2017 Chevrolet Traverse
2017 Chevrolet Traverse
Overview
The 2017 Chevrolet Traverse is a mid-size SUV known for its spacious interior and comfortable ride. As with any vehicle, it has specific areas where owners have reported issues. This analysis focuses on common mechanical and electrical problems, excluding routine maintenance and general wear. We will examine the engine and transmission options available for this model year, as well as common concerns related to the suspension, electrical systems, exterior, and interior components. Understanding these potential issues can help owners anticipate and address them proactively, ensuring a more reliable ownership experience.
Engine
3.6L V6
Timing Chain Wear
- Symptoms: Rattling noise from the front of the engine, especially on startup; check engine light may illuminate.
- Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
- Cost: $1000 - $2000
Intake Manifold Leaks
- Symptoms: Rough idle, loss of power, coolant leaks, sweet smell of burning coolant.
- Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gasket or the entire manifold.
- Cost: $400 - $800
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic (6T75)
Harsh Shifting / Slipping
- Symptoms: Jerking or clunking when shifting gears, delayed engagement, slipping between gears.
- Solution: Transmission fluid and filter change; potential rebuild or replacement if internal damage is present.
- Cost: $300 - $3500
Transmission Cooler Line Leaks
- Symptoms: Leaking transmission fluid, overheating transmission, potential transmission failure.
- Solution: Replacement of leaking cooler lines.
- Cost: $200 - $500
Suspension
Standard Chassis
Strut Mount Bearing Failure
- Symptoms: Popping or clunking noise when turning the steering wheel, especially at low speeds.
- Solution: Replacement of the strut mount bearings.
- Cost: $200 - $400
Electrical
Infotainment System
Screen Freezing / Unresponsiveness
- Symptoms: Touchscreen becomes unresponsive, system freezes or reboots randomly.
- Solution: Software update or replacement of the infotainment unit.
- Cost: $500 - $1500
Power Liftgate
Malfunctioning Liftgate
- Symptoms: Liftgate fails to open or close, stops mid-operation, or opens/closes unexpectedly.
- Solution: Diagnosis and repair/replacement of liftgate motor, sensors, or control module.
- Cost: $300 - $800
Exterior
Body Panels
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Interior
Climate Control System
Blend Door Actuator Failure
- Symptoms: Inability to control temperature or direct airflow; clicking or grinding noise from the dashboard.
- Solution: Replacement of the blend door actuator.
- Cost: $200 - $500
Seat Upholstery
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Summary Verdict
The 2017 Chevrolet Traverse generally offers a reliable experience, particularly with its standard 3.6L V6 engine. However, potential owners should be aware of common issues such as timing chain wear and intake manifold leaks, which can be costly to repair. The 6-speed automatic transmission, while functional, has seen reports of harsh shifting and cooler line leaks, necessitating diligent maintenance. Electrical components, especially the infotainment system and power liftgate, can also present issues. Suspension components like strut mount bearings are a known point of failure. While exterior and interior components are largely free of widespread problems, the climate control system’s blend door actuators are a recurring concern. Proactive maintenance and awareness of these specific issues can contribute to a more positive ownership experience.