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On the Chevy Trax website, GM states that all eyes will be on you, and they aren’t wrong. With a 2018 Chevrolet Trax, you can expect to spend lots of time with technicians looking at your SUV. There are too many problems to count, as reported by drivers. Some of the most problematic include the dangerous suspension and troubles with the electrical system, which also consists of the airbag sensor.
Click on other model year to view more problems: 2019
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NHTSA Complaints for the 2018 Chevrolet Trax
| Complaint Category | Number of Complaints |
|---|---|
| Suspension | |
| Electrical System | |
| Unknown Or Other | |
| Engine | |
| Power Train | |
| Service Brakes | |
| Wheels | |
| Steering | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | |
| Air Bags |
Problems with the Suspension
It’s not every day that you encounter a vehicle with such a serious issue that it needs to be recalled. With the 2018 Chevrolet Trax, many users faced a failure with the control arm weld. Unfortunately, this leads to serious safety concerns while on the road.
One user on the NHTSA stated, “the control arm weld was improperly welded on both sides of the car which can lead to fatigue causing the wheel to rub and causing an accident. After being notified by OnStar of the potential issue, I had my vehicle inspected. The car failed inspection. Chevrolet is claiming that there is no recall and therefore not covered by the warranty and want me to continue to drive it despite the dealership stating it failed the inspection and is unsafe to drive.”
It’s clear that this comment was made in the early stages of the problem because GM later did issue a recall. The recall affected particular 2017-2019 Chevrolet Trax vehicles. The front lower-control arms might have an improper weld in one or both of the joints. When this occurs, the car might have a partial separation of the lower-control-arm from the SUV. The dealers had to replace the parts to repair it.
The control arm connects the wheel hub and steering knuckle to the frame of the vehicle, so it’s vital that it operates correctly. Hopefully, this driver got the Trax fixed once the recall was issued. It probably brought some relief to get the repair done once and for all. At least it opened up the door to focus on some of the other troubles.
Here are some actual complaints logged with the NHTSA about the 2018 Chevy Trax Suspension Problems:
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 CHEVROLET TRAX. WHILE DRIVING ON A VERY CONGESTED HIGHWAY, ON-STAR ADVISED THE CONTACT TO TRAVEL AN ALTERNATIVE ROUTE AND GO TO THE NEAREST DEALER. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO APPLE CHEVROLET (1200 LOUCKS RD, YORK, PA 17404) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THERE WAS A LOWER CONTROL ARM WELDING FAILURE. THE DEALER PROVIDED ALTERNATIVE TRANSPORTATION UNTIL A REMEDY WAS AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND PROVIDED CASE NUMBER: 95258825086. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 10,500.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 CHEVROLET TRAX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 19V312000 (SUSPENSION). THE CONTACT CALLED PREMIER CHEVROLET BUICK AT 304-292-9446 (LOCATED AT 5392 UNIVERSITY TOWN CENTRE DR, MORGANTOWN, WV 26501) AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND WAS NOT ABLE TO CONFIRM WHEN THE PARTS WERE TO BECOME AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER DID NOT PROVIDE A LOANER VEHICLE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
Problems with the Electrical System
Among the numerous complaints about the Trax is the electrical system. Whether it’s dealing with the radio or the rear camera, users have plenty to say about the malfunctions. When we get behind the wheel of a vehicle, we all want to use our equipment the way it was intended, but Chevy owners aren’t always able to do that.
Let’s look at one comment made by an owner on Edmunds. The review states, “So yeah I have one of these Trax Redline and let me tell you something…stay far away. Horrible engine, transmission,seats, all noise and no go, can’t fold the rear seats down and have anyone taller than 5’5″ person sit up front. Gas milage is 17.4 mpg. Creaking and cracking noises in the interior and seats. Seat foam is caving and collapsed. My vehicle has 4600 miles on it and I’ll be lucky to get 60000 miles on this car…the transmission has started to slip and shift rough, front windows crack when being put down and back up, my fancy Bose radio shuts off and doesn’t come back on along with the rear camera, and OnStar. This is by far the worst vehicle I have ever owned and will be trading this POS ASAP!”
While some of the complaints weren’t related to electrical issues, you can see what aspects matter. The radio shuts itself off plus the rear camera and OnStar doesn’t turn on sometimes either. Among the many ways GM attempted to address these situations, Service Bulletin #17-NA-405 discusses an intermittent radio screen when the vehicles starts.
Sometimes the radio restarts and takes time to reset. The radio display also goes black and changes to a white screen for some customers. GM points to a problem with the infotainment system attempting to download massive amounts of data. If that’s not the case, then they are willing to say it might be an internal radio concern.
In typical automaker fashion, they simply aren’t willing to take responsibility for problems, even though multiple people complain about the same things. Maybe they just don’t feel that having a working radio is important. Let’s take away their Taylor Swift during a commute and see how they feel.
Here are some actual complaints logged with the NHTSA about the 2018 Chevy Trax Electrical System Problems:
2018 CHEVROLET TRAX-LS AWD. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO MANY SAFETY DEFECTS (STALLING,BATTERY LOSING POWER ,POWER STEERING AND ALL WHEEL SYSTEM ISSUES) WITH VEHICLE. *AS *TR
Problems with the Airbag Sensor
Along the lines of electrical problems, the 2018 Chevy Trax is also plagued with a malfunctioning airbag sensor. Drivers also find that the battery light and other warning lights tend to illuminate for no apparent reason. This isn’t just annoying but also makes it impossible to find out if something is wrong with the vehicle.
