need the latest, check the NHTSA recall and complaint databases or contact a Chevrolet dealer for a vehicle-specific assessment. Vehicle reliability can vary by build date, region, and individual maintenance history, so a personalized diagnostic remains the most reliable path to clarity.
