2014 Chevrolet Trax

The 2014 Chevrolet Trax is a subcompact SUV offering practicality and fuel efficiency. It came standard with a 1.4L turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 138 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Some owners appreciate its maneuverability in urban environments and decent fuel economy. Common complaints include a lack of power, a somewhat cheap interior feel, and reported issues with reliability.

Engine

1.4L Turbocharged Engine

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the turbocharger, loss of power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Low coolant level, overheating, coolant smell, visible leaks near the water pump or thermostat housing.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking component (water pump, thermostat housing, hoses).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• PCV Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, check engine light, oil leaks, whistling noise from the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the PCV valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifting between gears, especially at lower speeds.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush, software update, or transmission valve body replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the issue
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine revving without corresponding acceleration, delayed engagement when shifting.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000-$4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Wear of Struts and Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll when cornering, leaking fluid from struts/shocks.
  • Solution: Replace struts and/or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, difficulty starting the vehicle, needing frequent jump starts.
  • Solution: Identify and repair the source of the parasitic drain (faulty module, wiring issue), replace the battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, unresponsive touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity issues.
  • Solution: Software update, infotainment system replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rear Hatch/Liftgate
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming around the license plate area or along the bottom edge of the rear hatch.
  • Solution: Repair rust damage and repaint the affected area, or replace the hatch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Driver Information Center (DIC) Display Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Fading, flickering, or completely non-functional DIC display.
  • Solution: Replace the DIC display unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 Chevrolet Trax can present owners with several issues, ranging from relatively minor electrical glitches to more significant concerns with the engine and transmission. Turbocharger failure and transmission problems are particularly costly and can significantly impact reliability. The rust issues on the rear hatch are another area to watch out for, especially in regions with harsh winters. Potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and carefully inspect any used Trax before purchasing.