There’s a letter posted to the NHTSA website from one driver who states, “The 2018 Chevrolet TRAX which we leased on July 31, 2018, from Graff Chevrolet in Okemos Michigan, has a defective passenger Airbag sensor or a faulty electrical connection. This is a serious safety problem. The vehicle was taken to the Graff Service Department on August 13th for a correction of the defect. The passenger airbag indicator light indicates “off’ at least 50% of the time when my wife is in the seat. She is an “adult-sized occupant” as referenced in the operations manual on page 81. Also, no additional covers or materials have been placed on the seat. The manual also indicates that the light may indicate “on” when a bag of groceries or a lap-top computer is placed on the passenger seat. Those items certainly do not equal the weight of an adult. After raising our concern, nothing has been done to address the issue.”
At this time, we couldn’t find any communication from the manufacturer regarding the airbag sensor itself, but there are other bulletins. For example, Service Bulletin #11-08-49-001Y relates to a Transport Mode On Message or the Battery Light display on the dash. The trouble with Transport Mode is that it requires a specific procedure to turn off. The bulletin walks the technician through the steps for each model but doesn’t suggest how to stop it from happening.
What we’ve learned is that the Trax prefers to turn off the equipment we want, such as the radio, but illuminate other things we don’t want to see. Between these annoyances and the safety recall, we understand why drivers are so upset with the automaker.
Here are some actual complaints logged with the NHTSA about the 2018 Chevy Trax Airbag Sensor Problems:
2018 CHEVROLET TRAX. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO ISSUES WITH PASSENGER AIRBAG SENSOR.
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Complaint Data
| Category | Fuel/propulsion System, Power Train, Suspension |
| Date | Feb 15, 2023 |
| State | DE |
| Description | I'd it's a 2018 chevrolet grad lt for almost two years. My engine light been cutting off and on since 5 months since I'd the vehicle. Now my stabilitrak light come off and on with showing the hazard light on the dashboard. I just want to be safe if the vehicle has problems with suspension issues to check out. |
| Category | Power Train |
| Date | Jan 01, 2023 |
| State | NY |
| Description | All wheel drive disabled when car is started, displaying awd disabled message on startup instrument cluster. Scan for dtc 0121 lost communication with ebcm. Rdcm corroded and needs replacing. Common issue with this vehicle but somehow not included with my particular vin. Ref #17436-02: special coverage and ref# a162081280 |
| Category | Steering, Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Oct 12, 2022 |
| State | MA |
| Description | My vehicle has been giving me such a headache! I purchased the trax in (12/2021) and it has been in the shop for the same issue multiple times. It went in the shop in july and I did not pick my vehicle back up til september (2mths). The problem its having is the power steering keeps locking up and the engine and power steering lights keeps coming on. Once I come to a stop it will not pick up speed its liking I'm just sitting still and when it does start to go its taking a very slow time. I almost been in multiple accidents due to this issue. After spending thousands of dollars on rentals and chevy service department, the issue still remains. I got the car out the shop in september and took it back a week later for the previous problem and they still cant find what is causing this problem. As I type this my car is back at chevy service for the same issue its been in there since (10/8/22) and I had to spend more money for a rental. This problem is becoming a burden on me and affecting my job. I require a vehicle for work. I need answer to my problem asap or issue me a new car. |
| Category | Service Brakes |
| Date | Sep 09, 2022 |
| State | FL |
| Description | Approximately one week ago, I went to reverse out of my drive way and my brakes were very hard. I was able to stop ok, but it took more effort than normal. That day, while in traffic, the “service brake assist†indicator came on my dashboard. This went away after I went into class and then started my trax and began driving again. The indicator did not reappear until about two days later. I parked in my driveway and that next morning I reversed out like usual and I had to put every bit of my 158lbs on the brake. I drove very slowly and then tried reversing. The brakes were fine. The next night I was driving home and someone cut me off. I had zero brakes. I had to drive off the road to avoid a collision. I came less than a foot from slamming into the vehicle in front of me. I managed to miss most of the curb but ended up hitting the curb with my right rear tire (a chunk of the tire is now missing). Once the vehicle has been driven for a brief period of time there aren't severe problems with the brakes (while in reverse). Overall the vehicle has significantly less braking power and requires maximum force from me to completely stop. The “service brake assist†light/indicator comes on sporadically and I have gone to a parts store three separate times for a scan but they say when the indicator is not active it may not trigger a read out. One of the stores said I needed to take it to a dealership but I do not have the money for that as I am a single mother in college. Tonight I parked differently so that I could mow the lawn and when I reversed into the driveway (at an incline), a “hill assist†indicator flashed very briefly. My vehicle currently has 36,859 miles, of which I have personally driven 30,259 miles. All maintenance is done as it should be at proper times. |
| Category | Power Train, Vehicle Speed Control |
| Date | Aug 27, 2022 |
| State | NC |
| Description | You be driving down the road in the vehicle will make you feel like you hit somebody which is a big safety issue and the vehicle only has 42,000 miles on it should not be doing that this is a safety issue and needs to be resolved and fix my chevrolet |
| Category | Electrical System |
| Date | Aug 07, 2022 |
| State | KY |
| Description | All wheel drive system control module failed casing loss of awd. Dealer confirmed that this module needed to be replace and was not covered under power train warranty. Doing research I found that there is a known issue with some modules and gm has put out special coverage for these modules and their wiring harness. My vehicle was not covered under this special coverage and therefore I was forced to pay out of pocked for this repair. |
| Category | Electrical System, Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Jul 19, 2022 |
| State | CO |
| Description | The blower motor and blower motor resistor in this car have gone out numerous times. They do not work. Most owners of this car have it replaced multiple times, costing over 00. This is unsafe, in both summer and winter months. During the summer, the people in the car over heat and can suffer from heat stroke. In the winter, you can't defrost your windows which can cause multiple accidents to take place. Having replaced both these parts numerous times, I believe this may be an electrical issue. Along with a parts issue. |
