2016 Chevrolet Trax

2016 Chevrolet Trax

The 2016 Chevrolet Trax is a subcompact crossover SUV that offers a comfortable and spacious interior for its size, along with good fuel economy and a peppy engine. It is powered by a 1.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces 138 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The Trax also offers a 1.8L 4-cylinder engine that produces 140 horsepower and 129 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission.

Despite its overall appeal, the Trax has been known to experience a number of issues.

Engine

1.4L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder

• Faulty Turbocharger: The turbocharger may fail prematurely, resulting in a loss of power and decreased fuel economy. Symptoms include decreased boost pressure, excessive smoke from the exhaust, and illuminated check engine light. Requires replacement of the turbocharger and associated components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,500
• Intake Valve Deposits: Carbon deposits can build up on the intake valves, restricting airflow and causing a loss of power. Symptoms include rough idling, hesitation during acceleration, and decreased fuel efficiency. Requires cleaning or replacing the affected intake valves. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000

1.8L 4-Cylinder

• No Significant Issues Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

• Hard Shifting: The transmission may develop a grinding noise or become difficult to shift gears. Symptoms include increased shifting effort, grinding noises, and popping out of gear. Requires adjustment or replacement of shift linkage components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500

6-Speed Automatic

• Shift Solenoid Failure: The shift solenoid may fail, causing delayed or erratic shifting. Symptoms include harsh shifting, delayed shifting, and slipping gears. Requires replacement of the shift solenoid. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $750
• Transmission Fluid Leaks: The transmission may develop leaks that cause a loss of fluid. Symptoms include low transmission fluid levels, slipping gears, and difficulty shifting. Requires replacing seals or gaskets to stop the leak. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300

Suspension

• Rear Trailing Arm Bushings: The rear trailing arm bushings may wear out prematurely, leading to suspension noise and poor handling. Symptoms include a clunking noise from the rear of the vehicle, instability during cornering, and uneven tire wear. Requires replacement of the worn bushings. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500

Electrical

• Battery Drain: The vehicle may experience a battery drain that can lead to a dead battery. Symptoms include difficulty starting the vehicle, dim lights, and malfunctioning electrical components. Requires diagnosis and repair of faulty components or wiring. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
• Infotainment System Issues: The infotainment system may experience bugs or glitches that can cause it to freeze or malfunction. Symptoms include a blank screen, unresponsive controls, and loss of audio. Requires a software update or hardware replacement. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800
• Headlight Condensation: The headlights may develop condensation buildup that can affect visibility. Symptoms include fogging inside the headlights after rain or car washes. Requires resealing or replacement of the headlight lenses. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200

Exterior

• Roof Rail Noise: The roof rails may produce a whistling or humming noise at highway speeds. Symptoms include an increase in wind noise and a decrease in cabin quietness. Requires adjustment or replacement of roof rail components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250
• Tailgate Latch Failure: The tailgate latch may fail, allowing the tailgate to open unexpectedly. Symptoms include unintended tailgate opening and difficulty closing the tailgate securely. Requires replacement of the tailgate latch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200

Interior

• Climate Control Malfunction: The climate control system may malfunction, resulting in inconsistent temperature or airflow. Symptoms include fluctuating cabin temperature, poor air distribution, and excessive noise. Requires diagnosis and repair of faulty components or sensors. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
• Seat Belt Tensioner Noise: The front seat belt tensioners may rattle or make a squeaking noise. Symptoms include an audible noise when using the seat belts. Requires replacement of the faulty tensioners. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250

Summary

The 2016 Chevrolet Trax is a generally reliable vehicle with some common issues. The most significant issues include turbocharger failure, transmission shift solenoid failure, and suspension noise due to worn bushings. These issues can be costly to repair, ranging from $2,000 to $3,500 for a turbocharger replacement to $100 to $500 for a simple repair like a battery drain. Overall, the Trax offers good value for its price, but it is essential to be aware of potential issues and associated repair costs to make an informed decision.