FaultScore

Chevrolet Traverse electrical problems

830 of the 7,917 complaints filed about the Chevrolet Traverse are about the electrical system — 10% of everything owners reported. The worst model year for it is 2014.

830

Complaints

10%

Share of all complaints

13

Crashes

13

Fires

Electrical System complaints by model year

2009 Traverse 36 4.3%

Median failure at 88,000 miles

2010 Traverse 59 7.1%

Median failure at 79,584 miles

2011 Traverse 67 8.1%

Median failure at 77,000 miles

2012 Traverse 48 5.8%

Median failure at 99,250 miles

2013 Traverse 53 6.4%

Median failure at 88,780 miles

2014 Traverse 126 15.2%

Median failure at 75,000 miles

2015 Traverse 28 3.4%

Median failure at 36,048 miles

2016 Traverse 26 3.1%

Median failure at 48,500 miles

2017 Traverse 22 2.7%

Median failure at 38,543 miles

2018 Traverse 100 12.0%

Median failure at 21,700 miles

2019 Traverse 110 13.3%

Median failure at 43,000 miles

2020 Traverse 28 3.4%

Median failure at 20,000 miles

2021 Traverse 22 2.7%

Median failure at 43,000 miles

2022 Traverse 18 2.2%

Median failure at 50,000 miles

2023 Traverse 18 2.2%

Median failure at 20,000 miles

2024 Traverse 20 2.4%

Median failure at 15,000 miles

2025 Traverse 44 5.3%

Median failure at 13,000 miles

2026 Traverse 5 0.6%

What owners said

2022 Chevrolet Traverse MO, MO

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

electrical, drivetrain, powertrain. While driving the vehicle a message popped up on the speedometer saying service battery chargeing system and battery saver mode. the is the second time that those messages have come up in the four years of ownership with the first time being in 2024. The second issue we have had with this vehicle was injectors going bad and causing a bad misfire making driveability rough. We have gone through three O2 sensors in the past 4 years. we have replaced the alternator and are fixing to replace it again. the driverside axle seal leaked. transmission slips bad. there is a current random misfire. Back in may of 2025 we were driving to Florida from missouri and had to slam on the brakes and when we released the brake the car refused to move and when i pressed the gas harder there was a loud bang like we had been hit but it was like the brakes had locked up completely. It shudders bad when starting. Two months ago the steering locked up while driving. Vehicle has been inspected several times by the dealer we bought it from but driving this vehicle is becoming my families worst nightmare.

NHTSA complaint #11755713 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2024 Chevrolet Traverse Bradenton, FL

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

I am reporting a serious safety incident involving my 2024 Chevrolet Traverse RS AWD, with approximately 34,378 miles. On or about [XXX], while the vehicle was being driven near Sarasota Florida at approximately 25 mph, it suddenly lost propulsion and all electrical power. The instrument panel, displays and vehicle electrical systems went completely dark. The vehicle was completely dead and would not restart. Police subsequently jump-started it, but the vehicle’s systems did not initially operate normally. This vehicle previously experienced another complete electrical-power failure while parked overnight, and the dealership has a record of that incident. Following the in-motion shutdown, the dealership performed a complete software flash using USB and stated that a software problem may have caused a parasitic battery draw. I understand how a parasitic draw could discharge the battery while the vehicle is parked. However, I have not received an adequate explanation of why the vehicle lost all electrical power while the engine was running and the charging system should have been supplying power. I am requesting that General Motors open a formal product-safety case, review the dealership’s diagnostic and programming records, determine the complete cause of the in-motion shutdown, and provide written confirmation of the tests and repairs performed. Please provide me with the GM case number and escalate the matter for appropriate technical or field review. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA complaint #11755615 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2025 Chevrolet Traverse Crowley, TX

