This preliminary informational (PI) bulletin provides information to dealership personnel that may be helpful when addressing underbody component corrosion with customers.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2018 Chevrolet Traverse powertrain problems
moderate Owners of the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse have filed 187 NHTSA complaints about the powertrain, typically surfacing around 36,700 miles at roughly $2,500 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of July 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See powertrain across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
187
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
| Model year | powertrain complaints |
|---|---|
| 2014 Traverse | 35 |
| 2015 Traverse | 20 |
| 2016 Traverse | 33 |
| 2017 Traverse | 17 |
| 2018 Traverse (this page) | 187 |
| 2019 Traverse | 160 |
| 2020 Traverse | 35 |
| 2021 Traverse | 12 |
| 2022 Traverse | 39 |
1crash
When does it fail?
Of the 187 powertrain complaints filed for the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 25,000-50,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Of the 18 model years of Chevrolet Traverse we track for powertrain problems, this one carries the most owner complaints on file — 187.
Powertrain accounts for 41% of every owner complaint on file for this vehicle — the dominant problem area across 11 categories tracked.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering powertrain on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
This bulletin provides information on identifying Non-GM Engine Calibrations for Gasoline Engines using the Tech 2 or GDS 2.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This service bulletin provides information on the harmful effects of ethylene glycol in transmission fluid.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This service bulletin advises the tech that the rotational Clicking Noise Heard After Engine Shut Down may be normal characteristics of the vehicle.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This informational bulletin explains Unscheduled Supplemental Services and the importance of GM Simplified Maintenance Schedules.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
The 2018 Traverse powertrain exhibits multiple distinct failure modes appearing across the 176-complaint cluster.
Transmission slipping and loss of power occur intermittently during acceleration or gear engagement, with check engine lights and stumbling reported at low to moderate mileage (16,000–25,000 miles reported). Some owners describe the vehicle refusing to accelerate past 30–50 mph or reverting unexpectedly to neutral while driving, creating immediate collision hazards. One owner at 4,000 miles experienced complete transmission failure with no forward or reverse capability.
Shift-to-Park failures are the most frequent complaint. The vehicle displays "Shift to Park" or "Vehicle Not in Park" warnings despite the shifter being in park, preventing engine shut-off. Owners report needing to repeatedly shift between gears or aggressively manipulate the shifter to clear the message and lock the doors. This fails to power down, draining batteries and creating situations where vehicles continue rolling downhill. Repair involves shifter assembly, wiring harness, or shift selector replacement; some owners report the same failure recurring after repair.
Engine stalling and no-start conditions occur unpredictably, occasionally accompanied by loss of all electrical power (instrument panel goes black). One owner at 2,000 miles experienced the vehicle powering off entirely while driving, then continuing to roll when shifted to park.
Torque converter and transmission rebuild/replacement required at 20,270 miles, 50,000 miles, 65,000 miles, 77,000 miles, and 115,000 miles, with quoted costs ranging $4,000–$10,000. Technicians cite valve body, solenoid, and internal wear.
Engine failures include catastrophic internal damage (metal chunks in oil pan) at 70,000 miles, requiring full engine replacement ($6,000), and rough running tied to cam phaser DTCs (P0011, P0014, P0021, P0024) documented in GM Service Bulletin 5251270.
Unresponsive acceleration and gear lag manifest as delays when shifting into drive—engine revs to 6,000–7,000 rpm with no forward motion, or vehicle lurches unexpectedly. These occur both from stops and in city traffic.
Same Chevrolet Traverse powertrain reports on nearby years: 2015 · 2016 · 2017 · 2019 · 2020
Failure modes owners describe
Transmission slipping and intermittent power loss during acceleration
Vehicle loses power or transmission slips intermittently when accelerating, entering traffic, or under load. Engine light illuminates. Sensation of power cutting out then resuming, likened to skipping or jerking. Occurs at various mileages and speed ranges.
