Is the Chevy Traverse FWD good in snow?

A front-wheel-drive Traverse can handle light to moderate snow with proper winter tires and cautious driving, but for deeper snow, ice, or steep hills, an all-wheel-drive version with winter tires provides notably better traction and control.

Drivetrain options and how they behave in winter

The Chevrolet Traverse traditionally ships with front-wheel drive as the baseline configuration, with all-wheel drive offered as an option on most trims. In snowy conditions, how power is distributed and how the vehicle’s safety systems respond matters for acceleration, steering, and braking. The Traverse sits at about 7.4 inches of ground clearance, which is respectable for a three-row crossover but still limits it in deep snow compared with true SUVs or a dedicated snow vehicle.

Front-wheel drive (FWD)

In FWD mode, the engine’s power goes to the front wheels, which are also the main source of steering and braking. In light to moderate snow, FWD can feel predictable if you have good winter tires and drive slowly and smoothly. However, as snow depth increases or surfaces become icy, front-wheel traction can quickly deteriorate, especially on inclines or when braking hard, because the front tires bear the brunt of acceleration, steering, and stopping forces without rear-wheel assistance.

All-wheel drive (AWD)

AWD on the Traverse is typically an on-demand system that can send torque to the rear wheels when traction is slipping. In snowy conditions, AWD helps with initial acceleration and maintains stability on slick surfaces, which can translate to shorter stopping distances and better hill-climbing capability. However, AWD is not a substitute for proper tires or careful driving, and it generally incurs a penalty in fuel economy compared with pure FWD.

Pros and cons of using FWD in snow:

• Pros:
  
  
  
  • Better fuel economy and reduced drivetrain complexity versus AWD.
  
  
  • Lighter weight and simpler maintenance, which can translate to lower ownership costs.
  
  
  
  


• Cons:
  
  
  
  • Less traction on deep snow, ice, and steep grades since power cannot be directed to the rear wheels.
  
  
  • Greater vulnerability to wheel spin and sliding on slick surfaces compared with AWD.
  
  
  
  

In practice, FWD can manage typical snowy commutes when paired with high-quality winter tires, careful throttle input, and extra stopping distance. For frequent or severe winter driving, AWD remains the safer choice.

Tips to maximize snow performance with a Traverse

These practical steps can help you stay safer and more in control in wintry weather, especially if you’re starting from a front-wheel-drive configuration.

To help you prepare, here are practical steps that can improve the Traverse’s snow performance:

• Equip a proper set of winter tires designed for cold temperatures and snow, and keep them in good condition with adequate tread depth.


• Regularly check tire pressures, as cold weather can lower pressure and reduce grip.


• Drive slowly and smoothly; accelerate gently, brake progressively, and avoid sharp steering inputs on slippery surfaces.


• Increase following distance to allow for longer stopping distances on snow and ice.


• Keep safety features engaged (traction control, stability control) and avoid turning them off in winter conditions.


• Prepare for emergencies with a small kit (scraper, blanket, flashlight, snacks, and a shovel) and ensure the battery and fluids are in good condition.

Following these steps can noticeably improve traction, control, and braking in wintry conditions with a FWD Traverse. If you frequently drive in heavy snow or on icy roads, an AWD-equipped model paired with winter tires is generally the safer, more capable setup.

Summary

Bottom line: A Chevy Traverse with front-wheel drive can handle light to moderate snow effectively when equipped with quality winter tires and used with prudent driving habits. For heavier snow, ice, or hilly terrain, an AWD version offers clearer advantages in traction and stability. Consider your local winter conditions, typical routes, and budget when choosing between FWD and AWD, and always prioritize proper tires and safe driving practices.

Which year to avoid Chevy Traverse?

Years to avoid for the Chevy Traverse include the first generation's early models like 2009-2012, as well as 2018, due to significant transmission issues. Other problematic years often cited are 2010, 2011, and 2013-2017, which can have engine, steering, or air conditioning problems.
 
Specific model years to avoid

• 2009-2012: These early first-generation models are frequently cited for transmission, suspension, and climate system issues. 
• 2010: This year is often highlighted for engine problems, such as a faulty timing chain, and power steering issues. 
• 2011: This year is often mentioned for engine failure, with owners reporting high repair costs around 100,000 miles. 
• 2012-2015: Owners of these models have reported problems with steering and the air conditioning system. 
• 2018: This year has been flagged for major transmission problems and electrical issues. 

General advice

• Transmission issues: The first generation (2009-2017) is particularly prone to transmission problems. 
• Engine problems: Look out for engine issues in the 2010 and 2011 models. 
• Climate control: Some models, including the 2012-2015 and 2022 years, have been associated with climate system problems. 

While some of these issues may have been addressed with recalls or service bulletins, it is crucial to check the service history of any used vehicle before purchasing. The more recent models (like the 2020 and 2021) show improved reliability compared to the older ones.

What is the difference between AWD and FWD Traverse?

FWD (front-wheel drive) sends power to the front wheels, while AWD (all-wheel drive) sends power to all four wheels. AWD generally offers better traction and handling, especially in poor weather like rain or snow, because it uses all four wheels for acceleration and cornering. FWD is often standard on many vehicles and is a good, efficient choice for most daily driving conditions, though it can struggle with traction in slick conditions. The Chevrolet Traverse is available with both FWD and AWD, with the Z71 trim featuring standard AWD.
 
This video explains the difference between FWD and AWD in winter conditions: 47sTexemplar GarageYouTube · Mar 2, 2020
FWD (Front-Wheel Drive)

• How it works: Power from the engine is sent only to the front wheels. 
• Advantages:
  • Typically standard on many vehicles. 
  • More fuel-efficient than AWD. 
• Disadvantages:
  • Can struggle for traction in snow, ice, or heavy rain. 
  • May experience understeer (the front of the car pushes wide in a turn). 
  • Can experience "torque steer," a pulling sensation under hard acceleration. 

AWD (All-Wheel Drive)

• How it works: The engine sends power to all four wheels as needed. On some vehicles like the Traverse, it may operate in a FWD-only mode under normal conditions and automatically engage AWD when wheel slippage is detected. 
• Advantages:
  • Provides better traction and handling in various conditions, including rain and snow. 
  • Better acceleration and responsiveness. 
• Disadvantages:
  • Less fuel-efficient than FWD due to the extra weight and components. 
  • Higher initial cost. 

Which should you choose for a Traverse?

• Choose FWD if: You primarily drive in dry, suburban conditions and want to maximize fuel economy. 
• Choose AWD if: You frequently encounter snow, rain, or other slippery conditions, or if you want the extra confidence and capability provided by all-wheel drive. The AWD option is standard on the Z71 trim for enhanced off-road capability as well. 

You can watch this video to learn how to identify if a car is 2WD or 4WD: 58sMake It Easy MechanicYouTube · Mar 11, 2020

What is snow mode in a Chevy Traverse?

Snow/Ice — This mode is designed to help provide improved performance on slippery road surfaces by adjusting the pedal map, which slows acceleration and torque response to prevent wheel slip.

Can you drive with FWD in snow?

Limited Performance in Heavy Snow: FWD vehicles can struggle in deep snow or on extremely slippery surfaces, where additional traction is needed. Handling on Hills: Climbing steep, icy hills can be more challenging in a FWD vehicle compared to AWD.