Is the Chevrolet Traverse a reliable three-row SUV? Here’s what Consumer Reports says – Jalopnik

The Chevrolet Traverse is a fairly popular name in the three-row midsize SUV segment. Launched in 2009 as a replacement for the TrailBlazer, this unibody crossover SUV has attracted many loyal enthusiasts who continue to appreciate its comfort and handling as a much smaller vehicle. There’s also the generous cabin and cargo space, and how the Traverse stands out among other used three-row SUVs with the best fuel economy in the real world. But what about when it comes to reliability? According to Consumer Reports reliability data for 2011–2026 models, the Traverse’s reliability ranges between average and below average, with 10 of the 16 models falling into the latter category.

The 2019 and 2024 Chevrolet Traverse are the worst-scoring models of all. On the other hand, the 2022 model was the only one to achieve a better than average result. That means the 2023, 2021, 2014, 2013 and 2012 are the only other Traverse model years that have performed favorably, given their average reliability ratings. Although drivers think the Traverse’s reliability could be better, the midsize SUV still performed well in owner satisfaction, with many models scoring above average.

The Chevrolet Traverse has consistently scored below average in reliability since the third-generation model debuted in 2024, and the 2026 model is no different. Naturally, this leaves the latest version outside the top of its class when it comes to reliability. That honor goes to the Toyota Grand Highlander, which is in a class of its own thanks to its above-average rating.

No other 2026 midsize three-row SUV earned a better-than-average rating, but the 2026 Honda Pilot and Hyundai Palisade did well enough to top Chevrolet’s offerings in the eyes of Consumer Reports. Despite the worse results, the Traverse manages to score slightly higher than some rivals in predicted reliability, including the 2026 Mazda CX-90. CR rated the Mazda SUV as poor for reliability in its launch year of 2024. Although it has since risen in the rankings, evidenced by the fact that the 2025 and 2026 models scored below average, the Mazda CX-90’s latest reliability scores are still well below those of the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse.

Electronics in cars seem to be a common pain point for third-generation Traverse owners. The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse in particular received poor ratings from Consumer Reports in this category, with many owners complaining about the infotainment system. The screen can freeze, sometimes requiring drivers to stop the car, turn it off and open the door before it resets. In addition, there have been comments in some quarters about the driver assistance system not being activated and the radio being turned off.

Owners of the third-generation Traverse are also unimpressed with the SUV’s build quality, with some experiencing at least one fault inside and out. One such issue relates to the lack of adjustment of the third row headrests due to gear engagement issues with the headrest component. As a result, the headrests collide with the second row, preventing the seats from folding all the way down and ultimately sacrificing some cargo space. Squeaking, rattling and leaking were also reportedly common problems for a few owners. When it comes to the transmission, some third-generation Traverse models often experience leaks in the torque converter housing, usually due to loose pump bolts. Fortunately, General Motors has since issued a technical service bulletin addressing the transmission leak problem, which should help a few owners.

Considering the Traverse’s reputation for reliability isn’t exactly great, its impressive sales figures suggest buyers might have been willing to overlook this shortcoming. It still has quite a few desirable features, such as the spacious interior, cargo capacity and good safety performance. The 2025 Traverse earned a “Top Safety Pick” rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety for its high level of occupant safety. This came after it achieved the top rating of “good” in multiple collision avoidance and crashworthiness tests. It also achieved acceptable ratings in crash and crash prevention tests on the SUV’s front end.

A closer look at the results shows that the protection of the driver’s limbs is excellent. The protection of rear occupants was also rated as good. The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse achieved similarly impressive results in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s own tests. It achieved ratings between four and five stars in all three categories in which it was reviewed, and it managed an overall score of five stars.