| Category | Electrical System, Service Brakes, Steering |
| Date | Jun 18, 2022 |
| State | TX |
| Description | My car always randomly doesn't want to speed up. All the lights turn in and constantly tells me service power steering and brakes drive with care. It says something about electrical. I have taken it to chevy they tell me they don't know what is wrong with my car. They charged me 350$ to fix something they thought it was but it wasn't it because my car still does the same thing. It will even stop telling me how fast I'm going. |
| Category | Engine, Power Train |
| Date | Mar 27, 2022 |
| State | NJ |
| Description | The non return valve in the intake either broke or fell off( apparently defective) causing my vehicle's check engine light to come and causing multiple error codes. As a result of this defective part it cause my vehicle to vibrate violently ,the lost of power, and ultimately stalling out nearly causing me getting involved with a very serious accident. As a result of this incident I took my vehicle to the nearest mechanical shop had it diagnosed showing multiple error codes and ultimately revealing a missing part ( a rubber nipple ) which was supposed to be inside of the intake. As stated above the check engine light did come on one week prior to the above conditions as a result of this missing/defective part . I had tried on several occasions with the dealership where I purchased my vehicle from to have the above problem resolved with negative results. My mechanic has confirm with me that this is not the first time he has seen this part missing from other gm vehicles with the same type of engine . I did research about my issue and found numerous reports of this with the same type engine in it since 2012 , also my mechanic was told by one of the service members of the dealership that they were aware of this problem obviously this is not the first time, but they refuse to have my car towed and wanted me to pay an additional 0 again to get the car diagnosed. The car was rendered unsafe to drive due to the fact of the above problems regarding this defective part . This needs to be addressed , there is no doubt in my mind that someone will ultimately die from this continuous problem with these engines with this particular part. I have kept all the parts that were taken off of my vehicle for further inspection especially if the nhtsa wishes to inspect it. I am appealing the decision from general motors concerning this replacement part/ parts that I purchase to render my vehicle safe and operable. Replacement parts are all gm products ! |
| Category | Electrical System, Engine |
| Date | Mar 02, 2022 |
| State | IN |
| Description | Transmission leak due to the start/stop system my vehicle is to the point of barely moving forward to not moving forward when I am forced to come to a stop. I called chevy dealer, who refuses to fix the issue and said I have to let you know and get your approval my vehicle has the exact issue the recall is over, as the same year, and make per the announcement you did not specify my vehicle being exempt I need service a. S. A. P! |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Jan 09, 2022 |
| State | IL |
| Description | Having engin light come on.. Emissions issues. Already got a letter about a future recall. Don't want to pay out of pocket. Rough starting and weird noise. Either engin or exhaust issue. I know I'm not the only person. |
| Category | Power Train |
| Date | Nov 17, 2021 |
| State | MO |
| Description | Antifreeze leak from the turbo. Only 22500 miles. A search revealed that this is a constant and consistent problem. Gm needs to issue a recall |
| Category | Power Train |
| Date | Jul 23, 2021 |
| State | NH |
| Description | Turbo coolant pipes leaking no check engine light no warning noticed anti freeze on driveway. Seems like there is a lot of this happening. Glad I was home and not far away. |
| Category | Service Brakes, Traction Control System |
| Date | Jul 16, 2021 |
| State | WI |
| Description | The contact owns a 2018 chevrolet trax. The contact stated while driving at unknown speeds, the vehicle stopped independently with the traction control warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 58,240. |
| Category | Unknown Or Other |
| Date | May 01, 2021 |
| State | IN |
| Description | Ac no longer works. Ac only blows warm air no cool air. Three years is very soon for a car to have issues with the air condition. There is no ac. The heater works fine. However, when I turn on my ac the car vibrates and makes a grinding sound. Feels unsafe to drive. |
| Category | Back Over Prevention: Rearview System Braking, Electrical System, Power Train |
| Date | Apr 19, 2021 |
| State | OH |
| Description | -backup camera sensor sound stopped working around 55k miles -we bought out car brand new three years ago this month, and the turbo unexpectedly cracked somewhere between 68k-69k miles. It's releasing a horrible smell in the car. No check engine light is coming on |
| Category | Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Feb 18, 2021 |
| State | NY |
| Description | The rear differential clutch module shorted out. Very expensive part and is not covered in the power train warranty it should be . Was in my driveway and message came on to have the all wheel drive serviced. Shouldn't have to put any money into a two year old vehicle that only had 38,653 miles on it. |
| Category | Electrical System, Engine |
| Date | Feb 17, 2021 |
| State | CO |
| Description | I bought my car brand new with 49 miles on it. From the first day it has been giving me a service rear camera system error, the entire dash will completely blackout on me and takes a while to come back on and my car was slipping while shifting from park to reverse and reverse to drive. With almost 65k miles on it, I started to get a service awd, service power steering with a faulty power steering issue while driving, my car randomly won't start, despite the battery and alternator all being good. I was receiving every error code, check engine light randomly on and shuts off, when I had the codes checked, I had never seen so many error codes in my life! Low voltages, main system errors, the whole bit. Now my car thinks I am trying to steal it as the service theft deterrent system light is on. |
| Category | Electrical System |
| Date | Feb 11, 2021 |
| State | OH |
| Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2018 chevrolet trax. The contact stated that the vehicle's door locks would unlock and lock suddenly. The failure occurs intermittently. The contact stated that when they entered their vehicle and while starting, the vehicle's horn suddenly activated and continued to make noise for approximately 3 minutes after the contact had repeatedly pressed the horn in hopes to deactivate it. The contact stated that when they started the vehicle afterwards, the failure reoccurred. The contact stated that the vehicle was emitting a burning order from the heating/ac compartment. The contact had taken the vehicle to the dealer (serpentini chevrolet of willoughby hills 2810 bishop rd, willoughby hills, oh 44092; (440) 701-5417) who were unable to identify or duplicate the issues. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was made aware and opened a case regarding the matter. The approximate failure mileage was 25,600. |