When: First 30 days to several years of ownership; 16,000–25,000 miles reported in early incidents
Symptoms owners cite: Intermittent power loss when giving gas; Transmission slipping sensation; Jerking and hesitation during acceleration; Check engine light illumination; Vehicle unable to accelerate past 30–50 mph; Loss of power lasting ~1/4 mile in one case; Grinding noise followed by loss of all gears (Park, Drive, Reverse non-functional)
Codes mentioned: P0011 (A Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance Bank 1), P0014 (B Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance Bank 1), P0021 (A Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance Bank 2), P0024 (B Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance Bank 2)
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer visual inspection and actuator system test revealed no visible concerns in some cases. GM Bulletin 5251270 recommends code clearing with no permanent fix available. One transmission service facility quoted $4,000–$9,000 for rebuild or replacement; another quoted $10,000. At least one broken axle diagnosed. Complete transmission replacement documented.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM Bulletin 5251270 (created 5/7/2018, 5 updates since) documents 'software anomaly' preventing verify-sync status restart; ECM reports cam positions as '0' while commanding actuators, causing engine roughness and drivability issues. Recommends checking and clearing codes only; no permanent repair provided. Some dealers unable or unwilling to replicate intermittent symptoms. One owner's escalation to GM district manager mentioned but outcome unclear. One transmission rebuild quoted at $5,500 with owner pursuing corporate financial relief (case escalated but no resolution reported).
Shift to Park message and inability to turn off vehicle
Vehicle displays 'Shift to Park' or 'Vehicle Not in Park' warning message despite shifter visibly in park and transmission display showing park. Electronics remain on, engine cannot be turned off, doors will not lock, and battery drains if left running. Failure may occur intermittently or persistently. Some vehicles exhibit the same failure after repair.
When: As early as 2 years of ownership; recurring across multiple years and mileages (13,000–84,000 miles documented)
Symptoms owners cite: Shift to Park or Vehicle Not in Park message on dashboard; Engine will not turn off despite being in park; Electronics and lights remain on; Audible dinging or tone accompanying message; Vehicle will not lock; Radio, headlights stay illuminated; Message clears only after multiple shifts between gears or aggressive shifter manipulation; Vehicle continues to roll downhill when in park in one case; Message reappears or persists after attempted fix in multiple cases
Codes mentioned: <no diagnostic codes reported for this failure mode in narratives>
Repairs/costs cited: Shifter assembly replacement ($536.54 documented in one case, $400 quoted in another, $777 reported in another). Shifter wiring harness replacement documented (parts 84955381 shifter switch, 84733196 harness). Some dealers claim diagnostic fee ($95–$169) and repair not covered under drivetrain warranty despite being known issue. One owner required steering column replacement after simpler fixes failed. Parts shortage reported in one case preventing repair. Premature brake wear noted in one case where parking brake engaged repeatedly.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM Service Bulletin 19-NA-206 (September 2019) and Bulletin 18-NA-297 (December 2018) address shift-to-park failures; owners note bulletins exist but repairs often charged out-of-warranty. Multiple owners report dealers acknowledging 'known issue' but lack of authorized remedy or recall coverage. One class action settlement does not provide relief to some owners. Dealer service notes mention 'easy fix' versus 'shifter replacement' options, suggesting inconsistency in GM guidance.
Engine stalling and complete electrical shutdown while driving
Vehicle stalls suddenly while driving with no warning. Instrument panel and all lights go black. In some cases vehicle continues rolling after stalling. Restart attempts unsuccessful initially or require repeated efforts. No check engine light warning before failure.
When: Various mileages; 2,000 miles (1 case), 70,000 miles (1 case catastrophic internal failure)
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden stall without warning while driving or at low speed; All electrical power lost (panel goes black, lights off); Vehicle continues to roll after power loss; Unable to restart immediately or requires multiple restart attempts; No prior warning lights; Coasting to roadside to avoid traffic collision
Codes mentioned: <none reported prior to stalling>
Repairs/costs cited: One case involved catastrophic engine failure with metal chunks (not just shavings) found in oil pan, requiring full engine replacement at cost of ~$6,000. Mechanic stated he had never seen such failure and attributed it to engine defect. All fluid levels and maintenance were up to date. In another case at 2,000 miles, diagnosis unclear and vehicle was towed but not repaired.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Owner at 70,000 miles reported Chevrolet responded 'too bad' and refused coverage or assistance. One case at 2,000 miles resulted in no manufacturer response and vehicle not repaired. Owner expressed belief that Chevy is aware of engine defects in 3.6L V6 powertrain and continues selling affected vehicles.
Torque converter failure and transmission rebuild/replacement
Transmission exhibits shuddering, bucking, or jerking during acceleration and gear engagement. Shift quality degrades. Vehicle may enter limp mode (reduced power) or fail to shift beyond 3rd gear. Complete transmission failure requiring rebuild or replacement.
