Chevy Trax Engine Problems: Years to Avoid
The 2016 Chevrolet Trax stands as the worst model year of this subcompact crossover, burdened by over 150 NHTSA complaints and 5 recalls that span electrical, mechanical, and cooling failures. If you're shopping for a used Trax, knowing which years hide serious defects—and which ones deliver dependable ownership—is the difference between a smart purchase and a costly mistake.
The Problem Years: What You Need to Know
2015 Chevrolet Trax — The Transmission Red Flag
Despite earning an 8.3 out of 10 rating from critics and ranking as the #1 Affordable Subcompact SUV that year, the 2015 Trax masks serious flaws beneath its favorable reviews. The model attracted 154 NHTSA complaints and 7 recalls—among the highest complaint volumes in the lineup.
The most alarming issue: vehicles rolling backward on inclined roads. Multiple owners reported the Trax creeping downhill while stopped, with one driver narrowly avoiding a collision with the car behind him on what wasn't even a steep grade. Experts attribute this to transmission failure—a problem that demands immediate attention and can cost thousands to repair.
A secondary but persistent problem involves the A/C system shutting down without warning. Owners described sudden loss of heating and cooling, requiring repairs that typically run $300 or more. While less dangerous than transmission failure, unexpected climate control loss during winter or summer drives creates genuine discomfort and expense.
2016 Chevrolet Trax — Peak Unreliability
This model year represents the nadir of Trax reliability. According to CarComplaints, the 2016 carries over 150 NHTSA complaints and 5 recalls—a pattern of failure across multiple systems that should concern any buyer.
The faulty A/C system returned as a dominant complaint, with owners reporting sudden climate control failure linked to refrigerant leaks, broken compressors, and electrical failures in the climate control module. More alarming were engine and cooling system failures that triggered check engine lights and, in some cases, complete power loss while driving on highways. One owner's loss of engine power at highway speed illustrates the safety risk—not merely an inconvenience, but a potential collision hazard.
2017 Chevrolet Trax — Cabin Quality Meets Reliability Issues
The 2017 improved slightly over its predecessors but remained problematic. CarComplaints recorded 130 NHTSA complaints and 3 recalls. Critics noted low-quality cabin materials and an underpowered engine, but mechanical issues persisted.
The A/C system—now a recurring theme across these years—continued failing, with the heater specifically malfunctioning for multiple owners. Depending on your climate, a non-functional heater ranges from mildly annoying to genuinely miserable during winter months.
One alarming report stands out: an engine fire following a minor accident. While this may represent an isolated incident rather than a systemic defect, the possibility of post-accident engine ignition is a serious red flag that warrants attention during any pre-purchase inspection.
2018 Chevrolet Trax — Partial Recovery
By 2018, Chevrolet had addressed some earlier failures. The 2018 model shows improvement with only 80 NHTSA complaints and 2 recalls—a meaningful reduction suggesting engineering corrections took hold.
However, problems remained. Owners reported electrical system failures that unexpectedly shut down the engine and infotainment system while driving. One frustrated owner described losing all electrical power, experiencing engine stall, and being unable to activate hazard lights—a terrifying scenario on a busy road. The temporary fix (turning the engine off and restarting) didn't prevent recurrence.
The 2018 also suffered from improperly welded front suspension components, a defect serious enough to trigger a recall. Improper welds compromise steering response and crash safety, making this a structural rather than merely cosmetic issue.
The Safe Choices: Where Reliability Improves
2019 Chevrolet Trax
The 2019 marks a turning point toward reliability. While owners reported brake line disconnection—one instance occurring at just 7,500 miles—the overall complaint volume dropped significantly. The vehicle was included in the front suspension recall, but this reflects a known issue rather than a new failure pattern.
The 2019 Trax delivers notably fewer complaints than earlier years and stands as a credible option for used buyers willing to pay slightly more for reduced risk.
2020 Chevrolet Trax
If you prefer a newer model, the 2020 Trax offers solid reliability in body integrity, exhaust systems, in-car electronics, and engine performance. Minor issues with brakes, transmission, and suspension persist—consistent with the segment—but these represent normal wear rather than systemic defects.
The 2020 represents a stabilized platform where Chevrolet had resolved the catastrophic failures that plagued 2015–2018 models.
The Buying Strategy
When evaluating a used Trax, avoid the 2015–2018 lineup entirely. The compound failures—transmission rolling, engine fires, electrical shutdowns, and recurring A/C breakdowns—create a pattern of unreliability that no discount justifies. A 2015 Trax averaging $13,148 saves money upfront but invites expensive repairs and safety risks.
The 2019 and 2020 models command premiums (2021 models average $20,672 according to CoPilot Price Pulse), but that 27% premium reflects both tight used-car supply and genuine engineering improvements. For a subcompact crossover you'll rely on for daily driving, the investment protects against costly failures and dangerous situations.
Always perform a pre-purchase inspection focusing on transmission engagement, A/C operation, electrical system responsiveness, and suspension integrity. The money spent on inspection pays dividends by confirming whether a specific vehicle escaped the defects that plagued its model year.