2018 Chevrolet Traverse recalls, problems & safety ratings
NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse and 464 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are power train (196), unknown or other (105), electrical system (102). It earned a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating. EPA-rated fuel economy is 20–22 mpg combined, depending on engine.
The 2018 ranks #13 of 14 Traverse model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with more complaints than the average year (268). It has 2 recalls vs. an average of 3.4 per model year.
Recalls 2
Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse. Not every recall applies to every vehicle, so check your VIN. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.
Air bags · critical fasteners
Problem: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2010-2015, 2017 Buick Enclave, 2010-2019 Chevrolet Traverse, and 2011-2016 GMC Acadia vehicles. The side curtain air bags may not be properly attached.
Risk: Unsecured side curtain air bags may not perform as intended, increasing the risk of injury.
Fix: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, realign or replace the weld nuts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 24, 2021. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, and GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N202321200.
Power train · automatic transmission
Problem: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Cruze and Buick LaCrosse, 2018-2020 Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Terrain, 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, 2019-2020 Buick Encore, Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT4, Chevrolet Blazer and GMC Acadia, and 2020 Cadillac XT6 vehicles. The start/stop accumulator endcap may have missing bolts.
Risk: Missing bolts on the start-stop accumulator endcap could result in a transmission oil leak and may progress to a loss of propulsion, increasing the risk of a crash. A transmission fluid leak in the presence of an ignition source may increase the risk of fire.
Fix: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the start-stop transmission accumulator and replace it if any bolts are missing, free of charge. The recall began December 15, 2020. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Buick Customer service at 1-866-608-8080, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N202313440.
Common problems
From complaints owners filed with NHTSA. Complaints aren't verified, but patterns across hundreds of owners point to known weak spots.
Most-reported problem areas
By the numbers
Recent owner reports
The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Traverse. While driving at 5–8 MPH, the transmission slipped. After coming to a complete stop, the vehicle hesitated to accelerate for five seconds before jumping forward 3–5 feet. Several unknown warning lights briefly illuminated. Additionally, the vehicle failed to respond while in reverse(R). The contact expressed safety concerns for his ch…
Sporadic issues when parking. When pressing the push to start button to turn off when in park, it will not turn off. It displays shift to park. Sometimes it appears to happen on unlabeled surfaces.
First issue-cracked catalytic converter caused leaking carbon monoxide inside vehicle. When I was driving I could smell strong, nauseating fuel smell and would have to drive with windows open to try and get fresh air. Took it to local shop for repair which cost $2700. After repair did some research and found special coverage warranty for 2018 Traverse for this same issue, howev…
Safety ratings
2018 Chevrolet Traverse SUV AWD
2018 Chevrolet Traverse SUV FWD
Fuel economy
EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse.
Traverse AWD
Auto 9-spd · 6 cyl · 3.6 L
Regular
Traverse FWD
Auto 9-spd · 6 cyl · 3.6 L
Regular
Traverse FWD
Auto 9-spd · 4 cyl · 2.0 L · Turbo
Premium
Other model years
Questions
How many recalls does the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse have?
NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse, most recently for air bags · critical fasteners (04/08/2021). Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer. Enter your VIN to check whether a recall applies to your vehicle.
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse?
Based on 464 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are power train (196), unknown or other (105), electrical system (102).
Is the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse safe?
The 2018 Chevrolet Traverse earned a 5-star overall rating in NHTSA's 5-star safety ratings.
Is the 2018 a good year for the Chevrolet Traverse?
The 2018 ranks #13 of 14 Traverse model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with more complaints than the average year (268). It has 2 recalls vs. an average of 3.4 per model year.
What gas mileage does the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse get?
EPA ratings for the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse range from 20 to 22 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain.
Own a 2018 Chevrolet Traverse in South Carolina?
Our mobile mechanics diagnose and fix the problems above at your home, office or fleet lot in Lexington, Columbia and the Midlands, with dealer-grade scan tools.
Related vehicles
Sources: NHTSA recalls, complaints and 5-Star Safety Ratings APIs; EPA fueleconomy.gov. Data retrieved October 21, 2026. NHTSA model names used: TRAVERSE, Traverse.