| Category | Electrical System |
| Date | Jan 05, 2021 |
| State | MI |
| Description | My 2018 chevy trax dashboard went bonkers. The digital speedometer on the right side of dash went black then as I was driving all the emergency lights, oil, engine, door open, tire, abs, brake, battery, started going on and off, and the analog speedometer dial would would go all the up and all the down and then go black. This is very scary when driving, because you can't tell how fast you are going. It has happened on regular surface roads and the highway. I was using bluetooth, with my phone plugged in to the car lighter thing and a usb and I had google maps and spotify going through my car radio. This happened in october 2020 and the radio was replaced. It happened again on november 30 2020. I recorded a video at a corner near my work. I made an appointment for december 3. At my appointment, I shared the video with the service person to prove I am not a crazy, hysterical person. The service tech could not replicate the issue and even had their tech talk to gm engineering to discuss the issue. I got my car back on january 4, 2021, but it was not fixed. I am afraid to drive my car. |
| Category | Engine, Suspension, Wheels |
| Date | Jan 03, 2021 |
| State | CA |
| Description | August 2020 at about 20k miles took vehicle in for oil change at dealer. Added recommended tire rotation. Everything is fine. I inquire about the recal on the lower control arms and parts will be ordered and should be called. No call! May 2020 - take car back to dealership for code regarding the turbo charger (which needed to be replaced because wastegate was sticking) they also were finally able to install lower control arm parts that they never called me about. This is about 30k miles. Dec 31, 2020 at about 36k miles I take in for oil change and tire rotation. I am now being told my left front wheel stud is cross threaded and I have uneven wear and require an aligment. I'm assuming they did not align my car while installing that part from the recall and their tech cross threaded the stud on my wheel. I will be going back tomorrow because this was not a problem until they installed the new control arm which would require them to take the tire off. I'm very frustrated because they were already trying to put the blame back on me, however, they are the only people that have moved the tires. I truly hope guaranty chevrolet in santa ana, ca do right by me and take care of something that could have only been done about 6k miles ago at there service shop. |
| Category | Air Bags |
| Date | Dec 09, 2020 |
| State | CT |
| Description | It happened 3rd times now. First 2 had been replacments and now I have to return it to fix it for 3rd airbag |
| Category | Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Sep 20, 2020 |
| State | NC |
| Description | The service awd drive warning light came on 26,206 miles>happened while driving. Intermittent |
| Category | Steering, Suspension |
| Date | Mar 20, 2020 |
| State | IA |
| Description | Id number 19v312 |
| Category | Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Feb 04, 2020 |
| State | CA |
| Description | Air conditioning went out prematurely leaked and is blowing hot air |
| Category | Suspension, Wheels |
| Date | Jan 15, 2020 |
| State | FL |
| Description | We purchased our 2018 chevy trax january 2018. In approx. July we were notified of the factory recall for the lower control arms. Up until this point we have been bringing our trax in for oil changes and tire rotations to dale earnhardt jr chevrolet. The day I dropped off my trax for the recall inspection I was told that both my front tires were in extreme hazardous condition and they needed to be replaced. I declined purchasing new tires at that point because I wanted a second opinion. Reason being how could they become "extremely hazardous" in such a short period of time. As it be upon inspection both of my lower control arms were found to be faulty. My vehicle was kept for approx. 6 weeks for repair. During that time I spoke with several different tire dealerships regarding the impact the control arms would have on the wear of my tires and every single one of them concurred that it would absolutely have a impact on the wear of my tires. At that point I had just alittle over 40,000. Per the tire experts new tires are expected to last at least 50,000 miles. I talked to the dealership and they would not cover the cost but offered me a discounted rate. I then opened a case with gm and was told gm would not cover the cost of the tires either. I am trying to find out who is responsible for making this decision. If the recall clearly states a faulty control arm 'could' cause your tires to toe out and create issues with your tire tread which mine did why is gm not covering the cost of the tires. Would I have had to have a crash to have them replaced? |
| Category | Electrical System, Engine, Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Dec 28, 2019 |
| State | NJ |
| Description | On 2/17, I purchased a 2018 chevy trax. The engine light came on 12/20/19 therefore I took it to the dealership. The diagnostics revealed two problems but only one was covered under the warranty. Problem 1. Turbo leaking at joint to inlet coupler (covered). Problem 2. Oxygen sensor defective (not covered). I have 63,676 miles on my trax and I was told that the warranty expired at 60,800 miles on the oxygen sensor. My car is only 1,400 miles over the warranty and I am experiencing so much problems. Also at times while driving the visual screen goes blank therefore the radio and reverse camaca does not work. There was also a recall on this vehicle and the dealer took care of it free of charge. I am so disappointed about my vehicle because it is not even two years old yet and so much problems. This car must be a lemon. |
| Category | Vehicle Speed Control, Wheels |
| Date | Dec 19, 2019 |
| State | IL |
| Description | When I first purchase the car it was fine a couple of months later my tires started to buckle when there was no snow because the car would slippery on the dash board.. Also the speed of the great couple months later it would not pick up speed |
| Category | Suspension |
| Date | Dec 09, 2019 |
| State | NY |
| Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2018 chevrolet trax. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 19v312000 (suspension); however, the part for the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the repair. The contact called paddock chevrolet (located at 3232 delaware avenue, kenmore, ny 14217, 716-803-6241) who stated that the contact was on the waiting list; however, they were unable to provide an estimated timeframe for the repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. |
| Category | Electrical System, Suspension, Wheels |
| Date | Nov 15, 2019 |
| State | IN |
