What is the transmission problem on a 2009 Chevy Traverse?

Short answer: The 2009 Chevy Traverse commonly experiences issues with its 6-speed automatic transmission, including hesitations, shudder, slipping, and rough or delayed shifting.

In more detail, the 2009 Traverse shares its drivetrain with GM’s SUV family (such as the GMC Acadia and Buick Enclave). Over time, owners have reported a range of transmission-related symptoms as mileage increases. This article outlines the most frequent problems, likely causes, diagnostic steps, and practical maintenance tips to help readers understand and address these issues.

Common symptoms of transmission trouble

Below are the symptoms most frequently cited by Traverse owners experiencing transmission problems. If you notice one or more of these, it’s a sign to have the system inspected promptly to prevent further damage.

• Delayed engagement when selecting Drive or Reverse, causing a gap before movement


• Harsh, clunky, or erratic shifting between gears


• Transmission slipping, or a loss of engine acceleration without a change in throttle


• Vibrations or shuddering, especially around 40–60 mph or under light throttle


• Unusual noises (whining, clunking, or grinding) coming from the transmission


• Fluid leaks or burning transmission fluid odor, often with low fluid level


• Dashboard transmission or check engine warning lights, sometimes with diagnostic codes

These symptoms can be caused by a range of issues, from fluid conditions to internal wear, and may require professional diagnosis to confirm the root cause.

Causes and diagnostic steps

Understanding potential causes helps owners target the right repairs. The following list breaks down common contributors and how technicians typically diagnose them.

• Low or degraded transmission fluid: Old or low fluid can cause improper hydraulic pressure, leading to slipping or hard shifts. A fluid level check and fluid condition assessment are standard first steps.


• Fluid leaks or cooling problems: Leaks from pans, seals, or cooler lines can lead to overheating, which damages valve bodies and clutches.


• Valve body or solenoid wear: Wear or varnish buildup can impede proper hydraulic control, causing shifting irregularities.


• Clutch packs, bands, or internal wear: Worn friction elements in a 6-speed automatic can cause slipping or premature shifting issues, especially as mileage accumulates.


• Torque converter issues: A failing torque converter can produce shudder, slipping, or harsh engagement, particularly during acceleration or deceleration.


• Poor or outdated software: Transmission control module (TCM) or powertrain control module (PCM) software updates can address shifting concerns or bug-related behavior.


• Sensors and wiring: Faulty input/output speed sensors or other electrical connections can trigger incorrect gear selection or transmission fault codes.


• Overheating or heavy use: Towing, hilly driving, or chronic overheating can accelerate wear on the transmission and lead to symptomatic failures.

In diagnosing these issues, technicians typically:

• Scan the vehicle for transmission-related codes (P0700 family codes and related P07xx codes are common).


• Inspect fluid level and condition; look for burn smell or dark, dirty fluid.


• Check for visible leaks and ensure the cooling system and transmission cooler lines are functioning.


• Road test to reproduce symptoms and observe shifting behavior under varying speeds and loads.


• Review any relevant service bulletins (TSBs) from GM that may apply to software or valve body updates.

These steps help pinpoint whether the issue is fluid-related, mechanical wear, or an electronic control problem.

What to do if you have symptoms

If you experience transmission symptoms in a 2009 Traverse, take these practical steps to protect your vehicle and limit damage.

• Schedule a professional diagnosis promptly to prevent potential further damage or failure.


• Obtain a full diagnostic scan and request any GM TSBs or recall information relevant to your VIN and model year.


• Avoid aggressive driving, heavy towing, or operating the vehicle at the edge of its RPM range while the issue persists.


• Check fluid level and condition if safe to do so, and note any leaks or smells to share with the technician.


• Discuss repair options with a qualified technician; depending on cause, fixes may range from fluid service or solenoid replacement to valve body work or a torque converter replacement.

Because transmission repairs can be costly, obtaining a clear diagnosis and a repair estimate before authorizing work is wise. In some cases, a software update or targeted fluid service can resolve symptoms without a full transmission overhaul.

Maintenance and prevention tips

Regular maintenance can help reduce the risk of transmission problems or catch them early before major failure occurs. Consider the following practices for a 2009 Traverse with a 6-speed automatic:

• Follow GM-recommended service intervals for transmission fluid replacement, using the correct Dexron fluid type (often Dexron VI or the manufacturer-recommended spec).


