by VIN, Year, Make, Model by License Plate

2009 Chevrolet Traverse Review: Unreliable SUV With Many Expensive Problems

Rating: 4.27
Based on 70 Owner Reviews
Eugene S | March 31, 2025
The 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is a full-size crossover SUV, debuting in 2009 as part of GM's Lambda platform. Its body style emphasizes spaciousness and practicality. Key trims included LS, LT, and LTZ. The original MSRP ranged from around $29,000 to $39,000. Its popularity stemmed from its eight-passenger seating, car-like handling, and relatively fuel-efficient V6 engine compared to traditional SUVs. It stood out as a more modern and comfortable family vehicle.
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 MORAINE
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

Vehicle
Specifications
Ownership
History
All History
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
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Accident
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Theft
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Open Lien
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Past Sale
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Odometer
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Market Price
Analysis

What Problems Does the 2009 Chevrolet Traverse Have?

The 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is plagued by several frequently reported problems impacting its long-term reliability. A major concern is the timing chain stretching, which can lead to engine damage if not addressed promptly. Symptoms include engine misfires and a check engine light. Transmission issues, including hard shifting and complete failure, are also prevalent. Power steering pump failures are commonly reported, leading to difficulty steering. Excessive oil consumption is another significant concern, requiring frequent monitoring and top-offs. Air conditioning system failures, particularly with the compressor, are also noted.

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?

With proper maintenance, a 2009 Chevrolet Traverse can potentially reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles or more. However, due to the known issues like timing chain problems and transmission failures, the actual lifespan can vary considerably depending on maintenance habits. Regular oil changes, timely transmission servicing, and addressing issues promptly are crucial for longevity. The timing chain and transmission are significant weaknesses that can drastically shorten the vehicle's lifespan if neglected. Durability is heavily influenced by how well these known issues are managed throughout its service life. A well-maintained example could offer several more years of service, while a neglected one may require costly repairs or early retirement.
Positive Owner Reviews
Patricia Blaylock
Drives 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
I 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
The stig
Great 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.
Negative Owner Reviews
alib3
I loved my 2009 traverse when we first got it, and until this last year it has been great, but the last 12 months have been awful! We have has our Traverse in the service center over 10 times. Chevrolet has been pretty good about fixing everything, but the inconvenience of not having my vehicle multiple times is enough to put me in the market for something new, As of my last time in service, we found out that Chevrolet is aware of the difficulties with this year Traverse but is not willing to fix all of its problems voluntarily.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2009 Chevrolet Traverse offered a reasonable array of tech and safety features for its time. The base LS trim included a standard AM/FM radio with CD player and auxiliary input. Higher trims like the LT and LTZ added features such as a premium Bose audio system, rear-seat DVD entertainment system (optional), and tri-zone climate control. Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles, but rear parking assist was available on higher trims.

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
Black Granite Metallic
Silver Ice Metallic
Dark Cherry Metallic
Summit White
Gold Mist Metallic
Red Jewel Tintcoat
Blue Granite Metallic
Interior Colors
Ebony
Light Titanium/Dark Titanium
Cashmere/Cocoa

2009 Chevrolet Traverse Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2009 Chevrolet Traverse had an MSRP ranging from approximately $29,000 for the base LS trim to around $39,000 for the top-tier LTZ. Currently, used market prices for a 2009 Traverse typically range from around $3,000 to $8,000, depending on condition, mileage, and trim level. Depreciation has been significant due to age, mileage, and reported reliability issues. Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's condition, maintenance history, mileage, and geographic location. Models with lower mileage and a clean service record command higher prices. Known mechanical issues significantly impact resale negatively. High mileage and documented issues like timing chain replacement needs can drastically lower the car's value.

2009 Chevrolet Traverse Cost of Ownership

The 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is generally considered moderately costly to own long-term. Insurance costs are typical for a full-size SUV. Fuel economy, averaging around 20 mpg combined, contributes to ongoing expenses. Maintenance and repair costs can be higher than average due to the potential for timing chain issues, transmission problems, and other frequently reported repairs. Given these factors, potential buyers should budget accordingly for potential repairs to ensure economic ownership. A comprehensive pre-purchase inspection is vital to mitigate future costs.

