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2010 Chevrolet Traverse Review: An Unreliable Large SUV Buyers Should Avoid

Rating: 4.27
Based on 88 Owner Reviews â–¶
Jovan | March 31, 2025
The 2010 Chevrolet Traverse is a large crossover SUV designed to offer minivan-like space and versatility with a more stylish, SUV-like appearance. Part of the first generation (2009-2017), it was known for its spacious interior, seating up to eight passengers. Key trims included LS, LT, and LTZ. Its popularity stemmed from its blend of cargo capacity, passenger room, and a relatively comfortable ride. New, it ranged from around $30,000 to $40,000, varying by trim and options.
The Good

The 2010 Chevrolet Traverse offers a spacious and comfortable interior appealing to families. Its smooth ride and ample cargo space are practical advantages. The styling offers a less minivan-like aesthetic, which emotionally attracts buyers seeking a more stylish large vehicle. The V6 engine provides adequate performance, and used prices represent good value for its size.

The Bad

Several known weaknesses exist for the 2010 Chevrolet Traverse. Potential buyers should watch out for timing chain issues, transmission problems, and power steering failures. Some owners have also reported problems with the air conditioning system and the fuel gauge. Regular maintenance and a thorough pre-purchase inspection are crucial.

2010 Chevrolet Traverse: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options: A single engine option was available: a 3.6-liter V6.
  • Horsepower: The 3.6L V6 produced around 281 horsepower in most trims, but some models (like the LTZ) could produce slightly more.
  • Fuel Economy: EPA estimates for the 2010 Traverse ranged around 17 mpg city and 24 mpg highway for front-wheel-drive models. All-wheel-drive versions had slightly lower fuel economy.
  • 0-60 Times: The 0-60 mph acceleration time was generally in the 8-9 second range, depending on the configuration.
  • Towing Capacity: The towing capacity for the 2010 Chevrolet Traverse was around 5,200 pounds when properly equipped.
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • LS: Base model included features like cloth upholstery, air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a basic audio system.
    • LT: Added features like upgraded cloth upholstery, alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, and a better audio system. The LT trim was often further divided into 1LT and 2LT sub-trims with increasing levels of equipment.
    • LTZ: The top-of-the-line trim included leather upholstery, heated front seats, tri-zone automatic climate control, a premium audio system, and more advanced safety features.
    • Seating: Could be configured for 7 or 8 passengers depending on whether it had second row bucket seats or a bench seat.
    • Safety: All models included standard safety features like anti-lock brakes, stability control, and multiple airbags.

2010 Chevrolet Traverse Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2010
Make Chevrolet
Model Traverse
Trim -
Style -
Type 2LT Ton)
Category Medium Truck
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City LANSING - DELTA TWP
Dimensions
Doors 2-Door
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 7000 pounds
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine LLT
Engine Size 3.6L
Engine Cylinders 6
Transmission -
Transmission Type -
Transmission Speeds -
Drivetrain All-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

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 2010 Chevrolet Traverse Have?

The 2010 Chevrolet Traverse has several frequently reported problems that potential buyers should be aware of. One of the most significant issues is timing chain failure. This can be a costly repair and is often linked to oil maintenance and extended oil change intervals. Transmission issues, including harsh shifting and complete failure, are also commonly reported. Power steering pump failures are another concern, potentially leading to loss of power steering assist. Other reported problems include air conditioning malfunctions, issues with the fuel level sensor (leading to inaccurate fuel readings), and water leaks into the cabin. Recalls for the 2010 Traverse have included issues related to the side impact airbags and wiring harnesses.
Long-term reliability can be a concern due to these issues. Regular maintenance, including timely oil changes with the correct type of oil, can help mitigate the risk of timing chain problems. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended to assess the condition of the transmission, power steering, and other critical components. Addressing any known issues promptly can help prevent more significant and costly repairs down the line.

How long will the 2010 Chevrolet Traverse last?