• Inspect and replace transmission fluid and filter as advised by GM service guidelines, especially after high-mileage use or towing.


• Keep the cooling system in good condition, including the transmission cooler lines, to prevent overheating.


• Address fluid leaks promptly to avoid fluid loss and pressure problems inside the transmission.


• Avoid prolonged high-load driving or aggressive hauling beyond the vehicle’s rated capacity.


• Address any dashboard warning lights promptly and have codes checked to identify potential electronic or sensor-related issues early.

Proactive maintenance helps extend the life of the transmission and may prevent costly repairs down the line. Always follow the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations and consult a qualified transmission technician for service guidance.

Summary

The 2009 Chevy Traverse’s transmission problems most commonly revolve around the 6-speed automatic, presenting as hesitations, shudder, slipping, or rough shifts. Diagnosis typically starts with a fluid check, a scan for transmission codes, and a road test to recreate symptoms. Causes range from fluid condition and leaks to valve body wear, torque converter issues, and software updates. Prompt diagnosis, prudent maintenance, and professional repair decisions are essential to managing these issues and maintaining reliability.

If you own a 2009 Traverse and notice any of the described symptoms, consult a certified mechanic or GM service center to determine the exact cause and the best course of action for repair or replacement.

What are the symptoms of transmission problems in the Chevy Traverse?

How To Identify Chevy Transmission Failure Symptoms

• Unusual Noises When Shifting.
• Delayed or Rough Shifting.
• Transmission Slipping.
• Fluid Leaks Under Your Chevy.
• Warning Lights on the Dashboard.
• Burning Smell.
• Poor Acceleration or Power Loss.
• Shaking or Vibrations.

Is there any recalls on a 2009 Chevy Traverse?

Major recalls for the 2009 Chevrolet Traverse involve potential issues with the side impact airbags and seat belt pretensioners not deploying in a crash, a problem with the power liftgate struts, and an issue with the evap system purge valve. To check if your specific vehicle is affected, use its 17-digit VIN on the Kelley Blue Book or National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website.
 
Airbag and seat belt pretensioner recall 

• Issue: Increased resistance in the side impact airbag (SIAB) wiring harness can prevent the SIAB and seat belt pretensioners from deploying in a crash.
• Affected vehicles: Certain 2008-2013 Buick Enclave and GMC Acadia, 2009-2013 Chevrolet Traverse, and 2008-2010 Saturn Outlook vehicles. 

Power liftgate recall

• Issue: Power liftgate struts may wear out prematurely, causing the liftgate to suddenly fall.
• Affected vehicles: 2009-2012 Chevrolet Traverse vehicles manufactured between July 6, 2008, and February 29, 2012. 

Evap system purge valve recall

• Issue: A faulty purge valve can lead to the check engine light, driveability problems, and difficulty starting after refueling. 
• Affected vehicles: While this is a common problem for this generation, not every vehicle may have been subject to a specific recall for it. It's best to check your VIN for any specific campaigns related to this issue. 

How to check for recalls

• Find your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the bottom left of your windshield or on your registration. 
• Enter your VIN on the Kelley Blue Book or NHTSA website to see if your specific vehicle is affected by any open recalls. 
• Contact a Chevrolet dealer to have the necessary repairs performed for any open recalls. 

What is 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 years did Chevy Traverse have transmission problems?

Multiple Chevrolet Traverse model years have experienced transmission problems, most frequently with the 2009-2017 first generation and specific models like the 2020-2021 and 2025 model years. Common issues include rough shifting, slipping gears, leaks, and total failure, often related to the wave plate or other internal components.
 
Affected model years and common issues

• First generation (2009–2017): This generation is frequently cited for transmission issues such as slipping, rough shifting, and premature failure. The wave plate failure is a known issue, and in some cases, service bulletins exist to have the repair covered by GM. 
• 2013: This specific model year is noted for its transmission not holding up well over time. 
• 2018: The redesign in 2018 did not eliminate all problems, with reports of transmission issues on some 2018 models. 
• 2020–2021: A recall exists for specific wheelchair-accessible versions of these model years where a part can chafe the transmission case, leading to leaks and potential fire risk. 
• 2025: The latest model year has already seen reports of leaks, hard shifting, and complete transmission failure within the first few thousand miles. 

General advice

• If you own one of these models, be sure to check for any recalls or special service bulletins issued by GM that could cover repairs. 
• Regular maintenance, especially on transmission fluid changes, is crucial to help prevent some issues.