2018 Chevrolet Trax

Introduction

The 2018 Chevrolet Trax is a subcompact crossover SUV known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and user-friendly infotainment system. It comes standard with a 1.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces 138 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. A 1.6L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that generates 153 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, is available as an upgrade. Despite its overall popularity, the 2018 Trax has encountered several reported issues.

Engine

1.4L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder Engine

• Intake Manifold Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: A faulty intake manifold can cause reduced engine power, stalling, or difficulty starting.
  • Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number 20V687000
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: A failing turbocharger may result in reduced boost pressure, decreased engine performance, or excessive oil consumption.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger or turbocharger components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

1.6L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder Engine

• No Issues Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Shifting Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission may experience delayed or hard shifts, slipping, or shuddering.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and/or replacement of transmission components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic Transmission

• Clutch Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive clutch wear can lead to slipping, shuddering, or difficulty engaging gears.
  • Solution: Replacement of the clutch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn struts can result in a rough ride, poor handling, or uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery repeatedly discharges prematurely, causing difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the underlying electrical system issue
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies widely depending on the cause
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Infotainment system may experience freezing, lagging, or connectivity problems.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the infotainment unit
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number 20V686000

Exterior

• Grille Issue
  • Description/Symptoms: The grille may not be properly secured, allowing objects to enter the engine compartment.
  • Solution: Replacement of the grille
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number 20V886000

Interior

• Seatbelt Buckle Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Seatbelt buckles may not engage or release properly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the seatbelt buckles
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 per seatbelt
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number 20V688000

Summary

While the 2018 Chevrolet Trax offers a spacious and comfortable ride, it has faced several issues affecting its engine, transmission, suspension, electrical system, and interior components. The severity of these issues varies, but some, such as intake manifold and turbocharger failures, can be costly to repair. It is recommended that owners be aware of these potential problems and have their vehicles regularly inspected and serviced to prevent costly breakdowns.