| Description | The dash and radio has gone out since purchasing the car 9/2018. I called dealer they said they awaiting the update from gmc. Yet today this have I received a update on the computer in the dash. It's been 14 months. They radio just shuts off and won't come back on. I have taken it to service department by the time I drove there the radio came back on. I had the car serviced and the alignment was out. No one told me. I had to look at the service paperwork myself to find that there was a recall on the control arm weld. I had the recall fixed in 6/2019. On 11/4/2019 I went to get in my car and driving and the brakes felt like they went out. Then the abs light came on and said I needed it services. They dealer still have my car and is stating it's a wheel sensor and not covered under warranty. A light over the license plate broke and I had to have that replaced. Once again they keep blaming customer or gmc for the parts or defects. Yet make customers pay. They say they are at the mercy of the parts department. Also that I wanted service but didn't want to pay for it. So now they are trying to charge me 0 stating it was hit from debris which my car hadn't left my drive way in a month. I think the wheel sensor may have gotten broken when they repairs the control arm weld in june. But are trying to blame customer for it. So it's not covered under warranty.*dt*jb |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Oct 22, 2019 |
| State | MI |
| Description | In february on zero degree day my 2018 trax had blue smoke coming out of the tail pipe and almost stalled car running. I saw another trax that same day with blue smoke coming out of the tail pipe. When I was at the dealership they were returning some one elses trax and it had blue smoke coming out of it. The trax has a 1. 4 turbo engine and gm seems to have a problem with the pcv system on this engine. Gm needs to come up with a fix for this problem and there should be a recall on this. You can look on youtube and the mechanics there are aware of the problem. The dealerships and gm seem to not have any interest in correcting this problem. The 1. 4 turbo is put in many gm cars. I would think if nothing else this should be a pollution control recall. |
| Category | Electrical System, Engine |
| Date | Oct 02, 2019 |
| State | CA |
| Description | When I'm at a stop and try to push on the gas it feels like it's stalling out, I've also had problems with the radio and turn signal, I've had the radio screen be completely black but the radio was playing and on other times after taking it out of reverse and putting it in drive and actually driving down the street the two yellow margin lines still appear on the screen across the radio station and the turn signal seems like the dealer had to replace the overhead light in the car because it did not function as well, it delays when I turn it on it takes a couple of seconds for it to actually start flashing I've also had a problem with the emission and they told me it was because of cheap gas and they replaced something with the emission control and it felt like it was dying out before they fixed it and it still does. I believe september 18th was the last time I took it in for these problems which they could not find out why. |
| Category | Suspension |
| Date | Sep 19, 2019 |
| State | NM |
| Description | I took my chevy trax in for the recall and was told the driver side needed to be fixed cause of the recall it was making a horrible noise they said 1 week to get the part in I called and they said it would be months then I was driving and it popped and vibrated under my feet so I took it in and was told it's unsafe to drive now I have had a loner for 2 months any time I call the dealership they say well others have had there car back there longer it's frustrating to be making a car payment on a car I don't have I have dogs I take places and can't cause u can't have pets in the loner car I have had my car for a year and the dealership has had it longer than I have I had an issue when they tinted my windows glass had to be replaced and trim and they sent me a faded trim and I was told that is just what they keep sending took 2 months to get my tint why am I paying for a car when I don't have it |
| Category | Electronic Stability Control, Suspension, Wheels |
| Date | Sep 11, 2019 |
| State | OH |
| Description | My car was call back for a re-call jake sweeney chevrolet had it over a month when I received it back it was something wrong with the tires if they had replaced my tires with old tires the tires I had in there had a iron something iron in it also is making a lot of noise is waving back and forth it's very dangerous to drive and I've been driving it when I hit a bump and sways over to the left and right side other people's safety is involved to of this car I'm feared for my life it's a 2018 track and when I looked under it when they took me to look under the bottom of the car and had old parts on it was rusted and old and I didn't know anything about it please help me I live in cincinnati ohio [xxx] is my zip code my address is [xxx] cincinnati ohio [xxx] phone number [xxx]. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6). *tr *tt |
| Category | Structure:body |
| Date | Sep 09, 2019 |
| State | NH |
| Description | Suddenly starting to receive "hood open" warning while driving; hood is completely closed. When parked, alarm started to go off, to alert that hood is open while car is sitting in driveway; again, hood is completely closed. |
| Category | Suspension |
| Date | Sep 09, 2019 |
| State | FL |
| Description | 2018 chevrolet trax premier. Consumer writes in regards to gm safety recall. *ld the consumer stated the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time to complete the recall repair. The parts were not available. *js |
| Category | Tires |
| Date | Sep 09, 2019 |
| State | ID |
| Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2018 chevrolet trax equipped with two continental conti pro contact tires, size: p205/70/r16 (na). The contact received a recall notice for nhtsa campaign number: 19v312000 (suspension). The contact stated that the front driver and passenger tires shook and were worn down. The contact stated that the vehicle failed the gauge inspection. There were no warning indicators illuminated. The vehicle was taken to gortsema motors, inc. (227 n state st, grangeville, id 83530, (208) 983-0320), but was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who stated that the tires needed to be replaced. The two tires were replaced. The manufacturer was contacted and did not assist. The vehicle failure mileage was 16,000 and the tire failure mileage was 20,000. The dot number was unknown. |
| Category | Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Sep 09, 2019 |
| State | MI |
| Description | Vehicle is involved in recall but dealership is forcing my daughter to drive vehicle in the meantime. No loaner is being offered. |
| Category | Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Sep 09, 2019 |
| State | MI |
| Description | Lower control arm recall. Was initially told that parts would be available in 2-3 weeks. I am now at 5 weeks and no one can advise availability of parts. No loaner has been offered by the dealership. And this vehicle is driven by an 18-year-old so I'm not certain if they would allow her to drive one anyway. |
