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Here Are The Chevy Trax Years To Avoid

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The subcompact crossover segment is one of the most popular segments, but it also has a long list of well-rounded models. If you want to succeed in this class, carmakers need to bring their A-game to stand out. Unfortunately, the Chevrolet Trax has failed to gain momentum despite being early to the party.

If you’re looking to buy a used Chevy Trax, you have a couple of model years to choose from. However, like we always do here in CoPilot, we picked some of the worst Chevy Trax years to avoid.

This guide aims to help you buy the best Chevy Trax model year that will give you the least number of headaches. Here are the worst Chevy Trax years to avoid and the ones you can buy with confidence.

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Which Chevy Trax Years to Avoid?

Below is a quick list of Trax model years you should avoid due to various mechanical and electrical issues:

  • 2015 Chevrolet Trax
  • 2016 Chevrolet Trax
  • 2017 Chevrolet Trax
  • 2018 Chevrolet Trax
  • 2019 Chevrolet Trax

2015 Chevrolet Trax

The 2015 was actually received well by critics and customers alike. US News gave the Trax an overall rating of 8.3 out of 10 and made it the #1 in 2015 Affordable Subcompact SUVs. Unfortunately, the 2015 year is one of the models with the highest number of complaints, with 154 NHTSA complaints and 7 recalls.

The top sore spot for 2015 Trax owners is that it tends to roll down on an incline. A few reports stated that the Trax rolled back while stopping on inclined roads. One user reported that his Trax almost rolled down on the car behind, and that’s not even on a steeply inclined road. Experts say that this might be a transmission issue.

Another common issue with this Trax is the faulty A/C system. Several owners reported that the A/C stopped working suddenly, and no heat or cold was provided. It’s not quite a severe issue, but it’s still annoying and may cost up to $300 in repairs.

2016 Chevrolet Trax

According to CarComplaints, the 2016 Trax is the worst model year of Chevy’s subcompact crossover. With over 150 NHTSA complaints and 5 recalls, the 2016 Trax was dragged down by various electrical and mechanical problems.

At the forefront of Trax’s reliability woes is the faulty A/C system. Frustrated owners complained about the Trax’s air conditioning system that had just stopped working. The common causes of A/C problems are usually a refrigerant leak, climate control electrical issues, and a broken air compressor.

The 2016 model also suffered from engine and engine cooling issues. Many owners reported the check engine light coming on, which led to engine failure. Some reports claimed they lost power while driving on the highway, a terrifying experience. It’s indeed one of the worst Chevy Trax years to avoid.

2017 Chevrolet Trax

The 2017 Trax isn’t as problematic as the two previous models, but it does have its fair share of issues. Also, critics weren’t as pleased with this model year due to low-quality cabin materials and an underpowered engine. As per CarComplaints, the 2017 Trax has 130 NHTSA complaints, and 3 recalls.

THE MOST RELIABLE YEAR FOR THE CHEVY TRAX

As such, if you’re looking to buy a used model of this subcompact SUV, you’re likely wondering which is the most reliable year of Chevy Trax. Lucky for you, we have today’s buyer’s guide to help you determine the most reliable model year of this subcompact SUV.

Once again, the Trax’s A/C system finds its way into the spotlight, but for the wrong reasons. A few reports stated that the Trax’s climate system tends to fail. In particular, 2017’s heater has stopped working for some people. This problem can be mildly annoying or make you miserable, depending on where you live.

Another report stated that the Trax’s engine caught fire. While this isn’t a prevalent issue, and this might as well be a freak accident, knowing that the engine may catch fire is a massive cause for concern. According to one user report, the engine caught fire after getting into an accident.

2018 Chevrolet Trax

By this point, Chevrolet has ironed out some of the worst reliability flaws of the Trax. According to CarComplaints, the 2018 Trax only has 80 NHTSA complaints, and 2 recalls under its belt. You should keep in mind a few issues when buying used.

The Trax suffered from electrical issues that shut off the engine and infotainment system based on a few reports. One owner claimed that the vehicle lost electrical power and stalled, and they couldn’t even turn on the hazard lights. The complainants had to turn off the engine and turn it on again to fix the issue, but it tends to happen again.

The 2018 Trax also suffered from suspension problems which eventually led to a recall. According to the recall notice, Trax’s front suspension may have been welded improperly. This makes the vehicle harder to steer and increases the risk of a crash.

2019 Chevrolet Trax

The 2019 Trax release lacked any fanfare and received mixed reviews from critics. A few mechanical and electrical issues, plus a sluggish engine and low-quality interior, makes this SUV one of the worst Chevy Trax years to avoid.

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One common sore spot for the 2019 Trax is its brakes. According to one frustrated driver, the Trax’s brake line had become disconnected and needed to be replaced. What made this issue extra frustrating is that it happened at around 7,500 miles.

In addition, the 2019 Trax was also part of the recall regarding the vehicle’s improperly welded front suspension.

Which Chevy Trax Years are Safe to Buy Used?

Below are the Chevy Trax years that you can safely buy as used:

2014 Chevrolet Trax

This small SUV may not be the most powerful out there, but it’s a capable all-rounder. It offers good fuel efficiency, handling, and modern features. It may not blow your socks off, but the 2014 Trax boasts good reliability ratings and reviews, making it an ideal choice for used car buyers.

2020 Chevrolet Trax

If you don’t mind a newer Trax model, the 2020 version is worth considering. The Trax offers good reliability in areas like body hardware/integrity, exhaust systems, in-car electronics, and engines. However, it does have some minor issues with its brakes, transmission, and suspension – similar to the previous years.

Are Chevy Trax cars typically reliable?

The Chevrolet Trax has a hit-or-miss reputation as a reliable subcompact SUV. Many model years have proven to be dependable vehicles that require only routine maintenance. However, a few Trax editions are lacking in the dependability department. 

How much does a used Chevy Trax typically cost?

While a first-year Chevy Trax goes for an average of $13,148, reports CoPilot Price Pulse, you’ll spend more for something newer and more reliable. A 2021 Chevy Trax has a typical asking price of $20,672, which reflects a 27% premium due to tight used car supplies and strong demand for compact SUVs.

Is the Chevy Trax a good car to purchase?

The Chevy Trax can be a trusty subcompact crossover if you concentrate on buying from the more problem-free examples. Check out the most reliable years of the Chevy Trax to ensure this happens.  The Trax offers a nice blend of efficiency and versatility.

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