Chevrolet Trax Reliability Through the Years

The Chevrolet Trax has carved out a spot in the compact SUV market with its mix of everyday practicality and good looks. We know buyers typically rank reliability at the top of their priority list, so our Jack Burford Chevrolet team has taken a good look at how this little SUV performs over time. We’ve checked out its track record across different years and dug up some useful information to help you decide if it belongs in your driveway.

Reliability by Year

The Chevrolet Trax has improved quite a bit in dependability since hitting U.S. showrooms in 2015. Each new version builds on what came before, fixing flaws and tweaking systems that needed work.

We suggest you consider how different model years stack up if you’re shopping for a Trax. This small SUV earned a four-out-of-five reliability score from RepairPal, placing it sixth out of seven in its small SUV category.

2015-2018

The early Trax SUVs had a few bugs to work out, and models from 2015-2018 came with their fair share of headaches. Air conditioning problems topped the complaint list, typically costing owners about $300 to fix.

The 2016 model year was particularly problematic; it had over 150 complaints and triggered five recalls. Still, these first attempts laid the groundwork for improvement, and many people who bought these early models and kept up with maintenance report being fairly satisfied with their purchase.

2019-2023

Chevy clearly listened to customer feedback for the 2019-2023 models, fixing many of the nagging issues from earlier versions. During this period, the Trax started to hold its own against other small SUVs.

These models make good sense when you examine repair costs. Owners typically spend about $488 yearly for repairs, less than many other vehicles demand. Trax drivers only deal with unexpected repair visits about 0.2 times per year, half the industry average of 0.4. Fewer surprise trips to the mechanic means more cash in your pocket and less time wasted sitting in repair shop waiting rooms.

2024

The 2024 Trax was a big jump forward for Chevy’s small SUV. It won several awards; Cars.com named it Best Car of 2024, and it made Car and Driver’s 2024 10Best Trucks and SUVs list. It was the only small SUV to make the cut.

Performance checks all the right boxes, too. Car and Driver clocked its 0-to-60 mph sprint at 8.8 seconds — quick enough for everyday driving without feeling sluggish. Gas mileage is a practical 28 mpg city and 32 mpg highway, working well for both short Richmond commutes and weekend road trips.

Value might be the Trax’s biggest selling point. The 2024 model cost $1,400 less than the 2022 version it replaced. Lower price tag, better features, improved reliability — that’s a winning combination.

2025

While we’re still gathering details on the 2025 Chevrolet Trax’s reliability, early signs indicate continued improvements in reliability and safety. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety crash test results are already showing meaningful progress.

Key Factors Contributing to the Chevrolet Trax’s Reliability

What makes the Trax a dependable daily driver? Chevrolet’s quality control process plays a significant role. Its engineering and manufacturing standards aim to create cars that handle everyday tasks while avoiding constant repair shop visits.

J.D. Power gave recent Trax models a “Great” Quality and Reliability score of 83/100. This reflects strong performance in mechanical systems, exterior and interior quality, and overall dependability. It’s worth noting that about 12% of Trax repairs qualify as serious or major issues, in line with the average for all cars. The Trax isn’t any more likely to leave you stranded than most vehicles you’ll find on dealer lots.

Engine Performance and Durability

Any discussion about reliability should start with what’s powering the vehicle. The 2024 Trax uses Chevrolet’s ECOTEC 1.2-liter Turbo engine, making 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. This setup hits a nice middle ground between performance and fuel efficiency.

Trax engines prove quite dependable over time. With routine care, these motors can rack up around 200,000 miles. That’s a lot of road trips. The fuel economy ratings (28 city/32 highway) save on gas money and indicate an engine that runs efficiently.

Safety Features and Ratings

A reliable car keeps you safe, and the Trax has made real progress here. The 2025 model scored “Good” ratings in both driver and passenger small overlap front tests; these simulate corner impacts that can cause serious injuries. Its moderate overlap front test score climbed from “Poor” to “Good;” Chevy’s engineers have significantly changed its structure and crash protection systems.

Modern Trax models come loaded with safety tech that was limited to luxury cars not long ago. Standard equipment includes lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking, and forward collision alert. These systems protect you in a crash and actively work to prevent accidents, which naturally reduces repair needs and contributes to the car’s overall dependability score.

Build Quality and Material

The Trax’s reliability derives from solid construction and durable materials. The 2024 models improved on interior quality. Standard comfort features now include heated seats, a heated steering wheel, wireless charging, and a moonroof, which is a comprehensive list for an affordable compact SUV.

Quality materials are essential for more than passenger comfort. The Trax’s body construction has improved with each generation, creating a structure that protects against daily wear. This attention to engineering details is very important to how the car feels after years of ownership and directly impacts long-term reliability ratings.

Chevrolet Trax Longevity and Maintenance

How long do Chevrolet Traxes last? A well-cared-for Trax can hit the 200,000-mile mark, but reaching this milestone requires regular maintenance. Trax owners typically spend about $488 annually on repairs, which is less than many comparable vehicle maintenance costs.

Stick to the factory maintenance schedule to maximize your Trax’s life span. This means regular oil changes, tire rotations, and system checks at recommended intervals. Fewer surprise breakdowns mean more reliable transportation and fewer hassles in your busy Richmond life.

The Chevrolet Trax has earned its reputation as a solid performer in the compact SUV class. Strong safety scores, an efficient and durable engine, and surprisingly low maintenance needs make it a smart value proposition. The latest 2024 and 2025 models build on this foundation with significant improvements.

Test-Drive the Chevrolet Trax Today at Jack Burford Chevrolet in Richmond

The Trax deserves your attention if you’re hunting for a small SUV that balances reliability, good gas mileage, affordability, and modern features. Take one for a test-drive at Jack Burford Chevrolet and learn more about what makes these compact SUVs tick. Our team can answer all your questions and help find the right Trax model for your Richmond lifestyle. Stop by and check out one of the most dependable compact SUVs you can buy today.

Image courtesy of Chevrolet