Which Traverse has transmission problems?

Chevrolet Traverse models from the early Lambda-generation years—roughly 2009 through 2013—are the ones most frequently cited for transmission problems, though later models have fewer widespread issues. Common symptoms include slipping, hard or delayed shifting, shuddering, and occasional failure to engage.

Model years most affected

The following model years are most often cited in consumer reports, recalls, and service bulletins as being susceptible to transmission problems in the Traverse line.

• 2009 Chevrolet Traverse


• 2010 Chevrolet Traverse


• 2011 Chevrolet Traverse


• 2012 Chevrolet Traverse


• 2013 Chevrolet Traverse

Owners of these early Lambda-platform models should pay particular attention to transmission performance and ensure recalls or service bulletins are addressed.

Common symptoms and warning signs

Watching for these symptoms can help catch transmission problems before a breakdown occurs. The most frequently reported issues among Traverse owners include the following:

• Slipping gears or failure to stay engaged in a selected gear


• Harsh, delayed, or inconsistent shifting between gears


• Transmission shuddering or banging when changing speeds


• Transmission warning light, Check Engine light, or other dashboard alerts


• Unusual noises, loss of power, or sudden inability to move

Recognizing these signs early can improve chances of a timely repair and limit further damage to the drivetrain.

What to do if you suspect transmission problems

If your Traverse shows symptoms, follow these steps to diagnose and address the issue, including understanding warranty coverage and repair options.

1. Check for open recalls and service bulletins affecting your exact VIN via NHTSA.gov and GM’s service portals; document any notices that match your vehicle.


2. Schedule a professional diagnostic with a qualified technician who can reproduce the issue and inspect fluid condition and level.


3. Ask about warranty options. Some Lambda-platform transmissions have had extended coverage or recall-related repairs; clarify whether your vehicle qualifies.


4. Obtain detailed repair quotes and consider the cost-benefit of repair versus replacement, especially for higher-mileage units.

Timely diagnosis and following manufacturer guidance can help reduce the risk of sudden failure and improve long-term reliability.

Notes on the broader Traverse family

While the Chevrolet Traverse shares a platform with GMC Acadia, Buick Enclave, and Saturn Outlook, transmission problems documented for Traverse often appear in those sibling models as well. If you’re shopping used, checking the maintenance and service history across the Lambda family can provide additional context.

Summary

The early Lambda-era Traverse models (roughly 2009–2013) are the best-known for transmission-related complaints, particularly slipping, hard shifts, and shuddering. If you own or plan to buy one of these years, review recalls and service bulletins, monitor for warning signs, and seek prompt professional diagnosis. Later generations have generally benefited from refinements that reduced the frequency of these issues. Always verify with official recall data and a trusted mechanic before making a decision.

Which Traverse to avoid?

Among the early 2010s models plagued with mechanical issues, the 2012 Traverse is another Chevrolet to avoid. These earlier first-gen models didn't see many changes until the 2013 refresh was introduced, so you're essentially getting the same SUV no matter which model you go for between 2009 and 2012.

Is there a recall on the Chevy Traverse transmission?

Chevrolet Traverse transmission recalls have been issued for various model years due to different issues, including a 2020 recall for a start-stop accumulator endcap with missing bolts, which could cause a transmission fluid leak and potential loss of propulsion. Another recall addresses a 2023 issue where an incorrect sun gear could cause the half-shaft to disengage. Additionally, a separate recall for certain 2020-2021 wheelchair-accessible models involves a potential transmission fluid leak caused by the inner wheel-well shroud rubbing against the transmission case. 
This video explains a potential recall issue with the Chevy Traverse torque converter: 38sTopicMotorYouTube · Nov 14, 2025
2023 recall

• Issue: An incorrect sun gear was used in the transmission. 
• Problem: This can cause the driver-side half-shaft to disengage from the transmission. 
• Consequence: A loss of drive power or potential vehicle rollaway if the vehicle is in park. 

2020 recall

• Issue: Missing bolts on the start-stop accumulator endcap.
• Problem: This can lead to a transmission fluid leak.
• Consequence: In some cases, this could lead to a loss of propulsion or a fire hazard if the fluid is exposed to an ignition source. 

2020-2021 recall (wheelchair accessible vehicles)

• Issue: The screw and clip holding the inner wheel-well plastic shroud may chafe against the transmission case.
• Problem: This can cause a transmission fluid leak.
• Consequence: A transmission fluid leak. 

What to do

• To determine if your specific vehicle is affected, you can enter your VIN on the General Motors owner's website or check Kelley Blue Book's recall page for the specific model year. 
• If your vehicle is under a recall, the manufacturer will pay for the necessary repairs at an authorized dealer. 
• Bring any recall letters you have received to the dealership, as they contain important information about the repair. 

What year Traverse has 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. 

What year not to buy Chevy 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.