Best Year for Used Chevy Traverse – Complete Buyer Guide

Buying a used Chevy Traverse can be a smart investment if you want a spacious, comfortable midsize SUV without paying the high price of a brand-new vehicle. However, choosing the right model year is essential because reliability, technology, safety, and resale value vary significantly from year to year. This detailed guide explains the best year for a used Chevy Traverse, which years are most reliable, which ones you should avoid, ownership costs, expert buying tips, and everything you need before purchasing.

History of the Chevy Traverse

The Traverse is produced by Chevrolet, a major General Motors brand. It debuted in 2009 as a midsize crossover SUV designed mainly for families needing three rows of seating, strong performance, and modern comfort.

Over the years, the Traverse evolved through two main generations:

First Generation (2009–2017)
Focused on space, practicality, and affordability. Some early reliability concerns existed.

Second Generation (2018–Present)
Redesigned platform with improved safety, technology, engine efficiency, and styling.

Understanding these generational changes helps identify the best-used models.

Why Buyers Choose a Used Chevy Traverse

Before discussing the best model years, it helps to understand why the Traverse remains popular:

Spacious Interior

One of the biggest advantages is interior space. It offers comfortable third-row seating and large cargo capacity, making it ideal for families.

Strong Performance

Most models use a V6 engine that balances power and smooth driving.

Affordable Pricing

Compared with many midsize SUVs, used Traverse models often cost less while offering similar features.

Comfortable Ride Quality

It’s designed for long highway trips with minimal driver fatigue.

These qualities make it a strong competitor against other midsize SUVs from brands like Ford Motor Company, Honda, and Toyota.

Best Year for Used Chevy Traverse

2018 Model – Best Overall Choice

The 2018 redesign marked a major improvement. It’s widely considered the best balance of affordability, reliability, and modern features.

Key highlights:

• Completely updated exterior design
• Improved fuel efficiency
• Better transmission performance
• Advanced safety technology
• Higher interior quality

If you want a modern used SUV without paying top dollar, the 2018 Traverse is often the best pick.

2019–2020 Models – Most Reliable Recent Options

These years refined the redesign further:

• Enhanced infotainment responsiveness
• Improved driver assistance features
• Fewer reported mechanical issues
• Better resale value

If your budget allows, these model years provide strong reliability and modern technology.

2017 Model – Best Budget Option

The final year of the first generation solved many earlier issues:

• Mature, proven engine design
• Lower used price
• Good availability in the market

It’s a good choice if you want affordability with acceptable reliability.

Chevy Traverse Years to Avoid

Not every model year performs equally well. Some early years reported higher maintenance concerns.

2009–2012 Models

Common issues reported include:

• Transmission problems
• Timing chain wear
• Higher repair frequency

These vehicles can still be reliable with proper maintenance, but risk levels are higher.

2014 Model Concerns

Some owners reported:

• Electrical glitches
• Engine hesitation
• Infotainment system issues

A thorough inspection is recommended before purchase.

Reliability Ratings and Safety

Safety ratings matter when buying any family SUV. Independent organizations like the IIHS and NHTSA have rated many Traverse models highly, especially after 2018.

Safety features often include:

• Forward collision alert
• Lane departure warning
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Rearview camera systems

Newer models offer significantly improved crash safety and driver assistance.

Engine Performance and Fuel Economy

Most Traverse models use a V6 engine delivering strong performance:

Typical benefits:

• Smooth highway acceleration
• Good towing capability
• Quiet driving experience

Fuel economy varies by year:

• Older models: Moderate efficiency
• 2018 and newer: Improved mileage due to engine upgrades

For a large SUV, fuel efficiency remains competitive.

Interior Features and Comfort

Interior comfort is one reason buyers prefer the Traverse.

Common interior benefits:

Seating Comfort

• Spacious three-row seating
• Available leather upholstery
• Heated and ventilated seats in higher trims

Infotainment Technology

• Touchscreen displays
• Smartphone connectivity
• Navigation options

Cargo Space

Among the best cargo capacities in its class, especially with folded rear seats.

Cost of Ownership

Understanding long-term costs is essential before buying any used SUV.

Maintenance Costs

Typical maintenance includes:

• Oil changes
• Brake replacements
• Tire rotation
• Transmission service

These costs are moderate compared with similar SUVs.

Insurance Costs

Insurance rates vary by:

• Model year
• Driver location
• Driving record

Generally, midsize SUVs like the Traverse have average insurance costs.

Fuel Costs

Fuel economy improvements after 2018 help reduce long-term expenses.

What to Check Before Buying a Used Chevy Traverse

Always perform proper checks before finalizing a purchase.

Vehicle History Report

This shows:

• Accident history
• Ownership records
• Service intervals

Mechanical Inspection

Have a trusted mechanic check:

• Engine performance
• Transmission health
• Suspension condition
• Brake system

Test Drive

During the test drive, observe:

• Acceleration smoothness
• Steering response
• Noise levels
• Technology functionality

These checks prevent costly surprises.

Common Problems Owners Report

Even reliable vehicles can have recurring issues.

Some known Traverse concerns include:

• Transmission shifting issues in older models
• Electronic sensor malfunctions
• Air conditioning compressor wear

Regular maintenance reduces risk significantly.

Resale Value and Depreciation

The Traverse holds value reasonably well compared with many midsize SUVs.

Factors affecting resale:

• Mileage
• Service history
• Accident record
• Trim level

Newer models typically depreciate more slowly.

Best Trim Levels to Consider

Different trims offer varying comfort and technology.

Popular trims include:

LS Trim

Basic but affordable.

LT Trim

Balanced features and price.

Premier Trim

Luxury features and premium materials.

High Country Trim

Top-tier comfort and advanced technology.

Choosing the right trim depends on budget and preferences.

Is AWD Worth It in a Used Traverse?

All-wheel drive (AWD) benefits include:

• Better traction in rain or snow
• Improved off-road confidence
• Enhanced stability

However, AWD models usually cost more and consume slightly more fuel.

Family Suitability

The Traverse excels as a family SUV due to:

• Spacious seating
• Safety technology
• Smooth ride quality
• Large cargo space

Parents often appreciate easy third-row access.

Long-Term Durability

With proper maintenance, many Traverse models exceed:

• 150,000 to 200,000 miles lifespan
• Reliable engine longevity
• Strong structural durability

Regular servicing is key.

Comparison With Other Midsize SUVs

When compared with competitors:

• Often more spacious
• Usually more affordable used
• Comparable safety ratings
• Strong performance for family driving

This makes it a practical alternative in the midsize SUV market.

Expert Buying Tips

To ensure a successful purchase:

• Research model year reliability first
• Avoid vehicles without service records
• Compare multiple listings
• Negotiate a price based on the condition
• Always inspect before buying

These steps reduce risks significantly

Final Verdict – Best Year for Used Chevy Traverse

If you want the best overall value:

• 2018 model – Best balance of price, reliability, and features
• 2019–2020 models – Most reliable modern options
• 2017 model – Best affordable older choice

Avoid early models unless thoroughly inspected.

Choosing the right year ensures comfort, reliability, and long-term satisfaction.

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