A 2010 Chevrolet Traverse, with proper maintenance, can reasonably be expected to reach 150,000-200,000 miles or more. However, achieving this longevity is heavily dependent on consistent maintenance habits. Neglecting oil changes or postponing repairs can significantly shorten its lifespan.
Long-term durability weaknesses include the aforementioned timing chain issues, which are exacerbated by poor oil maintenance. Transmission wear and tear is also a concern as the vehicle ages. Rust can also become a problem in regions with harsh winters and road salt use, particularly on the undercarriage and body panels. Addressing these potential weaknesses proactively is key to maximizing the vehicle's lifespan.
Positive Owner Reviews
Jewel
I currently have 158,000 miles on my Traverse . I bought it six years ago . It has been through my two kids and their permit driving . To driving my kids to school everyday for five years . We love twenty miles from town . I have always kept the maintenance up on it . I plan on driving my traverse till it is done . Chevrolet really did their homework when they made the Traverse . It has satisfied my every need in a car . I love the power , the quite on the road . The gas mileage for the power you get out of it . The comport for traveling . The ease of handling. I really love the Traverse .
ROGELIO
Very comfortable and reliable, made a lot of long distance trips on it and never had any issues. Gas mileage is good for the size of SUV
CortneyK
This car went above any of my expectations! I was looking for a vehicle with third row seating for my growing family and I found it with my Traverse. There is so much storage space and leg room in this car. I love it and would recommend it to anyone out there!
Negative Owner Reviews
Jennifer
I think it's a reasonable car had it been built correctly it would be great but the fact these cars motors don't last longer than about 140,000 is junk .....
rock
THE CAR IS NOT WORTH PRUCHASING THE TIMING CHAIN BELT IS NOT GOOD IT IS LOOSE AND COST OVER 2 THOUSAND DOLLAR TO FIX.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2010 Chevrolet Traverse offered a range of tech, entertainment, and safety features for its time. Standard features included an AM/FM radio with a CD player and auxiliary input. Higher trims added features like a multi-speaker sound system, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system, and Bluetooth connectivity. A navigation system was available as an option on higher trims.
Driver-assistance features were relatively limited compared to modern vehicles. Rear parking sensors were available on some trims, but more advanced features like blind-spot monitoring or lane departure warning were not offered.
Safety features included standard anti-lock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a comprehensive airbag system, including side curtain airbags for all three rows.
Crash-test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) were generally good, with the 2010 Traverse receiving a 4-star overall safety rating. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also gave the Traverse good ratings in most crash tests. However, specific ratings may vary depending on the exact test and model configuration. Checking the official NHTSA and IIHS websites for detailed ratings is recommended. Keep in mind that safety technology has advanced significantly since 2010, so while the Traverse was relatively safe for its time, newer vehicles often offer superior protection.

What Colors Options are Available?

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

2010 Chevrolet Traverse Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2010 Chevrolet Traverse had a price range of approximately $30,000 to $40,000, depending on the trim level and options. On today's used market, prices typically range from $5,000 to $12,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. The Traverse has experienced significant depreciation due to its age, mileage accumulation, and some known reliability issues. Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's overall condition, maintenance history, trim level (LTZ models tend to hold slightly more value), and the presence of desirable options like the DVD entertainment system or navigation.

2010 Chevrolet Traverse Cost of Ownership

The 2010 Chevrolet Traverse can be moderately costly to own long-term. Insurance costs are average for a vehicle of its size. Fuel economy, at around 17-24 mpg, isn't great compared to newer vehicles. Maintenance can be expensive due to potential issues like timing chain repairs and transmission problems. Repair costs can also be higher than average. Overall, factor in higher-than-average maintenance and repair costs when considering long-term ownership.

2010 Chevrolet Traverse Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage -
Highway Mileage -

2010 Chevrolet Traverse Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Side Overall Star Rating Not Tested
Overall Rollover Star Rating
Combined Front Seat Rating Not Tested
Combined Rear Seat Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Side Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating

2010 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> .
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.
AIR Bags:critical Fasteners
Recall date 2021-04-08
Recall no. 21v246000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors, LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain 2010-2015, 2017 Buick Enclave, 2010-2019 Chevrolet Traverse, and 2011-2016 GMC Acadia Vehicles. THE Side Curtain AIR Bags MAY NOT BE Properly Attached.
Consequence Unsecured Side Curtain AIR Bags MAY NOT Perform AS Intended, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect And, IF Necessary, Realign or Replace THE Weld Nuts, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed ON MAY 24, 2021. Owners MAY Contact Buick Customer Service AT 1-800-521-7300, Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020, and GMC Customer Service AT 1-800-462-8782. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS N202321200.
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.

2010 Chevrolet Traverse Insurance

Insurance for a 2010 Chevrolet Traverse is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a 2LT Ton) with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2010 Chevrolet Traverse Compare to Other 2LT Ton)?

