How many miles will a Traverse last?

Typically, a Chevrolet Traverse will last about 200,000 miles with proper maintenance, and some owners report 250,000 miles or more.

What this means in practice is that longevity isn’t a fixed number; it depends on maintenance, driving conditions, and the model year. In the sections that follow, we break down the main factors, maintenance habits that help maximize mileage, and what real-world owners are reporting today.

Key factors that influence a Traverse's lifespan

Several recurring factors determine how far a Traverse can go before major issues arise. Here are the most influential predictors across generations.

• Maintenance history and adherence to service intervals


• Driving conditions (high-mileage highway use vs. frequent stop-and-go city driving)


• Climate and exposure to road salt, temperature swings, and humidity


• Quality of parts used in repairs and the reliability of the model year


• Engine and transmission design in the specific model year (e.g., 3.6L V6 and whether a timing chain is used)


• Timeliness of addressing warning signs (noisy bearings, cooling leaks, etc.)

In general, the cumulative effect of these factors is a good predictor of whether a Traverse will reach and exceed 200,000 miles. With diligent care, many owner reports align with that milestone; with neglect, wear can accelerate.

Maintenance habits that maximize mileage

A disciplined maintenance routine is the most reliable lever for extending a Traverse’s life. The list below highlights the regular actions most owners find worth prioritizing.

• Follow the manufacturer’s oil-change schedule, using the recommended viscosity and quality of oil (synthetic oil is common for modern engines) and ensuring the oil level is always within range


• Keep the cooling system in good shape: coolant level, leaks, hoses, and the radiator; flush or replace coolant per manual


• Monitor and service the transmission fluids and components as recommended; address slipping or shifting issues promptly


• Protect the ignition system: replace spark plugs and ignition coils at or near recommended intervals to prevent misfires and energy loss


• Regularly replace air filters and inspect the fuel system for efficiency


• Maintain tires and alignment; rotate tires on schedule, replace worn treads, and ensure proper wheel alignment to reduce strain on suspension and drivetrain


• Check brakes, suspension, and steering components; fix worn parts to avoid further damage


• Inspect the battery, charging system, and electrical connections; replace batteries before failure in cold conditions


• Keep up with recalls and software updates from Chevrolet; these can address issues that affect longevity

Sticking to these maintenance practices doesn’t guarantee a specific mileage, but it systematically reduces the risk of unexpected repairs and helps the vehicle accumulate more miles over time.

Real-world mileage benchmarks

Across generations, owners report a wide range of outcomes. A typical well-maintained Traverse commonly reaches the 180,000–220,000 mile range. Many early- to mid-2010s models with thorough upkeep show 200,000 miles or more, and several high-mileage examples exceed 250,000 miles with conservative driving and proactive maintenance. While such cases are less common, they demonstrate the potential when parts are replaced before failure and the engine and transmission are cared for over time.

What to monitor as miles add up

As a Traverse ages, certain signals warrant attention. Proactively addressing them lowers the risk of breakdowns and increases the odds of reaching higher mileage.

Early warning signs to watch

• Unusual noises from the engine, transmission, or suspension


• Leaks or overheating symptoms


• Bold shifts, slipping gears, or loss of power during acceleration


• Degraded fuel economy or irregular idle

Prompt diagnostic checks and timely repairs can prevent more serious failures and help sustain long-term reliability.

Summary

With proper maintenance, a Chevrolet Traverse can realistically reach about 200,000 miles, and many owners report success beyond that figure. The key to longevity lies in consistent service, mindful driving, and proactive replacement of wear-prone parts. When shopping for a used Traverse, prioritize a vehicle with complete service records and a clean maintenance history, and plan for ongoing upkeep to maximize its mileage potential.

Is a Chevy Traverse a reliable car?

The Chevy Traverse is considered an average midsize SUV for reliability, with some years having more issues than others. Newer models generally have improved reliability scores, while earlier models (particularly 2009-2012, 2015, and 2018) had more reported problems, including issues with the transmission, engine, and brakes. Overall, the Traverse can be a durable and reliable vehicle, especially if properly maintained, but it is not ranked as highly for dependability as some of its competitors.
 