When: 20,270 miles; 50,000 miles; 65,000 miles; 77,000 miles; 115,000 miles documented
Symptoms owners cite: Shuddering or bucking when shifting gears; Jerking during acceleration below 40 mph; Harsh or delayed gear engagement; Inability to accelerate above 30–50 mph; Loud clunking sound when shifting (one case); Transmission slipping sensation; Vehicle cannot shift into reverse or drive; Transmission stuck, refusing to change gears; Limp mode with check engine light
Codes mentioned: <none specifically reported for torque converter failure, though check engine lights cited in some cases>
Repairs/costs cited: Torque converter replacement at 20,270 miles (owner purchased extended warranty). Transmission flush and reprogramming ($cost not specified) at owner's insistence; issue recurred at higher mileage. Transmission rebuild estimated $4,000–$10,000 depending on parts availability and whether rebuild or new transmission. One transmission service quoted $5,500 for rebuild. One case required valve body and torque converter replacement. At 115,000 miles, transmission will not shift past 3rd gear; estimated repair $7,300, vehicle sat idle ~1 year awaiting repair decision.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Owner with 20,270 miles noted recalls exist for 2017 and 2019 but not 2018 model year, despite same defect appearing in multiple years. Owner questions why 2018 was skipped. One owner lacked recall coverage on VIN despite transmission failure; manufacturer offered only partial monetary rebate ($200 off $2,000+ repair). Another owner at 65,000 miles reports Chevy dealer confirmed transmission replacement ($10,000+) and acknowledges recall exists but does not apply to their VIN. No TSB or recall for torque converter defect in 2018 found by owners; GM Bulletin PIP5568E mentions only software, not transmission hardware.
Cam phaser and engine timing performance codes with rough idle and hesitation
Multiple cam phaser performance diagnostic codes trigger (P0011, P0014, P0021, P0024). Vehicle exhibits rough running, hesitation, stumbling, stalling, power loss, lurching, and jerking. Symptoms occur after auto stop/restart or during normal driving. Service Engine Soon light illuminates.
When: Early in ownership; 1–2 years reported; first instances reported in 2018–2019
Symptoms owners cite: Service Engine Soon (SES) lamp illuminates; Rough engine idle; Hesitation and power loss; Stumbling and lurching during acceleration; Stalling on traffic stops; Drivability concerns after auto stop/restart; Engine revving without corresponding vehicle motion
Codes mentioned: P0011 (A Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance Bank 1), P0014 (B Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance Bank 1), P0021 (A Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance Bank 2), P0024 (B Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance Bank 2)
Repairs/costs cited: Visual inspection of cam phaser actuators showed no damage. Actuator system operation tested; no repair components cited. One technician road-test witnessed the symptoms but could not replicate issue for permanent diagnosis.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM Service Bulletin 5251270 (updated 5 times since creation 5/7/2018) documents 'software anomaly' where 'verify sync' status fails to restart and reach full sync when engine restarts. ECM reports actual cam positions as '0' while continuing to command actuators, causing engine roughness. Bulletin recommends checking and clearing codes only; states 'no repair yet for anomaly' and 'there is not a software solution to the problem at this time.' Dealership hesitant to clear codes without permanent fix due to symptom severity; escalation to GM district manager documented in one case but no outcome reported. One owner advised by dealer to either keep clearing codes or not drive the vehicle until software fix becomes available; no timeline given.
Delayed or failed gear engagement and transmission lag
Transmission exhibits long delay before engaging when shifting from park to drive or when accelerating from a stop. Engine revs to high RPM (4,000–7,000 rpm) without corresponding vehicle motion, as if car is in neutral. Vehicle eventually engages and lurches forward, or motion is severely delayed. Occurs randomly but frequently.
When: As early as first year of ownership; documented across multiple mileages up to 84,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Long delay before vehicle shifts into gear after selecting drive; Engine revs to 4,000–7,000 rpm with vehicle stationary; Shift indicator (D) flashes on display during delay; Vehicle does not respond to accelerator pedal during delay; Once gear engages, vehicle lurches forward suddenly; Happens randomly, particularly when starting from stop; May occur at traffic lights or during low-speed maneuvers; Delay increases in frequency over time
Codes mentioned: <none specifically reported>
Repairs/costs cited: Transmission fluid flush and reprogramming documented as partial fix in one case; issue recurred. No permanent repair reported in narratives.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Service bulletin cited in one case (transmission fluid flush and reprogramming); no permanent remedy found. One dealer acknowledged similar issues in other vehicles but offered no solution.
Unintended acceleration and gear reversal
Vehicle accelerates on its own when shifted into park or drive, or refuses to move in intended direction. Vehicle in drive rolls backward on hill or moves forward when reverse selected. Vehicle lurches forward unexpectedly, including during attempted parking.
