RoadVitals

2026 Chevrolet Traverse Problems

Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component

Data refreshed

Owner complaintsComplaints are reports submitted to NHTSA by owners and drivers. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a complaint does not establish that a defect exists. Volume is influenced by how many of a vehicle were sold, how long it has been on the road, and how much attention an issue has received.
24
Latest Sep 10, 2026
Components namedHow many of our component categories appear on at least one report for this model year. One report can name several.
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Crash or fire reportedComplaints whose submitter recorded that a crash or a fire occurred. These are the reporter's own answers on the NHTSA form, not verified findings.
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What this page shows

Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.

Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.

Reports by component

Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category

  • Electrical723.3%
  • Driver assistance620.0%
  • Brakes516.7%
  • Engine413.3%
  • Powertrain (other)310.0%
  • Visibility26.7%
  • Body & structure13.3%
  • Steering13.3%
  • Airbags13.3%

Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.

Each component in detail

What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words

Electrical

Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.

7
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The blind spot warning sensor goes off at random. Making the driver not know if an object is close to the vehicle. This is very dangerous as a driver because you can get used to it going off and getting comfortable with nothing being in your blindspot, even with the warning light on. What happens when there actually is something in your blindspot? As you can see in the picture below, there is nothing in the mirror and the blindspot warning light is on. It has been this was since it came off the lot at the dealership. We have been told there is no fix for it. We would like to see a recall for this particular sensor before it becomes a problem.

NHTSA ID 11763462 · filed Sep 10, 2026

The contact owns a 2026 Chevrolet Traverse. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The vehicle jerked and bucked. The contact stated that the safety features were inoperable. No warning lights were illuminated. In addition, the contact stated that the failure had occurred while driving at various speeds. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, but the cause of the failure was not determined. The contact was informed that an unknown sensor had been replaced; however, the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was then inspected by a manufacturer’s engineer. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer, and the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer; however, the failure was not diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact stated that the vehicle was unsafe to transport the three minor children. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and two cases were filed. The contact reported the failure by phone and email. The failure mileage was approximately 3,000.

NHTSA ID 11761416 · filed Sep 1, 2026

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Driver assistance

Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.

6
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The blind spot warning sensor goes off at random. Making the driver not know if an object is close to the vehicle. This is very dangerous as a driver because you can get used to it going off and getting comfortable with nothing being in your blindspot, even with the warning light on. What happens when there actually is something in your blindspot? As you can see in the picture below, there is nothing in the mirror and the blindspot warning light is on. It has been this was since it came off the lot at the dealership. We have been told there is no fix for it. We would like to see a recall for this particular sensor before it becomes a problem.

NHTSA ID 11763462 · filed Sep 10, 2026

On August 25, 2026, my 2026 Chevrolet Traverse experienced a severe safety failure involving the Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) system. While moving slowly forward in a drive-thru lane with no obstacles in front of the vehicle, the car's automated systems unexpectedly and violently slammed on the brakes.The vehicle brought itself to an immediate, harsh stop without any actual hazard present. The sudden, uncommanded application of maximum braking force caused severe physical jolting, resulting in a whiplash injury to my neck.This unexpected braking event creates an immediate crash hazard for vehicles behind me and poses a severe risk of physical injury due to violent, unprompted stops. This incident appears directly related to ongoing electronic brake module and automatic braking system malfunctions under active federal investigation. I request a thorough safety investigation and a formal recall to address this dangerous defect.

NHTSA ID 11759614 · filed Aug 26, 2026

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Brakes

Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.

5
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

On August 25, 2026, my 2026 Chevrolet Traverse experienced a severe safety failure involving the Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) system. While moving slowly forward in a drive-thru lane with no obstacles in front of the vehicle, the car's automated systems unexpectedly and violently slammed on the brakes.The vehicle brought itself to an immediate, harsh stop without any actual hazard present. The sudden, uncommanded application of maximum braking force caused severe physical jolting, resulting in a whiplash injury to my neck.This unexpected braking event creates an immediate crash hazard for vehicles behind me and poses a severe risk of physical injury due to violent, unprompted stops. This incident appears directly related to ongoing electronic brake module and automatic braking system malfunctions under active federal investigation. I request a thorough safety investigation and a formal recall to address this dangerous defect.

NHTSA ID 11759614 · filed Aug 26, 2026

Brakes have been squeaking since purchasing the vehicle brand new. Have been told that “this is a known issue but it’s “normal””.

NHTSA ID 11739620 · filed May 22, 2026

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Engine

Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.

4
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

While driving 65mph, the vehicle’s engine shut off, a ‘Reduced Acceleration Drive with Care’ message showed up and I had to coast to the side of the freeway. Engine would not restart and dealer confirmed a piston contacted a valve and a new engine is needed.