Reliability factors to consider

• Average overall rating: The Traverse's reliability rating is often cited as average, with one source giving it a 3.0 out of 5.0, ranking it 22nd out of 26 midsize SUVs. 
• Model year matters: Reliability varies significantly by model year. 
  • More reliable model years: 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017, and 2019-2023 are often cited as having fewer issues. The 2025 model also has a good predicted reliability score from J.D. Power. 
  • Problematic model years: 2009-2012, 2015, and 2018 have a history of more documented problems. 
• Common issues: Some recurring problems reported include brake noise, transmission issues, engine problems, and steering concerns. 
• Impact of maintenance: Like any vehicle, a Traverse's long-term reliability depends heavily on proper and regular maintenance. 
• Cost: The average annual repair cost is around $656, which is average for its class, but certain issues can lead to more severe (and costly) repairs when they arise. 

What this means for you

• New vs. used: Newer models are generally more reliable than older ones. If buying used, focus on model years with better reliability records and get a pre-purchase inspection to check for any potential problems. 
• Maintenance is key: Be prepared for regular maintenance. Staying on top of oil changes, brake inspections, and other recommended service is crucial for longevity. 
• Know the risks: Be aware of the specific issues that have been more common in certain model years, especially if you are looking at a used vehicle. 

What SUV has the longest life expectancy?

The Toyota Land Cruiser is frequently cited as the SUV with the longest life expectancy, with a high percentage of models lasting over 200,000 miles. Other long-lasting SUVs include the Toyota Sequoia, Honda Pilot, and Toyota 4Runner, all known for their durability and ability to exceed 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. 
Longest-lasting SUVs

• Toyota Land Cruiser: Frequently ranks as the longest-lasting SUV, with studies showing a significant portion of models surpass 200,000 miles. 
• Toyota Sequoia: Built on a durable truck platform, the Sequoia is another top contender for longevity, with a high percentage of models exceeding 200,000 miles. 
• Honda Pilot: Often appears on lists for its long lifespan, with many models reaching or exceeding 200,000 miles. 
• Toyota 4Runner: A rugged and reliable SUV that many owners report lasting well over 200,000 miles. 

Key factors for longevity

• Brand reputation: Brands like Toyota and Honda have a strong reputation for building durable vehicles. 
• Build quality and components: Vehicles with a history of strong build quality tend to have longer life expectancies. 
• Regular maintenance: Following the recommended maintenance schedule is crucial for any vehicle to reach its potential lifespan. 

What is the most reliable year for a Chevy Traverse?

The most reliable Chevy Traverse years are generally considered to be from the second generation (2017-2023), with specific models like the 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2023 frequently cited as having fewer issues and better reliability. Models from 2017 onwards are better than the first generation, but later model years within this generation often have improved records. For the newest models, the 2025 is predicted to have average reliability, though it is a first-year redesign.
 
Recommended model years

• 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2023: These years are frequently mentioned as strong performers with fewer reported problems. 
• 2017 and 2018: These were redesign years, so while generally more reliable than earlier models, some issues were reported. The 2018+ models, with their 9-speed transmission, are often seen as an improvement over the 6-speed in earlier models. 
• 2025: The 2025 model year is a redesign and is predicted to have average reliability, according to J.D. Power. 

Years to approach with caution

• Early models (e.g., 2009-2012): These models had numerous issues with the engine, steering, and air conditioning.
• 2015 and 2018: These model years have been linked to more documented problems compared to other years in their generation. 

Tips for maximizing reliability

• Perform regular maintenance: Stick to the manufacturer's recommended service schedule to keep the vehicle in good condition. 
• Consider an extended warranty: This can provide extra peace of mind, especially for older or high-mileage vehicles. 
• Check the vehicle history: For any used model, a vehicle history report can help identify potential issues or past repairs.

What year not to buy Traverse?

Years to avoid for the Chevy Traverse include the earliest models, particularly 2009-2012, and the 2018 model, due to significant issues like transmission, steering, and engine problems. Other years with known problems include 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2015, which were affected by a range of complaints from steering and engine issues to AC problems. 
Early models to avoid

• 2009-2012: These early models are frequently cited for mechanical issues. 
  • 2009-2011: Prone to oil consumption, hard steering, and transmission problems. 
  • 2012: Affected by steering, engine, and AC problems. 
• 2014-2017: While less problematic than the earlier models, the 2015 year is specifically mentioned as having AC, steering, and engine issues. 

Other problematic years

• 2018: This year is particularly noted for transmission, engine, and electrical system malfunctions. 

What to look for instead

• More recent models, like the 2020 and 2021 versions, generally show improvements and have fewer reported problems, according to Powers Swain Chevrolet. 
• If considering older models, the 2014-2017 years are the least problematic within the first generation, notes CarGurus.com.