The Good
The 2009 Traverse offers a smooth ride and ample space, appealing to comfort-seeking families. Its V6 engine provides adequate performance for daily driving. While reliability can be a concern, a well-maintained Traverse offers good value. The attractive styling and family-friendly design can emotionally appeal to buyers seeking a practical yet stylish vehicle.
The Bad
The 2009 Traverse is known for potential transmission issues, timing chain problems, and power steering failures. Watch out for excessive oil consumption and potential air conditioning malfunctions. Electrical issues and problems with the interior trim are also frequently reported. Thorough inspection and a detailed vehicle history are essential before purchasing.
2009 Chevrolet Traverse: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
3.6L V6 direct-injection engine. - Horsepower:
288 hp (LTZ trim). Lower trims may have slightly less. - Fuel Economy:
Approximately 17 mpg city / 24 mpg highway (FWD). AWD models have slightly lower fuel economy. - 0-60 Times:
Estimated around 8.5-9 seconds. - Towing Capacity:
Up to 5,200 lbs when properly equipped. - Trim-Level Features:
- LS: Cloth upholstery, basic audio system, air conditioning, power windows and locks, StabiliTrak.
- LT: Upgraded cloth or leatherette upholstery, tri-zone climate control, optional remote start, enhanced audio system. Several LT packages were available adding features such as a power liftgate and rear parking assist.
- LTZ: Leather upholstery, heated front seats, premium audio system, power liftgate, rear parking assist, chrome exterior trim, and typically larger wheels.
- Additional Notes:
All trims feature three rows of seating for up to eight passengers. Front-wheel drive (FWD) was standard, with all-wheel drive (AWD) available as an option. Safety features included anti-lock brakes, traction control, and a suite of airbags. The LT trim offered various option packages to customize features and comfort. The Traverse aimed to provide a comfortable and spacious ride for families.
2009 Chevrolet Traverse Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2009 |
| Make | Chevrolet |
| Model | Traverse |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Front-Wheel Drive |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
| Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | SPRINGHILL |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 4790 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 6411 pounds |
| Overall Height | 70.40 inches |
| Overall Length | 205.00 inches |
| Overall Width | 78.40 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 118.90 inches |
| Standard Seating | 8 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.6-L V-6 DOHC 24V |
| Engine Size | 3.6L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $29,255 |
| Invoice Price | $27,353 |
| Delivery Charges | $735 |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2009 Chevrolet Traverse Have?
Several recalls affected the 2009 Traverse. These included recalls related to the windshield wiper module, side impact airbags, and potential fuel pump issues. Long-term reliability is a significant concern due to these issues. Owners frequently report electrical issues, particularly with the door locks and power windows. Interior trim pieces are prone to cracking and breaking. Due to these issues, potential buyers should thoroughly inspect any 2009 Traverse and review its maintenance history, paying particular attention to any repairs related to the timing chain, transmission, and power steering system. Considering a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended.
How long will the 2009 Chevrolet Traverse last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Safety features included standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes (ABS), and a comprehensive airbag system with front, side-impact, and side curtain airbags covering all three rows. Optional features included all-wheel drive (AWD) for enhanced traction in inclement weather. The 2009 Traverse received generally good crash-test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It earned five-star ratings in several categories, including overall frontal crash protection and side crash protection. However, ratings can vary depending on the specific test and model configuration. While not cutting-edge by today's standards, the 2009 Traverse provided a decent level of technology and safety for its era, especially in the higher trim levels. More driver-assistance features became available in later model years.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2009 Chevrolet Traverse Prices and Market Value
2009 Chevrolet Traverse Cost of Ownership
2009 Chevrolet Traverse Fuel Efficiency
2009 Chevrolet Traverse Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2009 Chevrolet Traverse Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2009 Chevrolet Traverse Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2009 Chevrolet Traverse Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
Reliability is where the Traverse falls short compared to the Honda and Toyota. The Ford Flex offers a distinctive design and available turbocharged engine, but its reliability can also be a concern. The Mazda CX-9 offers a more engaging driving experience but sacrifices some cargo space.