NHTSA ID 11725251 · filed Mar 18, 2026

This vehicle is unsafe for two reasons. First, it slams you on brakes and puts you in park at random times. Middle of road, parking lots, etc. This puts you at higher risk of someone hitting you. The second thing is when pressing the gas when taking off after a stop, the rpm’s jump up and the engine revs up, but the car is barely going. Not safe when crossing intersections along with many other times. Both of these puts mine and my families safety at risk along with others on the road. No warning signs, lights, etc. Car is in shop for second time. First time on November 28, second time on December the 11. Still no answer on a fix. Just that they think they may know the cause. The dealer has gotten the car to reproduce these issues.

NHTSA ID 11706428 · filed Dec 21, 2025

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Powertrain (other)

Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.

3
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

When shifting into drive from start, the shifter does not shift. I have my foot on the brake at the same time also. This has happened at least 8 eight times sense the SUV went over 3500 miles on the odometer. I have to wait about 5 seconds before trying it again. This is a safety item that needs immediate attention by Chevrolet and GM, If I needed to evacuate an area, or my garage in the event of a fire and the shifter fails!!!?? should I take it back to the dealer and ask for a refund?? O give them a chance to fix it?

NHTSA ID 11744824 · filed Jun 17, 2026

My car is available for inspection upon request. AWD Service and 4WD Service messages appeared at 389 miles and 2104 miles on the odometer. Messages appeared during operation of the vehicle, shutting down AWD as an option and defaulting to 2WD. Messages would go away and AWD would come back online after a few hours of leaving the car off. AWD system was in use when error messages appeared and deactivation of the AWD/4WD system increased risk during icy road conditions. When taken to the Houston Mac haik Chevy dealership service center, I was refused at the door, stating that the messages needs to be on for them to take a look. No warning lamps or other messages appeared prior to failure. Message first appeared during normal operation with AWD on at 389 miles on the odometer. The components have not been inspected by anyone.

NHTSA ID 11713432 · filed Jan 26, 2026

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Visibility

Reports naming windshields, glass, wipers, defrosters and mirrors.

2
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

On start-up, intermittently the center display freezes, the HVAC system defaults to 76 degrees with the a/c and defrost stuck on with the blower on high. No driver input possible through the center display. Condition may clear by itself or not even through several shut downs. Numerous DTC's set. Always a CEL. For me, 2x dealer (repairs). They reprogram controllers. Condition not corrected. Possible HMI and/or HVAC controller hardware problem. Dealer doesn't know how to fix. Casual internet search indicates many identical complaints. Concern is, HVAC control is a basic function that should function correctly. Driving in the winter with no heat and a fogged windshield is a safety issue. GM is aware of the problem and has no fix.

NHTSA ID 11754112 · filed Aug 1, 2026

Windshield making creaking noises. Windshield has split down the middle and now continuing off to the side. Dealership states no know recalls and refusal to fix it. No rocks have been hit. Damage is directly down center and all the way to the top.

NHTSA ID 11724875 · filed Mar 17, 2026

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Body & structure

Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.

1
report

From owner reports, verbatim

Brand new car just purchased the end of March 2026. Went through car wash multiple times with no issues until one day the shark fin antenna came off and broke the plastic anchors. Now the circuit board is exposed to weather hazards. I read online multiple times this is an ongoing issue with this specific make and model and still GM declines to cover this under warranty.

NHTSA ID 11749142 · filed Jul 8, 2026

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Steering

Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.

1
report

From owner reports, verbatim

The car is equipped with a supercruise feature, which should ideally enhance the driving experience. However, I've encountered a significant issue: even when this feature is not activated, the vehicle tends to oscillate between the lane markers. This problem becomes particularly pronounced under poor road conditions, such as when it's raining. The moisture on the pavement obscures the lane markings, and in these instances, the car automatically drifts toward the right side of the road. As a result, I find myself constantly struggling to maintain control of the steering wheel in an effort to keep the car centered within the lane. When it veers off to the right, I must exert extra effort to correct its direction, which can lead to a hazardous driving situation, regardless of the weather conditions or time of day. The need for constant corrections not only creates frustration but also increases the risk of losing control, making this a serious concern for both my safety and that of other road users.

NHTSA ID 11704756 · filed Dec 12, 2025

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Airbags

Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.

1
report

From owner reports, verbatim

The weight detection is failing to recognize a child in the passenger seat.

NHTSA ID 11740915 · filed May 29, 2026

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.

Elsewhere on this vehicle

Data sources

Data on this page last refreshed .