Is a Traverse front or rear wheel drive?
The Chevrolet Traverse is front-wheel drive by default, with an optional all-wheel-drive system; there is no rear-wheel-drive configuration offered for this model.
In practical terms, this means most buyers will experience efficient, front-driven motoring, while all-wheel drive is available to improve traction in snow, rain, and slick conditions. The following explains the drivetrain options and what they mean for performance and everyday use.
Drivetrain configurations you’ll find on the Traverse
The Traverse is designed around a front-wheel-drive base, with an optional all-wheel-drive system that can redirect torque to the rear when needed. Here are the main options by model year range:
- Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) is standard on most trims
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD) is available as an option, using an active on-demand system to send power to the rear axle when traction is needed
- There is no rear-wheel-drive (RWD) configuration offered for the Traverse
These choices determine how the vehicle handles adverse weather and affect fuel economy, ride quality, and interior packaging more than the overall drivetrain layout.
How AWD affects performance and efficiency
Opting for AWD doesn’t make the Traverse a rugged off-roader; it enhances grip and stability on slick roads and during acceleration in less-than-ideal conditions. The system generally stays in FWD mode and only engages the rear wheels when extra traction is required.
What drivers should know about AWD in the Traverse
Consider these practical points when choosing between FWD and AWD:
- AWD typically improves traction in snow, slush, rain, and light off-road conditions
- Fuel economy is often lower with AWD than with FWD
- The cargo and seating configuration are unaffected by drivetrain choice
For most buyers in regions with challenging weather, AWD offers a confidence boost without sacrificing daily usability.
Model-year availability and what’s current
In Chevrolet’s recent generations, the Traverse has consistently offered FWD as the standard configuration and AWD as an available option. A true rear-wheel-drive layout has not been offered for this model line.
Summary: The Traverse is a front-wheel-drive SUV with an optional all-wheel-drive system; it does not offer a rear-wheel-drive configuration. If you live in an area with winter weather or rough roads, AWD provides added traction, while FWD remains the efficient and standard choice.
Is a Chevy Traverse front or rear wheel drive?
All the trim levels are available in either Front Wheel Drive (FWD) or All Wheel Drive (AWD) drive type configurations except for the L trim level, which is only available in FWD, and the High Country trim level, which is only available in AWD.
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.
Is the 2019 Chevy Traverse FWD or RWD?
FWD is standard, and AWD is optional. In MotorTrend testing, an AWD Traverse accelerated from 0-60 mph in 6.7 seconds. EPA-rated fuel economy is 18/27 mpg city/highway for FWD models and 17/25 mpg for AWD models.
