287 of the
1,459 complaints filed about the Chevrolet Trax
are about the engine —
100% of everything owners reported.
The worst model year for it is 2024.
11/8/24 and 8/13/26. The turbo and engine has went out. Engine light came on. the engine reduced power and it shut off, while I was driving on interstate. Also had water coolant leak as well. Talk to dealership and was able to get it fixed the first time. The 2nd time, the same exact issues happened again. The priced was way higher, even with the same issues
NHTSA complaint #11763523 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owned a 2025 Chevrolet Trax. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormally loud bang, and the vehicle lost automotive power. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact was able to pull over to the shoulder of the road, and the vehicle was towed to a local dealer. The engine was replaced under warranty. The failure mileage was approximately 20,227.
NHTSA complaint #11761356 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
2024 Chevrolet Trax 1RS, approximately 66,000 miles. I was driving on the interstate at approximately 77 mph when I suddenly heard a very loud bang from the engine area. Immediately afterward, the vehicle began smoking both inside and outside, and there was a large black cloud of smoke behind the vehicle. The engine stalled and I lost propulsion while traveling at highway speed. I was able to move the vehicle to the side of the interstate. The vehicle then displayed a warning stating, “Oil pressure low, turn car off immediately.” I shut the vehicle off and did not continue driving. The vehicle had to be towed to an authorized Chevrolet dealership. The Chevrolet repair order dated August 10, 2026 documents the concern as a loud engine noise and notes that the tow/wrecker driver reported a hole in the engine block. Chevrolet’s inspection marked the engine oil, fluid leaks, and cooling system as “Alert.” At the same inspection, the engine oil-life monitor showed 93%. Chevrolet recommended removal and replacement of the engine long block. The dealer estimate lists $11,106.14 for the long-block replacement and approximately $13,420.89 in total pending recommendations. GM has agreed to provide partial financial assistance toward the engine replacement, leaving me responsible for approximately $5,200. The replacement engine is currently on backorder, and the vehicle remains inoperable while awaiting an engine. I am filing this complaint because the engine failed suddenly while I was traveling approximately 77 mph on an interstate. The loud mechanical failure, smoke, engine stall, and sudden loss of propulsion created a serious safety risk. I am concerned that this may be related to similar engine failures being reported in Chevrolet vehicles equipped with the 1.2L turbocharged engine. I have retained the Chevrolet inspection report, repair estimate, photographs of the engine following the failure, GM case information, and documentation concerning the replacement.
NHTSA complaint #11761098 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
My 2024 Chevrolet Trax is currently operating with a suspected internal engine defect tied to active Safety Recall A242435780. On 7/27/2026, Michael Hohl Chevrolet performed the software patch for this recall. However, severe internal engine noise remains. On my official repair order, the Shop Foreman test-drove the vehicle and explicitly documented: 'suspects could be something internal will need further diagnostics. Despite this documented internal engine concern tied to a federal safety recall, GM Corporate (Case #[XXX] (tel:[XXX])) and the dealership refuse to cover the diagnostic engine teardown. GM Customer Assistance formally told me to stop driving if the noise worsens, shifting the safety liability to me while refusing to remedy the defect. A sudden internal engine failure while driving will result in an immediate loss of motive power, power steering, and braking assistance, creating a severe crash hazard. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11758819 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
for the 3 years i have had this car the engine has just died no sensors no engine lights no dashboard indicators bells whistles NOTHING it just stops running and wont start the dealership replaced it the first 2 years it happened this time they are trying to say we drove it overheating and that isnt true i have AAA and the only service calls have been once a year to have it towed to Cochran in Monroeville to the dealership to get it fixed the first year they kept it 3 months trying to find something we did to be responsible for it but finally realized they had to replace it under dealership warranty. Last year they replaced it right away only had it a few weeks due to the same issue. This year which is almost exactly a year since the last time theyre blaming us and we did none of what thye say there has to a defect 3 engines in 3 years??!!! and i saw on your website there is issues with models sating 2015 thru 2024 with undetected coolant leaks causing engine issues etc so i need help im [XXX] and my husband is almost [XXX] this is our only vehicle!!! INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11758319 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CATALYTIC CONVERTOR
The contact owns a 2019 Chevrolet Trax. The contact stated that the air conditioning system was replaced twice. Additionally, the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed with a failure associated with the catalytic converter. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 72,400.
NHTSA complaint #11756485 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Saw smoke coming from an under the hood, pulled over opened hood and there were flames all across the top of the engine. Immediately evacuated the vehicle within seconds the vehicle was engulfed in flames and exploded several times. Total loss.