When: Various mileages; 4,000 miles (1 case), early ownership (multiple cases)
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle accelerates without driver input when shifting to park; Vehicle rolls backward when in drive on hill at stop light; Vehicle moves forward when shifted to reverse; Opposite motion from selected gear; Lurching forward without accelerator input; Vehicle crashes into building due to sudden acceleration during parking attempt
Codes mentioned: <none reported>
Repairs/costs cited: One case (at 4,000 miles) involved transmission solenoid diagnosed as faulty; parts not available to repair at time of diagnosis. One case resulted in vehicle collision with building; police report filed, vehicle damage repaired, but cause of acceleration not determined.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: <none reported or offered in narratives>
Engine noise and high-pitched whining or grinding in drivetrain
Vehicle produces loud roaring, grinding, rumbling, or high-pitched whining noise from drivetrain, occurring at specific RPM or speed ranges. Noise may disappear when accelerator released or reappear when reapplied. Does not correlate with road noise.
When: Within first 30 days of ownership in one case; 50,000 miles in another case
Symptoms owners cite: Loud roaring noise at 2,100 RPM and ~74 mph; Rumbling noise in neutral at idle (e.g., drive-thru); High-pitched whining from drivetrain at 72–78 mph highway speeds; Noise disappears when throttle released, reappears when reapplied; Noise requires 50% of the time to return when accelerator reapplied; Noise distinct from typical road noise
Codes mentioned: <none reported>
Repairs/costs cited: One case with dealership visit 4 times; problem not fixed. Mechanic rode along and heard noise but could not replicate slipping issue. No repair documented.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: <none documented>
Broken or failed transmission axle
Axle failure results in loss of all transmission function and inability to apply any gear. Vehicle cannot be moved forward or backward, shifts do not engage, and vehicle rolls uncontrollably when on slope.
When: 70,000 miles (1 documented case)
Symptoms owners cite: Loud grinding noise when exiting gas station; Loss of all gear function (park, drive, reverse non-functional); Vehicle unable to accelerate; Vehicle rolls downhill uncontrollably even with park selected; Parking brake engaged but vehicle continues rolling
Codes mentioned: <none reported>
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer diagnosed broken axle. Owner required tow; repair cost unknown but vehicle was scheduled for repair.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: <none documented>
Synthesized from 187 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 7 most recent
Electrical ground problem affecting transmission control is evident by a Shift to Park warning that displays on the driver information center and prevents vehicle from being turned off. GM has this problem so we’ll documented that a TSB exists and is on file with NHTSA. The inability to turn off the vehicle when this is encountered is a significant safety issue. We paid out of pocket to have…
Park to shift keeps popping up on dash while driving. Vehicle will not recognise when in park at times to allow vehicle to be shut off properly. The stability track warning pops up on dash now as well. The check emits comes on with codes for all going back to transmission control module system and when replaced spark plugs we found that the PCV (cam cvr to turbo) tube was cracked all the way…
Shift to Park message displays on the Driver Information Center (DIC) when the vehicle has been shifted to Park and the ignition has been turned to the Off position. This causes alarm chimes to go off when door is opened and the battery to drain.
I have had two major issues. First is the whole "shift to park" message that you have to vigorously wiggle the transmission lever to get to go away so you may exit the vehicle. I have had it in the dealer for it once already and they said they replaced the wireing harness. This did nothing. I am the second owner and I had that done at about 35,000 miles but it never completely went away. Now I…
Transmission issues since 85k miles, park to shift sensor error since owned, rear ideoendent suspension bolts were stripped needed alignment. Car has not performed since ownership.
I purchased this vehicle in 2022 of October after about a year. I started noticing the car beginning to jerk back. Also, I noticed that the shift the handle when I would put it into park. It would not stay in park. It kept giving me a beeping noise. It kept slipping. At the time it wasn’t doing is it as much but lately I’ve noticed that it’s been happening more frequently so I took it into a…
The vehicle will not shut off and vehicle information screen states Shift to park. When this happens we have 2 options. 1st to sit and wait for the vehicle to turn off(takes over an hour on average), 2nd Disconnect the negative battery connection. The vehicle shuts down nearly instantly. Then reconnect the battery before being able to use the vehicle again
Had powertrain trouble with your 2018 Chevrolet Traverse?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the powertrain problem on the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 187 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $2,500 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the powertrain typically fail?
Across the 72 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most powertrain failures cluster between 18,991 and 52,000 miles, with the median around 36,700. A quarter of owners report trouble before 18,991; a quarter make it past 52,000. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $2,500 for powertrain repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to powertrain?
No active recalls currently cover powertrain issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2018/Chevrolet/Traverse.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.