2009 Chevrolet Traverse Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 22.00 gallons
City Mileage 17 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage 24 miles/gallon

2009 Chevrolet Traverse Safety Rating

NHTSA
Side Driver Rating
Frontal Passenger Rating
Rollover Rating
Side Rear Passenger Rating
Frontal Driver Rating
IIHS
Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraint Ratings Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test Results Not Tested
Side Impact Test Results Not Tested

2009 Chevrolet Traverse Recalls & Defects

Seat Belts
Recall date 2010-08-12
Recall no. 10v375000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2009-2010 Chevrolet Traverse, Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia, and Saturn Outlook Vehicles. THE Second ROW Seat Side Trim Shield Restricts THE Upward Rotation OF THE Safety Belt Buckle When THE Seat Back IS Returned TO A Seating Position After Being Folded Flat. IF THE Buckle Contacts THE Seat Frame, Additional Effort IS Required TO Return THE Seat TO A Seating Position. IF Sufficient Force IS Applied, THE Buckle Cover Could BE Pushed Down THE Strap, Exposing and Partially Depressing THE RED Release Button.
Consequence THE Safety Belt MAY NOT Restrain THE Occupant AS Intended During A Crash, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury TO THE Seat Occupant.
Remedy Dealers Will Modify THE Second ROW Seat Side Trim Shields. IF A Safety Belt Buckle IS Damaged, Dealers Will Replace IT Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON August 18, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438, Buick AT 1-866-608-8080, GMC AT 1-866-996-9463, and Saturn AT 1-800-972-8876, or AT THE Owner Center AT Www.gmownercenter.com.
Notes Gm's Recall NO. N100243.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Seat Belts: Rear/Other:buckle Assembly
Recall date 2008-11-24
Recall no. 08v615000
Source NHTSA
Summary GM IS Recalling 16,667 MY 2009 Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse, GMC Acadia, and Saturn Outlook Vehicles FOR Failing TO Conform With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 209, 'seat Belt Assemblies.' These Vehicles MAY Have Been Built With A Safety Belt Buckle IN THE Second or Third ROW That IS Missing A Rivet.
Consequence IN A Vehicle Crash, IF THE Rivet IS Missing, THE Buckle MAY Separate From THE Mounting Strap, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury TO THE Passenger.
Remedy Dealers Will Inspect THE Safety Belt Buckles IN THE Second and Third Rows, and Replace Them IF Necessary. THE Recall Began ON November 26, 2008. Owners MAY Contact Buick AT 1-866-608-8080; Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438; GMC AT 1-866-996-9463; Saturn AT 1-800-972-8876; or Through Their Website AT <A Href=http://Www.gmownercenter.com>http://www.gmownercenter.com</a> .
Notes GM Recall NO. 08387.customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Electrical System
Recall date 2010-06-04
Recall no. 10v240000
Source NHTSA
Summary GM IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2006-2009 Buick, Lucerne; Cadillac Dts; Hummer H2; Model Year 2008-2009 Buick Enclave; Cadillac Cts; Model Year 2007-2009 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade Esv, Escalade Ext; Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe; GMC Acadia, Sierra, Yukon, Yukon XL; Saturn Outlook; and Model Year 2009 Chevrolet Traverse Vehicles Equipped With A Heated Washer Fluid System (Hwfs). A Recall WAS Implemented IN 2008 TO ADD A Fuse TO THE Control Circuit Harness TO Address THE Potential Consequences OF A Printed Circuit Board (Pcb) Electrical Short. However, There Have Been NEW Reports OF Thermal Incidents ON Hwfs Modules After This Improvement WAS Installed. These Incidents Resulted From A NEW Failure Mode Attributed TO THE Device's Thermal Protection Feature. THE Significance Varies From Minor Distortion TO Considerable Melting OF THE Plastic Around THE Hwfs Fluid Chamber.
Consequence IT IS Possible FOR THE Heated Washer Module TO Ignite and A Fire MAY Occur.
Remedy Dealers Will Permanently Disable and Remove THE Heated Washer Fluid Module. AN Updated Page FOR THE Owner Manual Will BE Provided and Inserted IN THE Owner Manual TO Document That THE Feature HAS Been Permanently Disabled and Removed From THE Vehicle. THE Safety Recall Began ON June 11, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Buick AT 1-866-608-8080, Cadillac AT 1-866-982-2339, Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438, Saturn AT 1-800-972-8876, GMC AT 1-866-996-9463 and Hummer AT 1-800-732-5493 or AT THE Owner Center AT Www.gmownercenter.com.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Parking Brake
Recall date 2009-05-06
Recall no. 09v153000
Source NHTSA
Summary GM IS Recalling 15,393 MY 2009 Chevrolet Traverse Vehicles FOR Failing TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 135, "passenger Car Brake Systems." These Vehicles MAY Have A Park Brake Cable Link (Connector) That IS NOT TO Specification. This Connector MAY Fracture When THE Park Brake Pedal IS Depressed.
Consequence IF THE Transmission Shift Lever IS IN THE Park Position, There Will BE NO Unintended Vehicle Movement. However, IF THE Keys ARE Left IN THE Ignition, THE Transmission Shift Lever IS IN ANY Position Other Than Park, and THE Vehicle IS Parked ON A Sufficient Slope, IT Could Result IN Unintended Vehicle Movement. This Could Result IN A Crash Without Prior Warning.
Remedy Dealers ARE TO Replace THE Park Brake Cable Link (Connector) Free OF Charge. GM Anticipates That THE Dealer Bulletin Will BE Sent MAY 5, 2009 and Owner Letters Will BE Mailed IN June 2009. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438, or AT Www.gmownercenter.com.
Notes GM Recall NO. 09045.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Power Train:automatic Transmission:lever and Linkage:column Shift
