2018 Chevrolet Trax recalls, problems & safety ratings
NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2018 Chevrolet Trax and 102 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are suspension (34), engine (30), electrical system (18). It earned a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating. EPA-rated fuel economy is 27–28 mpg combined, depending on configuration.
The 2018 ranks #6 of 11 Trax model years for fewest complaints (2015–2026), with more complaints than the average year (91). It has 2 recalls vs. an average of 1.9 per model year.
Recalls 2
Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2018 Chevrolet Trax. Not every recall applies to every vehicle, so check your VIN. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.
Suspension · front · control arm · lower ball joint
Problem: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Chevrolet Trax vehicles. A joint in one or both of the front lower control arms may have been improperly welded. An improperly welded joint may break, resulting in the partial separation of the lower control arm from the vehicle.
Risk: A partial separation of the lower-control arm from the vehicle could cause the attached front wheel to toe outward, impacting the vehicle's handling and steering and increasing the risk of crash.
Fix: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the left and right front lower-control arms, replacing them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 6, 2019. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is A192261870.
Suspension · front · control arm · lower ball joint
Problem: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Chevrolet Trax vehicles. A joint in one or both of the front lower-control arms may have been improperly welded. An improperly welded joint may break, resulting in the partial separation of the lower-control arm from the vehicle.
Risk: A partial separation of the lower-control arm from the vehicle could cause the attached front wheel to toe outward, impacting the vehicle's handling and steering and increasing the risk of crash.
Fix: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the left and right front lower-control arms, replacing them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began June 14, 2019. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is A182202370.
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 vehicle suffers from an extreme, unresolved internal crankcase pressure defect stemming from the factory 1.4L Ecotec PCV system and intake manifold check valve. This pressure cascade has caused a total turbocharger failure, multi-gasket oil blowouts, water pump failure, and has now completely blown a critical coolant housing hose off its connection, causing total coolant ev…
Turbo failed
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.
Safety ratings
2018 Chevrolet Trax SUV FWD
2018 Chevrolet Trax SUV AWD
Fuel economy
EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2018 Chevrolet Trax.
Trax
Auto (S6) · 4 cyl · 1.4 L · Turbo
Regular
Trax AWD
Auto (S6) · 4 cyl · 1.4 L · Turbo
Regular
Other model years
Questions
How many recalls does the 2018 Chevrolet Trax have?
NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2018 Chevrolet Trax, most recently for suspension · front · control arm · lower ball joint (09/12/2019). 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 Trax?
Based on 102 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are suspension (34), engine (30), electrical system (18).
Is the 2018 Chevrolet Trax safe?
The 2018 Chevrolet Trax earned a 5-star overall rating in NHTSA's 5-star safety ratings.
Is the 2018 a good year for the Chevrolet Trax?
The 2018 ranks #6 of 11 Trax model years for fewest complaints (2015–2026), with more complaints than the average year (91). It has 2 recalls vs. an average of 1.9 per model year.
What gas mileage does the 2018 Chevrolet Trax get?
EPA ratings for the 2018 Chevrolet Trax range from 27 to 28 mpg combined, depending on configuration.
Own a 2018 Chevrolet Trax 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 November 2, 2026. NHTSA model names used: TRAX, Trax.