How often does a Chevy Traverse need an oil change?
The Chevy Traverse, a popular midsize SUV, generally requires an oil change every 5,000 to 10,000 miles or every 6 to 12 months, whichever comes first. However, the exact oil change interval can vary depending on your driving conditions and the manufacturer's recommendations.
Recommended Oil Change Interval for the Chevy Traverse
According to Chevrolet, the recommended oil change interval for the Chevy Traverse is as follows:
- Normal driving conditions: Change oil every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first.
- Severe driving conditions (e.g., frequent towing, extensive idling, extreme temperatures): Change oil every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.
It's important to note that these are general guidelines, and your specific driving habits and conditions may require more or less frequent oil changes. Always refer to your owner's manual or consult with a certified Chevy technician to determine the best oil change schedule for your Traverse.
Why Regular Oil Changes are Important
Regularly changing the engine oil in your Chevy Traverse is crucial for maintaining the health and longevity of your vehicle's engine. Over time, the oil breaks down and becomes less effective at lubricating the engine's moving parts, which can lead to increased wear and tear, reduced fuel efficiency, and even engine failure if left unchecked.
By following the recommended oil change interval, you can help ensure that your Traverse's engine continues to run smoothly and efficiently, ultimately extending the life of your vehicle.
Tips for Maintaining Your Chevy Traverse's Oil
- Use the recommended oil type and viscosity specified in your owner's manual.
- Consider using a high-quality synthetic oil, which can provide better protection and longer service intervals.
- Keep an eye on your oil level and top it up if necessary between changes.
- Pay attention to any warning lights or indicators on your dashboard that may signal the need for an oil change.
By following these tips and adhering to the recommended oil change schedule, you can help ensure that your Chevy Traverse continues to perform at its best for years to come.
How often does Chevy recommend oil changes?
Chevrolet's recommended oil change intervals are typically 7,500 to 10,000 miles or once a year for newer models, while older models may need changes every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or every six months. The specific interval depends on factors like the vehicle's age, the type of oil used (synthetic oil lasts longer), and driving conditions, so it's essential to consult your vehicle's owner's manual for the most accurate recommendations.
Factors that influence oil change frequency
This video explains how often you should change your car's oil: 59sAutomotivePressYouTube · Feb 3, 2024
- Vehicle age: Newer Chevrolet vehicles with synthetic oil can often go longer between changes compared to older models that may have used conventional oil.
- Oil type: Synthetic oil is designed to last longer than conventional oil, so using it can extend the interval between changes.
- Driving conditions:
- Normal conditions: Driving primarily on highways at consistent speeds allows you to stick to the longer mileage interval.
- Severe conditions: If you frequently drive in stop-and-go traffic, extreme heat or cold, or tow heavy loads, you will need to change your oil more frequently. In severe cases, this can be as often as every 3,000 to 5,000 miles.
- Time: Even if you don't drive much, oil degrades over time. It's important to change your oil at least once a year to prevent the oil from breaking down.
Does a Chevy Traverse require synthetic oil?
The right oil keeps your engine running smoothly and prevents wear over time. Using the correct oil is key to a smooth 2025 Chevy Traverse oil change. Check your owner's manual for the recommended oil type. Most Traverse models use full synthetic 5W-30 oil for the best performance.
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.
What is the bad year for the 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.