Alternatives to consider include a Honda Pilot or Toyota Highlander for superior reliability, or a Buick Enclave (based on the same platform as the Traverse) for a slightly more premium feel, although it shares many of the same potential mechanical issues. For buyers prioritizing reliability, the Honda and Toyota are generally better choices, even if they come at a slightly higher price point.
Ranks #999 SUV
| 1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (3.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0★) |
| 999 | 2009 Chevrolet Traverse | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2009 Chevrolet Traverse a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
Patricia Blaylock on June 21, 2023
2009 traverseDrives good. Really comfortable. Cold air and hot heat. Awesome stereo system. Also OnStar. Wish it would of had heated leather seats.. beautiful outside color
Trina on May 18, 2022
Bad makeI fix one thing 2 more go wrong it's ridiculous my parking brake does not work half the of back seat belts don't work and the seat belt latch covers are a pain literally they came apart I've sank more money in this car than its worth,and I know it was used but I bought it with only 95,000 miles on it and it was already giving all these troubles. It's not worth it
SickOfChevy on October 6, 2020
Stay away. FAR away!Purchase this car and in one year, the engine completely died. In that one year, the vehicle was constantly in and out of the dealership for repairs until it finally gave out at 100,500 miles! I purchased it Certified Pre-Owned. And wouldn't ya know, even at just over the PT warranty, Chevy would do nothing about it despite numerous visits to the shop for every issue under the sun. So the car sat at the dealership/shop for months while we faithfully paid on our loan and tried to save up money for a new engine or down payment for a car. We were stuck! We ended up having to roll the rest of this loan into a new Chevy Traverse just so we could get a car. We’re paying way too much for this new one but we couldn’t rationalize paying $6-7k for a new engine that would be the same 2009 hunk of junk already in there giving us problems. Once I can get rid of the one I’m in, I’m done with Chevy. The one we have now is nothing but problems too. We’ve never had this many issues! Most of our cars last us 300k+ miles easy (my husband’s Ford truck is running good at 294k right now). FTR if you google the 2009 Chevy, you’ll see the engine shutting down at just over 100k is a common problem. Steer clear because Chevy has no plans of recalling or helping you out when it happens.
Momo on June 29, 2020
Practical, reliable, comfortable, seats 8.Looks great. Met all of our needs, hauled a family of eight across the country, very reliable, very comfortable for long trips, great handling (a surprise for a car this large). Avg. mpg 18-20 in regular use.
DBee on February 12, 2020
Glad I bought this!Really nice, very comfortable, great power. EXCELLENT utility, tons of interior room. Gas mileage is about normal for a vehicle this size. VERY happy to own this!
The stig on February 4, 2020
Great suv. 3rd row seating. Good fuel economyGreat car. Needed the bigger suv as family is getting bigger. I did not want anything with v8 cause fuel economy not so great. Ive done a tune up and a few other things to it, parts are affordable.
James t on November 10, 2019
The 09 Chevrolet traverse ls is a piece of crapYou get comfort you get style and you also get a crappy transmission and an engine that wont give you nothing but trouble .style and comfort not worth the money you will have to spend on this car.
Makela Lee on June 13, 2019
Very exquisite styleThe glide was smooth around corners and felt like a home inside a car. Very nice feel and could definitely see myself owning this vehicle
Unhappycarowner on June 1, 2019
Had problems with the car since i first got it aIt is a bad viechle nothing but headaches and problems since I bought the viechle. I have been taking the car for repairs in and out... it has just been a taking my money and the dealer has not helped with the problems...
Rick on May 28, 2019
Good safe carIt's a good safe car. She's happy with it and the kids can get in and out easy. Lots of room. Good power when you need it.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.