| Category | Service Brakes, Suspension |
| Date | Sep 06, 2019 |
| State | DC |
| Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2018 chevrolet trax. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 19v312000 (suspension). The contact called ourisman chevrolet of marlow heights at 240-455-3386 (located at 4400 branch ave, marlow heights, md 20748) and was informed that the parts were not available. The contact stated that the brakes squeaked. The vehicle was taken to the same dealer where the rotors were cleaned and the brake pads were also changed, but the failure recurred. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and stated that they would contact the dealer regarding a loaner vehicle; however, the contact was neither called back nor informed when the recall part would become available. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 9,222. Parts distribution disconnect. |
| Category | Suspension |
| Date | Aug 28, 2019 |
| State | TX |
| Description | 2018 chevrolet trax. Consumer writes in regards to lower control arm safety recall. *ld the consumer stated the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time completing the recall repair. The consumer was informed the parts necessary to complete a recall repair were on back order. *js |
| Category | Suspension |
| Date | Aug 23, 2019 |
| State | GA |
| Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2018 chevrolet trax. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 19v312000 (suspension). The parts to do the repair were unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. Mike reed chevrolet (1559 e oglethorpe hwy, hinesville, ga 31313, (855) 219-7194) was contacted and confirmed that the parts were not available for the recall remedy. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and was not able to confirm when the parts were to become available. The contact had not experienced a failure. The vin was unknown. |
| Category | Service Brakes |
| Date | Aug 16, 2019 |
| State | VA |
| Description | I called and made an appointment at hendrick chev buick gmc, 12050 w broad st., richmond, va 23233 on june 29th and carried my vehicle in. They would not look at it to see if it needed the part since they had to wait until after july 1st. I went back again and they looked at it and said the part needed to be replaced. As of today they state they do not have the part. Why can't they get the part? |
| Category | Suspension |
| Date | Aug 08, 2019 |
| State | FL |
| Description | I got notified of a recall affecting the lower control arm of the car in april. On june 1st I had an appointment at don mealey chevrolet (clermont, fl) to have it inspected and they found that both lower arm controls of the car were affected. They claimed to not have the parts and they would be ordered. I called to follow up multiple times and was told they still didn't have them. On august 7th I went in for an oil change and I was told the recall is now 'dangerous' and they have had people in loaners for up to 6 weeks now. They said they would check to see if they had the parts that day. The man said they did and that they would repair it that day. He then came back and said they can't find the parts so they have to give me a loaner. No one ever called to say that my car's recall was dangerous and I should not be driving it despite them already doing the inspection back in june. I now have a loaner and no idea when they will repair the 'dangerous' car I was driving for months. |
| Category | Suspension |
| Date | Aug 05, 2019 |
| State | PA |
| Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2018 chevrolet trax. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 19v312000 (suspension). The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The vehicle was taken to valley chevrolet (601 kidder st, wilkes-barre, pa 18702, (570) 821-2772) where it was diagnosed that both lower control arms needed to be replaced; however, the part needed for the repair was not available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that the part was not available. The manufacturer provided case number: 9-5407-849702. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect. |
| Category | Suspension |
| Date | Aug 05, 2019 |
| State | GA |
| Description | On 7/11/19 I took my vehicle into the dealership because I received notification that my car was under recall. Recall #a182202370. The car was inspected and found not to be impacted by the recall and I left. On 7/19/19 made a u-turn in an empty parking lot, I heard a loud crack and then had a hard time steering the vehicle. The right-side passenger tire of the vehicle hit the curb and then the tires were turn sideways. I called and had my car towed back to the dealership because I assumed the problem had to do with the recall. The service manager from the dealership called me to inform me that there was 00 in damage and that the recall had nothing to do with the accident, they suggested I call my insurance company. My insurance adjuster went to the dealership to inspect the vehicle on 6/30/19, was told that the vehicle was not udder the recall. After not hearing from the dealership I called them on august 2nd and was told the vehicle would be ready on 8/5 or 6. Prior to contacting the dealership, my insurance adjuster told me that the dealership re-tested my vehicle with a special tool and found it was included in the recall and that they would be replacing at least one of the lower control arms. I asked my service department contact about the re-test and the replacement of the lower control arm and she indicated she didn't know anything about a new tool and that the service department manager decided to change both lower control arms as a courtesy and she also maintained that my vehicle is not under recall. I went on to this website to find out that there is 1 unaddressed recall. I am contacting you because I don't think I should have to pay out of pocket for this repair and that the dealership is not telling me the truth about the safety of my vehicle. I am a college student and need my car to get around and it has been in their possession since july 19th. |
| Category | Suspension |
| Date | Aug 01, 2019 |
| State | OK |
| Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2018 chevrolet trax. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 19v312000 (suspension). The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The vehicle was taken to route 66 chevrolet (8130 e skelly dr, tulsa, ok 74129, (918) 663-2300), but was not repaired because the part was not available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and informed the contact that they would call the dealer and advise them to provide a loaner vehicle. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect. |
| Category | Suspension |
| Date | Jul 31, 2019 |
| State | OK |
| Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2018 chevrolet trax. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 19v312000 (suspension). The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact called south pointe chevrolet (9146 s memorial dr, tulsa, ok 74133, 918-481-8000) and was informed that the parts were not available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect. |