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This started happening about two weeks ago. My check engine light came on and my OBD scanner said a NOX sensor code showed. I told the dealership and I guess they cleared the code and it hasn’t reappeared but the reduced acceleration has maintained. It was [XXX] I had just go of work and needed gas. While traveling to the gas station I got notification that my acceleration was being reduced and it was very noticeable. After arriving and pumping gas, I started the car and got 3 additional messages. The car aside my brake assist and ESC needed service, my ABS system was off, and my forward collision system was off. While driving, I noticed that the brakes were still working but acceleration was still being reduced. This is an everyday use car and I have a 6 children who I don’t feel are safe anymore in the car. Not being able to utilize the brakes and the reduced acceleration is very concerning especially when in traffic. I have a little over 27500 miles on the car. It just came from the dealership to get the telematics module replaced last week because it went out about a month ago. I’ve only had this car a year and it seems like the issues are becoming more common everyday. I will be taking care back to dealership tomorrow. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA complaint #11754653 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2026 Chevrolet Traverse Waycross, GA

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Vehicle fan blower speed changes by itself. Second issue - at times with Apple Car Play, vehicle will state audio unavailable and steering wheel audio control and GPS notifications will not work. Lastly, issue with not being able to use iphone apps, for example, Safari, when phone is connected to vehicle (this has occured since the most recent update). Other iphone apps will work once phone is disconnected. Vehicle has been taken to dealership but not reproduced. Pictures and videos were provided to dealership.

NHTSA complaint #11754856 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2026 Chevrolet Traverse Algonquin, IL

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

On start-up, intermittently the center display freezes, the HVAC system defaults to 76 degrees with the a/c and defrost stuck on with the blower on high. No driver input possible through the center display. Condition may clear by itself or not even through several shut downs. Numerous DTC's set. Always a CEL. For me, 2x dealer (repairs). They reprogram controllers. Condition not corrected. Possible HMI and/or HVAC controller hardware problem. Dealer doesn't know how to fix. Casual internet search indicates many identical complaints. Concern is, HVAC control is a basic function that should function correctly. Driving in the winter with no heat and a fogged windshield is a safety issue. GM is aware of the problem and has no fix.

NHTSA complaint #11754112 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2019 Chevrolet Traverse Haltom City, TX

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

My car WILL not register that it is in park even though the dash says it’s in P and my gear shift is pushed all the way up in the park gear. It has taken hours some days for it to finally acknowledge that it is indeed in the park gear. I do NOT have time for that! And if it gets to the point where I have a dead battery because I didn’t “shift to park”, Chevrolet WILL be paying for it. This is insane and apparently has been an ongoing issue for a decade! FIX IT!

NHTSA complaint #11752521 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2025 Chevrolet Traverse Oley, PA

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Wife had car sitting over night from doing a EMS shift. Went out to car in morning to start to return home and when car started ABS light, ECS light, Brake Light, and Collision light came on. This has resulted in no ABS or safety features. Called dealer and can't look at car for over a month. There was no mention about not driving. If the wife needs ABS or front radar, she will not have it resulting in a more serious accident.

NHTSA complaint #11752038 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2024 Chevrolet Traverse Topeka, KS

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Vehicle: 2024 Chevrolet Traverse Z71 Mileage at first incident: 25,821 My 2024 Chevrolet Traverse Z71 experienced multiple safety‑critical electrical and ADAS failures. The vehicle had a Reduced Acceleration / limp‑mode event, accompanied by a strong antifreeze odor inside and outside the vehicle. Dealer diagnostics on 06/29/2026 and 07/16/2026 confirmed several trouble codes affecting the engine, braking system, and collision‑avoidance systems. The following diagnostic trouble codes were recorded: P3705 – Engine Coolant Pump Control Circuit Low (engine cooling fault) C0609 – Park Brake Actuator / Switch Signal Fault (brake system logic fault)-Active 6.29.26 10:12:43AM U160A – Lost Communication With Serial Data Gateway Module (CAN‑bus gateway failure)-Active 6.29.26 10:12:43AM U197A – Lost Communication With Front Radar Sensor Module (forward collision warning / AEB disabled)-Active 6.29.26 10:12:43AM These faults caused loss of radar‑based safety features, including Forward Collision Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking, and Adaptive Cruise Control. The vehicle displayed warnings and temporarily disabled ADAS functions. The Reduced Acceleration event created a hazardous situation in traffic. The dealer attributed the incident to “low coolant,” but the diagnostic codes clearly show electrical and communication failures across multiple safety‑critical modules. The antifreeze odor continues, suggesting a possible coolant leak or unresolved cooling system issue. The vehicle has been inspected by GM technicians, and the codes were documented on both visits but they say car is fine. The safety systems affected include brakes, engine cooling, electrical CAN‑bus communication, and collision‑avoidance radar modules. I am requesting NHTSA to record this complaint and evaluate whether these failures represent a broader safety defect in the 2024 Chevrolet Traverse Z71.