The 2010 Chevrolet Traverse competed with vehicles like the Ford Flex, Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Nissan Pathfinder. In terms of performance, the Traverse's V6 engine was comparable, but its fuel economy was generally worse than the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. Feature-wise, it offered a competitive set of amenities, especially in higher trims.
However, the Traverse's reliability is a known weak point compared to the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander, which have historically demonstrated better long-term reliability. The Ford Flex offered a unique styling and a more powerful optional turbocharged engine, but its interior space was less versatile than the Traverse. The Nissan Pathfinder, while capable, felt somewhat dated compared to the Traverse.
Alternatives to consider include the 2010 Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander, particularly if reliability is a primary concern. These vehicles tend to hold their value better and have fewer reported issues. The Ford Flex could be a good alternative for those prioritizing unique styling and available power, but be aware of potential reliability issues specific to the Flex's turbocharged engine. Ultimately, the best alternative depends on individual priorities and budget.

Ranks #981 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★)
981 2010 Chevrolet Traverse (5.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2010 Chevrolet Traverse a Good 2LT Ton)?

The 2010 Chevrolet Traverse is ideal for families needing a spacious and affordable three-row SUV. It's worth buying *if* you find a well-maintained example with a documented service history and have it thoroughly inspected by a trusted mechanic *before* purchase. Lower mileage examples are preferable. Consider higher trims (LT or LTZ) for enhanced features, but be prepared for potentially higher repair costs. Given potential reliability concerns, it's not recommended if you require absolute dependability. Budget for potential repairs and prioritize a thorough pre-purchase inspection to mitigate risks. Newer, more reliable alternatives might be a better option for some buyers.

2010 Chevrolet Traverse Owner Reviews

4.27
Consumer Rating, Based on 88 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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ABurgess on March 24, 2022

Would NOT Recommend

We bought our 2010 Chevy Traverse back in 2018. It had 112k miles. Since then we have had to have the engine replaced 2x. This car overall is great but the 2010 engines are so unreliable.

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Sonya Haney on March 23, 2022

Not a very good car at least year 2010.

I am having nothing but trouble with this car. It's is the worst car I have ever bought. The stereo is very good and it does drive nice but mechanical issues are very bad transmission not shifting right they should do a recall on transmission. I have put a lot of money in it already. Abs wheel speed sensors and still on tie rod, tires, starter, both cam shaft position sensors, all window switches, battery twice, crankshaft position sensor and I haven't even had it for a full year yet and spark plugs. It still keeps not wanting to shift right and not a lot of power.

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Jewel on March 11, 2021

My awesome Traverse

I currently have 158,000 miles on my Traverse . I bought it six years ago . It has been through my two kids and their permit driving . To driving my kids to school everyday for five years . We love twenty miles from town . I have always kept the maintenance up on it . I plan on driving my traverse till it is done . Chevrolet really did their homework when they made the Traverse . It has satisfied my every need in a car . I love the power , the quite on the road . The gas mileage for the power you get out of it . The comport for traveling . The ease of handling. I really love the Traverse .

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ROGELIO on January 5, 2021

Very reliable vehicle for long distance traveling

Very comfortable and reliable, made a lot of long distance trips on it and never had any issues. Gas mileage is good for the size of SUV

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Trade guy Detroit on December 6, 2020

Impressed and proud.

This truck has served and is still one of our daily drivers for myself and my wife. Have three children also so space is mandatory and this is a very comfortable, comparable to our Tahoe of same year. These second row captains chairs are way comfortable as I dont care which row i occupy during a driving break. 170,xxx miles and it aged very well and everything works or has been repaired (nothing too costly. Stereo amplifier once). We love the truck and it is very versatile. I love the folding down thrid row and second folding row too! GM did great with this one, i do read about lemons though with these we have been lucky however.

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Ryan on August 3, 2020

Very reliable

My traverse currently has 160,000 miles. Only been stranded twice with it once has a flat tire (My fault) The other was at the gas station the EVAP valve failed. It was a 5 minute fix. I keep up on the oil changes and that’s about it. This was one of my better purchases

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Lovemylulu on June 30, 2020

Best SUV I’ve owned

Love my traverse. I have the one with the powered back door and 2 sunroofs but my back one doesn’t open like the front one does but nice to at least have more to look out for back passengers. I have 3 row seating too. A lot of room for ppl and things too. Rides nice. I have BOSE speakers in it and sound is incredible

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CortneyK on May 22, 2020

Excellent car!

This car went above any of my expectations! I was looking for a vehicle with third row seating for my growing family and I found it with my Traverse. There is so much storage space and leg room in this car. I love it and would recommend it to anyone out there!

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trey on March 25, 2020

Best 7 seater SUV

The car is a nice comfortable car but it isn’t the most reliable. It’s a great SUV for big families. I really recommend this truck.

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Steve on March 22, 2020

We’ll Maintain

Well maintained vehicle, oil changed regularly, new tires as of less than 2 years ago. Main use only for commute to and from work. Message for offer or questions!

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Jovan

Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.