| Category | Suspension |
| Date | Jul 29, 2019 |
| State | NY |
| Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2018 chevrolet trax. The contact received a recall notice for nhtsa campaign number: 19v312000 (suspension). The vehicle was taken to sunrise chevrolet forest hills (105-20 gerard pl, forest hills, ny 11375, (718) 263-7700), but the part for the recall repair was not available. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 7,500. |
| Category | Suspension |
| Date | Jul 24, 2019 |
| State | TX |
| Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2018 chevrolet trax. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 19v312000 (suspension). The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. Don wringer chevrolet (7777 s general bruce dr, suite a, temple, tx 76502, (254) 598-4131) was contacted and confirmed that the parts were not available for the recall remedy. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and was not able to confirm when the parts were to become available. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect. |
| Category | Suspension |
| Date | Jul 23, 2019 |
| State | MN |
| Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2018 chevrolet trax. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 19v312000 (suspension). Chevrolet of wayzata (16200 wayzata blvd, wayzata, mn 55391, (952) 473-5444) was unable to determine when the part would be provided from the manufacturer for over three weeks. The recall was issued on april 18, 2019. The manufacturer was contacted and did not know when the part would be available. The manufacturer stated that they would let the contact know when the part was available. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect. |
| Category | Suspension |
| Date | Jul 18, 2019 |
| State | GA |
| Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2018 chevrolet trax. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 19v312000 (suspension); however, the part was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer (goodmark chevrolet, 123 s elm st, commerce, ga 30529, (706) 335-3196) diagnosed that the joint control arms were not available to repair the vehicle. The manufacturer was not notified. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect. |
| Category | Suspension |
| Date | Jul 08, 2019 |
| State | DC |
| Description | 2018 chevrolet rax. Consumer writes in regards to front lower control arms. *ld *js |
| Category | Service Brakes, Suspension |
| Date | Jun 24, 2019 |
| State | PA |
| Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2018 chevrolet trax. The contact received a recall notice for nhtsa campaign number: 19v312000 (suspension). While driving and applying pressure to the brake pedal, the brakes made a grinding sound. There were no warning indicators illuminated on the instrument panel. The contact took the vehicle to hessert chevrolet (6301 e roosevelt blvd, philadelphia, pa 19149, (215) 537-2377). The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 34,000. |
| Category | Suspension |
| Date | May 23, 2019 |
| State | DE |
| Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2018 chevrolet trax. While driving on a very congested highway, on-star advised the contact to travel an alternative route and go to the nearest dealer. The vehicle was taken to apple chevrolet (1200 loucks rd, york, pa 17404) where it was diagnosed that there was a lower control arm welding failure. The dealer provided alternative transportation until a remedy was available. The manufacturer was notified and provided case number: 95258825086. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 10,500. The vin was unavailable. |
| Category | Suspension |
| Date | May 20, 2019 |
| State | WV |
| Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2018 chevrolet trax. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 19v312000 (suspension). The contact called premier chevrolet buick gmc at 304-292-9446 (located at 5392 university town centre dr, morgantown, wv 26501) and was informed that the parts were not available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and was not able to confirm when the parts were to become available. The manufacturer did not provide a loaner vehicle. The contact had not experienced a failure. Vin tool confirms parts not available. |
| Category | Suspension |
| Date | May 17, 2019 |
| State | SC |
| Description | The control arm weld was improperly welded on both sides of the car which can lead to fatigue causing the wheel the rub and causing an accident. After being notified by onstar of the potential issue I had my vehicle inspected. The car failed inspection. Chevrolet is claiming that there is no recall and therefore not covered by the warranty and want me to continue to drive it despite the dealership stating it failed the inspection and is unsafe to drive. |
| Category | Suspension |
| Date | May 01, 2019 |
| State | MI |
| Description | Tl* the contact owns a 2018 chevrolet trax. The contact stated that nhtsa campaign number: 19v312000 (suspension) exceeded a reasonable amount of time for repair. The contact stated that the onstar system informed her that the vehicle had a recall. The contact spoke with matthews'harfreaves chevrolet (2000 twelve mile road, royal oak, mi, 48067, (248) 658-8649) and was informed that parts were not available for the repair. The manufacturer was not contacted. The manufacturer stated that the part was not available for repair. The contact noticed that the steering wheel was pulling to the right. The approximate failure mileage was 7,600. Vin tool confirms parts not available. |
| Category | Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Mar 27, 2019 |
| State | NC |
| Description | Purchased a 2018 chevy trax on february 16, 2019. It has been at the dealership twice, currently, to fix an issue of having no heat. Getting ready to send it back to the dealership again to try and fix the issue of no heat. Vehicle was left running in the drive way to heat up and driven more than 20 miles while waiting for the heat to start. |
| Category | Electrical System |
| Date | Feb 25, 2019 |
| State | WA |
| Description | 2018 chevrolet trax-ls awd. Consumer writes in regard to many safety defects (stalling,battery losing power ,power steering and all wheel system issues) with vehicle. *as *tr |
| Category | Air Bags |
| Date | Sep 13, 2018 |
| State | MI |
| Description | 2018 chevrolet trax. Consumer writes in regards to issues with passenger airbag sensor. *ld *js |
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About the Author:
Brian Jones spent more than 20 years working as an ASE Certified Master Tech and Parts Specialist at multiple dealerships. Brian has become an authority in the industry, traveling across the country to consult for car dealerships and contributing his expertise as a writer for several major automotive publications. In his spare time, Brian enjoys working on pickup trucks, muscle cars, Jeeps and anything related to motorsports.
