How many miles will a 2012 Chevy Traverse last?

In practical terms, a well-maintained 2012 Chevrolet Traverse can reasonably reach about 200,000 miles, and some owners report 250,000 miles or more. The exact figure depends on maintenance, driving conditions, and timely repairs.

What influences how long it lasts

The longevity of a 2012 Traverse is shaped by how well its major systems are cared for over time, including the engine, transmission, cooling system, electrical components, and rust protection. Real-world results vary widely based on upkeep and usage patterns.

Engine and transmission reliability

The 3.6-liter V6 used in the 2012 Traverse is generally capable of long life when oil changes and filter replacements are kept current, and the cooling system is maintained. The six-speed automatic transmission also benefits from regular fluid changes and service per GM guidelines. While some units accumulate high miles with proper care, transmission wear at higher mileages remains a common point to monitor.

Real-world mileage patterns

Owners who follow a disciplined maintenance schedule and drive primarily on highways tend to reach higher mileages. Conversely, frequent short trips, aggressive driving, or skipped maintenance can shorten the vehicle’s time between major repairs.

Maximizing mileage: maintenance and care

Keeping a Traverse on the road for the long haul hinges on proactive maintenance and mindful driving. The following practices are widely recommended by manufacturers and independent shops to help maximize life and reliability.

Before listing the essential maintenance practices, here is a brief overview of what to focus on to extend the life of the vehicle:

• Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule for oil changes, fluid checks, and filter replacements. Oil-change intervals usually range from about every 3,000 to 7,500 miles depending on oil type and driving conditions.


• Service the transmission and differential fluids as recommended and replace filters when applicable to prevent wear and slippage.


• Keep the cooling system in good shape: inspect hoses, radiator, water pump, and replace coolant at the recommended intervals to prevent overheating.


• Replace spark plugs and perform ignition-system maintenance at the intervals specified for the 3.6-liter engine to maintain smooth operation and efficiency.


• Monitor timing-chain/tensioner condition and address unusual noises or rough running promptly; the chain is designed for long life, but issues can arise with age or wear.


• Inspect brakes, tires, suspension, and steering components regularly, addressing wear promptly to avoid additional damage and maintain safe handling.


• Maintain the battery and charging system; electrical problems can mimic other issues and lead to avoidable wear if left unchecked.

Adhering to these practices helps maximize the Traverse’s lifespan and keeps performance steady as mileage accrues.

Driving conditions that affect wear

Usage patterns have a big impact on longevity. The following conditions tend to wear components faster and may reduce life expectancy if not managed carefully.

• Frequent short trips or stop-and-go city driving, which can put extra strain on the engine and transmission.


• Regular heavy towing or carrying large loads, increasing stress on the drivetrain and cooling system.


• Harsh winter driving with road salt and moisture that accelerate corrosion if not washed and protected.


• Extremely hot climates that place additional demand on the cooling system and battery.


• Rough roads or off-road use that accelerate wear on suspension, tires, and steering components.

With mindful driving and consistent maintenance, the Traverse can maintain performance well into higher mileage ranges.

Buying a used 2012 Traverse: what to check

If you’re considering a used 2012 Traverse, a thorough inspection and maintenance history are key. Look for documented services, signs of rust, and smooth operation across the engine, transmission, and AWD system (if equipped). A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic can help you gauge remaining life and necessary repairs.

Summary

Overall, a 2012 Chevy Traverse can be expected to last around 200,000 miles with diligent maintenance, and some examples exceed 250,000 miles. Longevity hinges on sticking to a regular maintenance routine, addressing issues promptly, and choosing driving patterns that reduce unnecessary wear. For preventive care and informed buying, keep records, follow GM’s service guidelines, and stay attentive to signs of trouble before they become major repairs.

Does the 2012 Chevy Traverse have engine problems?

Timing chain failure is a major Chevrolet Traverse problem, especially for the 2012 model year, and is related to the reduced engine power trouble mentioned above. According to the affected owners, they were able to drive their midsize SUVs well for the first few years of ownership (around 100,000 miles).

How many miles can a 2012 Chevy Traverse last?

200,000 miles
The expected lifespan of a Chevrolet Traverse is 200,000 miles.

How much is a 2012 Chevy Traverse worth?

A 2012 Chevrolet Traverse is worth between approximately $1,000$ 1 comma 000$1,000 and $9,000$ 9 comma 000$9,000, with the specific value depending heavily on its trim, mileage, and condition. For example, a 2012 Chevrolet Traverse LTZ in good condition could be worth around $4,330$ 4 comma 330$4,330 for a private sale or trade-in value of $1,929$ 1 comma 929$1,929 based on Kelley Blue Book, while listings for other models with higher mileage show prices around $5,000−$9,000$ 5 comma 000 minus $ 9 comma 000$5,000−$9,000.
 
Factors that influence the value

• Mileage: Lower mileage vehicles will command higher prices. Vehicles with over 100,000 miles may sell for between $5,000$ 5 comma 000$5,000 and $9,000$ 9 comma 000$9,000, with some lower-mileage examples listing for around $7,324$ 7 comma 324$7,324. 
• Trim: The LTZ trim is the highest trim level and generally has the highest value. The LTZ trim can have a private sale value of around $5,614$ 5 comma 614$5,614 on average, while the LS trim has an average private sale value of $5,169$ 5 comma 169$5,169. 
• Condition: The overall condition of the vehicle, including any accidents, mechanical issues, or cosmetic damage, will affect the final sale price. 
• Location: Prices can vary depending on where the vehicle is being sold. 
• Trade-in vs. private sale: A private sale will typically result in a higher selling price than a trade-in value.

Examples of current listings

• 2012 Chevrolet Traverse LT with 1LT: $5,998$ 5 comma 998$5,998 with 111,439111 comma 439111,439 miles 
• 2012 Chevrolet Traverse LTZ: $4,999$ 4 comma 999$4,999 with 182,511182 comma 511182,511 miles 
• 2012 Chevrolet Traverse LS: $7,324$ 7 comma 324$7,324 with 74,29274 comma 29274,292 miles 
• 2012 Chevrolet Traverse LT with 2LT: $8,997$ 8 comma 997$8,997 with 87,35587 comma 35587,355 miles 

To get the most accurate value for your specific vehicle, it is recommended to use an online valuation tool or get a professional appraisal.

What are the bad years for the Traverse?

Of this first generation, the 2014 to 2017 model years are the least problematic, but early models from 2009 to 2012 are better off avoided.