By Josh RosenbergThe big question now is, how has the 2010 Chevy Traverse actually aged over the years? Sure, it had a lot going for it back in the day. But today, people who are looking for "older" vehicles that can better fit their budgets need to know how it has actually performed in the real world over its history.
2010 Chevy Traverse Reliability
Unfortunately, the 2010 Traverse has had some significant reliability and mechanical issues that potential owners should be both aware of as well as check for before buying.
When well-maintained, history has proven this Traverse can last around 150,000 miles, which is approximately half as long as other large SUVs such as the Chevy Tahoe. Also, according to RepairPal, annual maintenance costs are expensive at $776 per year.
As with any vehicle, the long-term performance of this Traverse can vary based on previous owner maintenance regularity, driving habits, and environmental conditions. Some owners have experienced excellent longevity with proper care. However, there have also been a significant number of reports of transmission problems and issues with the timing chain, which can be expensive to repair.
More on the 2010's reliability soon, but first, and very importantly ...
Things To Do When Considering An "Older" Vehicle
Locate Lower Mileage Vehicles: They are certainly out there to be found with careful and patient shopping. Be willing to drive a distance if you have to.
Vehicle History and Maintenance: Ask for the vehicle history report (CarFax or AutoCheck) as well as documented maintenance and repair records. If not provided by the Dealer or private seller, it's usually best to move on.
Pre-Purchase Inspection: Have the vehicle independently inspected before making a final decision. This usually will cost in the $150-$200 range but is well worth it given the potentially thousands in savings over the long term.
And My #1 Price Tip: Please, always get online price quotes at auto sites such as CarsDirect.com and Edmunds.com (both, actually), whether looking for a new or used car. Competition among dealers for your business does amazing things to prices, and it's so easy. It really does make a difference.
And quickly, while we're at it, my #2 Tip is to always know the up-to-date trade-in value of your current car. You can get a quick and surprisingly accurate one at Edmund's Trade-In Quotes.
It's free and just takes a couple of minutes. I think what helps its accuracy is the inputs will include either your plate# or VIN# followed by many simple, but specific, yes/no questions. It really focuses in on the detail of the specific vehicle.
2010 Chevy Traverse Overview
The 2010 Chevy Traverse is a midsize crossover SUV that excels in offering a comfortable and spacious ride for families and those seeking ample cargo space. Its standout feature lies in its three-row seating configuration, accommodating up to eight passengers with ease.
The interior boasts generous legroom in all rows and a versatile cargo area, making it very good for long trips or daily commutes. While the design is more functional than flashy, the Traverse provides a comfortable and user-friendly cabin with intuitive controls and ample storage compartments.
Under the hood, the 2010 Traverse houses a V6 engine paired with a smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission, providing adequate power for most driving situations. Its towing capacity is higher than some competitors in the same class, catering to those needing to haul trailers or other heavy loads.
On the road, it offers a composed and smooth ride, handling bumps and uneven surfaces well, while also delivering decent fuel economy for its size.
2010 Chevy Traverse Mechanical Problem Watchlist:
This Traverse has had a number of reported mechanical issues that some owners experienced more commonly than others. These problem areas should definitely be included in a pre-purchase inspection prior to buying.
Also, it's important to note that not every 2010 Traverse experienced these problems, and some vehicles might have had these issues addressed through previous repairs. In addition, routine maintenance and regular servicing may have helped prevent or mitigate many of these problems before they become significant issues.
Transmission: The transmission has been a fairly common issue and have included rough shifting, slipping gears, or complete transmission failure.
Engine Failures: This has been the most common problem reported by owners. Problems with the engine, including issues with timing chains, misfires, or oil leaks, were reported by a number of drivers.
Timing Chain: The timing chain has been known to have problems in some vehicles. If not properly maintained or replaced, it can cause significant engine issues.
Power Steering: Some owners have reported issues with the power steering system, including leaks or a lack of responsiveness.
HVAC System Malfunctions: Complaints about the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system were reported, including issues with the climate control system and temperature regulation.
Electrical Problems: Some drivers experienced electrical issues such as malfunctioning sensors, warning lights illuminating for no reason, or problems with the vehicle's electrical systems.
Overall 2010 Chevy Traverse Pros
Spacious Interior: The Traverse offers ample space for passengers in all three rows. It's great for families or those who need lots of cargo room.
Smooth Ride: It's known for a comfortable and smooth ride, making long trips more pleasant.
Decent Fuel Economy: Compared to some other SUVs in its class, the Traverse has relatively good fuel efficiency for its size.
Safety Features: It comes equipped with standard safety features like traction and stability control, as well as a range of airbags.
Towing Capacity: It has a reasonably high towing capacity for its class, which might be useful for hauling.
Overall 2010 Chevy Traverse Cons
Reliability Concerns: Some owners have reported issues with reliability, including problems with the transmission and engine components.
Outdated Tech: The 2010 model might lack some of the modern technology and infotainment features seen in more recent vehicles.
Interior Quality: While spacious, the interior materials might feel less upscale compared to rival models.
Visibility: Some drivers have mentioned that visibility can be an issue due to thick roof pillars and small rear windows.
Resale Value: It tends to depreciate faster compared to some competitors, which could impact resale value.