NHTSA complaint #11751224 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2023 Chevrolet Traverse Longwood, FL

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Vehicle is not detecting key fob. Main battery was changed now the vehicle is not detecting keys. both key fob batteries have been replaced as well as the main vehicle battery. This issue is the same issue that the Malibu is having .this is whats happening .Ignition & Starting (TSB 23-NA-163): Addresses conditions where the vehicle exhibits a "No Crank/No Start" or "No FOB Detected" message. Dealerships inspect and reprogram the Body Control Module (BCM).

NHTSA complaint #11750376 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2026 Chevrolet Traverse Rochester, NY

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Instrument cluster/driver display malfunction. Driver display is the only source of spedometer, revs, gear selection, mileage, and gas level. Display began flickering black randomly. Spedometer is not able to be seen. All instruments unable to be seen when flickering/display off. Shortly after flickering, display went completely black. Vehicle currently inoperable due to lack of instrument cluster. Vehicle scheduled for service on Monday morning. No warning lamps or other symptoms prior to issue occuring.

NHTSA complaint #11749985 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2019 Chevrolet Traverse Brandon, MS

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The car will be placed in park but keeps saying shift to park. Then I have to turn the car on and off clicking the shift button till it will finally shut off. One time it took ten minutes. This needs to be a recall!!! Specifically since it seems to be affecting many of the cars!!!

NHTSA complaint #11749378 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2018 Chevrolet Traverse Hensley, AR

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Front passenger tire was losing air, on the way to bring it to tire shop dashboard displayed tire pressure sensor, power steering system, TCM notification, Electronic brake control. Got it to the tire shop bought a new tire and they did a diagnostic test it showed TCM passed and failed, lost communication with power steering passed and failed, lost communication with inflatable restraint passed and failed. Once tire was replaced vehicle was jerking with TCM notification coming on and off like the vehicle was sliding.

NHTSA complaint #11749157 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2022 Chevrolet Traverse Antioch, IL Crash

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

After turning the car on, engaging reverse, and then retuning back to park (driver stepped out of vehicle once in park) the vehicle reversed 60 feet on its on through a parking lot with 2 children inside of the car (disengaged from park on its own while vehicle was running). The vehicle was ultimately stopped by a tree with damage to the tailgate and rear. The gear shift selector remained in park for the entire incident. A claim was filed with GM and the Traverse was initially labeled as a “intermittent failure” in my May 2026 claim interview. Post GM inspection, the vehicle is now deemed “operational” (no repairs from GM) and being returned to my family as of July 2026.

NHTSA complaint #11749046 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2019 Chevrolet Traverse Lincoln Park, NJ

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The shift to park sensor is broken. It will keep my vehicle on and beeping for hours saying “shift to park” although my vehicle is in park and shut off.

NHTSA complaint #11747465 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2023 Chevrolet Traverse Fenton, MI

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Infotainment system broke, black screen, no ability to use back up or other cameras, or see navigation etc.

NHTSA complaint #11747132 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2019 Chevrolet Traverse at 80,000 miles Miramar, FL

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:BODY CONTROL MODULE/BCM

The contact owns a 2019 Chevrolet Traverse. The contact stated that while shifting into park(P), the “Shift to Park” warning light illuminated, even though the vehicle was already shifted to park(P). The contact stated that the gear selector was shifted back and forth several times before it was recognized that the vehicle was in park(P). During the failures, the warning light remained illuminated, causing the battery to drain and the following day the vehicle was unable to start. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 80,000.