NHTSA complaint #11754170 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
We were driving on the highway when the Trax suddenly made a popping sound, all the electric went off, and then the engine cut off. We lost control of steering for a bit, we're able to get to the side of the road. We had the car towed to the local Chevrolet dealer for diagnostics. The service manager informed me the engine is unrepairable due to a hole in the engine block, likely where the engine threw a rod. In order to get the engine replaced we have to have it towed to a second dealership, which we are in the process of doing now. I just purchased this vehicle 3 weeks ago without knowing this issue was a possibility
NHTSA complaint #11750739 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
CRITICAL SAFETY INCIDENT / LIFE-THREATENING VEHICLE FIRE HAZARD. On January 2, 2026, I purchased a 2020 Chevrolet Trax. Within less than five months, while driving in active traffic, the vehicle suffered a sudden, catastrophic powertrain failure. The vehicle completely lost all acceleration, leaving me trapped and stranded in a highly dangerous roadway position. Immediately following the power failure, the engine bay filled with heavy smoke and began severely overheating. The vehicle came within moments of bursting into a full thermal engine fire. This vehicle was a rolling death trap that almost killed me on the road. No one is taking this life-threatening safety failure seriously. The selling dealership refused to address the known hazard, forcing a predatory repossession that destroyed my financial life while leaving a severely defective, fire-prone vehicle completely unaccounted for. I need an immediate federal investigation into this vehicle before this defect causes a fatal fire for another driver.
NHTSA complaint #11750507 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2024 Chevrolet Trax. The contact stated that while driving approximately 35 - 50 MPH, the message that an update was needed was displayed. The contact selected to complete the update later; however, the computer system continued to perform the update, causing all indicators, screens, and displays to black out. The contact was able to drive to the residence. The following morning, the systems operated correctly, and the update had completed. While attempting to turn off the vehicle, the radio failed to turn off at the same time. The contact had to first turn off the radio manually. While driving approximately 40 MPH, the message “Power Steering Fluid Low - Drive with Care” was displayed. The contact was able to make it to a stoplight after idling and then attempting to make a left turn, but the vehicle failed to exceed 6 MPH. The contact drove to Auto Zone. A certified mechanic confirmed that the power steering fluid was low. The certified mechanic diagnosed the vehicle, and the check engine warning light was displayed. The contact confirmed that the warning light was illuminated; however, when the mechanic inspected the vehicle, the warning light was no longer illuminated. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was informed of the issue and was unable to provide a cause for the failure. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 29,000.
NHTSA complaint #11749936 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I have 36400 miles on my vehicle. It has been to dealer for service as per maintenance manual On Monday the water pump blew. The oil covers blew. They are not even scheduled to be inspected until 60000 Miles I now have a 1800 bill. Service man said these things happen. They don’t make them like they used to. WHAT In 2022 the whole radiator system had to be replaced at 26000 miles Tuesday while taking the car to dealership not knowing what was wrong I broke down on the 405freeway during rush hour. Horrible experience. I told service man to make sure this wouldn’t happen to me driving home. All he said was you’ll be fine I asked if he was going to be checking the belts hoses etc. connected to the water pump. He said no. That’ll be more money. Please help.
NHTSA complaint #11749773 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
On my way to work the car overheated causing me to be stranded in the middle of no where without cell service. When it got to the dealership to repaire the car, they stated that it was a cylinder head. The dearship had my car a little over a month for repairs, the dealership did finally give me a loaner for the last week of the repairs but I lost work and a client due to not having transportation. A week after receiving the car back I still had problems with a check engine light coming on occasionally with loss of power and it would go away. I did not trust the car at all.
NHTSA complaint #11749271 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The diver side fuse box started a fire in the vehicle. The tracking control system light was flashing on and the vehicle lost power. Filed claim with insurance company. Insurance company issued a total loss and took possession of the vehicle.
