Is a 2013 Chevy Traverse a reliable car?
Generally speaking, a 2013 Chevy Traverse is considered to have average reliability for its age. It can be a solid, family-friendly SUV when well maintained, but reliability varies based on maintenance history and mileage.
To understand how reliable it is, this article reviews typical reliability ratings from major outlets, summarizes what owners report, and provides a practical checklist for evaluating a used 2013 Traverse.
Reliability ratings: what the data says
Reliability scores for a single model year like the 2013 Traverse come from several established sources, and the results can vary. In broad terms, the Traverse tends to stay in the middle of the pack among midsize SUVs from that era. It benefits from a roomy interior and a capable V6, but some designs from the generation have reported issues that pull overall scores down.
Key takeaways from major sources
Across Consumer Reports, J.D. Power, and RepairPal, the 2013 Traverse typically lands around the industry-average reliability range for its age. The overall verdict emphasizes solid daily usability with certain mechanical and electrical glitches that can arise as the miles pile up.
What owners report
Here is a snapshot of issues that have appeared in owner discussions, surveys, and recall campaigns for the 2013 Traverse. Reliability is highly dependent on how well the vehicle was maintained and how many miles it has accumulated.
- Transmission behavior: some owners report rough or hesitant shifts, occasional lag before engagement, or shifting irregularities at certain mileages.
- Electrical and electronics: occasional sensor failures, warning lights, infotainment glitches, and intermittent traction-control or ABS alerts.
- HVAC and climate control: sporadic problems with cooling or heating performance and blend door issues.
- Suspension and drivetrain wear: wear in shocks, struts, or steering components as the odometer climbs.
- General durability: rust around certain areas or exhaust issues can occur with higher miles, though a well-maintained example tends to fare better.
The takeaway is that well-cared-for examples tend to be more reliable, while neglected maintenance can lead to more frequent repairs.
What to look for when buying a used 2013 Traverse
Before buying, it’s essential to perform a thorough inspection and verify service history. The following checks help identify cars that may be headed for costly repairs down the line.
- Complete maintenance log: confirm regular oil changes, fluid top-offs, and any timing/valve service that may apply to the engine family.
- Transmission condition: test drive to assess smooth shifting, no slipping, and no shuddering during acceleration or deceleration.
- Engine health: listen for unusual noises, look for oil leaks, and verify there is no excessive oil consumption; ensure the check engine light behaves properly during a scan.
- Electrical systems: test all lights, power accessories, infotainment, and climate controls for proper function.
- Recall status and repairs: confirm that all open recalls have been addressed and verify via GM’s recall lookup.
- Vehicle history and mileage: review Carfax/AutoCheck for past accidents, title status, and service patterns that might indicate heavy use or prior neglect.
Being selective and requesting a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic can save money and trouble in the long run.
Maintenance strategy and longevity tips
Maintenance plays a critical role in the Traverse’s long-term reliability. The following practices can help maximize lifespan and performance.
- Follow GM's service schedule for fluids, filters, and inspections, adjusted for mileage and climate.
- Address warning lights promptly and avoid ignoring transmission, ABS, or engine alerts.
- Use the recommended oil grade and quality, and perform timely oil changes to protect the engine and transmission.
- Keep an eye on the steering, suspension, and braking system; replace worn components to prevent more costly failures.
- Maintain the cooling system, including radiator, hoses, and thermostat, to prevent overheating and associated engine wear.
Adhering to a proactive maintenance plan and responding quickly to early warning signs can substantially improve reliability and curb ownership costs.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the 2013 Chevrolet Traverse is a reasonable used-SUV option for buyers who value space and a V6 engine, but it does not stand out as exceptionally reliable. With careful pre-purchase evaluation, a solid maintenance history, and ongoing attentive service, a well-kept 2013 Traverse can deliver dependable daily use. Prospective buyers should factor in potential repair costs and prioritize a thorough inspection and complete recall remediation to maximize the odds of trouble-free ownership.
Summary
Bottom line: a 2013 Chevy Traverse tends to be average in reliability for its age. It offers practical space and a solid V6, but reliability hinges on maintenance history and mileage. Do your due diligence, secure a clean service record, and insist on a professional inspection and completed recalls to improve the chances of a trouble-free ownership experience.
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.
Is the 2013 Chevy Traverse reliable?
The 2013 Chevrolet Traverse has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and 4 recalls. RepairPal gives it a reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5, ranks it #22 out of 32 among Midsize SUVs. Below you'll find our owner reviews.
How long does a 2013 Chevrolet Traverse last?
The life expectancy of a Chevrolet Traverse is about 13.5 years, based on an average of 15,000 miles per year. The SUV is expected to last for around 200,000 miles.
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.