NHTSA complaint #11746412 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2025 Chevrolet Traverse Spokane, WA

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Our car one day showed several illuminated dash lights regarding brake system, along with several pop up warnings. We took it to a Chevrolet dealer for service. They’ve had it for 54 days. They’ve confirmed widespread brake system and electrical system failure, but even after escalating to corporate tech assistance, there is no progress nor resolution available. We were told they have at least a dozen others with this same issue. It is wildly inappropriate that there has not been a recall issued as this is a serious safety defect. We demand a buyback from GM for putting this death trap on the market knowing they had these issues with 2024 models but continuing to roll 2025 and 2026 models with the same issues.

NHTSA complaint #11745334 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2018 Chevrolet Traverse Cameron, NC 5 injured

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

2018 Chevy Traverse purchased from Carvana caused carbon monoxide exposure to my family in military housing. Vehicle locked itself while running in the garage (garage door open), and CO entered the home where my children were standing near the interior door. Fire dept forced entry into the vehicle and cleared the home. All family members required oxygen at the hospital; all 3 children had elevated COHb levels. Mechanic confirmed catalytic converter failure and exhaust defect. Full Description: On 6/7/26, our Traverse turned on and locked itself while running in our garage (door open) as we were preparing to leave. Exhaust was blowing toward the interior door of our military home, and CO entered the house. My children were inside near that door and became exposed. We could not unlock or shut off the vehicle. Fire dept forced entry, confirmed high CO levels, and cleared the home. At the hospital, all of us required oxygen; all 3 children had elevated COHb. A mechanic later confirmed catalytic converter failure, exhaust defect, P0171, and incomplete catalyst monitor—stating this can cause ongoing CO exposure. A Build Verification sheet found in the glove box (not disclosed at sale) showed pre‑existing issues: exhaust rattle, check engine light, and multiple mechanical reworks. Carvana refuses to assist. This vehicle is unsafe to drive or idle.

NHTSA complaint #11745280 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2017 Chevrolet Traverse Lakewood, CA Crash Fire 1 injured

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The driver door main window control panel and steering wheel, where the airbags seem to deploy from, have both had to be repaired/recalled parts installed on multiple occasions however the main window control panel still does not work and it started shorting out my battery ultimately locking my keys in the ignition, leaving OnStar as well as my key fob panic alarm unable to be used. After getting the steering wheel recalled airbag part installed at Penske Chevy, I received yet another recall notice saying that despite that install they still feared for my safety driving it, and that they would let me know when a new part was available. However now my battery is completely dead, I have not been m able to work and have been evicted from my home forced to live in my sweltering 2017 Traverse with no AC, No OnStar emergency services, not even a panic alarm to rely on. On top of that I cannot roll the windows all the way up which is a major safety concern considering I'm a single, disabled, [XXX] female living on the streets in my vehicle alone. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA complaint #11744489 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2023 Chevrolet Traverse Skowhegan, ME

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

To make a very long story short, I was having major software issues with my vehicle. I had the car "blackout" lights screens and everything turn off then when it powered on i would have service lights on for my brakes. I also had my reverse camera go out a few times and my lane assistant light on dash say its not working. All to find out i had a faulty rear control module. Upon replacement i learned this EXACT rear control module is the same one used in other GM vehicles noted in several recalls but the part itself has never been directly recalled. So now I have the same exact part in my vehicle again which is bound to fail again at some point. My vehicle is only 3 years old and has done this with children in the car. I let GM know numerous times and they said since the part is replaced its fine. But I know this exact part is not safe. If you look up the model number on the rear control module you will see how many times it is noted in service bulletins and is main contributor to these issues. Please recall the 2023 chevy traverse. I dont want this part just "updated" it needs redesigned.

NHTSA complaint #11744334 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Other Chevrolet Traverse problems