NHTSA complaint #11746862 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Vehicle engine light came on XXX and was driven immediately to Auto Zone to check the code. The code showed P0299. The vehicle was then taken 2 miles home and parked. It was towed to Lake Chevrolet in [XXX] on XXX to prevent any engine damage from occurring due to the failed turbo. Upon Lake's inspection they claim the manifold and valve cover gasket must be replaced. We agreed to that, and asked about an oil change as everything we read said that was mandatory with work like this. Was told the technician didn't suggest it but they would do it at our request for an additional charge. After they confirmed the turbo was bad and well as the items above we agreed to the repairs and they said the vehicle would be ready the next day. We called again at the end of the next day and they said the repairs were made and they were going to drive the vehicle to make sure all was well. The next call we received was the service advisor stating we need a new engine as after they drove it white smoke was coming from the exhaust and they now found a cracked piston. The vehicle was not blowing out white smoke when they received, it also passed emissions on 4/14/26. We also asked for all technician notes, diagnostics, etc. which they will not provide us unless we come in and get the non running vehicle and pay the 983.00 invoice. We would have to have the vehicle towed from their lot as it can't be driven since their repairs. We contacted GM and spoke with "Tamar" multiple times with no resolution. Service manager claims GM will pay 1,500.00 towards a 9,000.00 new engine. This engine damage is consequential damage of the turbo failure which the dealership is denying. GM and Lake Chevrolet are refusing to honor special coverage XXX for the resulting catastrophic damage. Dealership also refusing to provide documentation requested in attached letter. We seem to be expected to take their word for all of this. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11743806 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Both my control arms are loose and wheel baring is bad, plus a cracked catalytic converter. All of these are causing my car to be loud and burning smell, causing unsafe driving conditions for me and my children. Online states that the control arms are an issue with this vehicle make and model and have been recalled, however my VIN has not been recalled and I want to report this. improperly welded joints can fatigue and break, causing the lower control arm to partially separate from the vehicle. This can lead to a sudden loss of steering control and increase the risk of a crash. I have not gotten in an accident, but was at risk of this happening. My car is being worked on and it will cost me $800 for these repairs for the issues related to the 2018 Chevy traxs. I would like this VIN to be recalled and receive a refund for the work done to my vehicle.
NHTSA complaint #11741821 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet Trax. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine sputtered and the check engine warnig light illuminated. The vehic ewas taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with a failed turbo charger. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a failed turbo charger. The contact was informed that the turbo charger needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The amnufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The contact referecned an extended warranty coverage program, however the contact was informd that the the title was a salvaged title. The failure mileage 70,000.
NHTSA complaint #11741269 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The vehicle was brought to an authorized GM dealership for a scheduled appointment to address a check engine condition related to a purge valve and an open safety recall for the lower control arm. The VIN was provided and confirmed at the time the appointment was made; however, the recall was not completed during the visit. The dealership replaced the purge valve without documenting diagnostic testing to confirm the cause or verify the repair. The vehicle was returned with the same check engine light still present. Additional issues were communicated through technician video and text, including a potential oil leak and possible fluid mixing, but none were documented or diagnosed in the service record. A dealership manager later stated that the vehicle was “not safe to drive,” but no written explanation or safety guidance was provided, and the vehicle was released without clarification. No diagnostic records, technician notes, or findings have been provided by either the dealership or GM despite escalation. The consumer has worked through appropriate dealership and manufacturer channels for approximately one month without resolution. The consumer is now being directed to return the vehicle for additional diagnostics at the consumer’s expense without defined scope or explanation. The vehicle remains with an unresolved condition and an open safety recall, without clear guidance regarding safe operation. This lack of clear, documented information is particularly concerning for senior-aged owners who rely on accurate guidance to make safe decisions.
NHTSA complaint #11739353 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2024 Chevrolet Trax. The contact stated that while driving at 70 MPH with cruise control engaged. The low-pressure oil light illuminated. The driver was able to pull over. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who determined that it was 4 quarts low and replenished it. An oil compensation test was performed. The dealer found no issue. While driving, there was an abnormal banging sound. The "Pull over and turn off the engine" message was displayed. The driver noticed that there was smoke emerging from the engine. There was oil leaking from the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed as having a blown engine. A hole was located in the block due to low oil. The vehicle was not repaired due to the parts being backordered. The manufacturer was not contacted. The approximate failure mileage was 41,000.
NHTSA complaint #11737511 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
My full complaint of the 2020 trax after buying brand new and only I as the owner and driver. Nov 2023- seat belts would not stay latched. We found out slamming on the breaks for a tractor trailer that flipped in front of us on 495. February 2024 - dash screen out, on and off as it wanted. February 2024- Heat and AC control not turning like they were super glued March 2024- dash screen out again complete black out April 2026- strut replacement @60,000 miles April 2026- water pump coolant leak April 2026- 3 serpentine belts in 3 days. I think that's all the consumer needs to be aware of, make a logical choice but the extra warranty it will save you I promise. All items have been covered by warranty, extended warranty or special warranty coverage. Make sure you research. And definitely make sure your dealership upholds their word and warranty. I carry my book with me Everytime I head to the shop. All work has been done under 63000 miles.
NHTSA complaint #11735568 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.