How reliable is a 2020 Chevy Traverse?
The 2020 Chevy Traverse is generally considered to offer average reliability for a midsize three-row SUV. It isn’t widely known for chronic, model-specific failures, but it also isn’t seen as exceptionally dependable. This article reviews reliability data, owner experience, and practical steps to evaluate a 2020 Traverse.
How reliability is assessed for the 2020 Traverse
Reliability rankings come from multiple sources, including consumer surveys, repair frequency data, and safety recall records. For the 2020 Traverse, major industry outlets typically place it in the middle of the pack among midsize SUVs. Real-world reliability often hinges on maintenance history and how well the vehicle was cared for by previous owners. Always check for open recalls on the exact VIN before purchase.
Performance and powertrain
The 2020 Traverse is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, delivering adequate power for daily driving and highway merging. Reliability of the drivetrain tends to follow routine GM maintenance patterns rather than signaling systemic design flaws. Some owners report transmission behavior changes with higher mileages, but widespread, model-year-wide failures are not commonly cited for the 2020 example.
Interior, technology, and safety
Inside, the Traverse offers spacious seating and a user-friendly infotainment system in most trims. Electrical and infotainment issues show up more often in older model years, but by 2020, software updates and component updates reduced many of the earlier problems. Overall, interior components and dashboards are reasonably durable when the vehicle is well maintained; wear and tear can vary by trim level and usage.
Common reliability concerns and what to check
Owners and reviewers point to a few areas to consider when evaluating reliability, especially for a used 2020 Traverse. The list below highlights recurring themes and how to assess them during a buying process.
- Transmission behavior: some owners report rough shifting or hesitations in earlier model years; the 2020 model year shows fewer widespread issues, but a careful test drive is still wise.
- Electrical and infotainment quirks: occasional touchscreen freezes, Bluetooth pairing glitches, or sensor alerts have appeared in some units; many issues are resolved with software updates or recalls.
- Brakes and tires: normal wear items that can be costly over time, particularly with heavy family use; inspecting brake pads/rotors and tire tread is advisable.
- Routine maintenance costs: the V6 with a nine-speed automatic requires standard maintenance; costs are moderate relative to similar three-row SUVs, and timely service helps maintain reliability.
In summary, reliability for a 2020 Traverse is largely dependent on maintenance history and prior care. A well-documented service record and a clean recall history increase confidence in a used example.
What official reliability ratings say
Industry reliability assessments draw on owner surveys, repair frequency, and recall history. The 2020 Traverse generally sits in the mid-range for reliability among midsize SUVs, indicating average performance rather than standout excellence or chronic trouble. Individual results vary with maintenance, driving conditions, and normal wear. Recalls and safety campaigns are separate from reliability scores and should be checked for the exact vehicle.
- Consumer Reports: typically places the 2020 Traverse in the mid-range for predicted reliability within the midsize SUV segment.
- J.D. Power: overall quality and reliability are considered average for the class, with some trims or production lots performing slightly better or worse.
- NHTSA recalls: there have been safety recalls affecting Traverse models, including some 2020 builds; verify open recalls and ensure repairs were completed for your specific VIN.
To form a precise view, owners should review the exact VIN for recall history and consult the latest consumer and safety data. Proper maintenance and timely recall completion generally improve reliability outcomes.
Cost of ownership and maintenance
Understanding ongoing costs helps frame reliability expectations. The Traverse’s running costs reflect its size, powertrain, and maintenance needs. Routine maintenance, tires, brakes, and occasional repairs fall within the range typical for a mid-size SUV with aV6 engine and a multi-speed transmission.
EPA estimates for the 2020 Traverse are typically around 18 mpg city / 27 mpg highway for front-wheel-drive models and about 17 mpg city / 25 mpg highway for all-wheel-drive models, with a combined figure in the low 20s. Fuel economy is reasonable for a three-row SUV of its size, while real-world numbers depend on drivetrain, load, and driving style. Maintenance costs are generally moderate and predictable with regular service, though parts and labor can be higher than smaller crossovers.
- Fuel economy: expect mid-20s combined in typical driving, with AWD slightly lower than FWD.
- Routine maintenance: regular oil changes, fluid replacements, brake service, and tire rotations are standard; costs align with other three-row GM vehicles.
- Depreciation and resale: Traverse pricing tends to follow the broader segment trend, with moderate depreciation over the first few years, then stabilizing as it ages.
Overall, ownership costs are manageable if you budget for typical maintenance and fuel, and a well-kept example can offer solid value for a family vehicle.
Tips for buyers and owners
Use these practical steps to maximize reliability and value when shopping for or owning a 2020 Traverse.
- Check for open recalls and confirm all recall work has been completed. Use the VIN to verify recall status with NHTSA or Chevrolet.
- Obtain a thorough maintenance history, especially for the transmission, engine oil changes, coolant, and brake service.
- Test-drive with attention to transmission feel, engine response, and any unusual noises or electrical glitches.
- Have a qualified mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection, particularly on higher-mileage examples, to identify potential wear or impending repairs.
- Budget for typical three-row SUV maintenance and plan for tires, brakes, and potential suspension components as the vehicle ages.
Following these steps can reduce surprises and help you gauge the true reliability of a specific 2020 Traverse.
Summary
The 2020 Chevrolet Traverse offers practical space and capable performance, with reliability that sits mid-range among its peers. Its long-term dependability largely hinges on routine maintenance, a complete recall history, and how well the vehicle was cared for before it reached you. For buyers, a well-documented used example or a certified pre-owned model with up-to-date recalls and a clean service record tends to provide the best odds of reliable ownership.
What years of the Traverse are most reliable?
The 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017, and 2019-2023 Traverse models tend to have fewer issues. In contrast, the 2009-2012, 2015, and 2018 models have more documented problems. Remembering these model years could save you from costly repairs if you're shopping for a used one.
What is the most common problem with Chevy Traverse 2020?
The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.
- Noises/Leaks.
- Engine Electrical.
- Exhaust.
- Paint/Trim.
- Engine Minor.
- Engine Cooling.
- Body Hardware.
- Fuel System/Emissions.
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.
How long will a 2020 Chevy Traverse last?
200,000 miles
While the Chevy Traverse is generally reliable and can also last for 200,000 miles with proper care, the Highlander has an edge in terms of reputation for long-term durability. However, the Traverse offers more interior space, making it a better option for families who need extra room for passengers and cargo.