Recall date 2009-03-06
Recall no. 09v073000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors IS Recalling 276,729 MY 2009 Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Cobalt, Hhr, Malibu, Traverse, GMC Acadia, Pontiac G5, G6 and Saturn Aura and Outlook Passenger Vehicles. These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With Federal Motor Vehicles Safety Standard 102, "transmission Shift Position Sequence, Starter Interlock, and Transmission Braking Effect", and Fmvss 114, "theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention". ON Some OF These Vehicles, THE Transmission Shift Cable Adjustment Clip MAY NOT BE Fully Engaged. IF THE Clip IS NOT Fully Engaged, THE Shift Lever and THE Actual Position OF THE Transmission Gear MAY NOT Match. With This Condition, THE Drive Could Move THE Shifter TO "park" and Remove THE Ignition Key, BUT THE Transmission Gear MAY NOT BE IN "park".
Consequence THE Driver MAY NOT BE Able TO Restart THE Vehicle and THE Vehicle Could Roll Away After THE Driver HAS Exited THE Vehicle, Resulting IN A Possible Crash Without Prior Warning.
Remedy Dealers Will Inspect and Ensure That THE Shift Cable Adjustment Clip IS Fully Engaged. IN THE Event That THE Clip Does NOT Engage, THE Shift Cable Will BE Replaced Free OF Charge. THE Recall IS Expected TO Begin ON or Before March 24, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Buick AT 1-866-608-8080, Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438, GMC AT 1-866-996-9463, Pontiac AT 1-800-620-7668 and Saturn AT 1-800-972-8876 or AT Www.gmownercenter.com.
Notes General Motors Recall NO. 09041.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
AIR Bags:side/Window
Recall date 2014-03-17
Recall no. 14v118000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2008-2013 Buick Enclave and GMC Acadia and 2009-2013 Chevrolet Traverse and 2008-2010 Saturn Outlook Vehicles. IN THE Affected Vehicles, Increased Resistance IN THE Driver and Passenger Seat Mounted Side Impact AIR BAG (Siab) Wiring Harnesses MAY Result IN THE Siab and Seat Belt Pretensioners NOT Deploying IN THE Event OF A Crash.
Consequence Failure OF THE Side Impact AIR Bags and Seat Belt Pretensioners TO Deploy IN A Crash Increase THE Risk OF Injury TO THE Driver and Front Seat Occupant.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Affected Harness Connections With Soldered Connections, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON June 16, 2014. Buick Owners MAY Contact THE Owner Center AT 1-800-521-7300, Chevrolet Owners AT 1-866-694-6546, Saturn AT 1-800-553-6000, and GMC Owners AT 1-866-996-9463. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 14030. Note: Vehicles Repaired AS Part OF Customer Satisfaction Campaign 10085 and Special Coverage 10335 Have Already HAD THE Subject Condition Repaired and Therefore ARE NOT Included IN THE Safety Recall.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Seat Belts
Recall date 2014-05-20
Recall no. 14v266000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2009-2014 Buick Enclave Vehicles Manufactured April 14, 2008, Through MAY 14, 2014, Chevrolet Traverse Vehicles Manufactured June 6, 2008, Through MAY 14, 2014, and GMC Acadia Vehicles Manufactured April 9, 2008, Through MAY 14, 2014, and 2009-2010 Saturn Outlook Vehicles Manufactured April 14, 2008, Through March 18, 2010. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Flexible Steel Cable That Connects THE Seatbelt TO THE Front Outboard Seating Positions MAY Fatigue and Separate Over Time.
Consequence IF THE Steel Cable Becomes Fatigued and Separates, THE Seatbelt MAY NOT Properly Restrain THE Seat Occupant Increasing THE Risk OF AN Injury IN A Crash.
Remedy General Motors Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect And, IF Necessary, Repair and Replace THE LAP Pretensioner, Free OF Charge. Parts ARE NOT Currently Available. AN Interim Notice Will BE Mailed TO Owners IN July 2014. A Second Notice Will BE Mailed TO Owners Once Parts Become Available. THE Recall FOR THE 2009-2010 Model Years Began ON July 11, 2014. THE Interim Letter FOR THE 2011-2014 Model Years Were Distributed ON July 11, 2014. Owners MAY Contact General Motors AT 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-521-7300 (Buick), 1-800-462-8782 (gmc), 1-800-553-6000 (saturn). General Motors Recall Number FOR This Campaign IS 14187.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Structure:body:hatchback/Liftgate
Recall date 2015-06-30
Recall no. 15v415000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2008-2012 Buick Enclave Vehicles Manufactured January 3, 2007, TO February 29, 2012, 2009-2012 Chevrolet Traverse Vehicles Manufactured July 6, 2008, TO March 9, 2012, 2007-2012 GMC Acadia Vehicles Manufactured September 15, 2006, TO February 29, 2012, and 2007-2010 Saturn Outlook Vehicles Manufactured August 17, 2006, TO March 18, 2010. THE Affected Vehicles, Equipped With THE Power Liftgate Option, Have GAS Struts That Hold THE Power Liftgate UP When Open. These Struts MAY Prematurely Wear and THE Open Liftgate MAY Suddenly Fall.
Consequence IF THE Open Liftgate Unexpectedly Falls, IT MAY Strike A Person, Increasing Their Risk OF Injury.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Update THE Software FOR THE Power Liftgate Actuator Motor Control Unit SO That THE Motor Will Prevent THE Rapid Closing OF THE Lift Gate, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON November 15, 2016. Owners MAY Contact Buick Customer Service AT 1-800-521-7300, Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020, GMC Customer Service AT 1-800-462-8782, and Saturn Customer Service AT 1-800-553-6000. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 15240.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