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2018 Chevy Trax Redline- “Service Brake Assist”, and now fuel system purge, and all these fuel/stalling issues. This began many miles ago but I cannot afford to fix this because of course it happens right after the warranty is over.
2018 Chevrolet Trax, 32,000 miles. Last summer at 28,000 miles the Service AWD message displayed and AWD disabled kept coming on and off the dash constantly while driving, was very annoying. Waited a month and took it to the dealer to find the AWD control module was corroded and replaced it (Why was it a good idea to put electronics outside the cabin engineers?…) Long story short its 6 months later and Service AWD is on again… great so now I have to wait another month to get in the dealer. Mind you the first repair I had to pay out of pocket because it is not covered under the powertrain warranty… I will buy 1 more Chevy, if I have as many problems again, I am switching to Foreign cars.
The heat knob in my 2018 Chevy Trax has quit working many times, it has never put heat to feet, the front end clanks, has been taken in for the recall, turbo has had to be replaced, just hit 60,000 miles. The radio fails to connect Bluetooth, then will shut off and not come back on. Do not buy a Trax!
2018 Trax and 137K miles on it and have twice now replace the intake manifold. This should be a recall.
I have a 2017 Chevy Trax. The breaks sneaks and grinds from day 2 of my purchase. I took it to the dealership twice. They claimed to not here anything. At that point the car was under Bumper to Bumper warranty. It is now still under extended warranty.
Now!
In December 2021 my Trax heater wouldn’t warm up. I took back to the dealer ship and they put some coolant in it and charged me $160.00. The invoice states there were no leaks. In April 2022- four months after the engine light came on.
I’ve put an entire gallon of coolant in the last 3 weeks. There is a leak or thermostat issue here.
I just cannot see paying for a car the will give me engine problems before or after the ext warranty is exhausted. I have 44k miles on it.
And there is more.
Any suggestions????
I have a 2018 Chevy trax. 40,000 miles. The check engine light and the stability light the vehicle turns off at lights and stop signs. Has some acceleration problems. I’ve changed the spark plugs the filter the gas cap the gaskets. Every time I go to auto zone to find out what wrong it reads something new. Dude 40,000 miles. My friend has the exact vehicle. Yar model color. Exact same problems
i bouught 2018 chevy trax on November 2017..Six months later the trax stabilitzer came on and i brought it to my dealer who said its the light and they already repair…same problem few months later. THe light just came on yesterday so I called Chevrolet (Auto Nation West at ) 5124269660 and schedule to bring it in tomorrow. This is my fourth visit . I asked them to make sure they fixed this problem because it keep re occurfing
My comment is this thing is a turd! I’m dealing with a 2018 Chevy Trax, that has never been right. I get no reception on the stereo ( Bose system), intermittent leaking of water into the spare tire well, AWD doesn’t engage, gas mileage sucks! When I can get rig of this thing, I’m switching brands!
The 2018 Trax I bought in January of 2018 has had a control arm recall, broken cargo shelf clip, display screen and stereo that turns itself off, roof strip fly off while driving on the highway, hatch door working itself loose and now $150 and 2 day wait despite an appointment, just to investigate an engine light alert that revealed a $600 purge valve malfunction warranted to only 36,000 miles! I get to pay an increasing rental fee for a vehicle that boldly advertises a dealership while waiting for a response from a Chevrolet senior warranty advisor who is working remotely as I commute with an additional insult of no wiper fluid in the rental.
I suggested that “lasts one year plus bonus recall vehicle” verbage should have been added to the window sticker
My onstar dashboard for my radio and everything keeps going out. Also my camera works when it wants to work. Ive had my 2018 trax for 15 months, and they refuse to fix the issue.
Bought the car November 2018, Chevy Trax scared for my life to drive this car it keeps misfiring brought the car in several times and they can’t fix the issue
I have a 2018 Chevy Trax. Bought it in July 2018 with 7 miles. Brakes started to squeak right away, it was in the shop more than 4 times. They say they are safe and that the squeaking (non stop) can’t be fixed. Long story short- I did have a lemon law firm look at it earlier this year. I got $4,000 for it. Which basically was my downpayment. The dealership wants me to buy a whole new car and start over with payments – heck no! I bought and financed for 5 years….i’m not starting over! The brakes squeak grind, etc. I have a lot of highway miles already. In addition, I have a handful of other problems. The front end is always out of alignment. The dealership had said in writing they’d aligned my car several months ago, but then a service tech said it wasn’t, so they did that over amonth ago. Still, it handles horrifically, always veering nonstop to the right. My hands/wrists literally hurt driving this POS. The oil change part of the dealership noted some wear and suggested I get it fixed, yet the service dept. said, nope, not a thing wrong with it. My radio half the time doesn’t work, my check oil light will never come on (I thought it was supposed to), when getting low. The steering wheel is already warped like it’s super faded or something. Shouldn’t be at this stage. This dealership has basically shoved me to the side they have their money they do not care. I am a single mother working hard for my money. I can’t afford this. There are so many things wrong with this vehicle. My daughter and I do not feel safe in it whatsoever. The brakes not only squeak but they grind a lot. As I said I did get $4000 from a Chicago firm on the squeaks alone; but I was not about to put that down on another new car as I felt this was my down payment/trade in money back for this piece of crap. A brand new car, I’ve never been able to enjoy. Is there anything else I can do? I promise you this dealership has just shoved me to the side.