2020 Chevrolet Trax

The 2020 Chevrolet Trax is a subcompact SUV known for its maneuverability and affordability. It comes standard with a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 138 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. While many appreciate its ease of parking and available all-wheel drive, some common criticisms include its somewhat underpowered engine, tight rear seating, and dated interior compared to newer competitors. Some of the issues reported by owners can affect reliability and ownership satisfaction.

Engine

1.4L Turbocharged Engine

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warnings, a burning smell, and potentially blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: A common solution is replacing the valve cover with a new updated PCV valve. In more severe cases, piston ring replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$400 (valve cover PCV), $1,500 - $3,000+ (piston rings)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, unusual noises (whining, screeching) from the engine bay, and potential engine misfires. May trigger a check engine light.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can occur at various points in the cooling system, including the water pump, hoses, or radiator. Symptoms include a low coolant level warning, visible coolant leaks under the vehicle, and potential engine overheating.
  • Solution: Identify and replace the leaking component (hose, water pump, radiator, etc.).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+ depending on the source of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported rough or delayed shifting, especially between gears. Transmission slipping, where the engine revs without a corresponding increase in speed, may also occur.
  • Solution: A software reflash of the transmission control module (TCM) may sometimes resolve the issue. In other cases, valve body replacement or complete transmission overhaul/replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 (reflash), $800 - $1,500 (valve body), $2,500 - $4,500+ (transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations, especially at lower speeds or during light acceleration, can indicate a torque converter problem.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Wear of Suspension Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported premature wear of shocks, struts, and sway bar links, leading to excessive bouncing, clunking noises, and compromised handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$800+ per corner, depending on the parts needing replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may freeze, become unresponsive, or crash unexpectedly. This can affect navigation, audio, and climate control functions.
  • Solution: Software updates may address some issues. In other cases, the infotainment unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $500+ (unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain, especially if the vehicle is not driven frequently, can be an issue. This may be due to parasitic draw from electrical components.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the source of the parasitic draw. Battery replacement if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ (diagnosis), $150 - $300 (battery replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Seat Discomfort
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have expressed dissatisfaction with the comfort of the seats, particularly on longer journeys.
  • Solution: Unfortunately, there is no easy solution. Some owners may opt for aftermarket seat cushions or covers to improve comfort.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Chevrolet Trax, while offering affordability and maneuverability, has reported issues related to engine oil consumption and turbocharger failures, transmission shifting problems, electrical glitches, and interior comfort. While not all vehicles will experience these issues, being aware of these potential problems can help prospective buyers make informed decisions and properly inspect the vehicle before purchase. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences like infotainment glitches to more costly repairs like turbocharger or transmission replacement.