2009 Chevrolet Traverse Warranty

Basic
Original warranty 36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty 60 months / 100,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Rust
Original warranty 72 months / 100,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired

2009 Chevrolet Traverse Insurance

Insurance for a 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sport Utility Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2009 Chevrolet Traverse Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?

The 2009 Chevrolet Traverse competed against rivals like the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, Ford Flex, and Mazda CX-9. In terms of performance, the Traverse's V6 engine was comparable, but its reliability lagged behind the Honda and Toyota. Feature-wise, it offered a competitive array of options, particularly in the higher trims. However, its interior quality wasn't as refined as some rivals. Price-wise, the Traverse was often more affordable than the Highlander and Pilot when new, which contributed to its appeal.

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

Final Verdict: Is the 2009 Chevrolet Traverse a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?

The 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is ideal for budget-conscious buyers needing a spacious, three-row SUV. It's worth buying *if* you find a well-maintained example with documented service history addressing known issues like the timing chain and transmission. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is essential. Lower trims, while more affordable, may lack desirable features. Higher trims offer more amenities but are also more complex and potentially costly to repair. Given the potential reliability concerns, prioritizing a meticulously maintained example over a specific trim is the wisest approach. It's a value proposition only if you can mitigate the risk of expensive repairs.

2009 Chevrolet Traverse Owner Reviews

4.27
Consumer Rating, Based on 70 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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Patricia Blaylock on June 21, 2023

2009 traverse

Drives good. Really comfortable. Cold air and hot heat. Awesome stereo system. Also OnStar. Wish it would of had heated leather seats.. beautiful outside color

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Trina on May 18, 2022

Bad make

I 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

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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.

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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.

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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!

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The stig on February 4, 2020

Great suv. 3rd row seating. Good fuel economy

Great 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.

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James t on November 10, 2019

The 09 Chevrolet traverse ls is a piece of crap

You 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.

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Makela Lee on June 13, 2019

Very exquisite style

The glide was smooth around corners and felt like a home inside a car. Very nice feel and could definitely see myself owning this vehicle

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Unhappycarowner on June 1, 2019

Had problems with the car since i first got it a

It 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...

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Rick on May 28, 2019

Good safe car

It'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.

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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.